Runtime Alarm Configuration for Industrial Process Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional alarm systems in industrial settings are inflexible and require manual configuration, leading to inefficiencies and delays in responding to process changes, as they cannot be dynamically altered during runtime without halting the manufacturing process.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows for real-time configuration of alarms by receiving and analyzing process parameters, enabling modifications to alarm thresholds and logic code, and synchronizing with human-machine interfaces to facilitate corrective actions, thereby enabling dynamic alarm generation and configuration during industrial processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If alarm configuration is manually set during system design, then alarm parameters are stable and reliable, but the system cannot adapt to process changes without halting manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The alarm configuration system transitions from static pre-design setup to dynamic runtime modification. Operators can now change alarm thresholds, priorities, and logic code during manufacturing operations without system shutdown, making the configuration adaptable to changing process conditions while maintaining continuous production.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables modification of alarm parameters (thresholds, priorities, notification methods) during runtime based on changing process conditions. This allows the alarm system to adapt its sensitivity and behavior dynamically without requiring manual reconfiguration or system halt.
2Ease of operation
If alarm configuration is modified during runtime, then system flexibility improves, but system complexity and potential for errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alarm configuration system integrates multiple functions into a unified runtime interface: viewing current alarms, modifying parameters, validating changes, and synchronizing across distributed systems. This universal interface simplifies operation while managing the underlying complexity through standardized procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides validation feedback to operators during configuration changes, checking for logical consistency and potential errors before applying modifications. This feedback mechanism guides operators through complex changes safely, reducing the risk of configuration errors while maintaining flexibility.
3Productivity
If alarm thresholds and logic are fixed at design stage, then system reliability is maintained, but responsiveness to process changes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation and consistency checks on alarm configuration changes before they are applied to the running system. This preliminary action ensures that runtime modifications maintain reliability standards while enabling continuous manufacturing operations with improved responsiveness.
4Measurement precision
If manual reconfiguration of alarms is required for process changes, then configuration accuracy is maintained, but operational delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The alarm configuration system enables operators to perform self-service modifications during runtime without requiring system shutdown or external intervention. Operators can directly adjust thresholds and logic parameters through the interface, maintaining configuration accuracy through built-in validation while achieving immediate response to process changes.
Data Source
AI summary
An alarm configuration system comprises a receiver component that receives parameters relating to an industrial process. An alarm generator component automatically configures an alarm during run-time based at least in part upon an analysis of the received parameters. Thus, the alarm generator component can alter alarm instructions during run-time within an industrial environment.