Safety Device Identification Setting on Shared Factory Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The setting operation for multiple devices connected to the same network in factory automation systems is complicated and time-consuming, making it difficult to implement advanced communication technologies effectively.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus and method that assist in easily setting device identification information for safety devices by using network identification information and network addresses, allowing for logical distinction and simplified connection settings within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple safety devices are connected to the same network using advanced communication technology, then communication capability is improved, but the setting operation becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus automatically obtains device identification information by reading network identification information and network addresses from the safety devices themselves, eliminating the need for manual configuration. The system performs self-identification through automated information extraction and processing
Solution Approach 2:
A support apparatus is introduced as an intermediary tool between the safety devices and the network configuration process. This mediator automatically manages the complex setting operations by obtaining device identification information, generating connection setting lists, and facilitating automated device recognition and configuration
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple safety devices are connected to the same network, then network functionality is improved, but the time required for setting operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus performs preliminary automated actions by obtaining network identification information and network addresses before final configuration is needed. The system proactively extracts device identification information, generates connection setting lists, and prepares device recognition data in advance, reducing the time required during actual deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The system automates the time-consuming setting operations by having the support apparatus automatically obtain device identification information from safety devices through reading their network parameters. This self-service approach eliminates manual configuration time and accelerates the deployment process
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An approach that is capable of easily setting required identification information even when multiple safety devices (10) are connected to the same network is provided. A support apparatus (300) includes: an obtaining part (S100, S104), which obtains status information respectively from one or a plurality of safety devices (10) network-connected with a control apparatus (2; 200); a selecting part (S108, S110, S120-S134, S138, S146), which selects the safety device (10) to which device identification information (54) is to be newly set based on the status information of each safety device (10); and a setting part (S112, S136, S150, S152), which determines and sets corresponding device identification information (54) in accordance with an instruction from a user based on network identification information set for the network to which each safety device (10) belongs and a network address of each safety device (10).