Semantic Parameter Mapping for Easier Field Device Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
End users face challenges in configuring field devices due to the complexity of existing protocols and the need for detailed knowledge of device parameters.
Innovation Solution
A field device configuration tool with a user interface, processing unit, and memory that allows users to input semantic identification IDs for device parameters, maps these IDs to the corresponding parameters, and saves the mappings for later use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional field device configuration methods using protocols like HART, Fieldbus, Profibus are used, then device configuration can be achieved, but the complexity of the configuration process increases and requires detailed knowledge of device parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a configuration server as an intermediary between the user and the field device. This server provides a simplified user interface that abstracts away the complex communication protocols and device parameters. The server handles the complex mapping between simplified user inputs and the actual device parameters, thereby reducing the operational complexity for end users while maintaining full configuration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual representation or copy of the field device parameters and configuration structure within the configuration server. Instead of requiring users to directly interact with the complex native device parameters, the server presents a simplified copy or model of these parameters through the user interface. This allows users to configure devices using simplified parameter names and structures that map to the actual device parameters behind the scenes.
2Measurement precision
If detailed device parameters are exposed to end users for configuration, then precise device control is achieved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring parameters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration server acts as an intermediary layer that translates between simplified user-friendly parameter representations and the actual detailed device parameters. The server maintains the precision of native parameters by preserving the complete parameter mapping, while simultaneously presenting simplified parameter names and structures to users through the user interface, thereby reducing the difficulty of understanding and configuring parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the presentation of device parameters by changing their names, structures, or representations in the user interface while maintaining the underlying precise parameter mappings. The configuration server allows users to work with simplified parameter representations that are then mapped to the actual detailed parameters, effectively changing the parameter presentation layer without altering the precision of the actual device configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A field device configuration tool includes: a user interface; a processing unit; and a memory. The processing unit controls the user interface to present information for a parameter of a field device on a display of the user interface. The user interface enables a user of the field device to input a semantic identification ID for the parameter of the field device. The processing unit maps the semantic identification ID to the parameter for the field device as a mapping. The processing unit saves the mapping between the semantic ID and the parameter in the memory as a saved mapping.