Sensor Module Processor Monitoring Using Stored Verification Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field devices in automation technology require the algorithm to be rewritten on a second digital processor every time the field device starts, which is inefficient, especially when the algorithm changes on the sensor electronics processor.
Innovation Solution
A diagnostic measure is implemented where verification data is calculated using a test algorithm on an external computing unit and stored in the field device. This verification data is then used to check if the first algorithm has been completely executed on the first digital processor, eliminating the need for parallel execution of the test algorithm on the second processor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the algorithm is rewritten on the second digital processor every time the field device starts, then the monitoring of the first digital processor can be achieved, but the efficiency is reduced and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test algorithm is pre-loaded into the first digital processor's memory during system startup, rather than being rewritten during each operation. This preliminary action eliminates repeated writing operations and improves system efficiency while maintaining monitoring reliability through subsequent execution of the pre-loaded algorithm
Solution Approach 2:
The test algorithm is extracted from the second digital processor and transferred to the first digital processor's memory. This extraction allows the first processor to independently execute the monitoring algorithm without requiring continuous intervention from the second processor, thereby improving efficiency while maintaining reliable monitoring functionality
2Measurement precision
If the algorithm changes on the sensor electronics processor, then the monitoring accuracy improves, but the need to rewrite the algorithm on the second processor increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The first digital processor is equipped with the capability to independently load and execute the test algorithm from its own memory. This self-service approach allows the processor to autonomously perform monitoring operations without requiring the second processor to rewrite the algorithm, thereby reducing management complexity while maintaining monitoring accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The first digital processor's memory acts as an intermediary storage medium for the test algorithm. Instead of the second processor directly managing algorithm updates, the algorithm is transferred to the first processor's memory where it can be executed independently, simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for monitoring a first processor (1) by means of a second processor (2) in a field device, comprising the following method steps: - a) calculating verification data on the basis of specified input data (E) by means of a test algorithm (OPCT1, OPCT2) on an external computing unit (40); - b) storing the input data (E) and the verification data (V) computed by means of the test algorithm (OPCT1, OPCT2); - c) transferring the specified input data (E) stored in the sensor module (10) and the verification data (V); - d) transferring the specified input data (E); - e) executing the test algorithm (OPCT1, OPCT2) on the first processor (1); - f) making the calculated output data available on the second processor; - g) checking the output data (A) with the verification data (V) by means of the second processor (2) and, if the output data (A) do not correspond to the verification data (V), establishing a malfunction.