Automation Field Device Setup via Server-Based Digital Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field device parameterization is complex and time-consuming, often requiring detailed knowledge of parameters and specific applications, making it difficult for plant operators to configure and maintain field devices without external help, even with the assistance of service technicians.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses cognitive algorithms and digital images to autonomously create a parameter set suitable for the field device's application, allowing operators to initiate parameterization without knowledge of individual parameters, by querying necessary information through dynamically generated queries based on the context and history of the measuring point, using mobile devices or the field device itself for input and output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional parameterization methods are used with detailed parameter knowledge, then parameterization accuracy is improved, but operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The field device automatically performs parameterization by capturing images of measurement points, autonomously identifying measurement variable types through image recognition, and configuring parameters without requiring operator intervention or external assistance, thereby achieving both high accuracy and time efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual parameterization operations with an automated image-based recognition system that uses digital imaging and automated analysis to identify measurement variables and configure parameters, eliminating the need for operators to manually input or select parameters
2Reliability
If comprehensive parameter knowledge is required for configuration, then parameterization reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators without specialized knowledge to successfully parameterize field devices by automating the entire process - the device captures images, identifies measurement variables, and configures parameters autonomously, making reliable parameterization accessible to any operator regardless of expertise level
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated recognition system that bridges the gap between simple image capture and reliable parameter configuration, using image analysis to automatically determine measurement variable types and translate visual information into proper parameter settings without requiring operator interpretation
3Measurement precision
If external service technician assistance is provided, then parameterization accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The field device performs complete self-parameterization by capturing images of measurement points, autonomously analyzing them to identify measurement variable types, and automatically configuring all necessary parameters, eliminating the need for external service technicians and simplifying the overall process
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for parameterizing an automation field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) which is communicatively connected to a server (SE) via a first communication network (KN1, KN1', KN1''), having the following steps: - initiating the method by transmitting a command to parameterize or change the parameter values of the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) on the server (SE); - transmitting identification information of the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) to the server (S); - ascertaining a digital image (F1', F2', …, Fn') of the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) stored on the server (S) using the transmitted identification information, said digital image (F1', F2', …, Fn') containing information (IN) on the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn), in particular configuration settings of the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn), and measurement location-relevant information and being designed to reproduce the behavior of the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) in a simulated or emulated manner; - generating and proposing at least one parameter set (PS) for the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) using the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) information (IN) contained on the server (SE) by means of an application (AW) which is ran on the server (SE); - selecting and confirming the proposed parameter set (PS) by a user (BE); and - transmitting the confirmed parameter set (PS) to the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) and parameterizing the field device (F1, F2, …, Fn) using the transmitted parameter set (PS).