Measurement Transducer Internal Data Memory for Tamper-Proof Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement transducers lack the capability to store dynamic process data directly within their internal data memory, necessitating external storage solutions that are cumbersome and prone to manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A method for a measurement variable sensor that determines the measured value range of incoming data and stores corresponding count values in multiple memory areas within its internal data memory, allowing for direct storage and secure, tamper-proof logging of process data during operation, which can be read and analyzed post-removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If process data is stored externally using separate storage options, then data storage capability is provided, but device complexity increases and data manipulation becomes possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the storage function directly into the measurement transducer by integrating an internal data memory (EEPROM) within the transducer housing. This eliminates separate external storage options and combines the measurement and storage functions into a single integrated unit, preventing data manipulation while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement transducer serves itself by storing process data internally within its own memory structure. The transducer independently manages its own data storage without requiring external storage devices or systems, thereby ensuring data integrity and eliminating the need for additional external components.
2Measurement precision
If multiple memory areas are used to store count values for different measured value ranges, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The internal data memory is segmented into multiple distinct memory areas, each dedicated to storing count values for specific measured value ranges. This segmentation allows precise tracking and classification of process data across different operational ranges while maintaining a structured and manageable memory architecture within the transducer.
3Productivity
If count values are stored directly in the internal data memory during ongoing operation, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement transducer performs preliminary actions by determining the appropriate measured value range and updating the corresponding count value in the internal data memory during ongoing operation. This real-time data storage capability eliminates the need for external storage operations, thereby improving productivity while the integrated design keeps processing complexity manageable.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a measurement variable sensor (3) having an internal data memory (32), to a processing device (2) for such a measurement variable sensor (3) and to a method for storing data in the internal data memory (32) of such a measurement variable sensor (3). The internal data memory (32) comprises a plurality of memory areas. A counted value that corresponds to a frequency of an occurrence of measured values in a specific measured value range is stored in each of at least two memory areas of the plurality of memory areas. In this manner, data relating to a load on a measurement variable sensor can be stored directly therein and can subsequently be assigned directly and unequivocally thereto. As a result, tamper-proof storage of the data is possible and a manufacturer or vendor of the measurement variable sensor can ascertain whether this has been overloaded, should an end user make a complaint, for example. In addition, it is possible to draw conclusions about the anticipated service life and/or measuring accuracy of the measurement variable sensor.