Virtual Controller Simulation for Debugging Unknown Control Specs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional simulation systems require operating real devices to debug control software when the control specifications of the real devices are unknown.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based simulation system that uses a provisional simulation model and a virtual controller to evaluate control command values without knowing the real device's control specifications, allowing debugging through a first simulation model for known specifications and a second provisional model for unknown specifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a simulation model is created using known control specifications, then the debugging of control software can be performed accurately, but the system cannot handle devices with unknown control specifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the real device in the form of a simulation model that replicates its operational characteristics. By copying the device's behavior through provisional specifications, the system enables debugging without direct access to the actual device, thus resolving the contradiction between needing accurate simulation and handling unknown specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by creating a simulation model with provisional specifications before the actual control specifications are known. This preliminary simulation model allows initial debugging and testing to occur in advance, which can then be refined once real specifications are obtained, thereby enabling debugging accuracy while accommodating unknown specifications.
2Measurement precision
If the real device is operated to debug control software when specifications are unknown, then accurate debugging can be achieved, but device operation is required which increases time and resource consumption
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of operating the real device for debugging, the patent creates a virtual copy (simulation model) that can be manipulated and observed without physical device operation. This copying approach maintains debugging accuracy while eliminating the time loss associated with operating actual hardware, especially for devices with unknown specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation model acts as an intermediary between the debugger and the real device. Rather than directly operating the real device for debugging purposes, the intermediary simulation model provides a safe and efficient interface that preserves debugging accuracy while reducing time consumption and resource usage.
3Ease of operation
If a provisional simulation model with different specifications is used, then debugging can proceed without knowing real specifications, but the simulation accuracy may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The provisional simulation model serves as a preliminary version that enables debugging to proceed before accurate specifications are available. The model can be iteratively refined and updated as real specifications become known, thus maintaining ease of operation while progressively improving simulation accuracy through preliminary debugging activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation model is designed to be dynamic and adaptable rather than static. As real control specifications become available, the provisional model can be updated and refined to match the actual device characteristics, thereby maintaining ease of operation during initial debugging while allowing simulation accuracy to improve over time through iterative refinement.
Data Source
AI summary
A simulation system includes a provisional simulation model, a control command value output section, and a virtual controller section. The provisional simulation model simulates the operation of a real device using provisional specifications different from control specifications of the real device. The control command value output section outputs a control command value in accordance with control software. The virtual controller section operates the provisional simulation model in accordance with the control command value. This configuration is capable of evaluating whether the control command value outputted from the control software is appropriate or not using the provisional simulation model even when the real control specifications are unknown. This allows the debugging of the control software without operating the real device.