Wireless Field Device Adapter for Efficient Data Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional NFC communication is too power-intensive for permanent data transmission in field devices used in process and automation technology, and querying field-device-specific information via fieldbus systems is time-consuming, especially when multiple field devices of the same type are connected.
Innovation Solution
Equipping an adapter with a second wireless transmission module to retrieve data from a field device's storage unit and connect it to an HMI device, allowing for simple and rapid access to field devices via the fieldbus by establishing a connection using the retrieved data, such as fieldbus addresses, firmware versions, and other device-specific information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If NFC communication is used for data transmission in field devices, then data can be transmitted wirelessly, but the power consumption becomes too high for continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the data transmission process into two distinct phases: (1) initial data retrieval via wireless NFC communication between the adapter and field device, and (2) subsequent data exchange via fieldbus communication. This segmentation allows the high-power wireless transmission to be used only when necessary (for initial connection), while routine communication uses the lower-power fieldbus protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter performs preliminary action by retrieving and storing field device data (such as device identifiers, addresses, and configuration information) via wireless NFC before actual fieldbus communication begins. This preliminary data retrieval enables subsequent fieldbus operations to proceed without repeated wireless transmissions, thereby reducing overall power consumption.
2Productivity
If fieldbus systems are used to connect multiple field devices, then comprehensive data exchange is possible, but querying device-specific information becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter performs preliminary retrieval of device-specific information (fieldbus addresses, device identifiers, configuration data) via wireless NFC before fieldbus communication is established. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming sequential querying of multiple field devices on the fieldbus, as the adapter already possesses the necessary identification data to directly access the target device.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary that bridges wireless NFC communication and fieldbus communication. It retrieves device identification data wirelessly, then uses this information to establish efficient fieldbus connections, thereby mediating between the two communication systems to optimize overall data retrieval speed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple field devices of the same type are connected to the fieldbus, then system functionality is enhanced, but device identification and selection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter acts as an intermediary that simplifies device selection by retrieving and processing device-specific identification data (such as serial numbers, order numbers, and unique identifiers) via wireless NFC. This intermediary function allows operators to easily identify and select the correct field device among multiple identical devices without manually navigating through fieldbus address lists or performing time-consuming device scans.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables energy-efficient data transmission and significantly reduces the time required to connect and operate field devices, simplifying the process of accessing and identifying multiple field devices of the same type connected to a fieldbus.
Implementation Method 1
inductive coupling or near-field coupling (NFC) can be achieved via magnetic fields. Data transmission, and often also power supply, is provided via a near-field magnetic field mediated by coils in a reader and a so-called tag.
Implementation Method 2
It is also known to use electromagnetic dipole fields for remote coupling. Here, data transmission and often also power supply are provided via antennas, such as dipole or spiral antennas.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a field device (2), wherein the field device (2) comprises a first wireless transmission module (5), preferably a transponder, wherein an adapter (1) is provided, having a corresponding second wireless transmission module (4), preferably a reading device for interrogating the transponder. The field device (2) is further provided with a first communication interface (6) for communicating via a preferably wire-bound field bus, wherein the adapter (1) is provided with a second communication interface (7), likewise for communicating via the preferably wire-bound field bus. Data stored in a memory unit of the field device (2) are wirelessly retrieved via the first transmission module (5) and via the second transmission module (4) and are transmitted to the adapter (1). The adapter (1) is connected to an operating unit (9), wherein by means of the retrieved data, a connection between the field device (2) and the operating unit (9) is established via the field bus.