18275538. PLC-BASED SUPPORT FOR ZERO-DOWNTIME UPGRADES OF CONTROL FUNCTIONS simplified abstract (Siemens Aktiengesellschaft)
Contents
PLC-BASED SUPPORT FOR ZERO-DOWNTIME UPGRADES OF CONTROL FUNCTIONS
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Steffen Klepke of München (DE)
Michael Elting of Nürnberg, Deutschland (DE)
PLC-BASED SUPPORT FOR ZERO-DOWNTIME UPGRADES OF CONTROL FUNCTIONS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18275538 titled 'PLC-BASED SUPPORT FOR ZERO-DOWNTIME UPGRADES OF CONTROL FUNCTIONS
Simplified Explanation: The patent application describes a method and arrangement for upgrading a control function on a technical system that includes a PLC and an actuator. The method involves deploying an updated version of the control function while maintaining the current version, with both versions publishing control commands in each PLC cycle.
Key Features and Innovation:
- Method for upgrading a control function on a technical system with a PLC and actuator.
- Deployment of updated version while maintaining current version.
- Control commands published in each PLC cycle.
- Mutual agreement process between current and updated versions.
- Primary and secondary control commands.
Potential Applications: The technology can be applied in various industrial settings where upgrading control functions on technical systems is necessary. It can be used in manufacturing plants, automation processes, and other industries that rely on PLCs and actuators for control.
Problems Solved: The technology addresses the need for seamless upgrading of control functions on technical systems without disrupting the operation of the system. It ensures a smooth transition between the current and updated versions of the control function, preventing any downtime or malfunctions.
Benefits:
- Improved efficiency in upgrading control functions.
- Seamless transition between current and updated versions.
- Prevents disruptions in system operation.
- Enhances overall system performance.
- Facilitates maintenance and updates without downtime.
Commercial Applications: The technology can be commercially used in industries such as manufacturing, automation, robotics, and process control. It offers a reliable and efficient way to upgrade control functions on technical systems, improving productivity and reducing maintenance costs.
Questions about the Technology: 1. How does the mutual agreement process between the current and updated versions ensure smooth control function upgrades? 2. What are the specific benefits of using a Publish/Subscribe communication module in the PLC for control command publishing?
Frequently Updated Research: Researchers are constantly exploring new ways to enhance control functions on technical systems, including advancements in PLC technology, actuator control, and communication protocols. Stay updated on the latest research in these areas to further improve system performance and efficiency.
Original Abstract Submitted
A method and arrangement for upgrading a function performed on a technical system including a PLC and an actuator controlled by the PLC. The control function provides an output which controls the actuator. The method includes deploying at least one updated version of the control function on the system while maintaining the current version of the control function on the system, b. the updated version is prevented from controlling the actuator, whereby the current version and the updated version publish control commands in each PLC cycle to a Publish/Subscribe communication module of the PLC, c. in each PLC cycle passing the published control command, d. the information of the published control command of the updated version changes to a primary control command and the published control command of the current version to a secondary control command in a mutual agreement process between the current version and the updated version. A
