DE102015105407A1 - Method, network and device for controlling and / or supplying at least one machine - Google Patents

Abstract

In order to reduce manual configuration and / or programming effort, data relevant to the operation of a machine 1 are stored in a memory module of a module belonging to the machine 1, in particular a computer 6 and / or data module 3, wherein the module 3, 6 is in the form a connector module, suitable for a corresponding modular system of a connector 2, is formed. In addition, a switch module 14 'is provided for data distribution, which is also designed in the form of a connector module. The modules 3, 6, 14 'can be mechanically fastened to the respective machine 1 and the data can be present in a form prepared for the network 4. In particular, the computing modules 6 may have the capability of network construction and other modules 3, 6 ', 14' recognize, query data from other modules 3, 6 ', 14' or connected components 11, 13, ... or these components 11, 13, ... control.

Description

The invention relates to a method for controlling and supplying a machine according to the preamble of the independent claim 1.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a network for carrying out the method.

Furthermore, the invention relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method according to the preamble of claim 16.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a data switch.

Such methods, networks and devices are required in order to control a flexible production process in particular in a decentralized manner and / or at least to store information in a decentralized manner.

State of the art

In the prior art, the use of data networks for process automation is known, for example, from the following documents:
The publication DE 10 112 843 A1 aims at a system and method for automated data distribution. In particular, it describes a system for distributing automation data, which enables system components at the planning level (for example commercial software applications) and control-level system components (for example factory automation applications) to easily communicate with each other through the use of fully coded datagrams.

The publication WO 2011 042 318 A1 relates to a device and a method for controlling and operating a production cell, including at least part of its associated peripheral devices. Machine processes based on machine control components, which are part of a domain model, are created, managed and executed with the help of a domain language. For free configurability of machine control components, it is proposed to select a machine control component from a set of predetermined component types and assign a machine control component a permitted technology among a set of technologies, with logic stored for each technology of a component type having the required machine control component and technology Includes and defines interfaces to connect the machine control component interface ports to inputs and outputs of existing production cell connections.

Furthermore, in the prior art connector modular systems and associated connector modules are known.

Steckvernbindermodularsysteme have been disclosed for example in numerous other publications and publications, shown at fairs and are particularly in industrial environments in use. For example, they are in the publications DE 10 2013 106 279 A1 . DE 10 2012 110 907 A1 . DE 10 2012 107 270 A1 . DE 20 2013 103 611 U1 . EP2510590A1 . EP2510589A1 . DE 20 2011 050 643 U1 . EP860906A2 . DE29601998U1 . EP1353412A2 described.

In particular, from the document EP 860 906 B1 modular connector known that can accommodate a variety of different connector modules, and thus can be used very flexible especially in the industrial environment.

The publication DE 198 51 473 A1 is based on a method for coding of mechanically connectable parts, wherein on the parts to be connected electrical connectors are arranged, which contact each other during assembly of the parts. Based on this, it is proposed to provide an encoder in one of the connectors and to connect the other connector to an electronic circuit, wherein upon assembly of the two connectors, a signal of the electronic circuit is transmitted via the one connector to the other connector and the encoder is supplied, and thereof dependent, generates a signal by means of the encoder, which is forwarded to the electronic circuit, wherein an output signal is generated by the signal in the electronic circuit, and wherein the output signal for detection of the attached part is used. Furthermore, it is disclosed that the coding device contains electronic components which are accommodated in a coding module, which is formed as a cuboid, encapsulated module housing and provided on its underside with electrical terminals which are connected to contact pins of the connector, and that the coding module in the connector is inserted.

The publication EP 1353412 A2 proposes for the electrical connection of an at least partially decentralized designed plant or machine control, a modular connector in which in a two halves hinged holding frame different and interchangeable modules are inserted, at least one designed as an enclosed housing module to use in the corresponding switching means are provided which can generate a signal change for further control tasks.

In particular, the document discloses DE 20 219 875 U1 a modular connector with two plug-in connector parts, each having a holding frame, in which replaceable modules are inserted, characterized in that at least one of the modules of the first connector part preferably on its in the assembled state of the connector facing away from the corresponding connector part side, a plug connection, which has an electronic module with an electronic circuit, on which application-specific parameters can be stored, which can be read out via the associated module from the electronic module. Furthermore, it is disclosed that the plug-in connection of the module is a USB connection. In this context, it is further mentioned that such electronic modules, for example, with a USB connection known per se and are inexpensive for computers available as accessories in memory sizes of 128 bytes up to currently 3Gbyte.

A disadvantage of this prior art is that in the case of changes in a production process involving e.g. one or more machines are exchanged or changed, a central sequencer, e.g. in a central process computer, must be changed manually. Frequently, standards and / or formats for controlling the machines or at least one of their components must also be adapted accordingly. Such changes are therefore associated with manual effort, and in addition to unwanted delays and the risk of human error.

task

The object of the invention is to reduce this, during construction or in the change of a production process resulting manual configuration and / or programming effort and to facilitate a decentralized task distribution.

Furthermore, the invention has for its object to improve the associated mechanical handling and continue to provide a cost-effective way to retrofit existing machinery for such a production process.

The object is achieved by a method of the type mentioned by the features of the characterizing part of the independent claim 1.

• – spezifische Daten über die Maschine und/oder über Komponenten der Maschine erzeugt und/oder zusammengestellt werden;
• – die Daten in ein für das Netzwerk lesbares Format gebracht werden;
• – die Daten in einem Speicherbaustein eines zur Maschine gehörenden Moduls gespeichert werden.

The method is used to control and / or supply at least one machine via a network, wherein

• - generating and / or assembling specific data about the machine and / or components of the machine;
• - the data is put in a format readable by the network;
• - The data are stored in a memory module of a module belonging to the machine.

The object is further achieved by a network of the type mentioned by the features of claim 9.

Such a network has at least one data module as a storage node and at least one computing module as a computing node.

The object is further achieved by a device of the type mentioned by the features of the characterizing part of the device claim 16.

The device likewise serves to carry out the method and has at least one computing and / or one data module.

The object is further achieved with a data switch according to claim 24, which is designed in the form of a connector module.

Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

In a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for controlling and / or supplying at least one, in particular a plurality of machines. The respective machine fulfills the function of a so-called "production island" as part of a production plant, whereby the entire production plant is controlled by the network.

This control preferably takes place by means of a decentralized data and / or arithmetic structure and by means of said device for carrying out this method. The decentralized data / arithmetic structure allows the respective machine to have data that is necessary or at least helpful for its operation in the network, wherein this data is present in particular in a form prepared for the network in the memory module of the machine. For this purpose, these data can previously be generated manually and / or from a memory of the machine and / or associated components or else from another source, for example from websites of the manufacturers of the components, read and prepared. For example, the rendering may be to put the data in a network-readable format.

This is particularly advantageous if the respective machine has several components, for example robot arms, sensors, cameras, etc., since the data stored in the memory module can then contain, for example, protocols for controlling the individual components.

An advantage of the invention is that the data necessary for the operation of individual machines and / or their components are stored in the network in a decentralized network-capable storage media, wherein the storage media are advantageously mechanically connected to the respective machine and / or its component. This ensures that the specific data remains connected to this machine even when the machine is being moved or relocated to another network, meaning that it is also available to the new network. It is particularly advantageous if a common data standard exists for such networks because this reduces the manual configuration effort that results when the machines are exchanged between different networks.

It is particularly advantageous if the specific data of a module relates to the identification and / or capabilities of the associated machine, because this data is connected to the corresponding machine. As a result, these data can be read by the machine even if the machine is used in another network.

In particular, the specific data may also include the history of the machine, e.g. their service life and maintenance intervals. This has the advantage that these data are available in the corresponding network and the machine can be maintained regularly.

Integrating the memory module in such a connector module is particularly advantageous because the data stored in the memory module information about the modular structure and continue to have the assignment of the connector. In particular, they may e.g. Maximum values for voltage, current, air pressure, etc. for the individual modules and / or for the individual pins of the other modules include. In this way dangerous misplacements and / or overvoltages can be prevented. Also, the data may include information about digital data formats of the individual modules and / or their individual ports.

Advantageously, these data may also include digital manuals for the corresponding machine.

Such a decentralized memory module can be called "storage node" from a network perspective.

Thus, it is particularly advantageous if at least one data module and / or at least one computing module is assigned to a machine in the network.

It is particularly advantageous if the data and / or computation modules of the network are implemented in the form of connector modules, because then their data and supply currents, e.g. for the optionally connected machine, as well as a variety of other signals can be transmitted.

A data module advantageously has a storage medium for data and a network connection.

In addition to a storage medium and a network connection, a computing module advantageously also includes a processor, the processor serving to query data from the data modules of other modules via a network. Thus, the calculation module is more expensive and expensive than a data module, but also has a greater functionality. A suitable combination of data and arithmetic modules can thus advantageously represent a conductive and at the same time inexpensive variant.

A particularly cost-effective variant can furthermore consist in that the computing module additionally has at least one further port for controlling further components of the respective machine in addition to the network connection, because the computing module can then directly control the components.

Advantageously, the memory module can be integrated into a connector module, wherein the connector module is part of a modular connector system, so that it is thus a data module designed as a connector module. For this purpose, a connector may have a housing which includes, for example, a module frame. In this module frame usually several different connector modules with different mating faces and contacts can be used and therein fixable, so that via the connector various digital and analog, optical, electrical and also pneumatic signals and power supply currents are transferable.

In an advantageous development, a memory module can also be extended by an active component comprising, for example, a microprocessor. This active component furthermore has a program stored locally in the memory module and / or in a memory of the microprocessor. Thus, the active component can perform arithmetic operations and possibly other programs, and is therefore referred to in the network as a "compute node". The active component allows the compute node, the data of a memory chip of another data and / or compute node, or any other assemblies, such as. Sensors or other components to query. Such a computational node, in addition to its plug-in network connection, can also be in bidirectional data exchange with the data and / or computation nodes of these further components of the machine, in particular via a so-called "data switch".

The use of arithmetic and data nodes within a network is particularly advantageous because in this way the computational nodes with the data and / or with other computational nodes over the network in bidirectional data exchange and so can complement each other in their function.

For example, a machine may have such a data and / or compute node internally or externally. This data and / or computational node may preferably be mechanically fixed to the machine. For example, the machine may have a fixedly mounted connector, which is screwed, for example, with a flange of an associated mounting housing to a housing of the machine. In particular, the connector may include a modular system. At least one of the modules can then have the data and / or compute nodes. This module can be designed so that it only communicates with the network on the plug-in side, for example in the case of a data node for the purpose of identification and, if necessary, storage of data. On the other hand, if it is a computing node, then it can access the data and / or functions of other data and / or compute nodes via the network. To do this, the corresponding module only has to have a corresponding network connection on the plug-in side.

The data switch of the plug module according to the invention is preferably an Ethernet switch. Particularly preferably, the data switch is a so-called "unmanaged industrial Ethernet switch".

A data switch is basically known to the person skilled in the art. In particular, it is a component with a plurality of data connections, which assigns data received via the data connections to their respectively provided data connections in accordance with a predetermined addressing.

The data in all these data transfer operations may be transmitted both as so-called "push" data and as "pull" data from any computing and / or data node of the network to another computing and / or data node or to the network, e.g. sent to or requested by a server belonging to the network.

Thus, in the network, computing nodes of several different machines can also be in bidirectional data exchange with one another. This is of particular advantage because it also allows the capabilities of one computing node to be used by another compute node.

In a preferred embodiment, the machine may have at least one data module as a data node, which is arranged in the form of a connector module in the said modular system of the connector. In particular, the connector may comprise a mounting housing, for example, with a flange to the machine, e.g. to a housing of the machine, can be screwed.

In another embodiment, the data and / or computing nodes can be arranged in a separate, in particular closed, housing. The separate housing may advantageously be attached to the machine and have an interface to the data network through which the data and / or compute node is connected to the network. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, it may be connected via an external data line e.g. communicate with the components of the associated machine via the said connector and in particular via a data switch.

On the one hand, it is advantageous if the respective housing is mechanically fastened to the machine, because thereby the computer and / or data node belonging to the machine is carried along with the machine when the machine is removed from the network and when the machine is integrated into a new network automatically integrated into the new network.

On the other hand, it may also be advantageous if at least one computing module exists in the network, which is not assigned to any machine, because this computing module can then take over data processing tasks for the network and in particular can be used as a server. Such a module may also have its own housing, so does not necessarily have to be designed as a connector module.

The computing and / or data modules may be active in an advantageous embodiment, e.g. with a so-called "Hello" message, log in to the network. Alternatively, they can also be queried by the network. In particular, these nodes can actively or passively communicate the capabilities of the associated machines / components. As a result, in particular a decentralized distribution of tasks is made possible.

The compute nodes can thus recognize each other automatically, exchange information about each other's capabilities and distribute certain tasks among themselves according to their abilities.

In a preferred embodiment, the compute nodes of the network may implement decentralized complex operations, e.g. Perform measurement and control operations, evaluate and possibly even make decentralized decisions according to program instructions stored in their memory.

If the respective module, in particular the arithmetic and / or data module actively logs on the network, this has the advantage that it is quickly recognized after its connection. Is it passive, i. E. if it is queried regularly, this facilitates the administration by an optional server, wherein this server can also consist of a computing node, which in particular is not assigned to any machine.

It is particularly advantageous if the module stores the content of at least some of the specific data, e.g. the capabilities of the associated machine communicates over the network because it allows other compute nodes to access the machine associated with the module.

The use of computational and data modules has the advantage of cost savings over the exclusive use of compute nodes. To simply communicate the capabilities and properties of the machine to the network, one data node is sufficient. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous if the network has at least one data module as a storage node and at least one computing module as a computing node. For this purpose, it is furthermore advantageous if both arithmetic and data modules, in particular in the same format, e.g. Data format, but also mechanically in the same connector module format, i. also mechanically matching the same modular system for connectors exist and in particular from a vendor, e.g. as a package, to be offered. This particularly facilitates the installation for the customer and reduces the financial expense when setting up the network.

It is particularly advantageous if a module detects the presence of at least one other such module in the network, e.g. via its IP address, registered. In particular, more than two such modules can log on to each other and register each other. This has the advantage that the modules can build the network decentralized and thus ideally even without a server automatically.

Alternatively, depending on the application, such modules with a firmly configured remote site, such as a server and / or a service, establish a point-to-point connection, and so build the network centrally.

• – Mittel zum Anfordern von Daten aus dem Netzwerk;
• – Mittel zum Verarbeiten dieser Daten;
• – Mittel zum Senden der verarbeiteten Daten oder daraus gewonnener Ergebnisse in das Netzwerk.

In particular, a compute node may include:

• - means for requesting data from the network;
• - means for processing this data;
• - means for sending the processed data or results obtained therefrom into the network.

This has the advantage that the computational node can also be assigned a meaningful function in the network even without being assigned to a particular machine. for example, it may change data, control machines and / or their components, and, in general terms, execute programs, and thus may operate alone or in conjunction with other remote computing nodes e.g. be used as a process computer.

Advantageously, such decentralized structures of the network allow at least one compute node to poll for specific data from at least one other compute node and / or a data node. In particular, at least the computing node may have means for controlling further components of the relevant machine to which the queried data is related. Furthermore, the compute node can control another compute node. This is of particular advantage because the computational node is thereby possibly enabled access to the corresponding components of the machine of the other computing node.

The device for carrying out the method has at least one data and / or one computing module. In particular, the device may also have a data switch via which the computational node is in bidirectional data exchange with the other components of the machine in order to control these and / or to request data from them, eg measurement data.

However, it is also particularly advantageous for many applications if the device comprises the data switch already mentioned above, which is connected on the one hand to the said further port of the computer module, and on the other hand has several ports for connection to the other components. In particular, it is particularly advantageous if the data switch is designed in the form of a connector module and is in particular mechanically compatible with the other modules, that is, for example, can be used with the same connector modular system.

It is particularly advantageous if the device comprises a connector with a modular system and a computing module and / or a data module and / or a data switch, wherein the computing module and / or the data module and / or the data switch are each in the form of a connector module and in which Modular system are mechanically fixed, because thereby a particularly cost-effective and efficient combination of these modules is made possible for each application.

Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the data switch is designed in the form of a connector module, because this can then be mounted in a mounting housing, which has an integrated modular system to a cabinet and thus saves cabling and keeps away from a DIN rail arranged in the cabinet.

embodiment

An embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawings and will be explained in more detail below. Show it:

1 a network with a server and two machines;

2 a network with one server and three machines;

3 a networked machine with a data switch and multiple components;

4 a network with an integrated internet connection and a central process computer;

5a , b an embodiment of a data or computing module;

6a , b a first embodiment of a switch module;

6c d, a second embodiment of the switch module;

7a , b shows an embodiment of a prior art connector modular system;

8th a schematic representation of a wiring of a computing module and a switch module in a connector modular system.

The figures contain partially simplified, schematic representations. In part, identical reference numerals are used for the same but possibly not identical elements. Different views of the same elements could be scaled differently.

The 1 shows a network with a server 5 and two machines 1 . 1' namely, a first machine 1 and a second machine 1' , The first machine has as first component 11 a current sensor. Furthermore, owns the first machine 1 a connector mounted to its housing 2 , which has a so-called "modular system", in which usually a variety of different connector modules 23 can be integrated, eg optical, pneumatic, electrical heavy duty and signal transmission modules. In the present embodiment, the connector has 2 at least one such connector module 23 , the plug-in with a network 4 and cable connection side to the current sensor 11 connected. In the modular system of the connector 2 is still a data module 3 inserted, which has a storage medium for data and in the form of such a connector module, that is compatible with the modular system is executed.

The second machine 1' has a separate data module 3 ' , that is, a data module, which is designed as a separate unit and has its own housing, with which it on the second machine 1' is attached. Furthermore, the second machine has a corresponding second connector 2 ' , It may also preferably be a connector with a modular system, so in addition to a conventional connector module inserted therein 23 'can also record more modules. It can also be a act simple connector. This module allows the second machine 1' even conventional to the network 4 be connected and conventionally controlled about it.

The data modules 3 . 3 ' can on the network 4 So fulfill the function of data nodes.

The network is connected to a server 5 in a bidirectional data exchange.

The data modules 3 . 3 ' are each with the network 4 connected. The network 4 stands over the connector modules 23 . 23 ' with the respective machine 1 . 1' and / or with at least one of its components 11 in connection.

At the respective machine 1 . 1' it can be an individually assembled production island. The data modules 3 . 3 ' can then get specific data about each component 11 . 12 , ... own the production island. As a result, the handling of such an arrangement is greatly facilitated. Alternatively or in addition, however, the components can also 11 . 12 , ... each have their own data modules.

The data modules 3 . 3 ' can each, for example by means of a so-called "hello" message, the server 5 sign up with a preferably unique identification.

The data modules 3 . 3 ' Share the server actively or on request with what the capabilities of each machine 1 . 1' /Component 11 . 12 , ... are what other components 11 . 12 , ... the respective machine 1 . 1' has and how these components 11 . 12 , ... are to be controlled.

The server 5 may also include a process computer, for example, at regular time intervals, the components, such as the current sensor 11 , over the network 4 queries and recorded by him measured values recorded.

This process computer of the server 5 for example, the second machine 1' Taxes. The second machine 1' or the current sensor 11 but can also be controlled by any other network participant, if this network participant is able to generate the appropriate instructions.

The 2 shows a similar network, which, however, three machines 1 . 1' . 1'' includes.

The first machine 1 is compared to the previous presentation to another component 12 , namely a temperature measuring device, has been extended. Furthermore, the data module 3 in the connector 2 through a calculation module 6 been replaced. Also the other two machines 1' . 1'' each have a computing module 6 ' . 6 '' Such a calculation module 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' In addition to the storage medium for data, also referred to below as data storage, it has a corresponding microprocessor and a corresponding program and can therefore also perform arithmetic operations in addition to the functions of a data module, as well as other components 11 . 12 , ... or even other data modules 3 . 3 ' , ... read out and / or even the other computational modules 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' Taxes. Every calculation module 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' which can represent a computing node in the network, is plug-in to the network 4 connected.

Every calculation module 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' may also have one or more cable-connection-side connections, either for power supply, but which can alternatively take place via the network, or even, for example, the other components 11 . 12 , ... to join. This can be the other components 11 . 12 , ... controlled and / or read. It can be for each component 11 . 12 , ... a separate line can be provided or it can also be several components, as in the drawing for the machine 1 shown connected via an internal bus. In particular, the associated calculation module 6 Readings from the components 11 . 12 , ... read, process and if necessary also the control function for the components 11 . 12 , ... own.

In an embodiment not shown in the drawing, also the components 11 . 12 , ... even each with its own data / calculation module 3 . 6 have that directly over the network 4 or from the calculation module 6 can be addressed.

About the connector module 23 is the machine 1 even to the network, ie to the network 4 , connected to the machine, for example, with a not shown in the drawing 1 belonging internal processor and data storage to be able to send and receive data.

The second machine 1' has a separate data module 3 ' and a separate calculation module 6 ' on. The calculation module 6 ' can in its own data store data about the associated machine 1' hold. It can also transfer such data from the data module 3 ' over the server 5 Interrogate. The calculation module 6 ' but also from the first machine 1 Query data. Furthermore, the calculation module 6 ' the other components 11 . 12 , ... the first machine 1 over the network and its computing module 6 control and / or interrogate.

The third machine 1'' also has a calculation module 6 '' in the form of a connector module and in a modular system of the associated connector 2 ' is arranged. Such a calculation module 6 '' Of course, it also has a data memory on which relevant data of the machine 1'' are deposited. By means of this data storage supplies the computing module 6 '' both data regarding, for example, their identification, occupancy, function, etc. in the network. Furthermore, the calculation module 6 '' to do that, the other computational modules 6 . 6 ' to recognize and in particular also to use their functions.

The calculation modules 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' can recognize each other and in particular in this way decentralized build a common network, so that in a further embodiment of the Sever 5 ideally be replaced by such a decentralized structure.

The 3 shows the first machine 1 that's about a data switch 14 was added, with the data switch 14 via the connector module 23 to the network 4 connected.

In the connector 2 the first machine 1 are in addition to the connector module 23 also the data module 3 and the calculation module 6 arranged. The calculation module 6 and the data module 3 are plugged in to the network 4 connected.

Over the network 4 can both modules 3 . 6 so over the data switch 14 with the other components 11 . 12 . 13 communicate and / or these components 11 . 12 . 13 read and control.

For example, depending on a measured current and a measured temperature, a robotic arm 13 perform a specific function.

The associated instruction can be from the calculation module 6 but it can also be from any other network participant connected to the network, for example from another computing module 6 ' , come.

The 4 shows a network that uses the internet 7 partially integrated. The first machine 1 is via a separate calculation module 6 ' with the network, ie with its network 4 , connected. The computing module controls via a connection on the cable connection side 6 ' via the data switch 14 the other connected components 11 . 12 . 13 ,

The second machine 1' is also via a separate calculation module 6 ' connected to the network.

The third machine 1'' is with a in a connector 2 integrated data module 3 connected to the network.

A fourth machine 1''' is with a separate data module 3 ' connected to the network.

A fifth machine 1'''' is about a in a connector 2 integrated, executed in the form of a connector module computing module 6 and the internet connected to it 7 connected to the network.

About the calculation module 6 and a data switch connected to the cable side 14 ' can be, as already described, other components 15 . 16 . 17 query and control.

The 5a shows a data module 3 , which is designed in the form of a connector module for a modular system, that is compatible with the modular system and thus can be used therein and fixed therein. The data module has this 3 on two opposite narrow sides in each case a latching pin 34 . 34 ' one of which 34 a little bit longer than the other 34 ' to ensure correct orientation in the modular system. Furthermore, the data module 3 a polarizing agent 35 on, which ensures the correct orientation of the connector against a mating connector.

Plug-in has the data module 3 a plug connection 31 , In this case, it is an RJ45 connection. This is mechanically on a printed circuit board 33 fixed and is via via holes in electrically conductive connection with corresponding traces on a non-visible in the drawing underside of the printed circuit board 33 , On the bottom of the circuit board 33 There is also a storage medium, also not shown in the drawing, which is capable of providing data via the plug connection 31 active ("push") or passive ("pull").

Cable connection side is an optional power supply 32 shown over which the data module 3 from the machine 1 can be fed. Alternatively, however, is also a supply via the network, for example via the so-called PoE ("Power over Ethernet") or similar supplies via the respective network 4 , possible and in many cases also useful.

The 5b shows a calculation module 6 that is externally of the data module 3 does not differentiate.

Also the calculation module 6 , is designed in the form of a connector module for the modular system, ie it is compatible with the modular system and thus can be used therein and fixed in it. The calculation module has this 6 on two opposite narrow sides in each case a latching pin 64 . 64 ' one of which 64 a little bit longer than the other 64 ' to ensure correct orientation in the modular system. Furthermore, the calculation module 6 a polarizing agent 65 on, which ensures the correct orientation of a possible connector.

Plug-in has the computing module 6 a plug connection 61 , In this case, it is an RJ45 connection. This is mechanically on a printed circuit board 63 fixed and is via via holes in electrically conductive connection with corresponding traces on a non-visible in the drawing underside of the printed circuit board 63 , On the bottom of the circuit board 63 There is also a storage medium, also not shown in the drawing, which is capable of providing data via the plug connection 61 active ("push") or passive ("pull"). As an essential differentiator to the aforementioned data module 3 owns the calculation module 6 in addition, a microcontroller and at least one associated program, wherein the program may be stored in the storage medium or in a data memory of the microcontroller. With this program, the computing module can read data from data modules 3 request, perform arithmetic operations and other computational modules 6 ' . 6 '' as well as other components 11 . 12 . 13 . 15 . 16 . 17 Taxes.

Cable connection side is an optional power supply 62 shown, over which the calculation module 6 from the machine 1 can be fed. Alternatively, however, is also a supply via the network, for example via the so-called PoE ("Power over Ethernet") or similar supplies via the respective network 4 , possible and in many cases also useful.

The 6a and 6b as well as the 6c and 6d each show a switch module 14 ' ie a data switch that is designed in the form of a connector module. This in 6a and 6b shown first switch module 14 ' . 14 '' has two plug-in connections 141 ' , each provided as a port and formed in the form of an RJ45 socket. At the two plug-in connections 141 ' are polarizing agents 145 ' formed.

The first switch module 14 ' is designed in the form of a connector module for the modular system, ie it is compatible with the modular system and thus can be used therein and fixed in it. The first switch module has this feature 14 ' on two opposite sides in each case two locking pins 144 . 144 ' one of which 144 a little bit longer than the other 144 ' to ensure the correct orientation of the module in the modular system.

The first switch module 14 ' has an optional power connection on the cable side, ie on the side corresponding to a connector module on the cable connection side 142 ' and four more cable-connection-side ports 146 ' , each provided as a port and designed as RJ45 sockets. The connections 145 ' . 146 ' are via printed conductors of a printed circuit board 143 ' connected to each other, with the tracks on the bottom of the circuit board 143 ' located and thus are not visible in the drawing. Furthermore, the printed circuit board 143 ' on its underside required for a switch electronics, especially a microprocessor on.

This in 6c and 6d shown second switch module 14 '' has two plug-in connections 141 '' , each provided as a port and formed in the form of an RJ45 socket. At the two plug-in connections 141 '' are polarizing agents 145 ' formed.

The second switch module 14 '' is designed in the form of a connector module for the modular system, ie it is compatible with the modular system and thus can be used therein and fixed in it. The second switch module has this feature 14 '' on two opposite sides in each case a few locking pins 145 '' only one pair of which can be seen in the drawing.

However, the two pairs may be in shape, e.g. The length of the locking pin, slightly different, to ensure the correct orientation of the module in the modular system.

The second switch module 14 '' has an optional power connection on the cable side 142 '' and four cable connections on the other side 146 '' , each provided as a port and designed as RJ45 sockets. The connections 141 '' . 146 '' are interconnected via interconnects of a circuit board not visible in the drawing via an electronics required for a switch, in particular a microprocessor.

In the 7a and 7b For the sake of completeness, a modular system corresponding to the state of the art is shown, which is embodied by way of example as a hinged frame, as described, inter alia, in the abovementioned patent application EP860906A2 known in the art.

The connector 2 includes a connector housing 21 and a module frame 22

The module frame 22 is after inserting modules, in the prior art usually of connector modules 23 but especially data 3 , Computational 6 and or Switch modules 14 ' , for installation in a connector housing 2 or suitable for mounting over a breakthrough of a mounting surface / mounting wall.

The module frame 22 consists of two over joints 223 connected frame halves 221 . 222 with fasteners 225 , with fixing screws 226 are provided. The joints are at the attachment ends 225 of the module frame 22 provided, wherein the possibility of pivoting the frame halves transverse to the side parts 8th of the module frame 22 is provided.

To form the joints 223 are at the attachment ends 225 of the module frame 22 or the side parts respectively provided puzzle-like projections, which engage in corresponding recesses. In this case, these projections are inserted by lateral displacement of the side parts in the recesses, wherein then the side parts about the longitudinal axis A are pivotable (rotatable).

In the side panels 221 . 222 the frame halves are windows 224 provided, in which the locking pin 34 . 64 . 144 . 234 the respective modules 3 . 6 . 14 . 23 when inserted in the module frame 22 plunge.

For inserting the plug-in modules 2 becomes the support frame 1 unfolded, ie opened, with the frame halves 221 . 222 around the joints 223 be opened so far that the modules 3 . 6 . 14 . 23 can be used.

To fix the frame halves 221 . 222 zusammengekappt, ie the module frame is closed, with the respective locking pin 34 . 64 . 144 . 234 in the windows 224 arrive and a secure, positive fit of the modules 3 . 6 . 14 . 23 in the module frame 22 is effected.

Finally, in the 7b such a module frame 22 , used in a connector housing 21 , shown. Here, a sectional view of the support frame has been chosen to better recognize details. By screwing the holding frame on the lying in a mounting plane mounting eyes 221 in the housing corners becomes the closed position of the module frame 22 finally fixed.

The 8th finally shows a connector 2 comprising a modular system, in which two modules, namely a switch module 14 ' and a calculation module 6 , are inserted. Furthermore, the connector has 2 a mounting flange 212 , eg for attachment to the housing of a machine 1 . 1' . 1'' , ....

The calculation module 6 has a plug-in connection 61 , Via this connection, the computing module is connected to one of the two plug-in connections ("ports") of the switch module 14 ' connected. In this case, it is a simple bridge, in the connector 2 can be arranged. These two ports could also be connected via a mating connector, not shown, with each other.

The second plug-in connection of the switch module 14 ' is with the network 4 connected.

It is clear to the person skilled in the art from the preceding considerations that the calculation module 6 thus over the switch 14 ' with the network in bidirectional data exchange stands, which by the dashed, the two plug-side connections 141 ' of the switch module 14 ' connecting, unspecified double arrow is indicated.

Cable connection side are two other components 11 . 13 each to one of the cable connection side connections 146 ' of the switch module 14 ' connected. It is an electricity meter 11 and a robotic arm 13 ,

Thus, the calculation module 6 capable of doing several components 11 . 13 the machine 1 via the switch module 14 ' to control. At the same time, the calculation module has 6 Access to the network 4 and represents a compute node there.

Additionally, in the calculation module 6 specific data of the machine 1 be stored, so that also the computing module 6 can take over the function of a data node. But it could also be a special data module 3 in the modular system of the connector 2 Insert that directly over the network 4 or via another port of the switch module, not shown in the drawing 14 ' with the calculation module 6 and the network 4 can communicate.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1, 1 ', 1' ', 1' '', 1 '' ''

machinery

11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17

 Components of the machines

14

 Data switch as a separate unit

14 ', 14' '

 first, second switch module

141 ', 141' '

plug-in connections

142 ', 141' '

power connection

143 '

 PCB

144, 144 ', 144' '

 latching pin

145 ', 145' '

 polarization means

146 ', 146''

cable connection connections

2, 2 ', 2' '

 Connector with modular system

21

 connector housing

211

 fastening eyes

212

 mounting flange

22

 module frame

221, 222

 frame halves

223

 joint

224

 window

225

 fixing ends

226

 mounting screws

23, 23 '

 connector module

234

 Locking pin of the connector module

3

 Data module in the form of a connector module

3 '

 Data module as a separate unit

6, 6 ''

 Calculation module in the form of a connector module

6 '

 Calculation module as a separate unit

31, 61

 Plug-in connection

32, 62

 optional power supply

33, 63

 PCB

34, 64

 latching pin

35, 65

 polarization means

4

 network

5

 server

7

 Internet

8th

 process computer

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 10112843 A1 [0006]
• WO 2011042318 A1 [0007]
• DE 102013106279 A1 [0009]
• DE 102012110907 A1 [0009]
• DE 102012107270 A1 [0009]
• DE 202013103611 U1 [0009]
• EP 2510590 A1 [0009]
• EP 2510589 A1 [0009]
• DE 202011050643 U1 [0009]
• EP 860906 A2 [0009, 0120]
• DE 29601998 U1 [0009]
• EP 1353412 A2 [0009, 0012]
• EP 860906 B1 [0010]
• DE 19851473 A1 [0011]
• DE 20219875 U1 [0013]

Claims (24)

Method for controlling and / or supplying at least one machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) over a network ( 4 ), where - initially specific data concerning the machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) and / or components ( 11 . 12 . 13 . 15 . 16 . 17 ) the machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ), generated and / or assembled; - the data in one for the network ( 4 ) readable format; The data in a memory block of a to the machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) belonging module ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) get saved. Method according to claim 1, wherein the module ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) active or passive in the network ( 4 ) sign up. Method according to claim 2, wherein the module ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) the content of at least some of the specific data, eg the capabilities of the associated machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ), over the network ( 4 ) communicates. Method according to one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the module ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) the presence of at least one other such module ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) registered in the network, eg via its IP address. Method according to claim 4, wherein more than two such modules ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) register with each other and register each other and so the network ( 4 ) decentralized. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of such modules ( 3 . 3 ' 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) with a permanently configured remote site, for example a server ( 5 ) and / or a service, establish a point-to-point connection, and thus the network ( 4 ) centrally. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the specific data include the identification and / or capabilities of the associated machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) affect. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the specific data is the history of the machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ), eg their operating time and maintenance intervals. Network for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the network ( 4 ) at least one data module ( 3 . 3 ' ) as a storage node and at least one computing module ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) as a computational node. A network according to claim 9, wherein the at least one of the data modules ( 3 . 3 ' ) and / or at least one of the computational modules ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) of a machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) assigned. A network according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein at least one of the computational modules ( 6 ' ) no machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) assigned. A network according to claim 11, wherein the at least one computing module ( 6 ' ), which is not assigned to any machine, comprises: means for requesting data from the network ( 4 ); - means for processing this data; Means for sending the processed data or results obtained therefrom into the network ( 4 ). A network according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the network ( 4 ) has at least partially decentralized structures, which make it possible for at least one computing module ( 6 ) specific data from at least one other computing module ( 6 ' . 6 '' ) and / or at least one data module ( 3 . 3 ' ) queries. A network according to claim 9 to 13, wherein at least one of the computational modules ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) Means for controlling further components ( 11 . 12 . 13 . 15 . 16 . 17 ) of the machine concerned ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) to which the queried data are related. A network according to claim 14, wherein at least one computing module ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) a control function for another computing module ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) owns. Apparatus for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprising at least one data ( 3 . 3 ' ) and / or a computing module ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ). Apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that the at least one data ( 3 ) and / or calculation module ( 6 . 6 '' ) is designed in the form of a connector module. Device according to one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the device comprises at least one data module ( 3 . 3 ' ) having a storage medium and a network connection. Device according to one of claims 16 to 18, wherein at least one of the calculation modules ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) a storage medium, a network connection ( 61 ) and a processor, wherein the processor is used to transfer data from the storage media of other modules via a network ( 3 . 3 ' . 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) to interrogate. Device according to claim 19, wherein the calculation module ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) in addition to the network connection ( 61 ) at least one further port for controlling further components ( 11 . 12 . 13 . 15 . 16 . 17 ) of the respective machine ( 1 . 1' . 1'' . 1''' . 1'''' ) having. Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the apparatus comprises a data switch ( 14 ' . 14 '' ), on the one hand to a port of the computing module ( 6 . 6 ' . 6 '' ) and, on the other hand, several ports ( 146 ' . 146 '' ) for connection to the other components ( 11 . 12 . 13 . 15 . 16 . 17 ) having. Apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the data switch ( 14 ' . 14 '' ) is designed in the form of a connector module. Device according to one of claims 16 to 22, characterized in that the device comprises a connector ( 2 . 2 ' . 2 '' ) with a modular system, and that the data switch ( 14 ' . 14 '' ) and / or the computing module ( 6 . 6 '' ) and / or the data module ( 3 ) are each in the form of a connector module and mechanically fixed in the modular system. Datenswitch, characterized in that the data switch ( 14 ' . 14 '' ) is formed in the form of a connector module.

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