Efficient Error Analysis by Means of Simulated Errors in a Digital Twin

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a method and device for identifying the root causes of faults in automated systems using a 'digital twin'—a virtual representation of the real system. When a fault occurs, the system uses sensor data to find the most recent error-free state, then simulates possible faults by introducing errors into different virtual components of the digital twin. By comparing the simulated faulty behavior with the real system's faulty state, the system can identify which component likely caused the problem. This process is iterative until the simulated fault matches the real fault.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Troubleshooting and maintenance of automated manufacturing plants
• Predictive maintenance in industrial automation systems
• Fault analysis in robotics and mechatronics
• Remote diagnostics of complex automated machinery
• Continuous monitoring and error analysis in process control systems
• Training and testing of engineering personnel using fault simulation

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduces the need for complex upfront failure modeling or simulation of all possible faults, saving time and resources during design and operation.
• Enables quick and reliable identification of fault causes, minimizing system downtime and maintenance costs.
• Improves accuracy in diagnosing unknown or novel system errors by matching real and simulated behavior.
• Facilitates automated, continuous monitoring and error detection with minimal human intervention.
• Can prioritize fault scenarios based on likelihood, improving maintenance planning and resource allocation.
• Adaptable to various automation contexts without significant modification to the system.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and to a device for identifying causes of faults in automated systems, and to an automated system comprising the device for identifying causes of faults in automated systems. In a digital twin of the automated system, at least one element of the digital twin is assumed to be faulty and then simulated using the digital twin until a fault time. At least one faulty element of the automated system is identified as the cause of a fault based on the at least one element assumed to be faulty.