Patent Publication Number: US-2022223029-A1

Title: Configuration system and computer program product for configuration of a control center

Description:
PRIORITY CLAIM AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     This application is a 35 U.S.C. § 371 application of International Application No. PCT/EP2020/062596, filed May 6, 2020, which claims the benefit of German Application No. 10 2019 111 854.9 filed May 7, 2019, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to a computer program product for configuration of a control center, in particular a fire alarm and/or extinguishing control center, to an associated method and to an associated control center. 
     BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is known that the configuration of control centers, for example of fire alarm and/or extinguishing control centers, is complex. In this regard, particularly in the case of relatively large systems, a large number of subscribers, such as detectors, alarm means, etc., and the behavior thereof have to be defined and coordinated with one another. Each subscriber, for example, has different requirements in respect of connections, control and evaluation. 
     However, the configuration is not only labor-intensive, but moreover susceptible to errors since the requirements, for example of standards, are stringent and the possibilities of configuration are manifold. It is also known that changes in the configuration can be implemented only with difficulty, and so often even small adaptations of the hardware necessitate a complete reconfiguration of the control center. The standards have different spatial areas of validity, inter alia, and so systems having the same protection goal may require different configurations depending on set-up location. 
     The term fire alarm systems denotes hazard alarm systems (HAS) which help persons directly to bring about a distress signal in the event of fire hazards and/or detect and report fires at an early point in time. 
     The term fire alarm control center (FACC) denotes part of the fire alarm system. It serves to receive, process and visually or acoustically present messages from fire detectors, to highlight and possibly record the detector group or the alarm region and also to monitor itself and the fire detectors and to indicate disturbances. In the event of fire detection, the fire alarm control center can pass on an alerting signal, e.g. to the fire department, or communicate a signal for the automatic fire protection device present, e.g. to a fire extinguishing system. 
     An electrical control device is an interface between fire detection part, usually the fire alarm control center, and extinguishing system. It converts fire detection signals from the fire alarm control center into control signals to the extinguishing system. The electrical control unit can be a dedicated assembly or an integral part of the fire alarm control center. 
     Commissioning is when the system is used as intended for the first time. 
     Inspection encompasses measures for ascertaining and assessing the actual state of a unit under consideration including determining the causes of wear and deriving the necessary consequences for future use. 
     Maintenance is the combination of all technical and administrative measures and also management measures during the lifecycle of a unit under consideration for sustaining the functional state or returning to the latter, such that it can fulfil the demanded function. 
     Repair encompasses measures for returning a unit under consideration to the functional state, with the exception of improvements. 
     The term extinguishing region denotes the totality of all regions in which an extinguishing agent is applied simultaneously in the case of fire. 
     The prewarning time concerns the time period between the beginning of the alerting for warning persons and the release of the extinguishing agent. 
     The term servicing denotes measures for delaying the reduction of the available margin of wear. 
     Approved means that something has been authorized by a competent authority. 
     The German Patent and Trademark Office searched the following prior art in the priority application with respect to the present application: EP 2 533 118 A1 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,768,119 A. 
     Against this background, it was an object of the present invention to specify a computer program product and an associated method enabling a particularly efficient and versatile configuration of control centers with few errors. 
     The invention proposes a computer program product, which can also be embodied as a configuration system, for configuration of a control center, in particular a fire alarm and/or extinguishing control center, comprising a hardware configuration component for configuration of hardware components such as modules and/or front panel components of the control center, and a logic configuration component for configuration of a functional logic of the control center. The logic configuration component is designed to provide functional components. The functional components are decoupled from the hardware of the control center and embodied in such a way that reversible assignment of functional component to hardware component is made possible. 
     According to the invention, accordingly, the computer program product for configuration of a control center enables the hardware of the control center to be decoupled from the logic of the control center. To put it another way, accordingly, it is firstly possible, by means of the logic configuration component, to create the set-up and to fill it later with hardware. The technology, for example loop technology, limit value technology, etc., which is configurable by the hardware configuration component can accordingly be defined at a late stage of development, which simplifies the development process. The decoupling of logic and hardware correspondingly reduces the complexity in the configuration of control centers. 
     The configuration principle can also be referred to as a function-oriented component concept. Firstly, a functional component is selected and included in the functional logic by means of the logic configuration component. The functional component represents a specific function. The functional component is subsequently married to a hardware technology, that is to say assigned to or linked with a hardware component or a front panel component. Finally, an assignment to physical connections and the definition of the adjustable parameters of the hardware components can be effected. These assignments or linkages can be effected at any arbitrary point in time during the creation of the functional logic, that is to say as early as after the inclusion of a single functional component, after the conclusion of the complete creation of the functional logic, or at one or more arbitrary points in time therebetween. As will also be described in even greater detail below, a change and adaptation of the assignment or linkage between hardware component/front panel component and functional component are also possible at any arbitrary point in time. 
     The logic configuration component is preferably designed to represent the functional components and to indicate both the function and the associated hardware in the representation of the functional component if the functional component is linked with a hardware component or front panel component. 
     Further advantages of the computer program according to the invention reside inter alia in the fact that all functions are available for all compatible hardware, without the need to provide a library of components for all combinations of function and hardware. The separation according to the invention enables a simple change of the hardware reference and a simple change of the hardware technology used, without the entire logic of the control center having to be adapted or reconfigured. 
     Functional components are preferably representations of functions of the control center which can be presented particularly preferably graphically by the logic configuration component. Some of the functional components may be able to be influenced in terms of their properties and their behavior by way of an inputtable configuration. The functional components preferably have inputs and outputs enabling them to be connected to other functional components. Complex projects can be realized by the connection of different functional components. 
     The functional components preferably comprise six groups of functional components: logic, standard, special, parameters, visualization and time. Functional components from the group logic preferably comprise “OR”, “AND”, “NOT”, flip-flop, edge detection, “X out of N”, “XOR”, Max out of N, Multiplexer and Demultiplexer. Functional components from the group standard comprise: input, output, LED, commentary component and group dependence component. Functional components from the group special components comprise: message code, message, collective signal, access level, user reset, transmission device (TD) fire, TD status, PLC Start and Bus. The group parameters comprises the functional component switch, the group visualization comprises the functional component LED and the group time comprises the functional component delay. 
     In addition, a functional component “extinguishing component” is preferably provided, which enables the triggering and extinguishing of an extinguishing region, for example, to be configured in detail. Said extinguishing component implements a series of further structural components and programmed components, preferably in order to enable creation of a rule-conforming control for a gas extinguishing region in accordance with the strict rules of EN 12094-1. 
     Preferably, the logic configuration component is designed to add and remove functional components, to connect functional components to one another and to disconnect them from one another, and/or to allocate properties to functional components. 
     Preferably, the logic configuration component is designed to provide predefined combinations of functional components as locked combination components, wherein a combination component implements the logic of a complete extinguishing region, for example. 
     As a result, the complexity of the configuration of control centers can be significantly reduced since, in particular, complex requirements, such as of gas extinguishing systems, for example, can be fulfilled with a single, predefined logic component. By virtue of the fact that the combination component is locked, a subsequent change by the user is not possible. Conformity of the combination component, once provided, with the relevant standard is thus ensured. 
     Preferably, the logic configuration component is embodied to provide a representation of the functional logic, designated as logic circuit diagram, using the functional components and connections between the functional components. 
     Preferably, the hardware configuration component is embodied to provide two representations of hardware arrangements, wherein a first representation is embodied for configuration of hardware components at a rear side of the control center and a second representation is embodied for configuration of front panel components at a front side of the control center. 
     The representations are preferably indicated in different worksheets, between which it is possible to change over. 
     The worksheet or the representation for the rear side of the control center or a rear wall of the control center presents the free locations for positioning components. By way of example, a maximum of fourteen free mounting locations of a module rail can be presented. The representation is directed, of course, toward the conditions of the control center to be configured. Preferably, these locations can be equipped with hardware components, for example module components from a catalog, by means of drag-and-drop. 
     The control center is preferably operated via a central display and operator control panel area in the front panel. Messages are preferably presented on a touch display and displayed by LEDs. The operator control is preferably effected by means of pushbuttons and LEDs with defined functions and/or by means of the touching of designated areas on the touch display. The representation of the front panel components preferably enables the configuration of the display and operator control panel area. 
     Besides the central display and operator control panel area, the configuration of additional modules, for example of extensions of the operator control panel area, can be implemented. 
     Preferably, the hardware configuration component is embodied to enable the configuration of at least one, preferably a plurality and particularly preferably all, of the following hardware components: i) limit value module, ii) relay module, iii) control module, iv) loop module, v) voltage output and/or ground fault detection module, vi) fire department peripheral equipment module. 
     The limit value module serves for switching on various types of limit value detectors of standard and industrial design. It preferably feeds up to six connected detector lines with a constant supply voltage and detects their current consumption in the process. The detectors indicate events by means of a current increase. If the current exceeds or falls below the limit values predefined in a configuration-dependent manner, the limit value module generates corresponding messages and forwards them to a central processing unit of the control center. Typical events that are detected by the limit value module are: wire break in the detector line, quiescent current in the detector line too low (creeping wire break), short circuit in the detector line, quiescent current in the detector line too high (creeping short circuit), alarm or disturbance at one detector, alarm or disturbance at a plurality of detectors. The limit value module preferably contains secondary protection for reducing disturbance variables and overvoltages. An LED preferably indicates the operating state of the limit value module. The connections are preferably embodied as plugs for the respective limit value lines, two contacts in each case being united in one connection. 
     The relay module preferably contains eight relays with floating changeover contacts. A central processing unit for the control center switches the devices connected to the contacts on or off in an event- and configuration-dependent manner. There are preferably eight LEDs situated in the housing cover of the relay module, said LEDs indicating the control state of the relays. Each relay preferably has one LED fixedly assigned to it. One LED indicates the operating state of the relay module. 
     The control module is embodied to switch output channels, preferably six output channels, for alerting devices, valves and other consumers having a feed line that has to be monitored. The current is monitored separately and continuously for each output. This makes it possible, both in the quiescent state and during control, to monitor the outputs for wire break, short circuit, creeping wire break, creeping short circuit, connection plug that has fallen off or become detached, and overload. Control is preferably effected with delays or continuously depending on the configuration defined in the configuration program for the control center. 
     In the event of a predefined limit value being exceeded (as a result of overload or short circuit), the control output is preferably automatically switched off (current limiting). This is preferably indicated by a disturbance message of the control output on the touch display of the control center. 
     The method for monitoring the outputs is configurable (for example control with correct polarity/monitoring with opposite polarity). There are preferably six LEDs situated in the housing cover of the module, said LEDs indicating the control state of the outputs. Each output preferably has one LED fixedly assigned to it. Preferably, a further LED indicates the operating state of the module. 
     A multiplicity of alerting means can be connected to the control module. The respective manufacturer&#39;s documentation of the alerting means to be connected gives indications about concrete possibilities and limitations. 
     A multiplicity of valve units and monitoring devices can be connected to the control module. The respective manufacturer&#39;s documentation of the valve units and monitoring devices to be connected gives indications about concrete possibilities and limitations. 
     The loop module offers for example connection possibilities for two separate loops of detectors, input/output modules and signal transmitters. It feeds a constant supply voltage of preferably 27 V into the respective loop, and from this voltage the subscribers cover their power demand. The feed lines do not just feed the supply voltage to the subscribers of a loop. In addition, information in the form of a protocol is communicated. Subscribers are thus automatically recognized and configured on the basis of their individually settable subscriber address. Each loop can alternatively be divided into two spur lines. In this case, however, it must be taken into consideration that each two spur lines are logically associated with one another. The same subscriber addresses must not be used on each spur pair. An LED preferably indicates the operating state of the module. Preferably, up to two loops or four spurs can be connected. 
     The voltage output and/or ground fault detection module (referred to hereinafter as voltage output-EFD module, “earth fault detection”) serves for connecting external consumers that should not be treated like a control group. No wire break monitoring takes place. This module preferably comprises two outputs, each having a rated voltage of preferably 24 V and a loading capacity of preferably 2 A. They are preferably equipped with a filter system that prevents spurious EMC radiation from entering the control center. In addition, the outputs are preferably provided with an electronic fuse that ensures the protection function of the outputs even in the event of a failure of both CPUs. If the maximum output loading capacity is permanently exceeded by a load, the output is preferably switched off automatically (load shedding). Moreover, if necessary, the voltage output-EFD module preferably affords the possibility of monitoring the galvanic isolation between the protective earth (PE) and the second DC voltages including ground (GND) as reference potential, in order thus to realize ground fault monitoring. The voltage output-EFD module preferably makes available four PE measurement inputs for this purpose. The voltage output-EFD module preferably contains at the top a block of two LEDs, which indicate different operating states of the outputs. 
     The fire department peripheral equipment module serves for connecting a transmission device (TD) for example for fire and/or disturbance messages, and for switching on various pieces of fire department peripheral equipment. The fire department peripheral equipment includes fire department key safes (FDKS), position luminaire, key switches (KS), key safe adapters (KSA), fire department control panels (FDCP) and fire department display panel (FDDP) and also transmission devices (TD) for fire and disturbance messages. The module preferably conforms to DIN 14661—fire department control panel. 
     Preferably, the hardware configuration component is embodied for implementing at least one, preferably a plurality and particularly preferably all, of the following functionalities: i) assigning a subscriber to a hardware group, ii) configuring the front panel components with collective signals, for example fire, iii) integrating the layout of the control center. 
     Preferably, the computer program product is embodied to provide a graphical user interface, wherein the graphical user interface presents representations of the hardware configuration component and of the logic configuration component simultaneously, for example next to one another, or interchangeably, for example in the form of tabs. 
     Preferably, the different representations are presented in so-called worksheets that are freely arrangeable and displaceable. The display is possible on any arbitrary output device, for example local screens, projectors, etc. 
     Preferably, the computer program product is designed to make all changes reversibly, in particular by means of the hardware configuration component and/or the logic configuration component. 
     This makes it possible to reverse even relatively complex steps in order to avoid a loss of time as a result of unwanted changes. 
     Preferably, the computer program product furthermore has a logic checking component, wherein the logic checking component is designed in particular to check at least one, preferably a plurality and in particular all, of the following parameters and functionalities: i) compliance with value ranges, ii) double allocation of group numbers, iii) nonsensical or incorrect interconnection of functional components, hardware components and/or front panel components, iv) free inputs and outputs at functional components, v) hardware configuration problems. 
     Accordingly, the logic checking component is suitable for carrying out a check of the configuration before the possibly erroneous configuration is transmitted to the control center. An erroneous function of the control center is thus avoided. 
     Preferably, the computer program product is embodied to present an output of the logic checking component simultaneously with a representation of the hardware configuration component and/or of the logic configuration component in the graphical user interface. 
     Preferably, the computer program product furthermore has a standard conformity component, wherein the standard conformity component is embodied to check conformity of the configuration of the control center with a desired one of a plurality of standards provided. 
     With regard to fire protection devices, that is to say for example fire alarm and/or extinguishing control centers, the following standards, in particular, are relevant: “EN Europe standard”, “FM standard”, “UL standard” and the requirements over and above those as defined by the VdS, which are preferably explicitly or implicitly included. The standard conformity component thus makes it possible to carry out a check of the conformity of the created configuration with the selected standard before the configuration is transmitted to the control center. Moreover, this enables a conformity verification that can be created with particularly low outlay and high reliability. 
     Preferably, the computer program product furthermore has a communication component for bidirectional communication with the control center, wherein the communication component is embodied for transmitting the configuration to the control center and for transmitting the configuration from the control center, wherein the communication component is preferably embodied to carry out a version comparison with the control center, and to transmit the configuration to the control center only if the version of the computer program product corresponds at least to the version of the control center. 
     The communication component accordingly ensures that a transmission between computer program product and control center and in the opposite direction from the control center to the computer program product functions without any problems. By virtue of the version preferably being compared, it is possible to prevent incompatible configurations from being transmitted. Preferably, the computer program product is downward-compatible with regard to the version of the control center. If the version of the computer program product is out of date, an update function can preferably be provided, which enables the computer program product to be updated, preferably by the Internet. The communication component can alternatively also be embodied from a separate receiving component and a transmitting component. 
     Preferably, the computer program product furthermore has a simulation component for simulating the configuration. 
     The simulating makes it possible to check whether the control center exhibits the desired behavior, without the configuration having to be transmitted to the control center for this purpose. The time that needs to be expended for checking the configuration is thus significantly reduced since, for example, the time for transmitting the configuration to the control center is omitted. In this regard, the efficiency of troubleshooting possibly undesired behavior is also increased. 
     The simulation component is preferably embodied for online simulation of the configuration with the inclusion of the control center and for offline simulation of the configuration without the inclusion of the control center. In this case, online simulation means that user inputs and triggerings at the control center, for example triggered detectors and/or pressed buttons, are transmitted directly to the computer program product and the behavior of the control center, in particular the signal profile within the functional logic, is immediately visible. By way of example, a signal profile can be represented by means of highlighted functional components and/or connection lines by means of the logic configuration component. To put it another way, the online simulation preferably enables a real-time representation of the real behavior of the control center to be generated by the computer program product. In the case of offline simulation, the connection to the control center is not required. In this case, the signals, inputs and the like are input directly in the computer program product. 
     Particularly preferably, in the case of online simulation, the present configuration of the control center is compared with the configuration of the hardware configuration component and logic configuration component using the communication component. Both alternatives are conceivable, that is to say that the configuration is imported from the control center or the configuration created by the computer program product is transmitted to the control center. 
     Preferably, the computer program product furthermore comprises a documentation component for documenting the configuration of the control center. 
     The invention furthermore proposes a method for configuration of a control center, in particular a fire alarm and/or extinguishing control center, using a computer program product according to the invention. 
     The method using the computer program product according to the invention usually comprises the following steps: selecting and adding functional components, for example from a library; defining properties of the functional components such as group number, message texts, fire situation control, acoustic alarm, timing controls, etc., connecting the functional components and assignment to hardware, testing the configuration by means of simulation on PC or at control center. Of course, any arbitrary computer device suitable for executing the computer program product can also be used instead of a PC. 
     The invention furthermore proposes a control center, in particular a fire alarm and/or extinguishing control center, comprising a communication module, wherein the communication module is embodied to receive data for configuration of the control center from a computer program product according to the invention and to transmit data, in particular data for configuration and real-time data for online simulation, to the computer program product according to the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further advantages and preferred configurations are described below with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows schematically and by way of example a set-up of the computer program product according to the invention, 
         FIG. 2  shows schematically and by way of example an illustration of an operator interface of a computer program product according to the invention, 
         FIG. 3  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 4  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 5  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 6  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 7  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 8  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 9  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 10  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface, 
         FIGS. 11A-11D  show schematically and by way of example extracts from the operator interface, 
         FIG. 12  shows schematically and by way of example a combined functional component, and 
         FIG. 13  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface. 
     
    
    
     MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  shows schematically and by way of example a set-up of a computer program product  1  according to the invention for configuration of a control center  100 , in particular a fire alarm and/or extinguishing control center. The complete computer program product  1  may also be designated as a configuration system for configuration of the control center  100 . 
     The computer program product  1  comprises a hardware configuration component  10 , a logic configuration component  20 , a standard conformity component  30 , a communication component  40 , a logic checking component  50 , a simulation component  60  and a documentation component  70 . All of the components  10 - 70  of the computer program product  1  can consist completely or partly of software and/or hardware. Moreover, it is possible for the computer program product  1  to be arranged partly or completely at different spatial locations, for example on a computer PC, a server, a cloud, or a combination thereof. The preferred application is the one in which a user configures the control center  100  on a PC by means of the computer program product  1 . A plurality of subscribers  180  are coupled to the control center  100 , two of which subscribers are shown by way of example. 
     The computer program product  1  is embodied for communication with control center  100  and also a cloud  200 . Functionalities of the individual components are described in detail below with reference to the further  FIGS. 2-15 . 
       FIG. 2  shows schematically and by way of example an illustration of an operator interface  300 , showing an output of the computer program product  1  according to the invention. The operator interface  300  is illustrated as a typical window arrangement, for example, where only the elements relevant to the function and the achievement of the technical effect of the computer program product  1  according to the invention are described below. 
     A work area  310  is illustrated centrally. The work area  310  presents for example a representation in the hardware configuration component  10  and/or the logic configuration component  20 . In this exemplary embodiment, the representations—also referred to as worksheets—of said components are selectable in the form of tabs  312 ,  314  and  316 . 
     A changeover between the representations of the different components  10 ,  20  is effected by clicking on respective buttons of the tabs  312 ,  314 ,  316 . In this exemplary embodiment, a circuit diagram is presented as a representation  22  of the logic configuration component  20 . 
     A project tree can be seen in an operator control area  320  of the operator interface  300 . A catalog  330  provides various functional components that are selectable for the representation  22 . In particular, functional components from the catalog  330  can be positioned and arranged on the representation  22 , i.e. in particular the circuit diagram shown schematically, by means of drag-and-drop. 
     Properties of the currently selected object are presented in a property area  340 . Finally, an output area  350  of the logic checking component  50  is illustrated, which will be described in detail with reference to  FIG. 4 . 
     By way of the project tree in the operator control area  320 , for example new worksheets or further tabs  312 ,  314 ,  316  can be able to be created. By way of example, a new circuit diagram, i.e. a representation or output of the logic configuration component  20 , can be created. The catalog  330  always presents the elements which appropriately match the currently selected view, i.e. the tab currently selected in the work area  310 , and which can be positioned on the respective worksheet. 
       FIG. 3  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from the operator interface  300  which presents a representation  12  of the hardware configuration component  10  besides the representation  22  of the logic configuration component  20 . Instead of the worksheets selectable by means of tabs  312 ,  314 ,  316 , therefore, a simultaneous presentation of the representations  12  and  22  is possible in  FIG. 3 . 
     In this example, the representation  12  shows an arrangement of possible hardware components such as modules on a rear side of the control center  100 . The hardware components e.g. modules, can be inserted at various positions  13  provided for them. In this example, a rail with positions  13  situated next to one another can be seen, while control centers  100  typically have a plurality of rails with positions  13  for modules. 
     In this example, the representations  12 ,  22  are presented one vertically below the other; of course, any other relative positions, for example horizontally next to one another or independently of one another, are also possible. 
     A configuration is usually created in the following steps: positioning the module components according to the arrangement of the physical modules in the switchgear cabinet, allocating the displays and operator control elements on a front panel and the region operator control panel areas, cf.  FIGS. 8 to 10 , creating the configuration on the basis of the circuit diagram as in the representation  22 . 
     The logic checking component  50  is designed to check a configuration. As a result of the logic check, the logic checking component  50  outputs warnings and faults found as a list in the output area  350 . Warnings constitute indications which do not make a function of the configuration impossible and are to be taken into consideration. Faults prevent the configuration from being transmitted to the control center  100 . 
       FIG. 4  shows schematically and by way of example the output area  350  of the logic check in detail. Preferably, the logic checking component  50  makes it possible to enter a term in a search field  352  and to reduce the result list to all entries that include the search term. 
     A display of the output of the logic checking component  50  can be adapted and filtered. In order that the user recognizes that not all of the warnings are displayed, the presentation is changed in the toolbar for example “1 warning” to “0 of 1 warning”. 
     Selecting the description of a fault in the output area  350  of the logic checking component has the effect of jumping for example to the object, element, functional component, which triggered the fault (also hidden worksheets). The object, element, functional component are presented with a blue border around them, for example. 
     Preferably, the logic checking component  50  is called automatically before the configuration is transmitted to the control center  100 . If faults are detected, the configuration is prevented from being transmitted to the control center  100 . 
     It is usually not possible for the project to be changed while the logic check is being carried out. In this respect, a modal window can be displayed which gives notification that the logic check is underway and/or presents a progress bar and/or provides a cancel option. Once the checks have been completed or the user cancels the checks, the modal window is closed. The entries generated by the checks are preferably already presented in the window during the course thereof. 
     The fault description can preferably be copied to the clipboard by way of the context menu or [CTRL+C]. If an entry is selected, the cursor jumps to the point at which the fault message was generated. The entries have to participate in language switching. There are a number of columns in the output area  350  of the logic checking component  50 . In a column “View”  354 , a location designation is displayed. This can be the name that was allocated for the designation of an editor. In a column “Device”  356 , the device on which the entry was generated (e.g. control center  1 ) is displayed. A version designation defined by the user is additionally indicated in this column. 
     For each message of a logic check, in a column  358  with a one-eye symbol in the table header, a changeover switch for visibility is displayed in each row of a fault message. After the actuation of the changeover switch, the one-eye symbol is shown scored through and the associated message is masked out. The selection of visibility is also maintained for a renewed logic check. Messages taken note of by the user can thus be individually masked out in order to increase the clarity of the result list. 
     In a further column  359 , a two-eye symbol is presented. For each message, in this column there is a respective changeover switch for the visibility of each individual message. Messages of the same type can be masked out by means of this changeover switch. 
     A sorting function is linked with the fields of the header row  351 , by means of which the contents of the result list can be sorted by selecting the corresponding column heading. During sorting by way of the header row  351 , an arrow becomes visible in the corresponding field and indicates whether ascending or descending sorting is effected. With renewed selection of the same field, the sorting order changes to its respective opposite. 
     The content of the list of the output of the logic checking component  50  can be exported as a file. In this case, a format that supports unicode should be chosen (e.g. *.rtf). If an export is selected, an export destination (file) has to be input by the user. The following export is possible by way of a context menu: selected entries are exported or all entries are exported. 
     In order to reduce the number of messages when searching, at the top right in the tool bar there is the option of filtering messages according to specific texts. If a text is input in the search mask  352  and for a moment no input takes place, the list is searched for the search text. Entries containing the search text are displayed in the list. The searched text should be underlined. Deleting the text displays all entries in the list again. If at least one letter is input, the magnifying glass symbol is replaced by “Close”. If Close is actuated, the search text is deleted and all entries in the list are displayed again. Selecting “arrow downward” displays the last five search texts. 
       FIG. 5  shows schematically and by way of example an extract from a logic circuit diagram embodied as a representation  22  of the logic configuration component  20 . Two functional components  224 ,  226  are arranged on the logic circuit diagram. The functional components  224 ,  226  are taken from the catalog  330  (cf.  FIG. 2 ), for example. Once arranged on the worksheet, i.e. the representation  22 , the two functional components  224 ,  226  can be connected by a connection line  222  by means of clicking. In this case, two input or output pins of the two functional components  224 ,  226  are connected to one another. 
     Connections can preferably only be created between two input and output pins that match one another logically or in terms of the data format. The functional logic of the control center  100  is therefore created by means of the logic configuration component  20 . In this example, the connection line  222  is produced between an input E of the functional component  224  and an input TLG of the functional component  226 . The functional components  224 ,  226  and connections  222  therebetween can be able to be set as desired by means of the logic configuration component  20 . 
     In the example in  FIG. 5  hardware units, i.e. modules, have already been assigned both to the functional module  224  and to the functional module  26 , as can be discerned from the position indication  508  in the lower region of the representation of the functional module  224 ,  226 . This is effected after linkage with a hardware component of the hardware configuration component  10 , for example with a limit value module  504  in the case of the functional module  224 . The functional component  224  is an input module and the functional module  226  is an output module, which will also be described below. The functional logic linked with both functional components  224 ,  226  is independent of the hardware linked therewith and, to put it another way, independent of the relation to the limit value module  504  and the relay module  506 , respectively. 
     A group number  502  can likewise be seen on the worksheet for each functional component  224 ,  226 , said group number being editable in the property area  340  (cf.  FIG. 2 ) after the respective functional component  224 ,  226  has been selected. 
       FIG. 6  shows schematically and by way of example a further embodiment of the representation  22  of the logic configuration component  20 , in which a plurality of functional components and the linkages thereof are arranged. In particular, two input functional components  224 , two output functional components  226  and also two collective signal functional components  228  are linked with one another. 
     The two input functional components  224  constitute inputs of an operator control panel area key  602  and of a limit value line  604 . The operator control panel area key  602  can be arranged for example on a front panel of the control center  100 , cf.  FIG. 8 . 
     The two input functional components  224  are then connected to the output units in the form of LEDs  606 ,  608 , which are likewise arranged on the front panel of the control center  100 . Here, too, firstly the functional logic, i.e. the two input functional components  224  and two associated display elements, is defined before these are married to actual hardware. 
     Consequently, the logical structure does not depend on the actual hardware configuration of the control center  100  and is diversely usable, transferrable and adaptable to the actual design and hardware availability of the control center. 
       FIG. 7  shows schematically and by way of example a further view of a logic circuit diagram as a representation  22  of the logic configuration component  20 . Various functional components  221 - 229  are presented without a hardware reference in this configuration, some of which functional components are explained below. 
     Accordingly, a description of particularly preferred functional components follows below. It should be taken into consideration that other, different or additional functional components are also possible and advantageously usable, and also that not all of these functional components are illustrated in one or more of the accompanying figures:
         OR  227 : sets the output to 1 if at least one of an arbitrary number of inputs is set to 1. Change the number of inputs by expanding the component at the upper or lower edge.   AND  221 : sets the output to 1 if all the inputs are set to 1. Change the number of inputs by expanding the component at the upper or lower edge.   NOT  223 : inverts the input state; sets the output to 1 if the input is set to 0, and sets the output to 0 if the input is set to 1.   Flip-Flop: serves for storing signal states with a defined reset behavior. A state at the output is retained until a state at the set input (S) or reset input (R) changes. The output state can be defined under “Properties” in a drop-down menu as “with priority for setting” (FFS) or “with priority for resetting” (FFR). FFS: sets the output to 1 as soon at the set input is set to 1. FFR: sets the output to 0 as soon as the reset input is set to 1.   Edge detection: detects a state change at the input in the form of an edge. The fact of whether the component is intended to detect a rising edge or a falling edge can be defined under “Properties” in the drop-down menu. Sets the output to 1 if a rising edge is detected at the input, or sets the output to 1 if a falling edge is detected at the input.   X out of N: the output OUT is set if the number of inputs IN 0 -IN 7  set (logic 1) is at least equal to the number predefined by the value X.   XOR: sets the output to 1 if one input is set to 0 and one input is set to 1.   Max out of N: switches only a specific number of input signals through to the corresponding outputs thereof. If the component limits the number, the output (Lim) limited list is set. Example: if the supply of extinguishing agent in a project is limited, a limitation of simultaneously controlled extinguishing regions can be achieved by means of the component. Change the number of inputs by expanding the component.   Multiplexer: if the input “S control signal” is allocated the logic value 0, then a logic value present at input In 1  is forwarded to the output Out. If the input “S control signal” is then set to logic 1, the logic value present at input In 2  is forwarded.   Demultiplexer  225 : if the input “S control signal” is allocated the logic value 0, then a logic value present at input In is forwarded to the output Out 1 . If the input “S control signal” is then set to logic 1, the logic value present at input In is forwarded to the output Out 2 . The open output has the logic value 0.   Input  224 : evaluates incoming signals and transmits information to the control center; cf. for example functional component  24  in  FIG. 5 .   Output  226 : evaluates signals from the control center and transmits them to subscribers; cf. for example functional component  26  in  FIG. 5 .   LED  229 : serves for assigning LEDs on the front panel or on the region operator control panel areas (component serves for the visualization of binary states in the commissioning mode “Simulation” or “Online”).   Commentary component: The text contains further information of the configuration. It is inserted on the worksheet. The text commentary can be entered in the text editor field via the Property area and adapted. The position of the commentary component can be positioned in any desired way.   Group dependence component: The group dependence component forms the function of a multi-group dependence. This means that the required number (Variable X) of the detector groups connected to the inputs (G) must be in the state “Event” simultaneously before the message is displayed and the output (E) becomes active. The detector group connected to the input (REF) must additionally be in “Event” anyway in order to fulfil the dependence.       

     The control of the transmission device to the fire department (no control, immediate control, delayed control, day/night control) can be configured by way of the properties of the functional component. The TD is controlled only after fulfilment of the variable “X” and an event signal at input (REF). 
     The connected automatic fire detector groups at the inputs Gx are intended to signal the message code pre-alarm in the event. For this purpose configure the properties of the functional component of the detector group. Events of the respective group are always transmitted via the data line. That takes place independently of the message code. Arbitrary messages can thus be switched in dependence.
         Message code  227 : the component serves as a filter for the message code chosen. The output is activated as soon as a message with this message code is present in the FACC. Can be configured with a message code (by means of drop-down menu in the area “Properties”). The output remains at 1 as long as a message with the configured message code exists.   Message: generates a message as soon as the input is at 1. (The message can be configured by means of a drop-down menu in the area “Properties”). The message resets itself. As soon as the input is at 0, it is taken back again. The functional component generates a message in the case of an active input signal, said message being displayed on the display of the fire alarm control center. In the case of networked control centers, said message is also relayed further and can initiate commands and controls in other control centers.   Collective signal  228 : can be configured with a collective signal (by means of a drop-down menu in the area “Properties”  340 ). The output remains at 1 as long as a message with the configured collective signal exists. The collective signal component makes available at its outputs the most important collective signal states of a control center of the PLC. In the case of networked control centers, in the main control center a collective signal component can be set for each control center. As a result, the collective signals of each control center are generated e.g. for controls.   Access level: the component provides a binary signal as soon as the corresponding access level is activated. Reports to the control center which access level is currently active. The access level can be configured by means of a drop-down menu in the area “Properties”. The dependence on access levels of the BBF inputs can be configured directly at the functional component by way of the properties.   User reset: the output is set to logic 1 after a user reset for two complete PLC cycles. For resetting storing components or connected third-party products after a user reset. For pulse lengthening, a switch-off delay can subsequently be set. Sets the output to 1 until a user reset is carried out.   TD fire: triggers the transmission device (TD).   TD status: reports to the control center the status of the transmission device. The states “Fire” and “Disturbance” can be configured by means of a drop-down menu in the area “Properties”. This component represents the outputs of the TD status module which are parameterized in the hardware configuration. It can be set at most twice in the project. (max. 2 TD, fire, disturbance).   PLC start: the output becomes active for at least one full cycle upon the start of the PLC. The component enables unambiguous states to be set after the start of the PLC. A switch-off delay can subsequently be set for the purpose of lengthening the pulse.   Bus: change the number of inputs by expanding the component at the upper or lower edge. The bus configuration provides information about which bus components are connected to one another.   Switch: parameter component that simulates on and off states of a switch. Can be activated in the area “Properties”.   LED: visualizes an LED. The LED lights up red, for example, if the input is set to 1. If the input is set to 0, it remains grey. The component serves for the visualization of binary states.   Delay: time component for switch-on and switch-off delay. Time predefinitions and behavior can be configured in the area “Properties”. Switch-off delay, switch-on delay, pulse. A logic 1 at the input IN sets the output OUT. If the input signal goes to logic 0, the output signal is set to logic 0 later after the delay time set. The delay time can immediately be cancelled via the input “RE reset”.       

     In  FIG. 7 , the functional components  221 - 229  are not assigned to any hardware, i.e. the logic is presented independently of the hardware used in the representation  22 . 
       FIG. 8  shows schematically and by way of example a further view of the operator interface  300 , wherein a further representation  14  of the hardware configuration component  10  is displayed in the work area  310 . The representation  14  is a presentation of the front panel of the control center  100 . The representation  14  is a presentation such as faces a user looking at the physical control center  100  from the front. The front panel comprises a plurality of displays and labelling fields  141 , a central operator control display  143  and a plurality of expansion locations  145 , at each of which an operator control panel area module  150  (cf.  FIG. 9 ) from the catalog  330  can be inserted by means of drag-and-drop. The front panel shown in the representation  14  thus comprises output hardware, i.e. the displays and LEDs  141 , and equally input hardware, for example various pushbuttons. Output and input components can be linked with functional components  221 - 229 . 
       FIG. 9  shows schematically and by way of example a detailed view of an operator control panel area module  150  inserted at one of the locations  145  provided therefor. This is therefore a detailed view of the representation  14 . The operator control panel area module  150  comprises a plurality of input and output elements, such as LEDs and/or pushbuttons. Moreover, a labelling area can be arranged in a region next to the LEDs, for example in order to identify different subscribers and/or groups. 
       FIG. 10  shows schematically and by way of example the representation  12  of a rear wall of the control center  100 . Three rails  160 ,  162 ,  164  are shown, on which a plurality of modules  172 ,  174 ,  176  situated horizontally next to one another can be arranged. The modules  172 ,  174 ,  176  are accordingly hardware components that are actually installed in the control center  100 . 
     In the context of the computer program product  1  according to the invention, modules  172 ,  174 ,  176  from the catalog  330  (not shown in  FIG. 10 ) can be drawn to the corresponding position. In this example, the module  172  is a limit value module, the module  174  is a relay module, and the module  176  is a control module. Any desired combination of the modules described above is conceivable. 
       FIGS. 11A-11D  show schematically and by way of example how a functional component  226  linked with a hardware component, for example the relay module  174 , can be separated from the hardware reference. 
     By way of a context menu  1100  brought about by means of the right-hand button of a mouse, for example, the module associated with the functional component  226 , here the relay module  174 , can be displayed by means of a button  1110 . The position  508  here refers to the first relay of the relay module  174 , which is arranged on the first rail at the first position, cf.  FIG. 11C . 
     If a context menu  1130  is called up on the relay module, for example by means of the right-hand button of a mouse being pressed, then the hardware reference can be deleted therein by way of a button  1140 . Moreover, it is possible to display or highlight the associated component  226  in the representation  22  by way of a button  1150 . 
       FIG. 12  shows schematically and by way of example a functional component  1200  that unites a combination of a plurality of further, simpler functional components, which is available as an unchangeable, locked functional block. 
     An entire gas extinguishing region is represented by means of the functional component  1200 . An entire extinguishing region control can thus be carried out by a single programmed functional component  1200 . As a result, the processing speed of signals is significantly increased and at the same time there is compliance with important configuration stipulations, for example of EN 12094-1. 
       FIG. 13  shows schematically and by way of example a further representation  18  of the hardware configuration component, wherein the representation  18  illustrates a configuration of subscribers  180  of a module  178 . The module  178  is a loop module in this example. 
     The subscribers  180  are for example heat detectors, smoke detectors, manual call points, etc., which can be put at positions of the loop line by way of a catalog  330 . The subscribers  180  can be displaced as desired on the loop line. 
     The illustration in  FIG. 13  is shown by way of example for a module  178 ; there are likewise representations  18  for all further modules, for example the limit value module  172 . 
     Returning to the description of  FIG. 1 , the function of the standard conformity component  30 , of the communication component  40 , of the simulation component  60  and of the documentation component  70  will now be described. 
     The standard conformity component  30  is embodied to check a complete or partial conformity of the configuration of the control center  100  with a designed standard. In particular, the selection of the standard is defined as a first step when creating a configuration project of a control center  100 . The different standards differ for example in the requirements in respect of alerting, signals, etc. 
     A partial conformity may make it possible, for example, for deviations from the standard as are dependent on the individual case to be allowed. Details in this respect should be checked in the individual case for corresponding projects of control centers  100 . 
     The communication component  40  is embodied to transmit the configuration to the control center  100 . For this purpose, a version comparison is preferably carried out in order to prevent the configuration from being transmitted to the control center  100  if the version of the computer program product  1  is newer than the version of the control center  100 . This could have the consequence of specific functions of the configuration not being transmitted completely and/or correctly to the control center  100 . 
     The communication component  40  is preferably embodied to load and import the configuration of a control center  100 . In particular, as a result, a configuration installed on a control center  100  can be evaluated, checked, adapted and optionally updated by means of the logic configuration component  20  and the hardware configuration component  10 . The communication component  40  thus enables a bidirectional communication between the computer program product  1  and the control center  100 . 
     The communication component  40  is furthermore embodied to communicate with the cloud  200 , for example in order to ascertain whether or not the software version of the computer program product  1  is up to date. If appropriate, the communication component  40  will instigate an update of the computer program product  1 . 
     The simulation component  60  is embodied to simulate the configuration offline and/or online. That means that the simulation component  60  is embodied to simulate the configuration both on the control center  100  and on the PC if the computer program product  1  is executed thereon. 
     In this regard, for example, it is possible to register inputs into the operator control panel area of the front panel of the control center  100  and to evaluate the reaction thereto by means of the simulation component  60 . Alternatively, the same process can be initiated on a representation of the front panel by means of user inputs. Combinations of both simulation alternatives are conceivable. 
     Finally, the documentation component  70  is embodied to document the configuration of the control center. This may be of relevance for various purposes. The configuration of the control center can be stored in a storage unit, such as a hard disk, for example, on the computer on which the computer program product  1  is executed. Alternatively and preferably, the configuration is transmitted to the cloud  200  by means of the communication component  40 . Particularly preferably, a unique time stamp is used for this purpose, for example using blockchain technology. This can ensure that the corresponding configuration was created at a specific point in time and has not been altered since this point in time. 
     LIST OF UTILIZED REFERENCE SIGNS 
     
         
           1  Computer program product 
           10  Hardware configuration component 
           12 ,  14 ,  18  Representation of the hardware configuration component 
           13  Position for module 
           20  Logic configuration component 
           22  Representation of the logic configuration component 
           30  Standard conformity component 
           40  Communication component 
           50  Logic checking component 
           60  Simulation component 
           70  Documentation component 
           100  Control center 
           141  Labelling fields 
           143  Central operator control display 
           145  Expansion locations 
           160 ,  162 ,  164  Rails 
           172  Limit value module 
           174  Relay module 
           176  Control module 
           180  Subscriber 
           200  Cloud 
           221 ,  223 - 229  Subscriber 
           222  Connection line 
           300  Operator interface 
           310  Work area 
           312 ,  314 ,  316  Tab 
           320  Operator control area 
           330  Catalog 
           340  Property area 
           350  Output area of the logic checking component 
           351  Header row 
           352  Search field 
           354  Column “view” 
           356  Column “device” 
           358  Column “1-eye symbol” 
           359  Column “2-eye symbol” 
           502  Group number 
           504  Limit value module 
           506  Relay module 
           508  Position indication 
           602  Operator control panel area key 
           604  Limit value line 
           606 ,  608  LED 
           1100  Context menu 
           1110  Button 
           1130  Context menu 
           1140  Button 
           1150  Button 
           1200  Functional component