Automated retrofit installation tool for replacement of one or more pre-existing dedicated input/output (I/O) modules and terminal boards with one or more universal I/O modules

A method for facilitating the replacement of pre-existing dedicated input/output (I/O) modules with universal I/O modules, wherein the method is implemented using a computer system including a processor and a memory, the method comprising:

• obtaining information about one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules, wherein the information includes a plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules;
• determining one or more functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules that can be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules;
• and
• if the plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules can be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules, then either:
• a. preparing a report of spare channels on the one or more universal I/O modules, creating wiring diagrams for wiring in the one or more universal I/O modules, and creating configuration files and software settings for software that interfaces with the one or more universal I/O modules;
• or
• b. specifying a wiring harness, connectors and wiring instructions for connecting the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules with the one or more universal I/O modules with the wiring harness and one or more connectors;
• else
• if at least one function of the plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules cannot be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules, then:
• a. determining, prior to installation of the one or more universal I/O modules, any gaps between the plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules and the one or more functions that can be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules;
• and
• b. preparing a report of spare channels on the one or more universal I/O modules, creating wiring diagrams for wiring in the one or more universal I/O modules, and creating configuration files and software settings for software that interfaces with the one or more universal I/O modules, wherein the report identifies the gaps.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium with computer-executable instructions thereon, the computer executable instructions for performing a method for facilitating the replacement pre-existing dedicated input/output (I/O) modules with universal I/O modules, wherein, when executed by at least one processor in communication with at least one memory, the computer executable instructions cause the at least one processor to:

• obtain information about one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules, wherein the information includes a plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules;
• determine one or more functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules that can be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules;
• determine, prior to installation of the one or more universal I/O modules, any gaps between the plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules and the one or more functions that can be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules;
• provide instructions for replacement of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules with the one or more universal I/O modules, wherein the instructions include the gaps between the plurality of functions of the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules and the one or more functions that can be performed by the one or more universal I/O modules;
• and
• generate a wiring diagram showing wiring to the one or more universal I/O modules using existing wiring in the one or more pre-existing dedicated I/O modules and at least one of a new wiring and a new wiring harness.