Convertible I / O signal processor for process control networks

Abstract

A convertible I / O signal processor can switch between different operating configurations for connecting multiple field devices to the I / O signal processor via optional types of electrical connectors (such as cables, junction boxes, etc.). The I / O signal processor includes a signal processing module connected to the signal processing module and an interface module removably connected to the signal processing module. The interface module includes an electrical connector for receiving I / O signals from / to field devices. The interface module and the signal processing module define an I / O channel extending between the electrical connector and the signal processor. In this embodiment, the interface module includes an I / O module connector that allows a removable I / O module to be inserted into the I / O channel.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] A process control network transmits I / O signals to and from field devices under the control of a control system that regulates and controls industrial processes via a controller. Field devices include sensors and actuators. Sensors transmit input signals representing the state of process variables to the controller, and actuators receive output signals from the controller and take actions to influence the process variables.

[0002] I / O signals can be analog or digital. Analog I / O signals are variable, where voltage or current represents the amplitude of process parameters (such as flow rate or the desired position of a valve). Digital I / O signals represent one of two states: "on / off", "open / closed", etc.

[0003] Other types of digital output signals used in process control are used to drive relays or count pulses.

[0004] I / O field cabling from field devices is typically brought to a central location for ease of management. Field cabling can extend to terminal sets in junction boxes contained within a cabling cabinet. Circuitry (referred to herein as I / O channels) extends from each terminal set and includes conversion circuitry that is ultimately connected to the control system. Conversion circuitry converts I / O signals compatible with the field devices to the digital data formats used between the conversion circuitry and the control system.

[0005] Fixed-mode conversion circuits convert between one type of I / O signal and digital data format.

[0006] The optional mode conversion circuitry selectively converts between different types of I / O signals and digital data formats. This allows different types of field devices to be connected to each terminal set in the junction box.

[0007] The device comprising multiple conversion circuits for communicating with multiple field devices is referred to herein as an I / O signal processor. An I / O signal processor may be part of a controller, part of a head station communicating with the control system via a process control network, or a network node on the process control network that enables the control system to communicate directly with each field device (i.e., each field device has its own network address).

[0008] U.S. Patent 9,971,727, “Universal I / O Signal Interposer System,” assigned to the applicant and incorporated herein by reference by Brodbeck et al., discloses a removable I / O module, referred to as an inserter, which can be inserted into an I / O channel between a terminal set and a conversion circuit to process I / O signals, power field devices, insert fuses or other ancillary devices in the signal path, and perform other functions.

[0009] Patent '727 discloses an embodiment in which an I / O module is attached to a connector carried on a base. I / O channels extend from the connector to a cable connector half, enabling the cable to carry the I / O channels to a matching cable connector half on the controller. The I / O channels extend from the cable connector half to corresponding conversion circuitry.

[0010] Figure 20 shows the base. B base B Designed to integrate up to four field devices D Connect to four base I / O channel sections I The base I / O channel portion includes an I / O module electrical connector for removably inserting an I / O module (not shown) into the base I / O channel portion. M And it extends to the D-sub socket attached to the base. C The socket is connected in parallel with the four base I / O channels.

[0011] Cable A Transfer the I / O channel from the D-sub socket C Extending to I / O signal processors P The D-sub-socket. The I / O signal processor extends the I / O channel to the corresponding conversion circuit (not shown), which converts the I / O signal between the I / O signal and the digital data format used by the I / O signal processor. Figure 19 The I / O signal processor shown is part of the process controller.

[0012] base B It can be designed to accommodate different types and numbers of electrical connectors for forming electrical connections between the base and field devices, and for extending I / O channel paths away from the field devices.

[0013] However, in the process control industry, I / O needs to accept standardized electrical connections. If implemented, standardized electrical connections will allow the device to be connected and switched to process control networks from different manufacturers within its I / O channel path.

[0014] However, standardized electrical connections have drawbacks: I / O designs are limited by the size and density constraints of standardized connections. Additionally, standardization can confine I / O signal conversion functions to modules separate from field wiring terminations and I / O module functionality. This again limits the overall solution size and density. On the other hand, proprietary electrical connector designs allow manufacturers to optimize design, performance, and density for operators in process control networks who place greater emphasis on these characteristics compared to standardization. Therefore, both standardized and proprietary electrical connections will remain relevant and valuable in the future of the industry.

[0015] The goal is to enable operators of the process control network to install field devices using proprietary electrical connections (which may have advantages over standardized electrical connections), while allowing operators to later switch to using industry-standard electrical connections without making significant changes to the process control network, or without incurring substantial costs if they wish to change the electrical connections in the future.

[0016] Alternatively, it will be desirable to enable operators of the process control network to install field devices using industry-standard electrical connections, but to be able to switch to proprietary electrical connections in the future (to save space, increase the number of field devices, or take advantage of other benefits of proprietary electrical connections).

[0017] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a switchable I / O signal processor that enables network operators to switch between connecting field devices to the process control network using proprietary electrical connections and subsequently connecting field devices using industry-standard electrical connections (or vice versa). Summary of the Invention

[0018] A switchable I / O signal processor for process control networks is disclosed, which provides network operators with the option to switch between connecting multiple field devices to the I / O signal processor via optional types of electrical connectors (such as cables, junction boxes, etc.). In embodiments, removable I / O modules can be inserted into I / O channels.

[0019] The disclosed convertible I / O signal processor enables operators of process control networks to install field devices using proprietary electrical connections, while allowing for future conversion to standardized electrical connections (and vice versa) without major changes to the process control network and without incurring significant costs.

[0020] An embodiment of the convertible I / O signal processor according to this disclosure includes an interface module and a signal processing module. The interface module includes a first base, and one or more first electrical connector sets, second electrical connectors, and first I / O channel portion sets on the first base. Each first I / O channel portion includes and is electrically connected to a corresponding first electrical connector set and second electrical connector.

[0021] The signal processing module includes a second base, a signal processor, a third electrical connector on the second base, and a set of second I / O channel portions associated with the signal processor. The set of second I / O channel portions is electrically connected to the signal processor and the third electrical connector. The signal processor includes a corresponding conversion circuit in each of the second I / O channel portions, which converts I / O signals between digital data formats used by the process control network.

[0022] The second and third electrical connectors are removably attached to each other. When attached to each other, the second and third electrical connectors electrically connect each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set to a corresponding second I / O channel portion in the second I / O channel portion set.

[0023] The interface module can be selectively attached to and detached from the signal processing module, allowing the I / O signal processor to switch between different operating configurations.

[0024] In an embodiment of the I / O signal processor, the first base includes an upper surface and an opposing lower surface. One or more sets of first electrical connectors are disposed on the upper surface, and second electrical connectors are disposed on the lower surface.

[0025] The second base includes an upper surface, and a third electrical connector is disposed on the upper surface of the second base. When the second and third electrical connectors are attached to each other, the lower surface of the first base is configured to cover the upper surface of the second base.

[0026] An interface module can provide a first set of electrical connectors with different configurations or types, or an interface module that connects different numbers or types of field devices to the interface module.

[0027] For example, the interface module in the embodiment can be configured to connect to four field devices, fewer than four field devices, or more than four field devices. In the embodiment, the first electrical connector set can be configured as a cable plug or cable receptacle to receive cables (such as the cables in Figure 20). A The end of the terminal block, or a junction box configured with terminal sets, each terminal set being configured for direct connection to and termination of field wires for field devices.

[0028] The I / O channel path of the interface module in the embodiment includes an additional connector that can be removably attached to an I / O module, such as the type of I / O module disclosed in '727 patent for signal processing, assisted insertion, simple signal pass-through, etc.

[0029] The base of the interface module can be formed as a printed circuit board. The base of the signal processing module may include a printed circuit board for mounting a third electrical connector. The signal processor can be mounted on the same printed circuit board or on a different printed circuit board or base portion.

[0030] Other objects and features of this disclosure will become apparent as the description proceeds, especially when described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one or more non-limiting embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an I / O signal processor in a first operating configuration, according to the present disclosure, attached to a field device via a separate base having removable I / O modules.

[0032] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shown illustrates an I / O signal processor in a second operating configuration, in which field cables from field devices are directly attached to the I / O signal processor along with removable I / O modules.

[0033] Figure 3 and Figure 4 They are Figure 1 The top and side views of the signal processing module of the I / O signal processor are shown.

[0034] Figure 5 and Figure 6 They are Figure 3 The top and side views show the signal processing module housed in the base housing of the I / O signal processor.

[0035] Figure 7 and Figure 8 These are the top view and side view of the interface module in the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 9 and Figure 10 They are Figure 7 The attachment shown Figure 5 The signal processing module shown is used to form Figure 1 The top and side views show the interface module of the first operating configuration of the I / O signal processor.

[0037] Figure 11 and Figure 12 These are the top view and side view of the interface module in the second embodiment.

[0038] Figure 13 and Figure 14 They are Figure 11 The attachment shown Figure 5 The top and side views of the interface module of the signal processing module are shown.

[0039] Figure 15 and Figure 16 They are similar to Figure 13 and Figure 14 However, the I / O module is inserted into the interface module to form a structure like... Figure 2 The second operating configuration of the I / O signal processor is shown.

[0040] Figure 17 and Figure 18 These are top and side views of the printed circuit board of the interface module, which is partially surrounded by a frame.

[0041] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the interface module of the first embodiment attached to the signal processing module of the second embodiment.

[0042] Figure 20 shows the I / O signal processor connected to a base that connects to field devices via cables, with removable I / O modules inserted into the base. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Figure 1 A switchable I / O signal processor 10 according to this disclosure is shown. The I / O signal processor can switch between at least two operating configurations, as will be described in more detail below. The I / O signal processor can be configured for general environments or hazardous environments.

[0044] Figure 1 The I / O signal processor 10 in a first operating configuration is shown. In this configuration, up to four field devices... D Cables with D-sub plugs can be used. A It is connected to the I / O signal processor. The field cables of the field devices are connected to a base similar to that shown in Figure 20. B base B The base terminal. Base B It defines a set with a similar base I / O channel section. I The assembly having a similar base I / O channel portion I Extending from the base terminal to the D-sub socket C Each base I / O channel section includes an I / O module electrical connector.M (The I / O module inserted into the I / O module connector is not in Figure 1 (As shown in the image). Cable A Attached to the base cable connector C And extends to the I / O signal processor 10.

[0045] The switchable I / O signal processor 10 in this first operating configuration includes an exposed electrical connector configured to be operatively connected to a D-sub-receptacle 12 of the signal processor 14. The D-sub-receptacle 12 is connected to a cable. A The end of the connector. In the illustrated embodiment, the D-sub-receptacle 12 can be connected to up to four field devices. The D-sub-receptacle 12 forms part of the processor I / O channel portion 16 that extends into the signal processor 14.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, the base I / O channel section I Cables A The processor I / O channel portion 16 cooperates with the processor I / O channel portion to define the I / O channel, which connects to the device. D The field wiring and signal processor 14. Each I / O channel is connected to the corresponding conversion circuit 48 of the signal processor. Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, the corresponding conversion circuit 48 converts I / O signals compatible with field devices attached to the I / O channel between the digital data formats required for the operation of the process control system.

[0047] The signal processor 14 transmits digital data converted from I / O signals received from field devices via a network port, communication bus, cable, or other form of data transmission, and receives digital data to be converted into I / O signals for use with field devices or for operation of the signal processor (e.g., to set the operating mode of the selectable mode conversion circuit).

[0048] The conversion circuit can be a fixed conversion circuit, a selectable mode conversion circuit, or a combination of both. Examples of conversion circuits that can be used in an I / O signal processor include, but are not limited to, those provided by commercially available analog devices AD74412R or AD74413R signal processing integrated circuits (Analog Devices, Inc., One Technology Way, Norwood, Massachusetts 02062-9106, USA).

[0049] Figure 2The I / O signal processor 10 is shown in a second operating configuration that enables up to four field devices to be connected. D The field cables are directly connected to the I / O signal processor 10. For simplicity, only one field device is shown in the attached diagram. D It is shown connected to the I / O signal processor.

[0050] The I / O signal processor 10 in this second operating configuration includes an exposed junction box 18 having four corresponding electrical connector sets formed as terminals 20 for connecting field cables to field devices. Each terminal set 20 forms part of a corresponding processor I / O channel portion 22 that extends to and includes an exposed I / O module electrical connector 24 and extends from the I / O module electrical connector to the signal processor 14. The I / O module electrical connector removably holds an I / O module 26.

[0051] Signal processor 14 does not change with the operation configuration of I / O signal processor 10.

[0052] I / O module 26 works with processor I / O channel portion 22 to limit connected devices. D The field wiring and the I / O channels of the signal processor 14.

[0053] As described in more detail below, the I / O signal processor 10 includes a base housing, a signal processing module including a signal processor 14 disposed within the base housing, and one or more removable interface modules attached to the signal processing module to establish an operational configuration for the I / O signal processor. The interface modules enable a network operator to select the type of field connection to the I / O signal processor.

[0054] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Signal processing module 28 is shown. The signal processing module includes a generally rectangular printed circuit board 30 having an upper surface 32 and an opposing lower surface 34, the upper surface 32 and the opposing lower surface 34 being separated by the thickness of the board. A signal processor 14 is disposed on a first upper surface end portion 36 of the printed circuit board. The size of the opposing second upper surface end portion 38 of the printed circuit board is designed to allow an interface module to be placed thereon, as described later below. Distributed on the second end portion are closely spaced low-profile BTB (board-to-board) connector pairs 40 and surface-mount threaded standoff assembly 42.

[0055] Signal processor 14 is associated with an I / O channel portion set 44 defined by printed circuit board 30, extending from the signal processor to a BTB connector. The I / O channel portion set includes four separate I / O channel portions. In the signal processor, each I / O channel portion 46 includes a conversion circuit 48. One of the conversion circuits is shown as an optional mode conversion circuit, the operating mode of which is set by operating mode control circuitry 49. In possible embodiments, some, all, or no conversion circuitry may be optional mode conversion circuitry.

[0056] Each conversion circuit 48 outputs data in digital data format to a corresponding digital output circuit section 50. The digital output circuit section extends to a communication circuit 52, which transmits digital data converted from I / O signals received from field devices and receives digital data to be converted into I / O signals for operation by field devices or signal processors (e.g., to set the mode of an optional mode conversion circuit). The communication circuit can send and receive digital data via a network port, communication bus, cable, or other forms of data transmission.

[0057] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A signal processing module 28 is shown, fixedly mounted in a base housing 54. The base housing includes a generally rectangular body 56 extending from a lower wall 58 at the lower end of the enclosure body and an upper wall 60 partially at the upper end of the enclosure body. In the illustrated embodiment, the body includes a mounting bracket for attaching the base housing to a DIN rail. R The installation structure.

[0058] The base housing 54 is configured such that several signal processing modules 28 can be closely spaced side by side on a DIN rail.

[0059] The signal processing module 28 is disposed within the housing body 56 near the upper end of the body. The upper wall 60 includes a flat wall portion 62 and an inclined wall portion 64. The flat wall portion covers the signal processor 14. The inclined wall portion extends from the flat wall portion toward the signal processing module but stops before obstructing an inlet on the upper side of the second upper surface end portion 38 of the signal processing module. The inclined wall portion defines a through-opening 68 that facilitates ventilation within the housing body. The housing body includes additional ventilation openings (not shown) that allow air to pass through the interior of the base housing.

[0060] Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first interface module 70 is shown, which places the I / O signal processor 10 in... Figure 1In the first operating configuration shown, the interface module includes a generally rectangular printed circuit board 72 having an upper surface 74 and an opposing lower surface 76, the upper surface 74 and the opposing lower surface 76 being separated by the thickness of the printed circuit board. A surface-mount D-sub-receptacle 78 is carried on the upper surface. Two assemblies 80 with multiple contact pads are carried on the lower surface (the thickness of the contact pad assemblies is exaggerated in the figure). The printed circuit board electrically connects the D-sub-receptacle to the contact pad assemblies to define a module I / O channel portion (not shown) extending from the D-sub-receptacle to the contact pads.

[0061] Through-hole sets 82 extend through the thickness of the printed circuit board.

[0062] Figure 9 and Figure 10 An I / O signal processor 10 is shown, in which a first interface module 70 is attached to a signal processing module 28. The printed circuit board 72 of the interface module is sized to be accommodated within the protruding outer periphery of a second upper surface end portion 38 of the signal processing module. The lower surface 76 of the interface module faces the upper surface 32 of the signal processing module. Through-holes 82 are aligned with brackets 42 to securely position the interface module relative to the signal processing module. Screws (not shown) extending through the holes and into the brackets removably fasten the interface module to the signal processing module and are used to substantially fix the interface module relative to the signal processing module during use. A set of contact pads 80 of the interface module contacts a BTB connector pair 40 of the signal processing module, thereby electrically connecting the interface module and the signal processing module. The interface module and the signal processing module thus cooperate to form... Figure 1 The processor I / O channel set 16 is shown.

[0063] Figure 11 and Figure 12 The second interface module 84 is shown, which places the I / O signal processor 10 in... Figure 2 In the second operating configuration shown, the second interface module includes a generally rectangular printed circuit board 86, which is similar in size to the printed circuit board of the first interface module 70. The printed circuit board includes an upper surface 88 and a lower surface 90 separated by the thickness of the printed circuit board. The lower surface carries two sets 92 with multiple contact pads, similar to the contact pads of the first interface module. A set 94 of through-holes (similar to the through-holes of the first interface module) extends through the thickness of the printed circuit board.

[0064] The second interface module 84 enables the field cables of the field devices to terminate at the second interface module. Instead of cable connectors, the second interface module includes a junction box 96 comprising an assembly of electrical connectors formed as four terminal sets 98. Each terminal set is configured to connect the field cables of the field devices. The junction box is surface-mounted on the upper surface 88 of a printed circuit board 86.

[0065] The number of electrical connector sets 98, the number of electrical connectors in each set, and the type of electrical connectors may vary in different embodiments, depending on the number of field devices that can be connected to the second interface module 84, the number of field cables extending from the field devices, the usage environment, and so on.

[0066] The second interface module 84 further includes an I / O module connector assembly 100 operatively connected to a terminal assembly 98, each I / O module connector removably mounting an I / O module. The I / O modules may be of the type disclosed in the '727 patent, used for signal processing or pass-through of I / O signals, powering connected field devices, inserting fuses, relays, or other ancillary devices in the signal path, providing test points, etc. I / O modules may also be provided that provide diagnostics for the I / O channel during operation, enabling pre-commissioning evaluation of attached field devices prior to normal operation of the process control network, or other functions. A printed circuit board electrically connects the terminal assembly to the I / O module connectors and electrically connects the I / O module connectors to the contact pad assembly 92 to define a module I / O channel portion extending from the terminal assembly to the I / O module connectors and from the I / O module connectors to the contact pads.

[0067] Figure 13 and Figure 14 A second interface module 84 is shown attached to the signal processing module 28, with its lower surface 90 facing the upper surface 32 of the signal processing module. A screw (not shown) threaded through a hole 94 in the second interface module aligns and attaches the second interface module to the signal processing module. As previously described, a contact pad assembly 92 contacts the BTB connector 40 to electrically connect the interface module to the signal processing module. The interface module and the signal processing module thus cooperate (alongside the I / O module as installed) to form... Figure 2 The processor I / O channel set 22 is shown.

[0068] Figure 15 and Figure 16 Similar to Figure 13 and Figure 14However, it also shows an I / O module 102 inserted into the I / O connector 100 of the second interface module 84. The I / O module is positioned against the upper wall 60 of the base housing 54 (see...). Figure 6 This provides additional mechanical support. The I / O module extends from the upper end of the base housing 54 to provide access to terminals, access points, etc., that can be provided by the I / O module.

[0069] The I / O module may also include a latch or similar device that engages with the housing 54, which helps to secure the attachment of the I / O module.

[0070] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, in a possible embodiment, the printed circuit board of an interface module, such as interface module 106, is partially surrounded by a U-shaped frame 104 made of plastic or nylon and extending along three sides of the printed circuit board 106. Opposing deformable latch pairs 108 extend away from the opposing legs of the frame. The frame extends beyond the underside of the printed circuit board, such that the latches facilitate alignment of the interface module with the signal processing module 28.

[0071] When the interface module is attached to the signal processing module, the latch hooks snap onto the lower surface of the printed circuit board 30 of the signal processing module. Alternatively, all latch hooks or some of the latch hooks engage with the housing 54.

[0072] In this embodiment, frame 104 is a rectangular frame extending around the entire outer periphery of printed circuit board 106. The frame may include a sufficient number of latches positioned along the frame to facilitate the removable attachment of the interface module to signal processing module 28 and / or housing 54, and to secure the interface module relative to the signal processing module during use without the need for screws or other removable / detachable fasteners.

[0073] In other possible embodiments, the interface module 106 may be removably held in the frame 104 by a latch or other holding structure (not shown) so that the interface module and the frame can be treated as a single unit when the interface module is interchanged with the signal processing module.

[0074] The signal processing module 28 shown includes a single printed circuit board that mounts the interface module and the signal processor. Figure 19 An interface module 70 is shown attached to a signal processing module 28 of the second embodiment, which has an upper printed circuit board 32a electrically connected to a lower printed circuit board 32b via a board-to-board connector. The interface module is attached to the upper printed circuit board, and the signal processor 14 is on the lower printed circuit board. I / O channel portions of the signal processing module extend through the board-to-board connector.

[0075] Although two interface modules have been described in detail, this is not intended to limit it to different types of interface modules that can be used. For example, embodiments of the first interface module may include multiple cable receptacles or plugs. Different types of receptacles or plugs may be included, including designs for mating with proprietary cables, and mixed types of receptacles or plugs may be provided. Embodiments of the second interface module may allow terminal sets to connect directly to contact pads, thereby omitting the I / O module connector. This interface module may be designed to connect to a different number of field devices than the interface module shown. Instead of cable connectors or terminals, different connector types or different mixtures of connector types may be provided to accommodate the different field wiring requirements of different types of field devices.

[0076] In embodiments of the interface module according to this disclosure, other examples of electrical connectors that can be used to connect wires to field devices include, but are not limited to: pluggable wire connectors in which wires are terminated on the electrical connector; fixed terminals in which wires enter terminals directly fixed on the interface module; electrical connectors removably mounted on the interface module to enable mechanical and / or electrical disconnection of the electrical connector from the interface module without interfering with the field wire attachment of the electrical connector; male or female electrical connectors that mate with corresponding female or male electrical connectors attached to and forming part of a separate field wire; cable connectors for connecting cables comprising field wires extending from the field device; pin headers; etc.

[0077] Although one or more embodiments have been disclosed and described, it should be understood that modifications are possible and that the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the precise details set forth, but includes modifications that would be obvious to a person skilled in the art with respect to this disclosure, including (but not limited to) changes in material selection, interface module shape or configuration, signal processing module shape or configuration, housing shape and mounting configuration, and such variations and alterations that fall within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A convertible I / O signal processor, the convertible I / O signal processor being used for communication between field devices of a process control network and the control system of the process control network, the I / O signal processor comprising: The interface module includes: First base; One or more first electrical connector sets, second electrical connectors and first I / O channel portion sets are on the first base, each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set being electrically connected to a corresponding first electrical connector set and second electrical connector; The signal processing module includes: Second base; A signal processor, a third electrical connector, and a second I / O channel assembly associated with the signal processor are located on the second base. The second I / O channel assembly is electrically connected to the signal processor and the third electrical connector. The signal processor includes: A corresponding conversion circuit in each second I / O channel section converts I / O signals between digital data formats used by the process control network; A communication circuit electrically connected to the conversion circuit of the second I / O channel portion set, the communication circuit being configured to transmit digital data received from the conversion circuit and receive digital data to be converted into I / O signals by the conversion circuit. The second and third electrical connectors are removably attached to each other, and when attached, they electrically connect each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set to a corresponding second I / O channel portion in the second I / O channel portion set; and The interface module can be selectively attached to and detached from the signal processing module to enable switching of the I / O signal processor between different operating configurations.

2. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first base includes an upper surface and an opposite lower surface, the one or more first electrical connectors are disposed on the upper surface, and the second electrical connector is disposed on the lower surface; The second base includes an upper surface, and the third electrical connector is disposed on the upper surface of the second base; and When the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector are attached to each other, the lower surface of the first base is configured to cover the upper surface of the second base.

3. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first base is a printed circuit board.

4. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The printed circuit board is at least partially surrounded by a frame, and at least one latch hook extends away from the frame.

5. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second base is a printed circuit board.

6. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first base is a first printed circuit board, and the second base is a second printed circuit board.

7. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 6, characterized in that, One of the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector is a board-to-board connector, and the other of the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector includes a contact pad.

8. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The system includes a bracket assembly that is attached to at least one of the first base and the second base, and the bracket assembly spacees the first base and the second base when the second electrical connector is attached to the third electrical connector.

9. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The through-hole assembly included in the first base aligns with the threaded bracket attached to the second base when the second electrical connector is attached to the third electrical connector.

10. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first electrical connector assembly is configured as a cable plug or cable socket that can be attached to a corresponding cable socket or cable plug of a cable, and the first electrical connector assembly is configured as a terminal assembly of a junction box, each terminal assembly being configured to hold and terminate field wires of field devices.

11. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set includes a corresponding fourth electrical connector configured to removably attach an I / O module including a module I / O channel portion. When the I / O module is attached to the corresponding fourth electrical connector, the first I / O channel portion and the module I / O channel portion electrically connect the first electrical connector set to the second electrical connector.

12. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The system includes a housing, in which the signal processing module is disposed. The housing includes an upper surface, and an I / O module attached to the fourth electrical connector is supported against the upper surface of the housing.

13. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The system includes a housing in which the signal processing module is disposed, and the housing includes mounting hardware configured for mounting the I / O signal processor on a DIN rail.

14. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conversion circuit includes one or more optional mode conversion circuits, each of which includes an operation mode control circuit electrically connected to the communication circuit and configured to receive a command from the communication circuit to set the operation mode of the optional mode conversion circuit.

15. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second base includes an upper printed circuit board electrically connected to the lower printed circuit board, the third electrical connector is located on the upper printed circuit board, and the signal processor is disposed on the lower printed circuit board.

16. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first I / O channel portion assembly permanently electrically connects the first electrical connector assembly to the second electrical connector assembly.

17. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 1, characterized in that, include: The interface module is one of multiple interface modules; The second electrical connector and the third electrical connector of each of the plurality of interface modules are removably attached to each other, wherein when attached to each other, the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector electrically connect each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set of the interface module to a corresponding second I / O channel portion in the second I / O channel portion set. Each of the plurality of interface modules can be selectively attached to and detached from the signal processing module, enabling the switching of the I / O signal processor between different operating configurations; and The first I / O channel portion set of each of the plurality of interface modules is configured differently from the first I / O channel portion set of each of the other interface modules in the plurality of interface modules.

18. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The number of first I / O channel portions in the first I / O channel portion set of each of the plurality of interface modules is different from the number of first I / O channel portions in each first I / O channel portion set of the other interface modules in the plurality of interface modules.

19. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 17, characterized in that, Each first electrical connector in the first electrical connector set constituting each of the plurality of interface modules belongs to the same type of electrical connector, and the type of electrical connector in each first electrical connector set is different among all interface modules in the plurality of interface modules.

20. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The number of electrical connectors in each first electrical connector set constituting each of the plurality of interface modules is different among all the interface modules in the plurality of interface modules.

21. The I / O signal processor as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The plurality of interface modules include a first interface module and a second interface module. Each first I / O channel portion of the first interface module includes a fourth electrical connector configured to removably insert an I / O module into the first I / O channel portion. Each first I / O channel portion of the second interface module does not include an additional electrical connector.

22. A convertible I / O signal processor, the convertible I / O signal processor being used for communication between field devices of a process control network and the control system of the process control network, the I / O signal processor comprising: The interface module includes: First base; One or more first electrical connector sets, second electrical connectors and first I / O channel portion sets are on the first base, each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set being electrically connected to a corresponding first electrical connector set and second electrical connector; The signal processing module includes: Second base; The signal processor, a third electrical connector on the second base, and a second I / O channel assembly associated with the signal processor, the second I / O channel assembly being electrically connected to the signal processor and the third electrical connector. The signal processor includes a corresponding conversion circuit in each second I / O channel section, the corresponding conversion circuit converting between I / O signals and digital data formats used by the process control network; Each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set includes a corresponding fourth electrical connector, the corresponding fourth electrical connector being configured to removably attach an I / O module including a module I / O channel portion. When the I / O module is attached to the corresponding fourth electrical connector, the first I / O channel portion and the module I / O channel portion electrically connect the first electrical connector set to the second electrical connector. The second and third electrical connectors are removably attached to each other, and when attached, they electrically connect each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set to a corresponding second I / O channel portion in the second I / O channel portion set; and The interface module can be selectively attached to and detached from the signal processing module to enable switching of the I / O signal processor between different operating configurations.

23. A convertible I / O signal processor, the convertible I / O signal processor being used for communication between field devices of a process control network and the control system of the process control network, the I / O signal processor comprising: The interface module includes: First base; One or more first electrical connector sets, second electrical connectors and first I / O channel portion sets are on the first base, each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set being electrically connected to a corresponding first electrical connector set and second electrical connector; The signal processing module includes: Second base; A signal processor on the second base, a third electrical connector on the second base, and a second I / O channel assembly associated with the signal processor, the second I / O channel assembly being electrically connected to the signal processor and the third electrical connector. The signal processor includes a corresponding conversion circuit in each of the second I / O channel portions in the second I / O channel portion set, the corresponding conversion circuit converting between I / O signals and digital data formats used by the process control network; The second base includes an upper printed circuit board electrically connected to the lower printed circuit board, the third electrical connector is located on the upper printed circuit board, and the signal processor is disposed on the lower printed circuit board; The second and third electrical connectors are removably attached to each other, and when attached, they electrically connect each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set to a corresponding second I / O channel portion in the second I / O channel portion set; and The interface module can be selectively attached to and detached from the signal processing module to enable switching of the I / O signal processor between different operating configurations.

24. A system for attaching a field device to a process control network using an electrical connection between the field device and the process control network, wherein the system enables selective changing of the configuration of the electrical connection, the system comprising: Multiple interface modules, each of the multiple interface modules including: First base; One or more first electrical connector sets, second electrical connectors and first I / O channel portion sets are on the first base, each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set being electrically connected to a corresponding first electrical connector set and second electrical connector; The signal processing module includes: Second base; The second base includes a signal processor, a third electrical connector, and a second I / O channel portion assembly associated with the signal processor, the second I / O channel portion assembly being electrically connected to the signal processor and the third electrical connector. The signal processor includes a corresponding conversion circuit in each second I / O channel portion, the corresponding conversion circuit converting between I / O signals and digital data formats used by the process control network. The second electrical connector and the third electrical connector of each of the plurality of interface modules are removably attached to each other, wherein when attached to each other, the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector electrically connect each first I / O channel portion in the first I / O channel portion set of the interface module to a corresponding second I / O channel portion in the second I / O channel portion set. Each of the plurality of interface modules can be selectively attached to and detached from the signal processing module to enable switching of the I / O signal processor between different operating configurations; The first I / O channel portion set of each of the plurality of interface modules is configured differently from the first I / O channel portion set of each of the other interface modules in the plurality of interface modules; The number of first I / O channel portions in the first I / O channel portion set constituting each of the plurality of interface modules is different from the number of first I / O channel portions in each first I / O channel portion set constituting the other interface modules in the plurality of interface modules; and The plurality of interface modules include a first interface module and a second interface module. Each first I / O channel portion of the first interface module includes a fourth electrical connector configured to removably insert an I / O module into the first I / O channel portion. Each first I / O channel portion of the second interface module does not include an additional electrical connector.

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