Connecting device for providing a decentralized automation platform

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting device (10) for providing a decentralized automation platform (1), comprising: - an arrangement for the electrical connection of functional modules (200) in a connection area (A) of the connecting device (10), - several or exactly one main connection surface (21), - a base body (20) with a base body housing (30) and with a connection arrangement (40), wherein the connection arrangement (40) is designed to provide an electrical connection of the connected functional modules (200) to one another at least indirectly, - electrical lines (45) of the connection arrangement (40) arranged in the base body housing (30) to provide a main power flow, an auxiliary power flow and a data flow for the connected functional modules (200) in order to operate the automation platform (1) for controlling electrical devices (300) of an industrial plant,

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting device for providing a decentralized automation platform. Furthermore, the invention relates to an automation platform with the connecting device. State of the art

[0002] It is known from the state of the art that modular automation solutions are used to supply electrical devices in an industrial plant with energy via power lines and to control them via control lines such as fieldbus lines.

[0003] The document US 2013 / 0342152 A1 discloses a multi-shaft motor drive device in which at least one amplifier module, a control substrate and a power substrate are provided.

[0004] The other publications WO 2012 / 000808 A1, WO 2023 / 088883 A1 and EP 2 728 673 B1 disclose further generic solutions.

[0005] Conventional solutions often suffer from the problem that assembling functional modules of an automation platform can be complex and error-prone. Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to at least partially remedy the disadvantages described above. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to improve the connection of functional modules to a common connection device. Disclosure of the invention

[0006] The subject matter of the invention is a connecting device having the features of claim 1 and an automation platform having the features of claim 16. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the respective subclaims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the connecting device according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the automation platform according to the invention, and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, reference is always made to each other.

[0007] The invention particularly relates to a connecting device for providing a decentralized automation platform. The connecting device comprises an arrangement for electrically connecting functional modules in a connection area of ​​the connecting device. Specifically, the connecting device can comprise an arrangement of multiple main and auxiliary connections provided for electrically connecting the multiple functional modules in the connection area of ​​the connecting device. By using the connecting device, the decentralized automation platform can be implemented in a simple and efficient manner. This can have the advantage that the functional modules can be connected to one another quickly and easily to ensure smooth communication and collaboration.It is also possible for the connection device to offer a high degree of flexibility, as the selection of connected functional modules can be adapted according to the requirements of the respective application.

[0008] Furthermore, several or exactly one main connection surface can be provided, on which main connections for connecting the functional modules are preferably arranged. For this purpose, openings can be formed on the main connection surface through which the contacts of the functional modules can be guided in order to connect the functional modules to the connection arrangement.

[0009] Furthermore, a base body with a base body housing and a connection arrangement can be provided in the connection device according to the invention. The connection arrangement can be arranged at least partially or completely in the base body housing. The connection arrangement can be electrically connected to main and auxiliary terminals in order to provide an electrical connection between the connected functional modules. Furthermore, the connection arrangement can be designed to at least indirectly provide an electrical connection between the connected functional modules. "At least indirectly" can be understood to mean that the connection is established either directly or indirectly via additional components.

[0010] Furthermore, it is possible to provide electrical lines of the connection arrangement, which can be arranged in the base body housing, to provide a main power flow and / or an auxiliary power flow and / or a data flow for the connected functional modules. In this way, the automation platform can be operated to control electrical devices of an industrial plant.

[0011] Within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the base body housing has one or more cooling zones outside the connection zone. A cooling zone is to be understood in particular as a zone which is designed such that heat generated during operation is generated in this zone. In other words, it is provided that the parts of the functional modules which generate the greatest heat during operation are mounted close to the cooling zone. Consequently, the cooling zone is generally understood as a zone which has a cooling effect on the overall structure by ensuring that the heat generated only occurs in a known zone. These cooling zones can also be referred to as heat sinks. To dissipate the heat, it may be possible to attach heat sinks to the base body. For this purpose, a special shape of the cooling zone can be provided in the design to ensure effective heat dissipation.

[0012] It is conceivable for the respective cooling region to have one or more heat sinks, wherein preferably one or more channels arranged within the base body housing are designed as the heat sink(s) and dissipate any heat generated. The electrical lines of the connection arrangement, for example, can be arranged and run in the channels in order to distribute power and data in the connection device. The lines for providing the main power flow and the lines for providing the auxiliary power flow can be arranged in separate channels. In particular, the lines for the main power flow can generate considerable heat. The described use of the cooling regions can have the advantage that heat dissipation is more effective and efficient, which increases the service life of the connection device and improves the reliability of the electrical connection.It's also possible for the channels to be filled with a cooling fluid, which further improves heat dissipation. The connecting device can also be equipped with a control unit that monitors the temperature of the heat sinks and the channels and supplies or removes the cooling fluid as needed to ensure optimal cooling.

[0013] It has proven advantageous for the cooling area to have a heat sink. A heat sink can generally be considered to be something that transports the heat generated away from the area where it is generated without the use of additional energy. The cooling process described here takes place without the use of additional energy. In principle, however, it is also conceivable and feasible to use an active cooling system, i.e. a system with additional actively operated cooling components, if very high heat generation is expected. For example, the main body housing can have channels. These channels can accommodate a connecting arrangement. In cooling areas, the channels are advantageously designed as heat sinks so that the heat generated can be more effectively dissipated via the channels.

[0014] According to an advantageous development of the invention, the respective cooling region can be formed on a surface of the base body opposite the main connection surface. To improve heat dissipation, according to this variant, heat sinks are provided on this surface of the base body housing, which can be in the form of cooling fins. Cooling fins are to be understood in particular as elongated webs that either extend beyond the base surface of the base body housing or, preferably, are flush with this surface. The webs would thus be integrated into the base body housing, so that one could alternatively speak of deepening grooves instead of webs in this area of ​​the base body housing.

[0015] Of course, a combination of the two aforementioned heat sinks is also possible by creating cooling fins in addition to the channels so that heat dissipation can be further increased.

[0016] Advantageously, within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the functional modules are connectable to one another, in particular directly, preferably at least partially via the connection area or the arrangement for connecting the functional modules. In this way, the automation platform can be designed in a modular manner and a flexible design of the decentralized automation platform is enabled, since the arrangement and connection of the functional modules can be individually adapted depending on requirements and application. Furthermore, the connecting device can ensure a high level of reliability and safety, since it can be integrated, for example, into at least one of the functional modules. A separate "backplane" outside the functional modules, which is provided by the connecting device, can therefore be dispensed with.Alternatively, the connecting device can be designed as a backplane separate from the functional modules, into which the connecting arrangement can be integrated and / or to which several, for example at least three or at least four or at least five, functional modules can be connected.

[0017] It is also advantageous if the connectable function modules can be electrically contacted to connect them to one another. It has proven particularly advantageous if this contact is made via plug-socket contacts. This ensures that assembly can be carried out quickly and easily. Through the data flow, the connecting device can also enable automatic detection of the connected function modules to facilitate simple configuration and commissioning. In addition, the connecting device can provide an integrated power supply for the connected function modules through the auxiliary power flow, avoiding the need for additional cabling. Another option is for the connecting device to enable a wireless connection between the function modules to enable even more flexible configuration.In addition, the connecting device can have an integrated diagnostic function to enable quick troubleshooting.

[0018] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the functional modules are mechanically connected to one another. The mechanical connection is advantageously made via screw connections. It is particularly preferred if this screw connection runs diagonally, i.e., at an angle from the outermost point of a functional module toward the interior of the adjacent functional module, but without penetrating an outer shell into the interior of one of the functional modules. This can increase the stability and reliability of the connection between the functional modules and thus contribute to improved performance of the decentralized automation platform.

[0019] Optionally, the functional modules can be provided with threaded holes in their end sections. Furthermore, at least one or more covers can be provided, which close off the connected functional modules at the unconnected sections. The cover(s) have recesses whose arrangement correlates with the threaded holes of the functional modules, i.e., they are coordinated with one another. When assembled, the threaded holes and the recesses share a central axis, so that the covers can be connected to the functional modules using suitable connecting means. This has the advantage of protecting the functional modules from environmental influences and making the connection between the functional modules even more secure.It has been advantageously found that the use of covers, particularly in conjunction with sealing means that can be provided between the functional module and the cover, allows for significantly improved water and dust tightness, which maximizes usability in the field.

[0020] Optionally, the connecting device can also include a fastening device that enables simple and secure installation on a support. The fastening device can, for example, comprise a clamping device or a screw connection. This allows the connecting device to be easily attached to a support, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.

[0021] According to a further advantage, the functional modules and / or the base housing body can be provided with sealing means. These sealing means are to be used particularly in the connection area, i.e., the area where the functional modules come into contact with the housing base body. The connection area is significantly improved by the use of circumferential sealing means between the functional modules and the base body housing.

[0022] It is also advantageous if the cooling area with the heat sink is formed integrally with the base body, preferably monolithically. In other words, the heat sink is already integrated into the base body housing before the functional modules are mounted. For example, cooling fins can be milled out of the base body housing during the production process or incorporated into it through other forms of machining. A similar procedure is also conceivable for inserting the channels.

[0023] According to an advantageous development of the invention, the main body housing can be actively cooled. A wide variety of methods are conceivable for this, although the following list is not exhaustive. Active cooling of the cooling area can be achieved by using a fluid around and / or through the main body housing, whereby the integrity of any connecting arrangement that may be arranged therein must be taken into account. Connecting a coolant-carrying component to the cooling area and / or through it is feasible. Another option for implementing active cooling is to equip the main body housing with an integrated ventilation system. Fans or blowers can be installed in the housing to improve air circulation and thus cooling. In addition, the additional use of heat sinks or heat-conducting plates can ensure effective cooling.In addition, cooling can be achieved by using Peltier elements or a combination of various of the cooling methods mentioned.

[0024] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the connection options are arranged at a distance from one another and accommodate and hold the previously connected functional modules in a predefined position, wherein the connection options each have at least two of the following connecting elements: - a main energy connection element to provide the main energy flow for the functional module connected to it, - an auxiliary energy connection element for providing the auxiliary energy flow for the connected functional module, with a lower electrical voltage than the main energy flow, - a data connection element to provide the data flow for the functional module connected to it.

[0025] It has proven advantageous if electrical lines of the connection arrangement include the following lines: - Main power lines designed to provide the main energy flow with an alternating voltage of up to 1000 volts and / or a direct voltage of up to 1500 volts and / or with an alternating voltage in the range of 70 volts to 1000 volts and / or with a direct voltage in the range of 130 volts to 1500 volts, and preferably with an alternating voltage of substantially 400 volts or a direct voltage in the range of 650 V to 700 V, preferably to supply at least one of the electrical devices with energy, - Auxiliary power lines designed to provide the auxiliary power flow with an alternating voltage of up to 50 volts and / or a direct voltage of up to 120 volts and / or with an alternating voltage in the range from 0.01 volts to 50 volts and / or with a direct voltage in the range from 0.01 volts to 120 volts, and preferably with a direct voltage of substantially 24 V or 48 V, preferably to provide a power supply for at least one of the functional modules and / or for communication with at least one of the electrical devices, preferably for a fieldbus, - Data lines designed to transmit a data and preferably fieldbus signal, preferably for communication with at least one of the electrical devices.

[0026] It has also proven advantageous if the main power lines and the auxiliary power lines and / or data lines are arranged in separate channels in the base body and are preferably separated from each other by a partition. This ensures trouble-free data transmission and a reliable power supply.

[0027] The connection device can also include integrated circuitry that enables automatic detection and configuration of the connected functional modules. Such an intelligent connection device can further simplify and accelerate the installation and commissioning of the decentralized automation platform.

[0028] It has also proven advantageous to provide at least one sealant in the connection area to seal the connection area. This can help prevent moisture and dirt from penetrating the connection area and thus increase the functionality of the connecting device and the connected functional modules.

[0029] It is further advantageous if at least one receptacle for a fastening element, preferably for a screw, is provided, wherein the receptacle is preferably a threaded bore, with an angle, preferably in the range of 10 ° to 80 °, to the main connection surface in the base body housing in order to provide an oblique fastening and preferably screwing of the functional module to the base body housing.

[0030] The automation platform can be designed in a decentralized manner by providing automation functions for the system with one or more additional decentralized automation platforms. The one or more additional decentralized automation platforms can each also be designed as an automation platform according to the invention. The automation platforms can accordingly provide partial automation functions that complementarily enable the automation of the system. The partial automation functions include, for example, the control and / or regulation of variables such as pressure, flow, or temperature and / or the monitoring of process parameters and / or the control and / or evaluation of actuators and sensors.

[0031] It can be provided that the individual different partial automation functions are provided by specially designed functional modules. In this way, partial automation functions can be supplemented and combined in a modular manner in an automation platform. The functional modules include, for example, a power supply module, such as a power supply unit, and / or a fieldbus module and / or a safety module for monitoring and safeguarding processes and / or a motor control module and / or an industrial PC that can perform control tasks. In addition, pneumatic and / or hydraulic modules can also be provided as functional modules in order to control movements and forces, for example. These modules can be designed, for example, to control cylinders, valves and / or pumps. These functional modules can also include cylinders, valves and / or pumps.By combining electronic and pneumatic / hydraulic elements, complex and precise control tasks can be realized in various application areas, such as automation technology.

[0032] It is also conceivable that the automation platforms are connected to a higher-level controller (central controller), e.g., via a fieldbus system. However, the decentralized automation platforms can, if necessary, at least partially replace the function of a central control cabinet. For this purpose, the automation platform can be located in the field of the system, e.g., near actuators and sensors. This can have the advantage of achieving a high degree of flexibility and scalability of the automation, as additional decentralized automation platforms can be easily added to provide additional automation functions.Furthermore, the decentralized design of automation platforms can result in easier maintenance, greater robustness, and reliability of the automation, as failures of individual components can be compensated for by other decentralized automation platforms. This ensures high availability of the automation.

[0033] A system with decentralized automation platforms can also be protected.

[0034] The invention also relates to an automation platform comprising a connecting device according to the invention and several, preferably at least three or at least four or at least five, functional modules, which are preferably modularly connected to one another in order to design the automation platform in a modular manner.

[0035] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which describes embodiments of the invention in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. They show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a connecting device according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a connection arrangement according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 3 a further schematic representation of a connecting device according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 4 a further schematic representation of a connecting device according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 5 a schematic sectional view of a connecting device according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 6 a further schematic representation of a connecting device according to embodiments of the invention. Fig. 7 a further schematic representation of a connecting device according to embodiments of the invention.

[0036] In the following figures, identical reference numerals are used for the same technical features, even in different embodiments.

[0037] Fig. 1 illustrates, according to embodiments of the invention, a connecting device 10 for providing a decentralized automation platform 1. In this example, the connecting device 10 is provided outside the functional modules 200 as a separate "backplane" in which a connecting arrangement 40 is integrated and to which at least three or at least four functional modules 200 can be connected.

[0038] An arrangement of several connection options 50 is shown, which are provided for the electrical connection of several functional modules 200 in a connection area A of the connecting device 10. Furthermore, a main connection surface 21 is shown, on which at least the connection options 50 are arranged.

[0039] Furthermore, a base body 20 with a base body housing 30 and with the connection arrangement 40 is shown, wherein the connection arrangement 40 is electrically connected to the connection options 50 in order to provide an electrical connection between the connected functional modules 200. The connection options 50 can for this purpose be designed, for example, as sockets and / or receptacles and / or plug-in connectors. The connection options 50 can, for example, be provided with a number of contact points in order to establish a secure connection with corresponding contacts of the functional modules 200. The connection options 50 can also have an elongated shape in order to ensure correct alignment with other components. Furthermore, the connection options 50 can be equipped with a locking device to ensure a secure connection and prevent accidental disconnection of the contact.This enables flexible connection and contacting options for a large number of function modules 200. The connection arrangement 40 and the connection options 50 thus ensure a reliable electrical connection between the function modules 200 to ensure proper functioning.

[0040] The Fig. The electrical lines 45 of the connection arrangement 40, schematically illustrated in Figure 2, can be arranged in the base body housing 30. They serve to provide a main power flow and / or an auxiliary power flow and / or a data flow for the connected functional modules 200, in order to thereby operate the automation platform 1 for controlling electrical devices 300 of an industrial plant.

[0041] As in Fig. 1, the connection options 50 can be arranged in a grid at equal intervals from each other in order to accommodate and hold one of the function modules 200 in a predefined position. The connection options 50 can be arranged according to Fig. 4 each have at least two of the following connecting elements 51, 52, 53: - optionally: a main energy connection element 51 for providing the main energy flow for the functional module 200 connected thereto, - an auxiliary energy connection element 52 for providing the auxiliary energy flow for the functional module 200 connected thereto, with a lower electrical voltage than the main energy flow, - a data connection element 53 for providing the data flow for the functional module 200 connected thereto.

[0042] According to Fig. 2, the electrical lines 45 of the connection arrangement 40 may comprise the following lines 45: - Main power lines 41, which are designed to provide the main energy flow with an alternating voltage of up to 1000 volts and / or a direct voltage of up to 1500 volts and / or with an alternating voltage in the range of 70 volts to 1000 volts and / or with a direct voltage in the range of 130 volts to 1500 volts, and preferably with an alternating voltage of substantially 400 volts or a direct voltage in the range of 650 V to 700 V, preferably to supply at least one of the electrical devices 300 with energy, - Auxiliary power lines 42, which are designed to provide the auxiliary power flow with an alternating voltage of up to 50 volts and / or a direct voltage of up to 120 volts and / or with an alternating voltage in the range of 0.01 volts to 50 volts and / or with a direct voltage in the range of 0.01 volts to 120 volts, and preferably with a direct voltage of substantially 24 V or 48 V, preferably to provide a power supply for at least one of the functional modules 200 and / or for communication with at least one of the electrical devices 300, preferably for a fieldbus, - Data lines 43, which are designed to transmit a data and preferably fieldbus signal, preferably for communication with at least one of the electrical devices 300.

[0043] Furthermore, the main power lines 41 and the auxiliary power lines 42 and / or data lines 43 can be arranged in separate channels 25 of the base body 20 and preferably separated from one another by a partition wall 31 (cf. Fig. 1).

[0044] Out of Fig. 3 it is clear that contact can be made between a connector arrangement 250 of one of the functional modules 200 and a connection option 50 of the base body 20 in an axis ER. Fig. 3 schematically shows at least one sealing means 28 in the connection area A in order to seal the connection area A.

[0045] Fig. Figure 4 discloses a further embodiment of the invention, wherein the connection area A, the main connection surface 21, as well as the connecting elements 51, 52, 53 and printed circuit boards 48 are shown.

[0046] Fig. 5 shows a section through functional modules 200. In this embodiment, the connection arrangement 40 is integrated into at least one functional module 200 of the automation platform 1 in order to connect at least two functional modules 200 thereto. Fig. 5 schematically illustrates the plug-socket connections 220. Furthermore, in addition to the functional modules 200, covers 230 are also illustrated for closing the functional modules 200 in a variant of the invention in which the functional modules 200 are connected to form a single component prior to final assembly. To interconnect the functional modules 200, oblique connections 65 are provided, which are formed by correlating recesses, preferably threaded holes, which run at an angle in the transition region between two functional modules 200. Furthermore, threaded holes 60 are illustrated in the functional modules 200, which, together with correlating recesses 70, serve to connect the covers 230 to the functional modules 200 via suitable connecting means.

[0047] Furthermore, Fig. 5 shows that the connection options 50 are provided here on the side of the functional module 200 in order to connect the functional modules 200 in series via the connection arrangement 40 integrated therein.

[0048] In Fig. 6 schematically shows a functional module 200 on a base body housing 30. Not shown here, but advantageously, a sealing means 28 is provided between the functional module 200 and the base body housing 30, which seals the connection area A in a water- and dust-tight manner. Furthermore, it is shown that the connection options 50 are provided here on the side of the base body housing 30 in order to connect the functional modules 200 in series.

[0049] Further in Fig. 6 that the respective cooling area XX has a plurality of heat sinks YY, wherein a plurality of channels 25, which are arranged within the base body housing 30, are designed as the heat sinks YY and dissipate any heat generated.

[0050] In Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows a mounted functional module 200 on a base body housing 30. The base body housing 30 has a cooling area XX, which is configured with heat sinks YY. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, the heat sinks YY are configured as cooling fins ZZ.

[0051] The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively by way of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided they are technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention. List of reference symbols 1 automation platform 10 Connecting device 20 basic bodies 21 Main connection area 25 channels 28 Sealants 30 base body housings 31 Partition wall 35 recording 36 Fastening element 40 Connection arrangement 41 main power lines 42 auxiliary power lines 43 data lines 45 lines 48 circuit board 50 connection options 51 Main energy connection element 52 Auxiliary power connection element 53 Data connection element 60 threaded hole 65 Inclined connection 200 functional modules 230 lids 250 functional module main connectors 300 electrical devices 70 recess 220 plug-socket connections A connection area ER insertion direction XX Cooling area YY Cooling Body ZZ cooling fins QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2013 / 0342152 A1

[0003] WO 2012 / 000808 A1

[0004] WO 2023 / 088883 A1

[0004] EP 2 728 673 B1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Connecting device (10) for providing a decentralized automation platform (1), comprising: - an arrangement (50) for the electrical connection of functional modules (200) in a connection area (A) of the connecting device (10), - several or exactly one main connection area (21), - a base body (20) with a base body housing (30) and with a connection arrangement (40), wherein the connection arrangement (40) is at least partially arranged and designed in the base body housing (30) to provide an electrical connection between the connected functional modules (200) at least indirectly, - electrical lines (45) of the connection arrangement (40) which are arranged in the base body housing (30) to provide a main power flow, an auxiliary power flow and a data flow for the connected function modules (200) to operate the automation platform (1) for controlling electrical devices (300) of an industrial plant, characterized by , that the base body housing (30) has one or more cooling areas (XX) outside the connection area (A). [2] Connecting device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the respective cooling area (XX) has several heat sinks (YY), wherein several channels (25) arranged within the base body housing (30) are designed as the heat sinks (YY) and dissipate any heat generated. [3] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the respective cooling area (XX) has at least one cooling element (YY) on a surface of the base body (20) opposite the main connection surface (21), which has cooling fins (ZZ). [4] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the functional modules (200) can be directly connected to each other in order to form the automation platform (1) in a modular manner, wherein the connecting device (10) can be integrated into at least one of the functional modules (200). [5] Connecting device (10) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the electrical contacting of the functional modules (200) is carried out via plugs and sockets to connect the functional modules (200). [6] Connecting device (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by , that the mechanical connection of the functional modules (200) is made via screw connections. [7] Connecting device (10) according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized by , that the functional modules (200) have threaded bores (60) in end sections, wherein at least one or more covers (230) with recesses (70) corresponding to the threaded bores can be connected to the functional modules (200) via suitable connecting means. [8] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the functional modules (200) and / or the base body housing (30) have sealing material (28). [9] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the respective cooling area (XX) and / or one or more heat sinks (YY) are formed integrally with the base body (20). [10] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the respective cooling area (XX) has active cooling. [11] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that connection options (50) are arranged apart from each other in order to accommodate and hold the functional modules (200) in a predefined position, wherein the connection options (50) each have at least two of the following connecting elements (51, 52, 53): - a main energy connection element (51) to provide the main energy flow to the functional module (200) connected thereto, - an auxiliary energy connection element (52) for providing the auxiliary energy flow to the functional module (200) connected thereto, with a lower electrical voltage than the main energy flow, - a data connection element (53) for providing the data flow to the function module (200) connected to it. [12] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the electrical conductors (45) of the connection arrangement (40) comprise the following conductors (45): - Main power lines (41) designed to provide the main power flow with an alternating voltage up to 1000 volts and / or a direct voltage up to 1500 volts and / or with an alternating voltage in the range of 70 volts to 1000 volts and / or with a direct voltage in the range of 130 volts to 1500 volts, and preferably with an alternating voltage of substantially 400 volts or a direct voltage in the range of 650 V to 700 V, preferably to supply power to at least one of the electrical devices (300), - Auxiliary power lines (42) configured to provide the auxiliary power flow with an AC voltage up to 50 volts and / or a DC voltage up to 120 volts and / or with an AC voltage in the range of 0.01 volts to 50 volts and / or with a DC voltage in the range of 0.01 volts to 120 volts, and preferably with a DC voltage of substantially 24 V or 48 V, preferably to provide a power supply for at least one of the functional modules (200) and / or for communication with at least one of the electrical devices (300), preferably for a fieldbus, - Data lines (43) designed to transmit a data and preferably fieldbus signal, preferably for communication with at least one of the electrical devices (300). [13] Connecting device (10) according to claim 12, characterized by, that the main power lines (41) and the auxiliary power lines (42) and / or the data lines (43) are arranged in separate channels (25) of the base body (20) and are preferably separated from each other by a partition (31). [14] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one sealant (28) is provided in the connection area (A) to seal the connection area (A). [15] Connecting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one receptacle (35) for a fastening element (36), preferably for a screw, is provided, wherein the receptacle (35), preferably a threaded bore, is formed at an angle, preferably in the range of 10° to 80°, to the main connection surface (21) in the base body housing (30) in order to provide an inclined fastening and preferably screwing of the functional module (200) to the base body housing (30). [16] Automation platform comprising a connecting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims and several functional modules (200).

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