Modular Tool-less Interface for Industrial Transmitters

Abstract

The modular industrial transmitter 200 includes a communication module 202 and a sensor module 204. The communication module 202 is configured to communicate with a remote device and has a common interface 206 for coupling with a plurality of different types of sensor modules 204. The sensor modules 204 are coupled to the common interface 206 of the communication module. The physical coupling between the communication module and the sensor modules 204 is performed without tools.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is rapidly evolving to provide connectivity for legacy applications, such as monitoring and control, and to provide access to connected instrumentation that has historically been difficult to access. Instrumentation density and mobility, application types, regulatory differences, data security, confidentiality, sovereignty, and cost-value tradeoffs are among the factors driving the need for diverse sensing, actuation, and connectivity protocols. The cost of field sensors and sensor network infrastructure presents a significant barrier to the adoption of IIoT solutions.

[0002] The availability of IIoT protocols, miniaturization, and increasing local power sources (e.g., internal batteries, harvesting energy from the surrounding environment, or tightly connected energy solutions) are creating opportunities for creative sensing solutions that do not currently exist due to the cost of measuring and transmitting data. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The modular industrial transmitter includes a communication module and a sensor module. The communication module is configured to communicate with a remote device and has a common interface configured to couple with a plurality of different types of sensor modules. The sensor modules are coupled to the common interface of the communication module. The physical coupling between the communication module and the sensor modules is performed tool-less.

[0004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to embodiments that solve any or all of the disadvantages discussed in the Background. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a replaceable assembly module for a modular IIOT industrial transmitter architecture, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a sensor module coupled to a communication module via a common digital interface, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a mechanical assembly and method of assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded schematic diagram of a communication module coupled with a sensor module, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication module coupled with a sensor module, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective schematic diagram of a communication module coupled with a sensor module, according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The adoption of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is rapidly increasing, creating opportunities for a new class of easy-to-use, connected measurement and control devices. These opportunities exist in both traditional measurement applications and new asset optimization and health monitoring applications that help end users achieve more efficient, reliable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly operations. Meeting the diverse demands of IIoT users requires diverse measurement, control, and connectivity solutions, depending on the application. To efficiently support expanding IIoT businesses and rapidly evolving end-user demands, a modular measurement and control platform approach is provided to easily and quickly adapt new communication modules to a variety of transducers and actuators that share a common physical and electrical interface.

[0007] Using a modular approach, various assemblies with communication protocol outputs can be quickly attached to other assemblies that perform actions related to the process application, such as measurement or actuation. This scheme improves design efficiency by developing fully approved and tested communication and sensor module components. These components can be combined in various ways to provide a quick transmitter solution when users need a pre-defined communication protocol for their sensing technology.

[0008] 1 is a schematic diagram of an example interchangeable assembly module of a modular IIoT industrial transmitter architecture according to one embodiment of the present invention. The architecture includes multiple communication modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110 that can be coupled to any one of a variety of measurement or actuation devices 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. Coupling a given communication module with a given measurement or actuation device creates a fully functional system.

[0009] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, multiple communication modules are shown. Communication module 102 is configured to be coupled to any of measurement or actuation modules 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. Communication module 102 is configured to communicate according to the WirelessHART process communication protocol (IEC 62591). Communication module 104 is configured to be coupled to any of measurement or actuation modules 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. Communication module 104 is configured to communicate according to a cellular communication protocol. Suitable examples of cellular communication protocols include, but are not limited to, GPRS, UMTS, CDMA2000, LTE, LTE-M, NB-IoT, WiMax, 5G NR, and other protocols for cellular telephone networks currently in use or later developed. The communication module 106 is configured to be coupled to any of the measurement or actuation modules 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. The communication module 106 is configured to communicate according to the WiFi standard. Suitable examples of WiFi standards include IEEE 802.11 b / g / n / a / ac / ax / be. The communication module 108 is configured to be coupled to any of the measurement or actuation modules 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. The communication module 108 is configured to communicate according to the LoRaWAN protocol (ITU-T Y.4480). The communication module 110 is configured to be coupled to any of the measurement or actuation modules 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. The communications module 110 may be configured to communicate according to another suitable communications protocol (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy) or any other protocol now known or later developed. Additionally, while various wireless communications protocols are disclosed, it is contemplated that wired communications may be used instead of or in addition to wireless communications.Suitable examples of wired communication protocols include, but are not limited to, HART®, FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus, Profibus-PA, and the like.

[0010] 1, multiple measurement or actuation devices are shown. Temperature measurement module 112 is configured to be coupled to any of communication modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110. Temperature measurement module 112 is also configured to include or be coupled to one or more temperature sensors to measure an electrical property (e.g., electromotive force, resistance, impedance, etc.) of one or more temperature sensors indicative of temperature. Suitable examples of temperature sensors include, but are not limited to, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermocouples, thermistors, and infrared sensors.

[0011] The individual I / O module 114 is configured to be coupled to any of the communications modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110. The individual I / O module 114 includes multiple individual input or output channels. These channels can be either digital, analog, or a combination thereof. As will be appreciated, when a communications module is coupled to the individual I / O module 114, communication with the assembly can effect changes to a remote device by providing individual analog and / or digital outputs on the module 114. Similarly, individual signals, such as digital or analog signals, can be coupled to input channels of the individual I / O module 114 to allow the remote device to monitor the state and / or magnitude of such signals.

[0012] The level module 116 is configured to be coupled to any of the communication modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110. The level module 116 is configured to measure the level of a product within a container or conduit. As an example, the level module 116 is configured to transmit microwave energy into the container and receive a reflection back indicative of one or more interfaces that generate a detected distance from the level module 116, where each detected distance corresponds to a level of one or more products within the container.

[0013] Corrosion detection module 118 is configured to be coupled to any of communications modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110. Corrosion detection module 118 is configured to detect corrosion on a surface or structure to which module 118 is coupled. As an example, corrosion detection module 118 is configured to be attached to a pipe for which corrosion detection is desired and to perform corrosion detection tests, periodically or on demand, using any suitable technique, including emitting an ultrasonic signal into the pipe and comparing the response to a response obtained from an initial, non-corrosive condition.

[0014] The pressure sensing module 120 is configured to be coupled to any of the communication modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110. The pressure sensing module 120 is coupled to a process fluid pressure source (e.g., a pipe or conduit) and configured to sense the pressure of the process fluid in the conduit. The pressure sensing module 120 can include or be coupled to one or more pressure sensors having electrical properties (e.g., resistance or capacitance) that change in response to applied pressure. Additionally, the pressure sensing module 120 can include multiple pressure sensors, each fluidly coupled to opposite sides of a flow restriction in a process fluid conduit. In this manner, the pressure sensing module 120 can also provide a flow rate of the process fluid based on the pressure difference sensed across the flow restriction. In some examples, the pressure sensors can be non-invasive pressure sensors.

[0015] The gas detection module 122 is configured to be coupled to any of the communication modules 102, 104, 106, 108, and 110. The gas detection module 122 is configured to detect one or more gases of interest and provide an electrical indication thereof. The gas detection module includes one or more gas sensors having an electrical signal or characteristic that changes in response to exposure to a gas of interest, such as a combustible, flammable, and / or toxic gas. The gas sensors may include infrared point sensors, ultrasonic sensors, electrochemical gas sensors, and semiconductor sensors.

[0016] According to some embodiments described herein, each individual module is individually approved for its respective industrial function, such that an assembly of approved communication modules and approved measurement / actuator modules is also certified. An example of an important approval for industrial equipment is the "APPROVAL STANDARD INTRINSICALLY SAFE APPARATUS AND ASSOCIATED APPARATUS FOR USE IN CLASS I, II, and III, DIVISION NUMBER 1 HAZARDOUS (CLASSIFIED) LOCATIONS, CLASS NUMBER 3610" issued by Factory Mutual Research in October 1998. Another example of an important approval for industrial equipment is ATEX certification to Ex-d standards EN60079-0 and EN60079-1 for potentially explosive atmospheres.

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a given sensor module coupled to a given communications module via a common digital interface, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates a transmitter solution 200 formed by a communications module 202 coupled to a sensor module 204 via an interface 206. The interface 206 is a common interface for all communications modules, measurement (i.e., sensor) modules, and actuation modules. The common interface 206 includes multiple connections at predetermined locations, such that every module expects certain connectors to be present at predetermined locations within the common interface. Examples of various connectors include a power connection / signal 208, a timing / control connection / signal 210, and a digital communications connection / signal 212. Modules have a common interface that allows compatibility between various sensor and communications modules. FIG. 2 highlights the interface 206 and the functions each module typically manages. In the illustrated embodiment, the interface 206 consists of three general signal groups 208, 210, and 212, some of which are optional. The digital communication interface 212 is a bidirectional port between the modules 202 and 204, allowing for data transfer and general system management. For time synchronization and clock sharing, timing / control signals 210 are provided for systems relying on time-critical functions. Regulated voltage, along with a direct connection to the power module 214, is available to the sensor module 204 via the power connection / signal 208. A direct connection can be used for sensor modules with high power requirements or specific voltage regulation needs. It can also be used to monitor the voltage of battery-powered assemblies while the sensor module 204 is in operation. The power connection / signal 208 can also be galvanically isolated to provide isolation between power and other externally connected inputs.

[0018] Interface 206 generally supports the exchange of duty cycle and task timing information between the sensor module and the communication module to enable various sensing and / or actuation applications that require different amounts of time to stabilize and / or execute.

[0019] Generally, the communications module 202 is the primary controller for all functionality related to the output protocol and configuration ports. The communications module 202 includes a power module 214. In one embodiment, the power module 214 includes a local power source, such as an internal battery (fixed or rechargeable) or appropriate regulating circuitry for powering the other components of the communications module 202. In one embodiment, the power module 214 includes an intrinsically safe power source that can be installed in a variable ambient environment. In other embodiments, the power module 214 simply includes appropriate power regulating circuitry to properly condition the power received from the power module port 216 for supply to the other components of the communications module 202. Power to the power module port 216 can be provided from an external power source, such as an external thermoelectric generator, a vibration energy harvester, a wind turbine, or a solar cell. Additionally, the power module 214 can include circuitry for monitoring the power level of the external power source and determining when to charge an internal power storage device, such as a rechargeable battery or capacitor, and when to use power directly from the external power source or the internal power storage device.

[0020] The communications module 202 also includes a controller 218 coupled to a power module 214, a protocol / output circuit 219, and an optional local interface 220 and a GPS module 222. The controller 218 is also coupled to a timing / control connection 210 and a digital communications connection 212 so that the controller 218 can interact with a controller 224 of the sensor module 204. The controller 218 can be any suitable circuit capable of executing multiple program steps or functions to interact with the sensor module 204 and communicate with external devices using the protocol / output circuit 219. The controller 218 can be an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. The controller 218 is configured, via hardware, software, or a combination thereof, to detect coupling with a sensor module via the interface 206, interact with the connected sensor module, determine the capabilities and / or requirements of the connected sensor module, and select appropriate communications for the connected sensor module (e.g., select appropriate units / range / accuracy, etc.). Thus, the controller 218 is configured to authenticate the connected sensor module, recognize approved combinations, and link with the sensor module 204 to form a transmitter solution. Once the communications module 202 identifies the connected sensor module 204 and coordinates its operation for the connected sensor module, a complete transmitter solution is complete. This status indication can be provided by communication via protocol / output circuitry, by the illumination of a local indicator such as an LED, or both.

[0021] 2, the communications module 202 can include a GPS sensor 222 coupled to the controller 218. In this manner, the communications module 202 can obtain geographic location information about its location and transmit that location to a remote device. This is particularly useful in long-distance, remotely located, or mobile applications. Additionally, the GPS sensor 222 can also be used for tracking.

[0022] FIG. 2 also shows a controller 218 coupled to a protocol / output circuit 219. This circuitry enables the controller 218 to communicate according to one or more standard protocols. Examples of wireless communication protocols include, but are not limited to, WirelessHART, Cellular (NB-IoT, LTE-M), Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, and Bluetooth Low Energy. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, the protocol / output circuit 219 can be coupled to a protocol port 226 configured to couple with a wired connection. Examples of such wired communication protocols include, but are not limited to, HART®, 4-20mA, FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus, Profibus, Modbus, Ethernet, and Ethernet-APL. When the communication module 202 is not coupled to any sensor modules, the communication module 202 can function as a communication repeater, such as a standalone wireless repeater. Furthermore, in embodiments where the communication module includes multiple protocol circuits, it can function as a wireless gateway. For example, the communication module 202 can receive HART signals via a wired connection and transmit them wirelessly using a suitable wireless communication protocol, such as WirelessHART.

[0023] In some embodiments, the communications module 202 may include local interface logic 220 coupled to the controller 218 to facilitate local interaction with the communications module 202. This may include, by way of example, a local display, such as an LCD or LED display, one or more status LEDs, and / or one or more operator inputs, such as a button or knob. The status LEDs may be used to provide a simple visual indication of certain device status information, including, but not limited to, battery health, sensor assembly health, communications module health, sensor connection status / health, network connection status / health, etc. Additionally, the status LED(s) may be in the form of a multi-color LED, such that certain colors indicate certain conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the status LED(s) may flash according to predefined flash codes to communicate various messages or conditions.

[0024] As another example, local interface logic 220 may be coupled to a maintenance port 227, which allows a local user to configure and calibrate both communications module 202 and sensor module 204. Maintenance port 227 may use a wired and / or wireless connection to a handheld communicator. For example, if the connection from maintenance port 227 to a handheld communicator is wireless, such communication may be via Bluetooth or near-field communication (NFC). Additionally, local interface logic 220 may provide one or more of its functions via an internal web server that interacts with external devices, such as a handheld communicator or smartphone, via maintenance port 227.

[0025] The sensor module 204 is generally the primary controller for all functions related to sensor measurements and processing of output values. The sensor module 204 requires time to complete tasks (i.e., obtaining measurements from the sensor and processing the measurements). Additional time may be required for sensors that require multiple measurements or long voltage stabilization periods to generate valid measurements. Because the task time requirements of a sensor module are known (e.g., the type of sensor that will be coupled to a given sensor module, and the number of measurements and voltage stabilization periods required, etc., are known during the manufacture of the sensor module), a latency management scheme is employed by the sensor module controller 224 to enable task completion for a variety of sensor modules. The sensor module 204 can preemptively wake up to prepare and complete appropriate tasks before the communications module 202 requests an update.

[0026] The sensor module 204 includes a power management circuit 228 coupled to the power connection 208 to provide regulated power to the components of the sensor module 204. The power management circuit 228 may also include one or more direct connection lines that may be used in a particular sensor module implementation. Direct connections may be used for sensor modules with higher power requirements or specific voltage regulation needs. Additionally, the power management circuit 228 may also provide voltage monitoring of the battery-powered assembly during operation of the sensor module.

[0027] The sensor module 204 also includes a protocol conversion circuit 230 coupled to the controller 224. The protocol conversion circuit 230 is configured to adapt sensors having digital outputs, such as Modbus, to interface with the communications module 202. As shown, the protocol conversion module is coupled to one or more sensor ports 232 to receive such digital sensor outputs. In some process actuation embodiments, the protocol conversion circuit may include one or more digital-to-analog converters that enable the controller 224 to generate analog output voltages or signals. Additionally or alternatively, the protocol conversion circuit 230 may include appropriate switches to generate one or more digital outputs.

[0028] The sensor module 204 also includes a measurement processing circuit 234 coupled to each sensor port 232 and the controller 224. The measurement processing circuit 234 includes suitable circuitry for measuring an analog electrical characteristic (e.g., resistance, voltage, current, etc.) and providing a digital indication of the measured analog electrical characteristic to the controller 224. Suitable examples of circuitry in the measurement processing circuit include one or more analog-to-digital converters, one or more amplifiers, and / or one or more multiplexers or switches. The measurement processing circuit 234 thereby provides general detection of one or more discrete signals indicative of the status of an external interface. Additionally, the measurement processing circuit 234 provides general detection of current and / or voltage for any number of applications, such as battery monitoring and diagnostic calculations for an external power bank. Any suitable type of sensor can be coupled to each sensor port 232, including, but not limited to, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a level sensor, a corrosion sensor, a gas detection sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0029] The sensor module 204, in some cases, can be a legacy wired or wireless process variable transmitter with a digital port that interacts with the communication module 202. A legacy transmitter (i.e., a sensor module) can continue to participate in its intended communication port, but can also participate in the connected communication module 202. For example, a HART / 4-20mA process variable transmitter can continue to generate a wired HART / 4-20mA output, but can also provide data to the communication module 202 using a different output protocol.

[0030] While the above-described embodiments generally involve a single sensor module coupled to a single communications module, it is expressly contemplated that a single sensor module may be coupled to multiple different communications modules. In this case, a single sensor module may provide measurements to multiple communications modules and provide output via multiple communications paths. For example, a sensor module may interface with a WirelessHART communications module for local clustering, but also with a cellular communications module for remote monitoring. Another example is providing data points to more than one WirelessHART network via a single transmitter solution. Furthermore, it is expressly contemplated that a sensor module 204 may aggregate multiple measurements into a single communications module 202.

[0031] 3 is an exploded schematic diagram of a mechanical assembly and method of assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. Assembly 300 includes a communications module 302 and a sensor module 304. Communications module 302 includes a power module 314, which may include a battery, such as a D-cell battery. Power module 314 is inserted into communications module 302, with various power connections 316 shown near the bottom of power module 314. Housing 318 is also coupled to communications module 302. Communications module 302 includes multiple connectors on its bottom surface that mate with corresponding connectors on sensor module 304. Sensor module 304 mates with the connectors on communications module 302 and includes sensor module electronics 320 configured to fit within sensor module housing 322.

[0032] The common interface used in accordance with the embodiments described herein can take a variety of forms. As one example, the interface includes a tool-less, error-proof mechanical and electrical interface between the communications module and the sensor module. Additionally, the common interface can include keying features that allow the communications module to be coupled to the sensor module in only a single rotational orientation. Additionally, the common interface can include one or more snap features that allow the modules to be mechanically snapped together. Preferably, the communications module and the sensor module can be electrically and mechanically coupled together without the need for any tools. The power module can also be securely held within the communications module with one or more snap features or other suitable, simple retention mechanisms that do not require any tools for battery replacement. The mechanical design of the interface helps ensure that only compatible, certified communications modules and sensor modules are coupled together. This tool-less, modular approach allows for easy installation, quick battery replacement, and / or quick and easy access to electronic components without the need to remove the sensor module.

[0033] FIG. 4 is an exploded schematic diagram of a communications module coupled to a sensor module, according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, a communications module 402 is coupled to a sensor module 404. In the circled region 403, pins 406 of the sensor module 404 are positioned slightly below receptacles 408 of the communications module 402, and the communications module 402 is moved in the direction indicated by arrow 410. The receptacles 408 can be directly attached to a circuit board 412 of the communications module 402 or positioned remotely therefrom. Similarly, the pins 406 of the sensor module 404 can be directly attached to a circuit board 414 or positioned remotely therefrom. As shown in FIG. 4, when a power module 416 is attached to the communications module 402, the power module 416 includes a circuit board 418 including multiple connectors 420 that connect with corresponding connectors on the circuit board 412, as well as a battery. Once the communications module 402 is mated with the sensor module 404, the cover 422 is attached by threading the inner threads 424 onto the outer threads 426 of the sensor module 404. Additionally, the sensor module includes an annular groove 428 that receives and retains an elastomeric O-ring (not shown) that helps form an environmental seal when the cover 422 is attached.

[0034] While the various chassis components of the communications module and / or sensor module can be constructed from any suitable material, the communications module chassis is preferably formed from a polymeric material. Furthermore, the sensor module chassis is preferably formed from a material that is sufficiently robust to be mounted to a process and to contain or be coupled to a sensor. In some examples, the sensor module 404 chassis can be formed from metal. In some examples, the communications module's polymeric chassis also preferably includes one or more features, such as snap features, that engage with corresponding features on the sensor module to facilitate tool-less coupling of the communications module to the sensor module. The snap features preferably maintain both mechanical and electrical contact between the communications module and the sensor module.

[0035] 5 is a schematic diagram of a communications module coupled to a sensor module, according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the receptacle 408 of the communications module 402 fully engages with the pin 406 of the sensor module, thereby electrically coupling the communications module and the sensor module. Additionally, a cover 422 is attached, and an O-ring 430 seals the communications module and sensor module electronics from the ambient environment.

[0036] 6 is an exploded perspective schematic diagram of a communications module coupled to a sensor module, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The communications module 502 includes a polymer chassis 530 that includes one or more snap features 532 that engage with corresponding features 534 on the sensor module 504. As shown, the snap features 532 are generally U-shaped clip-shaped with barbs 536 that engage with openings 538 in the features 534 when the communications module 502 is moved sufficiently in the direction of arrow 542. The snap features 532 also include tabs 540 that are configured to be pressed inward to disengage the barbs 536 from the openings 538 when the communications module 502 needs to be separated from the sensor module 504. Preferably, identical snap features are located on opposite sides of the communications module 502 so that a pair of snap features holds the communications module 502 and the sensor module 504 together. FIG. 6 also shows the communications module 502 having a key 544 that can engage with a slot 546 in the sensor module 504 only when the communications module 502 is rotated in the correct rotational direction, which is the direction of arrow 548.

[0037] If the power module of the communications module 502 needs to be replaced, the power module 516 can simply be slid out of the polymer chassis 530, and a new power module 516 can be slid into the chassis in the direction of arrow 550. After the replacement power module is coupled with the polymer chassis 530 and the communications module 502 is coupled with the sensor module 504, the cover 522 can be attached by threading the cover 522 onto the external threads 552 of the sensor module 504.

[0038] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the specific embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. 1. A modular industrial transmitter comprising: a communication module configured to communicate with a remote device, the communication module having a common interface configured to couple with a plurality of different types of sensor modules; a sensor module coupled to the common interface of the communication module; Including, The physical coupling between the sensor module and the communication module is performed without tools. Modular industrial transmitter.

2. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the sensor module includes a common interface configured to connect with a plurality of different types of communication modules.

3. The communication module and the sensor module include keying features configured to allow the communication module and the sensor module to be coupled in a single rotational orientation.

10. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1.

4. 4. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 3, wherein the keying feature is configured to allow only valid combinations of communication modules and sensor modules to be coupled together.

5. 4. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 3, wherein the physical coupling of the communication module and the sensor module is performed in a single axial motion without any rotation.

6. 10. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1, wherein the communications module includes a connector mounted to a first printed circuit board and the sensor module includes a connector mounted to a second printed circuit board, and wherein coupling of the communications module with the sensor module connects the connector of the communications module to the connector of the sensor module.

7. 2. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1, wherein the connection between the communication module and the sensor module is a poka-yoke connection.

8. 10. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1, wherein the communication module includes a replaceable battery insertable into a chassis of the communication module.

9. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the chassis is formed from a polymer.

10. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the communication module is configured to engage the sensor module with at least one snap connection.

11. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 10 , wherein the at least one snap connection comprises a plurality of snap connections disposed on opposite sides of the communications module.

12. 11. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 10, wherein at least one snap connection includes a tab configured to be pressed to release a barb of the snap connection from an opening in the sensor module.

13. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1 , further comprising a cover configured to cover the communication module and to attach to the sensor module.

14. 14. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 13, wherein the cover seals the communication module and the sensor module from the surrounding environment.

15. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the communication module and the sensor module are configured to communicate bidirectionally when coupled.

16. 16. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 15, wherein the communication module and the sensor module are configured to authenticate each other.

17. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1 , wherein the physical coupling of the communication module with the sensor module occurs in a variable industrial environment.

18. 10. The modular industrial transmitter of claim 1, wherein at least one circuit of the communication module and the sensor module is intrinsically safe.

Images