Automation device comprising a switching device

Abstract

The invention relates to an automation device (10) for the modular provision of automation functions for an industrial system, comprising: - a housing (20), - an electrical system (30), at least part of which is arranged within the housing (20), and which is designed to allow at least some of the automation functions to be provided, and which provides at least one reference potential (GND) for at least one operating and / or signal voltage of the electrical system (1) for this purpose, and - a connection assembly (40), which is designed to make an electrical connection (215) between at least one ground potential (FE / PE) and the at least one reference potential (GND).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Automation device with a switching device

[0003] The present invention relates to an automation device of the type defined in more detail in the preamble of claim 1. The invention further relates to a control system and a method.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] For electrical devices that have a PELV circuit, an insulation test must be carried out according to the common norms and standards to ensure that there is sufficient insulation between the electrical components and the housing of the device.

[0006] Furthermore, it is known that decentralized automation platforms can be used in industrial plants. These platforms are designed to perform a variety of tasks and functions autonomously and independently of a central control system.

[0007] Devices of this type are known from publications CN 105428841 A, US 518 0318 A and US 9768572 B1.

[0008] Disclosure of the invention

[0009] A disadvantage of known solutions is that insulation testing often requires considerable effort to obtain meaningful results and meet applicable requirements. This frequently necessitates disassembly and reconfiguration of multiple electrical connections. Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome these disadvantages. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device that enables reliable insulation testing with reduced effort in a decentralized automation system.

[0010] The invention relates to an automation device with the features of claim 1, a control system with the features of claim 13, and a method with the features of claim 14. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the respective dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the automation device according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the control system and the method according to the invention, and vice versa, so that a reciprocal reference is always possible with regard to the disclosure of the invention.

[0011] The invention relates in particular to an automation device for the modular provision of automation functions for an industrial plant. The automation device may include an electrical system, which is preferably arranged at least partially within a housing of the automation device.

[0012] The housing may be made at least partially of plastic to protect the electrical and / or electronic components of the electrical system inside from external influences such as dust or moisture and optionally to provide electrical insulation. The housing may also contain at least one electrically conductive element, such as a metal.

[0013] The housing can have a substantially planar and / or elongated and / or rectangular shape and / or have multiple openings, which are, for example, arranged in a grid and / or provide access to slots for multiple function modules. Within the housing, the slots for receiving the function modules can be located in the area of ​​the openings. The slots can be mounted on at least one structure, such as at least one printed circuit board, within the housing, thus forming a backplane. Furthermore, several conductors and preferably several conductive traces, particularly on the printed circuit board, can be provided to connect the slots to one another and thereby provide power and / or signal and / or data distribution for the function modules.

[0014] The electrical system of the automation device can be configured to provide power, signal, and / or data distribution for the functional modules. Furthermore, the functional modules can be connected to external electrical devices of the industrial plant for power, data, and / or signal exchange. The power distribution can, for example, comprise a main power flow, in particular with a DC or AC voltage above 50 V, 100 V, 150 V, or 200 V, and an auxiliary power flow, in particular with a DC or AC voltage lower than the main power flow. The main and auxiliary power flows can be distributed via separate lines or conductors within the housing. Data distribution can be achieved, for example, via bus lines, preferably fieldbus lines.The lines can have at least one main power connection element, at least one auxiliary power connection element, and at least one data connection element.

[0015] It can be advantageous if, within the scope of the invention, the electrical system comprises a main power connection element configured 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 energy to at least one electrical device of the industrial plant via the main power flow, more preferably to operate a motor. For this purpose, the main power flow can be provided via one of the functional modules for an electrical device, in particular a motor.

[0016] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the electrical system has an auxiliary power connection element designed 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 and / or for communication with at least one of the electrical devices, preferably for a fieldbus.

[0017] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the electrical system includes a signal and / or data connection element configured to transmit a signal, preferably a data signal and preferably a fieldbus signal, preferably for communication with at least one electrical device. The data connection element can have several contacts, in particular pins, which enable electrical connections between the functional modules for data exchange. Examples of the contacts are Ground, VCC, Clock, Data, Reset, Enable, Interrupt, Address, Data Bus, Control Bus, Power, Read, Write, and the like.

[0018] The electrical system can comprise the electrical and / or electronic components used, for example, for power, signal, and / or data distribution and / or for providing communication and / or control functions. It is also conceivable that the electrical system can be expanded through functional modules. Furthermore, the electrical system may be located entirely or predominantly within the housing, thus spatially separating it from the exterior of the automation device and / or providing mechanical protection and / or isolation. The housing can be of one or more parts.

[0019] The electrical system can be designed to enable, at least in part, the provision of automation functions. For this purpose, the electrical system can provide at least one—or exactly one—electrical reference potential (GND), preferably for at least one operating and / or signal voltage of the electrical system. Thus, the electrical system contributes to providing the automation functions through the reliable operation of electronics and the electrical connection of the functional modules.

[0020] The at least one reference potential, also referred to individually or collectively as GND, can serve as a common reference point for the at least one operating and / or signal voltage. This reference point is located, in particular, within a circuit, preferably a SELV and / or PELV circuit, of the electrical system. The at least one operating voltage can be a voltage used to power electronic components of the system and / or connected electronic components, such as function modules. The operating voltage can optionally also include the main and / or auxiliary current. The at least one signal voltage can be a voltage used to exchange information between the electronic components and / or function modules.

[0021] Furthermore, the automation device can include a connection arrangement designed to establish an electrical connection, hereinafter also referred to as the ground connection for simplicity, between at least one earth potential (FE / PE) and the at least one reference potential (GND). In other words, the ground connection allows the electrical system to be connected to and / or to at least one earth potential. By providing the electrical ground connection for the electrical system, the connection arrangement also allows a PELV circuit to be provided in which the at least one reference potential is connected to earth potential. Conversely, if the ground connection is disconnected, the at least one reference potential can be isolated from earth potential.

[0022] The at least one earth potential can also be referred to as FE / PE and is, in particular, part of a protective conductor system. The protective conductor system can preferably provide the earth potential as a functional earth (i.e., FE), which is intended, in particular, for dissipating electromagnetic interference and / or as a reference potential for communication interfaces such as Ethernet. The protective conductor system can also provide the earth potential as a protective earth (i.e., PE), thus primarily fulfilling a safety aspect during the operation of the automation device. FE and PE can also be identical, meaning that only one earth potential is provided for both functions.

[0023] The at least one reference potential can be implemented as a ground potential. In other words, the at least one reference potential can include a "0 V" reference, which serves in particular as a reference for at least one operating and / or signal voltage of the electrical system. The electrical system can also have multiple ground potentials, e.g., for 24 V and / or for 48 V and / or for data transmission, which can be bridged by earth potential and / or by a protective conductor of the protective conductor system.

[0024] Furthermore, at least one switching device can be provided for disconnecting the earth connection, preferably reversibly and / or switchably. The switching device is preferably arranged outside the housing and / or accessible to a user. This means, in particular, that a user can perform at least one user action on the switching device without disassembling the automation device. Furthermore, the user action can include manual operation of the switching device, in which the switching device must be contacted by the user or a tool. The user action can also include mechanical operation of the switching device. Accordingly, the switching device can have a manually operable mechanism for disconnecting the earth connection.Particularly preferred is the separation of the earth connection by means of a quick connector of the switching device.

[0025] The switching device can enable the electrical system or the at least one reference potential to be disconnected from the at least one earth potential, in particular reversibly and / or switchably, by at least one user action. This can serve to verify the correct insulation between protective low-voltage networks and earthing (i.e., FE / PE). In a specific example, the switching device can be used to switch between PELV and SELV in the electrical system.

[0026] The invention enables the connection from the reference potential GND, particularly in the form of an internal system ground, to FE / PE to be quickly disconnected to verify the correct isolation between protective earth networks and grounding, especially FE / PE. The switching device and / or connection arrangement can be located at a central point on the housing, accessible from the outside. In this way, the grounding connection can always be made at a point independent of the connected functional modules. This has the advantage of taking into account the modularity of the automation device.

[0027] The electrical system can at least partially provide a backplane. This backplane can serve as a central interface for communication and power supply between the functional modules. The housing can at least partially surround the backplane. The functional modules can be connected to the backplane, preferably by plugging them in. The functional modules can be electrically and detachably connected to the backplane via module connectors, which are provided, for example, at module openings arranged in a grid.

[0028] The reference potential can also be integrated into the electrical system, and preferably the backplane, to ensure an effective ground and prevent damage from electrostatic discharges or current spikes. In one possibility, the backplane can have a central reference potential line that provides a common system grounding point for all functional modules. Alternatively, each functional module can be directly connected to the backplane's reference potential line to ensure reliable dissipation of electrostatic discharges. A system terminal can be electrically connected to the system grounding point or the reference potential line to provide a central connection point that is, if necessary, externally accessible.

[0029] Additionally, the backplane can have at least one earth potential connection, preferably in the form of a protective conductor connection, to ensure a safe and reliable connection to the (external) earthing system. This earth potential connection can be connected to the system connection to provide a PELV circuit for the safe operation of the automation device. These connections can be implemented as robust, corrosion-resistant metal connectors that are easily accessible and maintainable.

[0030] One of the functional modules can, for example, be configured as an industrial PC. The industrial PC may require, for instance, a functional earth (FE). Another of the functional modules can be configured as a power supply. This may require a protective earth (PE). The earth potential and / or the at least one earth potential connection can therefore include both FE and PE; thus, FE and PE can be identical. Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the switching device is configured to switch between a first state, preferably a PELV state, in which the connection (earth connection) is established, and a second state, preferably a SELV state, in which the connection is broken. The switching can be carried out, for example, by at least one user action.For this purpose, the switching device can include a quick connector to allow the connection to be disconnected and reconnected by the user, preferably without tools and / or reversibly and / or without causing damage. In this way, the automation device can be extended by the switching device to enable switching to a different grounding state through a simple user action, preferably allowing the transition from one safety level (PELV) to another (SELV). The quick connector enables a fast and uncomplicated disconnection or reconnection, possibly without the need for special tools and without causing damage.

[0031] The automation device preferably uses very low protective extra-low voltages, specifically PELV and SELV. PELV stands for Protective Extra Low Voltage and SELV for Safety Extra Low Voltage. These two voltages are characterized by the fact that they do not exceed a certain value in the event of a fault and therefore pose no danger to people. However, PELV and SELV use different connections for the at least one reference potential. This at least one reference potential can also encompass several ground potentials in the electrical system. For example, the ground potentials include one for a 24 V operating voltage and one for a 48 V operating voltage. In a PELV state, but not in a SELV state, the ground potentials can be bridged with the protective conductor, meaning that both ground potentials can be connected to earth potential.

[0032] One difference between PELV and SELV can therefore be that in SELV, at least one reference potential, e.g., the internal ground potentials, is isolated from earth potential, while in PELV, at least one reference potential is connected to / identical with earth potential. The use of PELV is common in large installations because a common reference potential is provided for the voltages. However, it is often necessary that, in accordance with standards such as IEC 60204-1 and UL 508A for insulation testing, the earth potential can be isolated from the operating voltages. Furthermore, the invention may provide that the switching device has an opening through which a quick-connect fitting for disconnecting and / or reconnecting the electrical connection, also referred to as the earth connection, is accessible from outside the housing.The switching device can have a movable and, in particular, removable cover that closes the opening. This has the advantage that the opening in the switching device, combined with the use of a quick connector, enables efficient and rapid disconnection of the electrical connection. This facilitates, for example, insulation testing, as disconnecting and reconnecting the earth connection no longer necessarily has to be carried out from inside the housing. Additionally, the removable cover further simplifies access to the opening and thus improves handling. The cover can be mechanically attached to the housing, for example, by means of a hinge or a sliding mechanism. Opening the cover exposes the opening and / or provides access to the quick connector.The lid can be securely attached to the housing, for example by a locking mechanism or a screw connection, to prevent it from opening unintentionally.

[0033] It may be provided that all electrically conductive housing parts are grounded independently of the earth connection. In particular, the grounding may be effected via a protective conductor and / or a stranded conductor. The connection between the electrically conductive housing parts and the electrical system may also be made via the earth connection and / or disconnected via the switching device. The earth potential and the electrically conductive housing parts may be at a common potential and / or connected to a common potential. The connection between the electrically conductive housing parts and the earth potential may be provided in parallel to the earth connection (provided by the connection arrangement), whereby, if necessary, only the earth connection between the electrical system and the earth potential can be disconnected by the quick connector.The quick connector can serve as a bridge to connect the earth potential (FE / PE) and at least one reference potential (GND) of the electrical system. For this purpose, the quick connector can be at least partially attached to a cover to allow for quick disconnection and, if necessary, re-establishment of the earth connection.

[0034] Furthermore, the switching device may be designed to disconnect at least one protective extra-low voltage network of the electrical system from the at least one earth potential by breaking the electrical connection, also referred to as the earth connection, in order to enable an insulation test of the insulation between the at least one protective extra-low voltage network and the earth potential. This serves, for example, the purpose of carrying out an insulation test on the electrical system and thus ensuring the safety of the system. The disconnection is effected by the switching device, which may be designed so that it is accessible to a user from outside the housing, thus enabling easy handling. The insulation test can be carried out, for example, before maintenance work or repairs to ensure that the system is operated in a safe condition.

[0035] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the switching device is designed to isolate the at least one reference potential (GND) from the at least one earth potential (FE / PE) by disconnecting the electrical connection (ground connection), preferably to enable an insulation test of the insulation between the at least one reference potential and the at least one earth potential. This can have the advantage of ensuring safe and reliable isolation between the different potentials.

[0036] Alternatively, the switching device may be provided to have at least one electrical earth potential connection, preferably in the form of a conductor surface and / or a conductor track of a printed circuit board, to provide the earth potential.

[0037] Furthermore, the switching device can have at least one electrical system connection, preferably in the form of a conductor surface and / or a conductor track of the printed circuit board or another printed circuit board, to provide the at least one reference potential, preferably for a protective extra-low voltage network of the electrical system.

[0038] Furthermore, the switching device can include a quick-connect fitting that detachably connects the earth potential terminal to the system terminal. This offers the advantage of an efficient and safe electrical connection between earth potential and the reference potential. The inclusion of a quick-connect fitting allows for quick and easy disconnection, which is beneficial during testing, maintenance, and / or repair work. This is particularly important during electrical insulation testing, for example, when PELV is used. The quick-connect fitting can, for instance, be designed as a pluggable connector.

[0039] A further advantage is that the electrical system is designed to switch from a PELV to a SELV circuit by disconnecting the earth connection. This enables safe insulation testing and rapid switching between the two circuits, which can be of great importance for applications in industrial installations. It is also conceivable that the automation device is designed as an automation platform, preferably a decentralized one. This automation platform can have multiple module mounts to accommodate different functional modules and combine them to provide automation functions. This creates a way to increase the flexibility and adaptability of the automation device.The platform can be designed as a modular structure, allowing for the quick and easy integration of various functional modules. This modularity facilitates maintenance, component replacement, and the expansion of the system with new functions. Furthermore, the decentralized design of the automation platform results in greater flexibility and reduced installation and maintenance effort, as the platform can be located in the field, closer to the actuators and sensors, rather than centrally in the control cabinet. This also leads to increased reliability and stability, particularly when the automation platform can operate independently alongside other automation platforms within the industrial plant.

[0040] It is also advantageous if the switching device has a quick connector to disconnect and reconnect the earth connection by user action.

[0041] The quick connector can be pluggable and preferably includes a plug connector. The quick connector allows the user to quickly and easily disconnect and reconnect the electrical connection, particularly without the need for special additional tools or complicated procedures. Furthermore, the use of a quick connector increases the flexibility and efficiency of the automation device, as disconnecting and reconnecting the device can be done quickly and without time-consuming disassembly. Additionally, safety is enhanced because open contacts or loose connections are prevented. The quick connector is preferably designed to be securely anchored in the switching device, thus preventing unintentional disconnection.The specific design of the quick connector as a quick connector with a plug connector enables simple construction and fast and reliable connection, which facilitates the applicability of the device in various industrial environments.

[0042] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the quick connector is designed to dissipate fault currents greater than 10 A, 15 A, or 20 A. Thus, the earth connection and, if applicable, the quick connector can be designed to dissipate larger fault currents. In other words, the earth connection and / or the quick connector can have the lowest possible impedance. This feature improves the safety and ease of use of the device.

[0043] Optionally, the quick connector may be designed to be at least two-part.

[0044] The first part of the quick connector can be configured to establish the earth connection by contacting an earth potential terminal and a second part of the quick connector. Furthermore, the second part can be electrically connected to a system terminal, particularly to establish an electrical connection to the electrical system. This enables efficient and user-friendly disconnection of the earth connection by the switching device, without requiring disassembly of the automation device or complicated procedures.

[0045] It is also conceivable, as an option, that the quick connector, in its at least two-part design, could consist of a screw element as the first part and a wall with an internal thread as the second part. This allows for particularly reliable disconnection and reconnection. The internal thread in the wall ensures a precise and secure connection with the screw element.

[0046] It is also conceivable, as an option, that in the at least two-part design of the quick connector, the first part is a cover with at least one contact element, and the second part is at least one spring element. This offers the advantage of a simpler and more intuitive design for the switching device. The cover can serve as the first element of the quick connector and have at least one contact, while the spring element serves as the second element, preferably to stabilize and facilitate the establishment of the ground connection. This design allows for easy handling of the switching device, as it is easily accessible and the user action can be performed without much effort. Additionally, the cover can have a safety mechanism, such as a screw or a locking mechanism. The use of such a safety mechanism can, for example,to prevent accidental or unauthorized access to the switching device. The contact element can, for example, be designed as a conductive element, such as a printed circuit board, to establish the electrical connection with the spring element. The cover can also be referred to as a "service cover." The cover can be made at least partially of plastic. Also part of the invention is a control system for an industrial plant, comprising: one or more decentralized automation devices according to the invention, one or more functional modules which are detachably connected to the automation device(s) and which are preferably designed differently, and one or more devices which are connected to the functional module(s) in order to be operated and / or controlled by the functional module(s).

[0047] The control system according to the invention thus offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to an automation device according to the invention.

[0048] Optionally, a central control unit can be provided, preferably within a control cabinet, which is connected to the automation device(s) via a communication system such as a fieldbus system. This allows some of the control functions in the system to be provided centrally. However, another, potentially larger, portion of the control functions in the system can be provided decentrally by the automation devices. Accordingly, the automation device(s) can be arranged decentrally within the system, particularly outside the control cabinet.

[0049] The invention also relates to a method for carrying out a test, preferably an insulation test, on an automation device which is designed for the modular provision of automation functions for an industrial plant.

[0050] The method may include: providing the automation device which has an electrical system that is at least partially arranged within a housing and which has a connection arrangement to connect the electrical system and, in particular, at least one reference potential to at least one earth potential.

[0051] The method may further comprise: performing a user action on at least one switching device of the automation device to disconnect the electrical system or the at least one reference potential from earth potential, whereby the switching device may be accessible from outside the housing. The method may further comprise performing the test on the automation device as a further method step. Subsequently, the user action or a further action may be performed on the at least one switching device to reconnect the electrical system or the at least one reference potential to earth potential.

[0052] The method according to the invention thus offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to an automation device according to the invention. Furthermore, the method may be suitable for operating an automation device and / or a control system according to the invention.

[0053] It is conceivable that performing the user action on the at least one switching device includes actuating a quick-connect device, which disconnects an electrical connection between at least one reference potential of the electrical system and earth potential in order to provide isolation between the electrical system and earth potential. The test could also be performed in the form of an insulation test of the provided isolation. Subsequently, the electrical connection can be restored, if necessary, by the quick-connect device, in particular by the following further user action(s).

[0054] The method may also include providing an electrical system within an enclosure that has a connection arrangement for linking it to earth potential. In particular, it enables user actions to be performed on a switching device that disconnects the electrical system from earth potential, thus establishing isolation. This disconnection can be achieved particularly reliably and easily by manually operating a quick-connect device that can interrupt or restore a connection between the at least one reference potential of the electrical system and earth potential.

[0055] For example, it may be provided that performing the user action at the at least one switching device includes: disconnecting the connection between the electrical system and the earth potential, thereby disconnecting at least one protective extra-low voltage network of the electrical system from the at least one earth potential in order to enable testing in the form of an insulation test of an insulation between the at least one protective extra-low voltage network and the earth potential.

[0056] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings show:

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a schematic, perspective view of an automation device according to various embodiments of the invention.

[0058] Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of a connection arrangement 40 and a switching device 50 according to a first embodiment in a second state II (SELV).

[0059] Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of a connection arrangement 40 and a switching device 50 according to the first embodiment in a first state I (PELV).

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of a connection arrangement 40 and a switching device 50 according to a second embodiment in a second state II (SELV).

[0061] Fig. 5 shows a schematic side view of a connection arrangement 40 and a switching device 50 according to the second embodiment in a first state I (PELV).

[0062] Fig. 6 shows a schematic side view of a connection arrangement 40 and a switching device 50 according to a third embodiment in a second state II (SELV).

[0063] Fig. 7 shows a schematic side view of a connection arrangement 40 and a switching device 50 according to the third embodiment in a first state I (PELV).

[0064] Fig. 8 shows a schematic, perspective view of a quick connector 51 according to the first embodiment.

[0065] Fig. 9 shows a schematic, perspective view of a quick connector 51 according to the second embodiment.

[0066] Fig. 10 shows a schematic, perspective view of a quick connector 51 according to the third embodiment.

[0067] Fig. 11 schematically shows a system according to embodiment variants of the invention.

[0068] Fig. 12 schematically shows a method according to various embodiments of the invention. In the following figures, identical reference numerals are used for the same technical features even in different embodiments.

[0069] Fig. 1 illustrates an automation device 10 according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. This enables a modular provision of automation functions for an industrial plant, which has the advantage that it can be flexibly and adaptably adjusted to the specific needs of the industrial plant.

[0070] The automation device 10 comprises a housing 20 and an electrical system 30. The electrical system 30 is located at least partially within the housing 20. Thus, the automation device 10 is designed to offer a compact structure, enable more efficient power supply, and facilitate maintenance. The housing 20 can also protect the electrical system 30 from dust, moisture, and / or mechanical influences. This allows the automation device 10 to be used in the field and outside of a control cabinet 11 within the plant. The automation device 10 can also be designed with at least partial IP67 protection via the housing 20.

[0071] The automation device 10 can be configured as an automation platform to which several functional modules 260 can be connected – not only mechanically, but also functionally and / or electrically. This preferably enables the functional modules 260 to communicate and cooperate with each other to provide the automation functions. The automation device 10 can thus be flexibly adapted to the requirements of the industrial plant by adding or removing modules. The modules can perform various functions, such as controlling devices like actuators and sensors in the plant or monitoring processes. Communication between the fieldbus modules can take place via a communication system, such as a bus system, which can be provided as part of the electrical system 30 and / or at least one of the functional modules 260.

[0072] The automation device 10 can be configured as a decentralized automation device. This means that it can be deployed in the field of the plant and thus enables decentralized control and regulation of processes on-site. Through the connected function modules 260, the automation device 10 can acquire data from sensors and process it in real time. This allows plant processes to be automatically controlled and optimized. The decentralized design of the automation device 10 also enables it to perform control, at least partially, instead of a central control unit, and optionally in conjunction with, and preferably synchronized with, other decentralized automation devices 10.

[0073] The automation platform can have multiple module receptacles 250 to accommodate several functional modules 260. Due to the modular design of the device 10, it is possible to expand or reduce its size as needed to meet the requirements of the respective industrial plant. For easy expansion, the module receptacles 250 are preferably arranged in a grid and can have connections for at least one power supply and / or for data exchange.

[0074] The 250 module receptacles allow for the integration of various 260 function modules, which can then be combined to provide automation functions. Each 260 function module can be specifically designed for certain tasks, such as controlling machine movements, processing sensor signals, or performing safety checks. The 260 function modules are preferably designed for easy insertion into the 250 module receptacles and can be replaced as needed without extensive modifications or special tools. This contributes to the efficiency and flexibility of commissioning and maintaining the industrial plant.

[0075] To ensure safe and efficient operation, the automation device 10 can also be equipped with a monitoring system that continuously checks the condition of the individual functional modules 260 as well as the integrity of the power supply and data exchange. Faults or irregularities can thus be detected and rectified at an early stage, increasing the reliability and operational safety of the system.

[0076] The automation platform 10 can include an electrical system 30 that at least partially provides a backplane and / or is part of a backplane connecting the function modules 260. This backplane thus serves as a central interface for communication and / or power supply between the individual function modules 260. It can provide lines through which both data and power can be exchanged. The function modules 260 can therefore advantageously communicate seamlessly with each other and synchronize their operations while simultaneously being powered by a central energy source.

[0077] The electrical system 30 can be arranged at least partially or completely within the housing 20 to enable the provision of automation functions. For this purpose, the electrical system 30 can provide at least one—or exactly one—reference potential GND for at least one operating and / or signal voltage of the electrical system 30.

[0078] Furthermore, a connection arrangement 40 can be provided to supply an electrical connection 215 – also referred to as an earth connection 215 within the scope of the invention – for the electrical system 30. The connection arrangement 40 allows the electrical system 30, or the reference potential GND, to be connected to and / or linked with at least one earth potential FE / PE. The connection arrangement 40 thus ensures the safe operation of the system.

[0079] Furthermore, at least one switching device 50 can be provided for disconnecting the aforementioned electrical connection 215, particularly reversibly. This makes it possible to disconnect the electrical system 30 or the at least one reference potential GND from the earth potential FE / PE, particularly reversibly, by at least one user action.

[0080] The switching device 50 is preferably accessible from outside the housing 20, which means that the connection can be disconnected by a simple user action without having to laboriously open the housing 20 and dismantle the device 10.

[0081] The switching device 50 can further include a quick connector 51 to disconnect and reconnect the earth connection 215 by user action. The quick connector 51 can be designed as a single piece, and preferably as a two-piece piece.

[0082] Figure 1 shows that the switching device 50 can be arranged on a side surface of the housing 20 or alternatively (reference numeral 50') on a front or rear surface of the housing 20. In both cases, the switching device 50, 50' can be located in the area of ​​the connection arrangement 40, 40' at a central point of the automation device 10. The switching device 50, 50', and in particular a quick connector 51 of the switching device 50, 50', can be accessible from the outside. For this purpose, an opening 65 of the switching device 50, 50' can be closed by a cover 60, 60' and opened by a user action such as turning, screwing, or pulling the cover 60, 60' (see Figure 6).

[0083] The switching device 50, schematically depicted in Fig. 1 and in further variants or with further details in Figs. 2 to 10, can be configured to switch between a first state I, preferably a PELV state, in which the earth connection 215 is established, and a second state II, preferably a SELV state, in which the earth connection 215 is disconnected. The states are shown by way of example in Figs. 2 to 7. The switching can be triggered in particular by at least one user action. For this purpose, the switching device 50 can have a quick-connect fitting 51 to disconnect and reconnect the earth connection 215 by the user action. The disconnection and reconnection preferably occur without tools and / or reversibly and / or without causing damage.

[0084] Accordingly, the electrical system 30 can be configured to be converted from a PELV to a SELV circuit by disconnecting the earth connection 215. SELV / PELV circuits, particularly those conforming to DIN EN 60204-1 (VDE 0113-1), UL 508A, and IEC 61010-2-201, are essential components of a safe electrical installation. SELV stands specifically for protective extra-low voltage, also known as safety extra-low voltage. In contrast, PELV is a protective extra-low voltage that is typically grounded. An SELV supply provides safe electrical isolation and voltage limitation without a connection to the protective conductor. A PELV supply, on the other hand, requires a safe connection to the protective conductor.PELV is also a type of protective extra-low voltage, in which the live conductors on the low-voltage side and the housings of the equipment, and especially also conductive parts of the enclosure 20, are grounded and connected to a protective conductor. The protective conductor can provide the earth potential FE / PE. The crucial difference between SELV and PELV is the grounding via the earth potential FE / PE. In other words: When SELV is grounded, it becomes PELV.

[0085] Figures 2 to 7 show by way of example that the switching device 50 can have at least one earth potential connection 210, preferably in the form of a conductor area and / or a conductor track of a printed circuit board 45, to provide the earth potential FE / PE. Furthermore, the switching device 50 can have at least one system connection 220, preferably in the form of a conductor area and / or a conductor track of the printed circuit board 45 or of another printed circuit board 45, to provide a reference potential GND.

[0086] Figures 2 and 3 show that a connector, particularly in the form of an edge-card connector, can be used as a quick connector 51. Two conductive surfaces, preferably copper surfaces, are provided as ground potential and system connections 210, 220, which can be connected to each other by the connector. The connector is shown in further detail in Figure 8.

[0087] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 7, the quick connector 51 is designed to consist of at least two parts. In this embodiment, a first part 52 of the quick connector 51 can be configured to establish the earth connection 215 by contacting an earth potential terminal 210 and a second part 53 of the quick connector 51. The second part 53 can be electrically connected to a system terminal 220.

[0088] Figures 4 and 5 show an embodiment of a quick connector 51 in which the first part 52 is a screw element and the second part 53 is a wall with an internal thread (see also Figure 9). Specifically, a threaded boss can be used as the second part 53. A threaded boss can be designed as a component that can be soldered onto a printed circuit board and has an internal thread to accommodate a screw or other threaded component. The threaded boss can, for example, connect to a cover, preferably a side cover, of the automation device 10 by means of a screw. Furthermore, a seal can be provided to prevent the ingress of moisture through any openings.

[0089] Furthermore, Figures 4 and 5 show an insulator 55 as an example, which ensures sufficient electrical insulation between the electrical system 30 and conductive housing parts of the housing 20. The insulation test may, if necessary, relate to the testing of this insulation, in particular to a quantitative evaluation of the insulation.

[0090] Figures 6 and 7 show an embodiment in which the first part 52 is a cover 60 with at least one contact element 45, and the second part 53 is at least one spring element 53. For example, one or more spring elements can be attached to the backplane to establish a connection to the cover 60, preferably a side cover of the automation device 10. A conductive component, such as a sheet metal part or a conductor track, can be attached to the cover 60. The spring element 53 is shown in Figure 10 with further details.

[0091] Figure 11 shows an exemplary topology of a control system 1 with several automation devices 10. It can be seen that the automation devices 10 are not located in a control cabinet 11, but rather at a greater distance from it in the field of the plant.

[0092] The automation devices 10 can be connected to a higher-level system such as a central control unit 15 and / or a cloud system. For this purpose, each automation device 10 can be equipped with an interface (not explicitly shown) for connecting to a network 19. This interface enables, for example, central control of the automation devices 10 and / or remote monitoring and / or integration into existing production processes and / or the provision of a digital twin of the plant. Furthermore, each automation device 10 may itself already have functions that enable integration into existing production processes and / or the provision of a digital twin of the plant.The interface preferably allows data on the performance and operating status of the 260 function modules, as well as on the efficiency of the plant, to be transmitted and analyzed in real time, which contributes to the optimization of production processes.

[0093] The decentralized nature of the automation device 10 enables a significant change in the way automation functions are provided within industrial plants. Instead of all control functions being handled in a central control cabinet 11 by a central control unit 15, in the illustrated embodiment the automation devices 10 are distributed throughout the plant via a communication system such as the fieldbus system 19. Each of these decentralized automation devices 10 can execute control functions independently or in cooperation with other units via the function modules 260, resulting in a more flexible and resilient system architecture.

[0094] In the example shown, the individual automation devices 10 are connected to each other and to the central control unit 15 via the fieldbus system 19. This system enables fast and reliable communication between the decentralized units and the central controller. The fieldbus system can support various protocols such as PROFIBUS, PROFINET, EtherCAT, or Modbus, which facilitates integration into existing industrial networks.

[0095] Each automation device 10 can have one or more function modules 260 connected to it, each performing specific tasks. These modules can be responsible, for example, for motor control, temperature control, position detection, or safety-critical monitoring functions. Various devices, such as drives 16, sensors 17, or actuators 18, can in turn be connected to the function modules 260. Sensors could measure environmental factors such as temperature, pressure, or speed, while actuators execute mechanical movements or other actions, and drives control motors or other machine components.

[0096] The decentralized automation devices 10 can operate autonomously to perform local tasks, or they can be synchronized to control more complex processes across the entire plant. By distributing control functions across multiple decentralized units, the overall system can respond more flexibly to disturbances and minimize downtime. For example, a fault in one part of the plant can be dealt with in isolation without affecting the operation of other areas.

[0097] By relocating control functions directly to the point of action, the system's responsiveness is improved. Reducing long signal paths and minimizing centralized data processing leads to faster response times and more efficient operation.

[0098] Figure 12 illustrates a method 100 for performing a test, preferably an insulation test, on an automation device 10. According to a first method step 101, the automation device 10 can be provided. According to a second method step 102, a user action can be performed on at least one switching device 50 of the automation device 10 to disconnect the electrical system 30 from the earth potential FE / PE. For this purpose, the switching device 50 can be accessible from outside the housing 20. According to a third method step 103, the test can be performed on the automation device 10. According to a fourth method step 104, the user action or a further action can be performed on the at least one switching device 50 to reconnect the electrical system 30 to the earth potential FE / PE, preferably after completion of the test.

[0099] To perform an insulation test on the system, a user can first de-energize the automation device 10. The user can then open the service cover 60 and actuate, in particular remove, the quick connector 51. Afterwards, the service cover 60 can be closed and the insulation test performed. Following the test, the user can again open the service cover 60 and actuate, in particular reinsert, the quick connector 51.

[0100] Finally, the service cover 60 can be closed and the automation device 10 can be returned to normal operation.

[0101] The preceding explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention solely by way of examples. Naturally, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided this is technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention. List of reference numerals

[0102] I System

[0103] 10 Automation device

[0104] II Control cabinet

[0105] 15 central control

[0106] 16 device

[0107] 17 device

[0108] 18 device

[0109] 19 Fieldbus 0 Housing

[0110] 30 electrical system 0 connection arrangement 5 circuit board, contact element

[0111] 50 switching device

[0112] 51 quick connectors

[0113] 52 Connector part, first part

[0114] 53 Part Two

[0115] 55 Insulator

[0116] 60 lids

[0117] 65 Opening

[0118] 100 procedures

[0119] 210 Earth potential connection

[0120] 215 Earth connection

[0121] 220 system connection

[0122] 250 module recordings

[0123] 260 Functional module

[0124] FE / PE Earth potential

[0125] I. first state

[0126] II. second state

[0127] GND reference potential, system earth potential

Claims

Claims 1. Automation device (10) for the modular provision of automation functions for an industrial plant, comprising: a housing (20), an electrical system (30) which is at least partially arranged within the housing (20) and which is designed to enable at least partial provision of the automation functions, and which for this purpose provides at least one reference potential (GND) for at least one operating and / or signal voltage of the electrical system (1), a connection arrangement (40) which is designed to establish an electrical connection (215) between at least one earth potential (FE / PE) and the at least one reference potential (GND), characterized in that at least one switching device (50) for disconnecting the connection (215), in particular accessible from outside the housing (20), is provided.to separate at least one reference potential (GND) from at least one earth potential (FE / PE) through at least one user action.

2. Automation device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the switching device (50) is configured to switch between a first state (I), preferably a PELV state in which the connection (215) is established, and a second state (II), preferably a SELV state in which the connection (215) is disconnected, in particular by means of at least one user action, wherein the switching device (50) has a quick connector (51) for this purpose to disconnect and reconnect the connection (215) by means of at least one user action, preferably without tools and / or reversibly and / or without damage.

3. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching device (50) for disconnecting the connection (215) is accessible from outside the housing (20), in particular to enable at least one user action on the switching device (50), wherein the switching device (50) has an opening (65) through which a quick connector (51) for disconnecting and restoring the connection (215) is accessible from outside the housing (20), wherein the switching device (50) has a movable and in particular removable cover (60) which closes the opening (65).

4. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching device (50) is designed to disconnect at least one protective extra-low voltage network of the electrical system (30) from the at least one earth potential (FE / PE) by disconnecting the connection (215) in order to enable an insulation test of the insulation between the at least one protective extra-low voltage network and the at least one earth potential (FE / PE), and / or that the switching device (50) is designed to isolate the at least one reference potential (GND) from the at least one earth potential (FE / PE) by disconnecting the connection (215) in order to enable an insulation test of the insulation between the at least one reference potential (GND) and the at least one earth potential (FE / PE).

5. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching device (50) has at least one electrical earth potential connection (210), preferably in the form of a conductor surface and / or a conductor track of a printed circuit board (45) to provide the earth potential (FE / PE), and has at least one electrical system connection (220), preferably in the form of a conductor surface and / or a conductor track of the printed circuit board (45) or of a further printed circuit board (45) to provide the at least one reference potential (GND), preferably for a protective extra-low voltage network of the electrical system (30), wherein the switching device (50) has a quick connector (51) which detachably electrically connects the earth potential connection (210) to the system connection (220).

6. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical system (30) is configured to be converted from a PELV to a SELV circuit by breaking the connection (215).

7. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the automation device (10) is designed as an automation platform, preferably a decentralized automation platform, wherein the automation platform has several module receptacles (250) to accommodate different functional modules (260) and to combine them for the provision of the automation functions.

8. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching device (50) has a quick connector (51) to disconnect and reconnect the connection (215) by at least one user action, wherein the quick connector (51) is designed to be pluggable and preferably comprises a connector (52).

9. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching device (50) has a quick connector (51) to disconnect and reconnect the connection (215) by at least one user action, wherein the quick connector (51) is designed to dissipate fault currents greater than 10 A or greater than 15 A or greater than 20 A.

10. Automation device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching device (50) has a quick connector (51) to disconnect and reconnect the connection (215) by at least one user action, wherein the quick connector (51) is designed in at least two parts, wherein a first part (52) of the quick connector (51) is designed to establish the connection (215) by contacting an earth potential connection (210) and a second part (53) of the quick connector (51), wherein the second part (53) is electrically connected to a system connection (220).

11. Automation device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the first part (52) is a screw element and the second part (53) is a wall with an internal thread.

12. Automation device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the first part (52) is a cover (60) with at least one contact element (45) and the second part (53) is at least one spring element (53).

13. Control system (1) for an industrial plant (15, 10, 16, 17, 18), comprising: several decentralized automation devices (10) each according to one of the preceding claims, several functional modules (260) which are connected to the automation devices (10) detachably connected, several devices (16) which are connected to the function modules (260) in order to be operated by the function modules (260), a central control unit (15), preferably within a control cabinet (11), which is connected to the automation devices (10) via a fieldbus system (19), wherein the automation devices (10), in particular outside the control cabinet (11) and are arranged decentrally in the field of the plant.

14. Method (100) for carrying out a test, preferably an insulation test, on an automation device (10) which is designed for the modular provision of automation functions for an industrial plant, comprising: Providing (101) the automation device (10), which has an electrical system (30) that is at least partially arranged within a housing (20) and which has a connection arrangement (40) to connect the electrical system (30) to at least one earth potential (FE / PE), performing (102) a user action on at least one switching device (50) of the automation device (10) to disconnect the electrical system (30) from the earth potential (FE / PE), wherein the switching device (50) is accessible from outside the housing (20), performing (103) the test on the automation device (10), performing (104) the or a further user action on the at least one switching device (50) to reconnect the electrical system (30) to the earth potential (FE / PE).

15. Method (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that performing (102) the user action on the at least one switching device (50) comprises actuating a quick connector (51) by which a connection (215) between at least one reference potential (GND) of the electrical system (30) and the earth potential (FE / PE) is disconnected in order to provide insulation between the electrical system (30) and the earth potential (FE / PE), wherein performing (103) the test comprises: performing the test in the form of an insulation test of the provided insulation.

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