Base Module Data Bus for Non-Interrupting Fieldbus Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modular control systems, replacing a defective function module interrupts communication on the fieldbus, leading to downtime and loss of production, as intact modules cannot be addressed without restarting the automation system.
Innovation Solution
A base module with connection units and elements that form a data bus, allowing functional modules to be replaced without interrupting communication, enabling continuous operation by addressing all intact modules via the data bus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If function modules are connected to the base module in a modular control system, then the system achieves modularity and ease of replacement, but communication on the fieldbus is interrupted when a function module is defective or being replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The fieldbus communication is segmented into multiple independent paths. Each connection element has its own connection units that can communicate independently through the data bus, allowing communication to continue through alternative paths when one module is defective or being replaced.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection units act as intermediaries between function modules and the fieldbus. These connection units are interconnected by a data bus, allowing them to relay communication signals. When a function module is replaced, the connection units can maintain communication through the data bus without requiring system restart.
2Reliability
If the automation system is restarted after replacing a function module, then communication on the fieldbus is restored, but production downtime occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The connection units maintain continuous communication through the data bus without requiring system restart. The data bus continuously transports communication signals between connection units, allowing the automation system to operate continuously while function modules are being replaced, thus eliminating production downtime.
3Ease of operation
If all connection units are located within the base module and interconnected by a data bus, then intact function modules can be addressed during replacement, but the base module structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connection units serve multiple functions: they connect function modules to the fieldbus, communicate data through the data bus, and enable addressing of intact modules during replacement. This multi-functionality is achieved through a standardized interface design that simplifies the overall system despite the increased connectivity requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a base module (1, 18, 22, 33, 36, 41) for an electrical enclosure system (69, 72), having a plurality of switch-on units (9) and connection elements (7) for a plurality of functional modules (55, 73). The connection elements (7) are designed to engage into module connection elements (61) of functional modules (55, 73). Each connection element (7) has at least one data connection (11, 46, 47, 48). Each switch-on unit (9) is connected to at least one data connection (11, 46, 47, 48) of a connection element (7). The switch-on units (9) are connected together by a data bus (10). The base module (1, 18, 22, 33, 36, 41) has a first fieldbus connection (12), and the data bus (10) is connected to the first fieldbus connection (12) in order to connect the switch-on units (9) to a fieldbus.