Communication Device Multi-Protocol Passive Digital Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication devices require separate passive digital outputs for each communication protocol, limiting their versatility and increasing complexity and cost, especially in explosion-proof regions where energy usage is restricted.
Innovation Solution
A communication device that can switch between multiple communication protocols using a single passive digital output by configuring a circuit arrangement into different switching states, allowing it to provide signal values according to various protocols, thus enabling compatibility with multiple controllers without the need for additional outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate passive digital outputs are provided for each communication protocol, then compatibility with multiple controllers is ensured, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single passive digital output that can operate with multiple communication protocols (e.g., NAMUR IEC 61511 and SPS/PLC protocols) by using a circuit arrangement with switching elements that can be configured into different switching states. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate outputs for each protocol, reducing device complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit arrangement includes switching elements (such as transistors or switches) that can dynamically change their switching state based on the required communication protocol. By controlling the switching elements to different states, the same physical output can adapt its electrical characteristics to match different protocol requirements, enabling protocol flexibility without additional hardware outputs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple passive digital outputs are equipped for different communication protocols, then protocol compatibility is achieved, but the number of connection points and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal passive digital output that can serve multiple communication protocols through configurable circuit arrangements. This single multi-functional output reduces the number of connection points required and simplifies wiring, as users no longer need to physically connect different outputs for different protocols - the same output adapts to the required protocol through electrical configuration rather than physical multiplication.
3Device complexity
If a single passive digital output is used for multiple communication protocols, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide protocol-specific signal values must be maintained through circuit switching
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit arrangement incorporates switching elements that can be dynamically controlled to different switching states depending on the active communication protocol. For example, when operating in NAMUR protocol mode, the switching elements are configured to provide the appropriate signal value ranges, while in SPS/PLC mode, they are reconfigured to provide different signal characteristics. This dynamic reconfiguration maintains protocol-specific signal integrity while using a single physical output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes electrical parameters (such as current levels, voltage thresholds, or impedance characteristics) of the passive digital output by altering the switching state of the circuit arrangement. By adjusting these parameters according to the required communication protocol, the system maintains compatibility with different protocols without requiring separate outputs, as each protocol expects different signal value ranges and characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device for a field device for transferring output information to a controller, including a passive digital output with a first connection point and a second connection point, a circuit arrangement connected between the first connection point and the second connection point, and a control device configured to selectively put the circuit arrangement into one of a plurality of switching states according to the output information to be transferred. The communication device is configured, in a state in which the passive digital output is connected to the controller, to provide an electric output signal with a first signal value according to a first communication protocol at the connection points in a first switching state of the circuit arrangement and to provide the electric output signal with a second signal value according to the first communication protocol at the connection points in a second switching state of the circuit arrangement. The communication device is also configured to provide the electric output signal with a signal value according to a second communication protocol at the connection points in a third switching state of the circuit arrangement.