Diagnostic Connecting Element for Wireless Failure Data Readout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems face challenges in efficiently troubleshooting and diagnosing failures in field devices, particularly when they are damaged by environmental or operational issues, leading to time-consuming error identification and potential device destruction.

Innovation Solution

A connecting element with a diagnostic module that stores data from a first unit and allows wireless readout, enabling easy data retrieval even in the event of device failure, and can operate independently of power supply or data connections, using technologies like RFID/NFC for passive energy supply and data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If data is stored internally in the first unit, then data availability is maintained during operation, but data retrieval becomes impossible or difficult when the unit fails or is destroyed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata availabilityVSAvoiddata retrieval after failure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a connecting element as an intermediary component between the first unit and the second unit. This connecting element includes a storage module that receives and stores data from the first unit during normal operation. When the first unit fails, the stored data can be retrieved from the connecting element, serving as a mediator that preserves data accessibility even when the original source is compromised.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If diagnostic data is stored in the first unit, then complete diagnostic information is available, but troubleshooting becomes time-consuming when the unit is non-functional

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic information completenessVSAvoidtroubleshooting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The storage module in the connecting element performs preliminary data collection and storage during normal operation of the first unit. Diagnostic data, operational parameters, and configuration information are captured and stored in advance. When failure occurs, this pre-stored data is immediately available for retrieval, eliminating the need for time-consuming post-failure diagnostics and reducing troubleshooting time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If a wired connection is used for data transfer, then reliable data transmission is achieved, but data access requires physical connection and power supply

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoiddata access convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system for data retrieval. The storage module in the connecting element can transmit stored data wirelessly to the second unit or other diagnostic devices without requiring physical connection or power supply to the first unit. This substitution maintains data transmission reliability while significantly improving ease of operation during failure scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution reduces downtime, extends device lifespan, and allows for early identification and rectification of safety-relevant issues, facilitating quick replacement and maintenance by providing easily accessible diagnostic data, even when the device is non-functional.

Implementation Method 1

using technologies like RFID/NFC for passive energy supply and data transmission

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRFID/NFC: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4155846A1Connecting element for producing a wired connection between a first and a second unit
Publication Date: 2023.03.29 TURCK HOLDING GMBH
  • EP4155846A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4155846A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4155846A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a connecting element for establishing a wired connection between a first unit and a second unit, comprising a diagnostic module; wherein the diagnostic module comprises: a receiving interface configured for receiving data from the first unit via a wired data connection, a storage module configured for storing the data received from the first unit, and a read interface configured for outputting the data stored by the storage module via a wireless data connection. The invention further relates to a unit with a connecting element directly connected to the unit, and to a system comprising a first unit and a second unit. Finally, the invention also relates to a method for establishing a wired connection.