Two-Wire Field Device Energy Prioritization for Continuous Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field devices in process automation often face challenges in managing energy from two-wire buses, where certain modules require more power than continuously available, necessitating energy buffering, which limits simultaneous operation of measurement and communication functions.
Innovation Solution
A method where a field device is supplied by a two-wire bus, with a first module temporarily powered by an energy store and a second module always powered by the bus, prioritizing the second module's operation, allowing it to be fully functional while the first module may be temporarily inoperative to ensure continuous energy availability for the second module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If energy buffering is used to power high-consumption modules, then the module can operate temporarily with higher power, but the overall system complexity increases and other modules may be limited in simultaneous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic energy management where the controller continuously monitors the charge level of the energy storage device and adjusts the operation of functional modules accordingly. The system transitions between different operational states based on available energy, allowing the first module to operate temporarily with buffered energy while ensuring the second module maintains continuous operation. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by making power availability flexible without requiring permanent complex energy management infrastructure for all modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage device is charged in advance from the two-wire bus during periods when the first module is not operating or when excess energy is available. This preliminary energy accumulation allows the first module to subsequently operate temporarily without requiring continuous high power supply, thereby resolving the power availability issue without permanently increasing system complexity.
2Power
If the first module uses an energy storage device, then it can operate temporarily with more power, but the second module may not receive sufficient continuous power
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors the charge level of the energy storage device and the power status of both modules. Based on this feedback, it dynamically adjusts the operation: when the charge level is sufficient, the first module can operate temporarily; when the charge level drops or the second module requires power, the controller prioritizes the second module and prevents the first module from drawing additional energy. This feedback mechanism ensures the second module's continuous reliable operation while allowing temporary power boosts for the first module when feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic priority switching between modules based on real-time energy availability and operational requirements. The controller can switch the operational state of the first module (on/off) dynamically while maintaining continuous operation of the second module, resolving the contradiction between temporary high power for one module and continuous power for another.
3Adaptability or versatility
If both measurement and communication functions operate simultaneously, then functionality is improved, but the power budget cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic operation for the first module (measurement function) while maintaining continuous operation of the second module (communication function). The measurement function operates in periodic cycles, utilizing energy stored in the energy storage device during intervals when communication function consumes power. This periodic action pattern allows both functions to be available without requiring simultaneous operation, thereby maintaining the power budget while improving overall system versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically coordinates the operation timing of measurement and communication functions based on energy availability. When energy is available or being stored, the measurement function can operate; when energy is constrained, the communication function maintains operation. This dynamic coordination enables the system to adapt between different operational modes, achieving improved versatility without exceeding the power budget.
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 approach ensures that all function modules can operate without energy buffering, with the second module always being fully functional, and the first module adjusting its operation to synchronize with the second module, ensuring sufficient energy from the two-wire bus, thereby optimizing energy usage and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the first module is associated with an energy storage device powered by the two-wire bus
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the energy management of a process-automation field device (FG) having a first module (M) and at least a second module (BT), wherein the field device (FG) is supplied with energy by a two-conductor bus (4), wherein the first module (M) at least temporarily consumes more energy than the two-conductor bus (4) continuously delivers, and an energy store (C) fed from the two-conductor bus (4) is associated with the first module (M), wherein the second module (BT) is continuously supplied with energy by the two-conductor bus (4), wherein the operation of the first and second modules (M, BT) is controlled in such a way that the second module (BT) takes precedence over the first module (M) and the first module (M) is possibly at least temporarily non-functional.