Intrinsically Safe Field Device Hybrid Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field devices in process automation systems face limitations in electrical power supply due to increasing energy demands from new functional modules, and existing solutions for local power generation are either dependent on constant energy sources or require battery replacement/recharging, posing challenges in explosion-hazardous environments where intrinsic safety is crucial.
Innovation Solution
A field device equipped with two intrinsically safe power supply units: one with a storage element for locally stored energy and another with a power generation unit that converts renewable energy sources like light, heat, or vibrations, prioritizing renewable energy for power supply and ensuring intrinsic safety through electrical switching means and protective circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional battery is used for local power supply, then the field device can operate independently, but the battery requires replacement or recharging which increases maintenance complexity and downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The field device performs self-service by automatically recharging its battery using integrated photovoltaic cells that convert ambient light into electrical energy. This eliminates the need for external recharging or replacement operations, allowing the device to maintain continuous operation without human intervention for power supply maintenance.
2Device complexity
If solar cells or other renewable energy transducers are used, then battery replacement is eliminated, but the power supply becomes dependent on external conditions like light, heat or vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The field device merges multiple power supply sources into a hybrid system that combines a rechargeable battery with photovoltaic cells. The battery provides reliable base power and energy storage, while the photovoltaic cells supplement power during daylight hours and automatically recharge the battery. This combination ensures continuous operation regardless of external conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system dynamically adjusts its operation based on environmental parameters. The control unit monitors light availability, battery charge level, and power demand to optimize the contribution of each power source. This allows the system to maintain reliable operation across varying external conditions by changing operational parameters in real-time.
3Reliability
If multiple power supply units are integrated in the field device, then power supply reliability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The field device implements a nested power supply configuration where the photovoltaic cells are integrated onto the surface of the housing or internal components, and the battery is positioned in available internal space. This nested arrangement allows multiple power supply elements to coexist in a compact configuration, minimizing the overall volume increase while maintaining redundant power supply capability.
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
The solution provides reliable and sustainable power supply to field devices, reducing the need for frequent battery replacement and ensuring intrinsic safety in explosion-hazardous environments by prioritizing renewable energy sources, maintaining functionality during replacement, and adhering to safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
a power generation unit (6) configured for feeding the at least one second intrinsically safe power supply unit (4) with locally renewable energy
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a field device of a process automation system, having at least one first intrinsically safe power supply unit, which provides locally stored electrical energy in an integrated storage element for supplying power to an electronics unit for process control. To supply power to intrinsically safe field devices from locally stored electrical energy in line with demand, it is proposed that in addition, at least one additional intrinsically safe power supply unit is integrated therein, which is fed by a power generation unit providing locally renewable electrical energy.