Field Device Power Supply Control for Variable Loop Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In technical process automation, energy is wastefully supplied to field devices due to the 4 mA to 20 mA standard, where the number of connected field devices is unknown, leading to excessive voltage drop and energy consumption, especially in battery-operated devices.
Innovation Solution
A measuring arrangement with a control unit and energy supply unit that determines the number of connected field devices and adjusts the output voltage accordingly, using a voltage controller to ensure minimal voltage is applied to each device, thereby optimizing energy usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sufficient voltage is provided for the maximum number of field devices, then all field devices can operate reliably, but energy is wasted when fewer field devices are connected
Solution Approach 1:
The energy supply unit dynamically adjusts its output voltage based on the actual number of connected field devices. The control unit determines the number of connected devices and communicates this information to the energy supply unit, which then adapts the voltage level accordingly. This dynamic adjustment ensures that voltage is neither excessive nor insufficient, resolving the contradiction between reliability and energy waste.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback mechanism is implemented where the control unit continuously monitors the number of connected field devices and provides this information to the energy supply unit. The energy supply unit uses this feedback to adjust its output voltage in real-time, ensuring optimal energy efficiency while maintaining reliable operation of all connected devices.
2Reliability
If maximum voltage capacity is provided at the communication resistor, then voltage requirements of all field devices are met, but voltage drop increases energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The energy supply unit dynamically adjusts its output voltage based on the actual number of connected field devices. The control unit determines the number of connected devices and communicates this information to the energy supply unit, which then adapts the voltage level accordingly. This dynamic adjustment ensures that voltage is neither excessive nor insufficient, resolving the contradiction between reliability and energy waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the voltage parameter of the energy supply based on the number of connected field devices. By adjusting the voltage parameter dynamically rather than maintaining a fixed maximum level, the system reduces energy consumption while ensuring that all connected devices receive sufficient voltage for reliable operation.
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 energy waste by adjusting the output voltage based on the number of field devices, extending the lifespan of battery-operated devices and making the system more cost-effective by minimizing voltage application to what is necessary for flawless operation.
Implementation Method 1
the energy supply unit (5) showing a voltage controller (6) adjusting an output voltage depending on the number of field devices connected to the energy supply unit (5)
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring arrangement with a control unit, an energy supply unit for a plurality of two-line field devices, which apply a predetermined current upon a measuring loop in which the two-line field devices are respectively arranged, with the two-line field devices being electrically connected to the energy supply unit and communicating digitally with the control unit, with the energy supply unit comprising a voltage controller, which controls an output voltage depending on the number the means of the measuring arrangement for determining a number of two-line field devices operated in the measuring arrangement.