Additional Module for Field Device Optical Signal Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field devices with optical display elements face limitations in displaying information about switching states, operating conditions, and faults from a distance or at non-perpendicular angles, particularly in environments where space and safety are critical.
Innovation Solution
An additional module for field devices that includes an optical receiving unit to convert optical signals into electrical signals, which are then processed and displayed or transmitted externally, expanding the range of information displayed and communicated without altering the field device's electronics, and allowing for bi-directional communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If standard optical display elements (LEDs) are used in field devices, then the device structure remains simple and space consumption is low, but the bandwidth of display options is restricted and information visibility from distance or at non-perpendicular angles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an additional module as an intermediary component that includes an optical receiving unit to capture light from the LED, an electronics module unit to process the optical signal and extract information, and a display/transmission unit to display or transmit the extracted information. This intermediary module expands information visibility without modifying the original field device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution segments the information display function into two independent parts: the original field device with its simple LED display, and an additional separate module that captures, processes, and re-displays the information. This segmentation allows the original device to remain simple while the additional module provides enhanced display capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the field device is used in potentially explosive environments, then safety requirements are met with simple display elements, but the bandwidth of display options is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into an intrinsically safe field device and an additional module that can be positioned outside the explosive environment. The additional module contains the complex electronics and display components, while the field device maintains its simple, safe architecture with only an optical emitting element.
Solution Approach 2:
The additional module acts as an intermediary that receives optical signals from the safe field device and provides expanded display capabilities in a location that may not have the same safety constraints, thereby increasing display versatility without compromising the safety of the original device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If subsequently attachable plugs with multiple display elements are used, then display options are expanded, but the plugs are incapable of displaying faults or malfunctions of the field device locally
Solution Approach 1:
The additional module establishes a feedback loop where the optical receiving unit continuously monitors the light emitted by the field device's LED, the electronics module unit processes this information including fault indicators, and the display/transmission unit provides immediate local visual feedback about device status and faults.
Solution Approach 2:
The additional module serves as an intermediary that not only displays normal operating information but also specifically captures and displays fault and malfunction indicators from the field device, providing comprehensive local feedback that simple display plugs cannot achieve.
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
Enables the display and transmission of additional field device information beyond what is accessible through standard optical display elements, enhancing visibility and communication without compromising safety or requiring changes to the field device's electronics, especially in potentially explosive environments.
Implementation Method 1
an optical receiving unit (13) to wirelessly receive at least one first optical signal from the field device and to convert the at least one first optical signal into at least one first electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an additional module for a processing and/or automation field device, at least including a module housing, an optical receiving unit which is arranged at least partly within the module housing, an electronic module unit, and a display/transmission unit. The optical receiving unit is designed to wirelessly receive at least one first optical signal from the field device and to convert the at least one first optical signal into at least one first electric signal, and the electronic module unit is electrically connected to the receiving unit and to the display/transmission unit. The electronic module unit is designed to extract at least one piece of field device information from the at least one first electric signal and to transmit the at least one piece of field information to the display/transmission unit, and the display/transmission unit is designed to display the at least one piece of information and/or to transmit the at least one piece of information to at least one external unit.