Field Device Voltage Optimization for Energy Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
In industrial automation and process technology, two-wire field devices like sensors and actuators face challenges in energy efficiency and lifespan due to voltage drops in wired connections and the need for frequent battery replacements in wireless systems, where determining the minimum required voltage for optimal operation is crucial for energy management.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine the minimum voltage requirement of field devices by reading stored values or testing, ensuring the supply voltage is set below or equal to the required level to conserve energy, allowing for voltage adjustment based on energy availability and accounting for voltage losses, thereby optimizing battery operation and extending the lifespan of energy sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a higher voltage is supplied to the field device, then the device can operate with higher power and performance, but the energy source depletes faster and service life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage adjustment where the power supply voltage is continuously adapted to match the actual operational requirements of the field device. The control unit monitors the device's voltage requirements and adjusts the supplied voltage in real-time, transitioning from static high voltage supply to dynamic optimization, thereby extending battery life while maintaining adequate power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from a fixed high value to a dynamically adjusted value that closely matches the field device's minimum requirements. By modifying the voltage parameter adaptively based on actual device needs and operational phase, the system achieves optimal power efficiency and extends energy source duration.
2Productivity
If the field device operates continuously at full voltage, then it maintains high performance, but energy consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic voltage adjustment strategies where the field device receives full voltage only during critical operational phases and reduced voltage during less demanding periods. This periodic modulation of voltage supply maintains necessary operational continuity while significantly reducing average energy consumption and extending battery life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial voltage supply (below maximum required voltage) during periods when full power is not necessary, providing just enough energy to maintain operational functionality. This partial action approach reduces energy consumption while preserving essential productivity.
3Reliability
If a fixed high voltage is supplied to all field devices, then all devices can operate reliably, but devices with lower requirements waste energy and reduce battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the voltage supply to each field device's specific requirements rather than using a uniform high voltage for all devices. The control unit identifies individual device characteristics and adjusts the supplied voltage locally to match each device's actual needs, eliminating energy waste while maintaining reliability for each specific device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from a universal fixed value to device-specific optimized values. By adapting the voltage parameter to match the minimum requirements of each field device type and configuration, the system eliminates energy waste associated with over-voltage supply while ensuring reliable operation for all devices.
4Duration of action of moving object
If voltage is reduced to extend battery life, then energy consumption decreases, but the field device may not receive sufficient power for proper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the control unit continuously monitors the field device's operational status and voltage requirements. Based on this feedback, the system adjusts the supplied voltage to maintain the minimum threshold required for reliable operation, preventing under-voltage conditions that would compromise functionality while maximizing battery life extension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic voltage adjustment to respond to changing operational requirements of the field device. Rather than using a static reduced voltage, the system dynamically adapts the voltage level to match actual device needs in real-time, ensuring operational reliability is maintained while extending battery life through optimized power delivery.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a field device (1) of industrial processing and/or automation technology, said field device (1) being supplied with electrical power at least intermittently by an energy source (3). The invention includes that the minimal voltage demand required by the field device (1) is ascertained, a supply voltage value is ascertained from the ascertained minimal required voltage demand, and the field device (1) is at least intermittently supplied with electrical power, the voltage thereof being below or substantially equal to the ascertained supply voltage value.