Field Display Module With Multi-Radio Interfaces for Safe Retrofit
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field devices in process automation technology face limitations in flexibility and compatibility with various wireless standards, leading to restricted geographical range and increased installation and wiring complexity, especially in explosion-proof areas.
Innovation Solution
A display and/or control module with multiple integrated radio interfaces, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LPWAN, and NFC, allowing for flexible communication options and easy integration into existing field devices, powered via a two-wire connection, with a power management system to optimize energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple radio interfaces are integrated into the display and/or control module, then adaptability to different wireless standards is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple radio interfaces (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LPWAN, NFC) into a single display and/or control module, allowing one component to handle multiple communication protocols simultaneously. This merging approach improves adaptability while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate modules for each protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The display and/or control module is designed with universal multi-functionality by incorporating multiple radio interfaces that support different wireless standards. This single module can communicate with various devices using different protocols, making the field device more versatile without requiring separate communication hardware for each standard.
2Ease of manufacture
If two-wire connection is used for power supply, then installation complexity is reduced, but available power is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system dynamically adjusts power consumption based on available power from the two-wire connection. It can switch between different radio interfaces, adjust transmission power levels, and prioritize operations to match the limited power supply while maintaining functionality. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to operate successfully with reduced power availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as radio interface selection, transmission power, and communication frequency to optimize performance within the power constraints of a two-wire connection. By adjusting these parameters, the system maintains adaptability and functionality despite limited power supply capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If radio modules are integrated into the field device, then operational flexibility is improved, but intrinsic safety becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power management system as an intermediary between the radio interfaces and the intrinsically safe field device. This intermediary component monitors and controls power consumption, ensuring that radio operations remain within safety limits while maintaining operational flexibility. The power management system acts as a buffer that enables radio functionality without compromising intrinsic safety.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention relates to a display and/or control module (1) for a field device (100), having a housing (3), a display unit (5) arranged in the housing (3), and an electronics unit (7), the display and/or control module having at least one mechanical interface for connecting the display and/or control module (1) to the field device (100) and a data interface for communication between the display and/or control module (1) and an electronics module (13) of the field device (100), characterised in that the electronics unit (7) has at least one first air interface (9) and at least one further, second air interface (10) which is different from the first air interface (9).