Fieldbus Adapter Analog-Digital Signal Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fieldbus systems lack compatibility with analog control systems, preventing the incorporation of analog-type field devices into autonomous control systems.
Innovation Solution
A fieldbus adapter with a conversion unit that bidirectionally converts digital and analog signals, enabling the integration of analog-type field devices into autonomous control systems by using a protocol stack conforming to FOUNDATION fieldbus standards and supporting multiple device standards through function blocks and analog/digital conversion units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a fieldbus system uses digital signal protocols (FOUNDATION fieldbus, ISA 100.11a) to build an autonomous control system, then the system achieves higher automation and measurement/calculation functions, but existing analog control system resources cannot be incorporated due to lack of compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fieldbus adapter as an intermediary device that connects analog-type field devices to digital fieldbus systems. The adapter includes a conversion unit that bidirectionally converts digital signals from the fieldbus to analog signals for the field device, and vice versa. This mediator enables seamless integration of legacy analog resources into modern autonomous control systems without requiring replacement of existing analog devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion unit within the fieldbus adapter dynamically changes signal parameters by converting between digital signal formats (FOUNDATION fieldbus, ISA 100.11a, HART, BRAIN) and analog electrical signals (4-20mA). This parameter transformation allows the system to maintain compatibility across different signal types and protocols, enabling analog devices to participate in digital autonomous control architectures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If analog-type field devices are directly connected to digital fieldbus systems, then signal compatibility is achieved, but the system loses the ability to incorporate existing analog control resources
Solution Approach 1:
The fieldbus adapter serves as a bridge that maintains signal compatibility while preserving the ability to incorporate existing analog control resources. The adapter's conversion unit translates signals between digital fieldbus protocols and analog electrical signals, allowing legacy analog devices to be integrated into modern digital control systems without loss of functionality or resource utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fieldbus protocols (HART, FOUNDATION fieldbus, PROFIBUS, BRAIN, ISA100.11a) are supported, then system versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fieldbus adapter is designed with universal multi-functionality to support multiple fieldbus protocols (FOUNDATION fieldbus, ISA 100.11a, HART, BRAIN, PROFIBUS) through a single device. The protocol stack in the adapter can be configured to handle different digital signal formats, and the conversion unit adapts to various analog signal types. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices into one versatile adapter, managing complexity through integration rather than proliferation of components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fieldbus adapter (2) connected between a fieldbus (3) that handles a digital signal and a field device (1A-1D) that handles an analog signal, the fieldbus adapter (2) comprising a first connection unit (2b) detachably connected to the fieldbus (3), a second connection unit (2a) detachably connected to the field device (1A-1D), and a conversion unit (23) provided between the first connection unit (2b) and the second connection unit (2a), the conversion unit (23) bidirectionally converting the digital signal handled by the fieldbus (3) and the analog signal handled by the field device (1A-1D).