Flexible Connecting Element for Field Device Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying field devices in the process industry, such as using RFID tags or barcodes, face challenges due to limited reading distance and accessibility issues, especially when field devices are installed in hard-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, length-variable connecting element with an electronic transmission unit that can expand from a few centimeters to several meters, allowing data to be read from field devices using conventional methods and automatically returning to its storage position, combined with a data carrier storing information like serial numbers or function designations, and using passive RFID transponders for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If RFID tags or barcodes are used for identifying field devices, then identification can be performed, but the reading device must be brought within a few cm of the field device which is difficult when field devices are installed in hard-to-reach locations
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is segmented into two parts: a stationary identification carrier attached to the field device and a mobile reading device. The flexible connecting element allows the reading device to be extended toward the field device without moving the entire reading system, enabling reading at a distance while maintaining identification reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element provides dynamic flexibility, allowing the reading device to extend and retract as needed. This dynamic adjustment enables the reading device to reach difficult-to-access field devices when extended and return to a protected position when retracted, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and protection.
2Ease of operation
If the reading device is brought close to the field device for reading, then identification can be performed, but the reading device may be too bulky or the operator's arm length may be too short
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the bulky reading device from the flexible extension mechanism. The reading device remains stationary and protected, while only the necessary reading component is extended through the flexible connecting element to reach the field device, avoiding the need to move entire bulky systems or rely on operator arm length.
3Length of moving object
If a cable extension is used to move the receiver close to the RFID tag, then reading distance can be increased, but it is only possible in a few cases to get close enough especially if the field device is difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible, elongatable connecting element that can extend to significant lengths and navigate around obstacles. This flexible extension allows the reading device to reach field devices in difficult-to-access locations by extending through pipes, conduits, or around structures, overcoming the limitations of rigid cable extensions.
4Ease of operation
If the connecting element is made flexible and length-variable, then the transmission unit can be drawn towards the reading device for reading, but the transmission unit must automatically return to storage position after reading
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element incorporates an automatic retraction mechanism that causes the transmission unit to return to its storage position on the field device after reading. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual retraction, reducing operational complexity while maintaining the ability to extend for convenient reading access.
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 reliable and traceable identification of field devices even in difficult-to-access locations, allowing for unique identification and monitoring, with the flexible connection ensuring consistent attachment to the field device and automatic return, and the use of passive RFID transponders aligning with DIN SPEC 91406 standards.
Implementation Method 1
The HF frequency of 13.56 MHz has the great advantage that it is the same worldwide and available everywhere. However, RFID HF transponders can only be read over short distances
Implementation Method 2
a flexible (not rigid), length-variable connecting element, which is designed in such a way that it returns to its original length after a length change
Data Source
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AI summary
Proposed are means for identifying a field device (200), comprising: a flexible, variable-length connecting element (230, 250) which is designed so that the element returns to its starting length after changing its length; and an electronic transmission unit (220), for example an RFID tag, for transmitting data to a mobile read-out unit. The data are stored on a data carrier and contain information relating to the field device (200). The transmission unit (220) is fixed to one end of the connecting element, while the other end of the connecting element can be connected to the field device (200). The identification can be easily read because the transmission unit (220) can be moved towards the reading device. Due to the flexible, variable-length and elastic connecting element (230, 250), the transmission unit (220) always remains connected to the field device (200) after being assembled and can automatically return to a storage position on the field device after being read.