Integrated IO Communication Unit for Ethernet-APL Binary Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ethernet-APL technology in process industries faces challenges in efficiently handling binary IO signals due to high communication overhead, requiring separate Remote IO systems that increase infrastructure complexity, space requirements, and engineering costs, while limiting flexibility and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A communication unit with separate power and data transmission via an external network, allowing flexible deployment of IO-modules with varying power demands, eliminating the need for Remote IO stations and backplane buses, and enabling easy installation in field cabinets or housings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Remote IO systems are used to collect auxiliary signals, then binary IO signals can be transmitted, but infrastructure complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the Remote IO functionality with the Ethernet-APL field switch by integrating a backplane bus structure into the field switch itself. This merging eliminates the need for separate Remote IO devices and their associated infrastructure, while maintaining the ability to collect binary IO signals efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The field switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the Ethernet-APL communication device and the Remote IO collection device. The backplane bus integration allows the same device to handle both analog Ethernet-APL signals and binary IO signals, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If Remote IO stations are deployed, then auxiliary signals can be collected, but cabinet space and engineering costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the Remote IO functionality into the field switch, the patent eliminates the need for separate Remote IO stations that would occupy additional cabinet space. The integrated design allows all IO collection functions to be performed within the existing field switch enclosure.
3Length of stationary object
If Ethernet-APL is used for analog signals, then long distance transmission is enabled, but binary IO signals cannot be efficiently transmitted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal transmission paths by introducing a dedicated backplane bus within the field switch for binary IO signals, while maintaining the Ethernet-APL path for analog signals. This segmentation allows each signal type to be transmitted through its optimal path without interfering with the other, enabling both long distance analog transmission and efficient binary IO collection.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication unit for a communication system includes at least one IO (input/output)-module; a communication interface board connecting the at least one IO-module with at least an external device for a data exchange via an external network, wherein the external network is capable of transmitting power and data over a common network connection; a power supply interface configured to receive power from an external power supply provider, wherein the power supply interface is configured to supply the at least IO module with power.