I/O Module Startup Control Using Stored Settings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing I/O modules cannot perform startup operations or examine the operation of external devices connected to them before being connected to a host controller, limiting their functionality and efficiency in control systems.
Innovation Solution
An input-output module with an inputter, outputter, communicator, setting receiver, setting storage, and input-output controller that allows for independent startup and operation by receiving and storing setting information, enabling signal output and input management without a host controller, allowing for pre-connection examination and control of external devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the I/O module operates only when connected to a host controller, then the control system maintains centralized control and reliability, but the I/O module cannot perform startup operations or examine external devices before connection
Solution Approach 1:
The I/O module performs preliminary actions by storing setting information received from the host controller in advance, enabling it to execute startup operations and examine external devices before the host controller is connected. The setting storage unit preserves configuration data so the I/O module can operate autonomously during the startup phase.
2Ease of operation
If the I/O module includes autonomous operation capability, then startup operations and device examination become possible before host connection, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The I/O module is segmented into distinct functional units: a setting storage unit for storing configuration data, an inputter for receiving input signals, an outputter for outputting signals, and an input-output controller for managing operations. This segmentation enables autonomous startup capability while organizing complexity into manageable, modular components.
3Productivity
If the I/O module stores setting information locally, then autonomous operation during startup is enabled, but the loss of information risk increases when host controller connection is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The I/O module implements a feedback mechanism where the input-output controller continuously monitors the host controller connection status. When connection is established, the controller retrieves setting information from the setting storage unit to verify and update configurations, ensuring information integrity while enabling autonomous startup operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An I/O module includes an input terminal and an output terminal, receives from a host controller first setting information for setting a condition of a value of a signal to be output from the output terminal or a condition between a value of an input signal received by the input terminal and a value of the signal to be output from the output terminal, receives second setting information, controls switching of a mode, and causes, based on the first setting information when the mode is in a first mode and based on the second setting information when the mode is in a second mode, the output terminal to output a signal with the set value or with a value in accordance with the set condition and the value of the input signal received by the input terminal.