MCC Multidrop Trunkline Segmentation for Hot-Swappable Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
In industrial automation systems, inserting or removing units from a motor control center (MCC) over a long period can disturb the network and subnet, disrupting communication and operation.
Innovation Solution
A multidrop make and break system with a trunkline and branchline configuration, utilizing multidrop make and break devices that form a trunk network and independent sub-networks, allowing units to be coupled and decoupled without disrupting the main network, using a multidrop cable with conductors for data and power transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If units are inserted or removed from the MCC, then the configurability and maintenance of the system is improved, but the network communication is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into a trunk network and a sub-network. The multidrop make and break device creates a boundary between these segments, allowing the sub-network to be reconfigured (units inserted/removed) without affecting the trunk network. This segmentation enables independent operation of each network segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The multidrop make and break device acts as an intermediary component between the trunk network and the sub-network. It includes a trunk network component and a sub-network component that can be selectively coupled and decoupled, mediating the connection and allowing unit insertion/removal without disrupting the main network communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If units are inserted or removed from the MCC, then the system flexibility is improved, but the operation time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The multidrop make and break device is pre-configured with both a trunk network component and a sub-network component. The coupling mechanism is prepared in advance, allowing for rapid connection and disconnection of units without requiring complex reconfiguration during the insertion/removal process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static network configuration to a dynamic one where the sub-network can be quickly coupled and decoupled from the trunk network. The multidrop make and break device enables this dynamic reconfiguration, allowing units to be inserted or removed and the sub-network to be reconnected in a matter of seconds rather than requiring extended downtime.
3Reliability
If a multidrop cable is run through the MCC enclosure, then the network connectivity is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing and network topology are segmented into a trunkline that runs through the MCC enclosure and branchlines that connect to individual units. The multidrop make and break device creates clear segmentation points, simplifying the overall cable routing architecture and making installation and maintenance more manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The multidrop make and break device serves multiple functions: it provides network connectivity, enables unit insertion/removal, creates network segmentation, and facilitates rapid reconfiguration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining robust network connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multidrop system configured to be installed within a motor control center (MCC) of an industrial automation system includes a trunkline. The trunkline includes multiple multidrop make and break devices connected through a trunkline cable. Each of the multidrop make and break device includes a first network component, and a second network component. The first network component is configured to form a first subnet over the trunkline. The second network component is configured to couple a MCC withdrawable unit and form a second subnet over a branchline that connects one or more nodes within the MCC withdrawable unit. The multidrop make and break device is configured to couple the MCC withdrawable unit to, and decouple the MCC withdrawable unit from, the second network component without disrupting the first subnet.