Modular Automation System With Interchangeable Baseboards
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular automation systems face limitations in modularity and expandability, requiring replacement of central devices for increased processing power and storage, with limited reusability of expansion modules.
Innovation Solution
A modular automation system with interchangeable baseboards and central units of varying processing power and storage, allowing easy upgrades and connections via field buses and plug-in I/O modules, enabling flexible configuration and high reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the central device is replaced to increase processing power, then processing power is improved, but device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The central device is segmented into a baseboard and a central unit that can be independently replaced. The baseboard remains stationary while only the central unit needs to be exchanged, reducing assembly complexity and time when upgrading processing power.
Solution Approach 2:
The baseboard is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different types of central units with varying processing powers. This allows the system to upgrade processing capability by simply changing the central unit while reusing the same baseboard and I/O modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If expansion modules are added to increase functionality, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automation device is divided into independent functional modules (I/O modules, communication modules, etc.) that can be selectively added or removed from the baseboard. This modular approach enables adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal baseboard design with standardized interfaces allows different types of expansion modules to be integrated seamlessly. The same baseboard can support various I/O modules and communication modules, providing adaptability without requiring multiple specialized platforms.
3Ease of repair
If the system is made more modular with interchangeable components, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into independently replaceable components (central unit, I/O modules, communication modules) that can be easily swapped without affecting other parts. This modular architecture significantly improves ease of repair despite the presence of multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal baseboard with standardized interfaces ensures that modules from different manufacturers or with different functions can be interchangeably mounted. This standardization simplifies repair procedures even though the system comprises multiple modular elements.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular automation system and method are disclosed. A central automation device can be constructed and upgraded using one of a plurality of selectable and variously upgradable baseboards. The automation device can be upgraded using one of a plurality of central units which have uniform external dimensions yet differing data processing power and data storage capacities. At least one input/output expansion device can be directly coupled onto the central unit. Each of the selectable baseboards has a field bus connection interface for a standard field bus connection to a decentral input/output unit.