Modular Backplane Contact Parts for Flexible Bus Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for technical installations require cumbersome reconfiguration and high production costs due to inflexible backplane designs, especially when changing voltage supply configurations, and necessitate the production and maintenance of different base modules.
Innovation Solution
A modular control device featuring backplane modules with variable contact parts that can be arranged in multiple positional variants, allowing for selective electrical connections to form a flexible bus structure, enabling the subdivision of the bus into separate sections without altering the backplane, and simplifying the production of main bodies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different types of base modules are produced to accommodate different electronic modules (input/output modules and voltage supply modules), then the system provides flexibility in terms of separate voltage potential groups, but the production costs increase and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base module is designed with a universal receptacle that can accommodate both input/output modules and voltage supply modules through a single contact part design. The contact part can be selectively positioned to provide different connection configurations, eliminating the need for separate base module types while maintaining the ability to create separate voltage potential groups when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact part is designed to be movable or reconfigurable within the base module, allowing it to be positioned in different states to accommodate different module types. This dynamic element enables a single base module design to adapt to various configurations, providing both input/output and voltage supply functionality without requiring multiple specialized base modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the backplane is reconfigured to change voltage supply requirements, then the system adapts to new requirements, but the reconfiguration process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The backplane is segmented into modular base units, each with independent contact parts that can be individually reconfigured. This segmentation allows for localized changes in voltage supply configuration without requiring complete backplane replacement or complex system-wide reconfiguration, significantly reducing the time and effort needed to adapt to new requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact parts are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing them to be easily moved or repositioned within the base module receptacles. This dynamic design enables rapid reconfiguration of voltage supply paths by simply adjusting the contact part positions rather than replacing entire backplane modules, thereby minimizing reconfiguration time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized base modules are maintained in inventory and production, then different module requirements are met, but the production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single base module design with a universal receptacle and reconfigurable contact part is used to accommodate both input/output modules and voltage supply modules. This universal design eliminates the need to produce and maintain multiple specialized base module types, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining the ability to meet different module requirements through contact part positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The functionality previously requiring separate base modules for input/output operations and voltage supply is merged into a single base module design. The contact part can be configured to serve different functions, combining multiple capabilities into one standardized component that reduces manufacturing complexity and costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for open-loop control or closed-loop control of a technical installation has a first backplane module, a second backplane module and a third backplane module which are configured to be positioned side by side on a mounting rail in a longitudinal direction. The first backplane module has a first main body and a first contact part. The second backplane module has a second main body and a second contact part. The third backplane module has a third main body and a third contact part. The main bodies each have an upper side comprising insertion openings which are configured to receive electrical contacts of separate electronic modules. The contact parts form a bus line in the longitudinal direction such that plugged-in electronic modules can be electrically coupled to one another by means of the contact parts. The second main body further has a receptacle, in which the second contact part is arranged in one of at least two defined variants. In a first variant, the second contact part has an electrically conductive connection to the first contact part and to the third contact part. In a second variant, the second contact part has an electrically conductive connection to the third contact part, but not to the first contact part.