Modular Building Automation Device With Segmented Communication And Application Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building automation devices are inflexible and difficult to adapt to varying space and communication requirements, particularly in low-volume spaces, and require extensive wiring and reconfiguration, making them impractical for diverse applications and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A modular building automation device comprising a communication module (MCU) and an application module (MAU) connected via a bus connector that serves as both a power supply and data transfer interface, allowing for easy protocol changes and independent development of functionalities, enabling adaptability to different spaces and communication environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional building automation devices are used, then they can perform specific functions, but they are difficult to adapt to varying space and communication requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a communication module (MCU) that handles communication protocols and an application module (MAU) that implements device functionality. This segmentation allows independent replacement and configuration of each module to suit different space and communication requirements without redesigning the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication module is designed with multiple communication bus options (KNX, C3, C4, BACnet) that can be selected based on the specific application requirements. This multi-functionality enables the same device architecture to adapt to different communication environments and protocols.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional building automation devices are used, then they can operate with specific protocols, but they require extensive wiring and reconfiguration for protocol changes
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module is separated from the application module, allowing the communication module to be independently replaced when protocol changes are needed. This eliminates the need for extensive reconfiguration of the entire device, reducing installation and reconfiguration time significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows changing communication parameters by simply replacing the communication module with one configured for the desired protocol (KNX, C3, C4, or BACnet), rather than reconfiguring electrical and electronic parameters within the entire device.
3Ease of repair
If traditional building automation devices are used, then they can perform device functions, but maintenance requires extensive device replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The application module is designed as a separate replaceable unit from the communication module. During maintenance, only the faulty application module needs to be replaced while the communication module remains in place, significantly reducing maintenance time and complexity compared to replacing the entire device.
4Volume of moving object
If modular components are arranged laterally overlapping, then the system becomes more compact, but the device height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module and application module are arranged in a stacked configuration along the vertical dimension rather than laterally overlapping. This dimensional arrangement optimizes the device footprint for low-volume spaces while controlling the overall height through the bus connector interface.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a building automation device adaptable to space and communication requirements, comprising a communications module having a communications bus, an application module which implements the functionality, a bus connector for supplying power and data between the two modules, the communications module comprising a first casing having a first wall from which pins of the connector bus project, and a second wall with a first recess in which the communications bus is inserted, the application module comprising a second casing having a third wall from which a pin receiver projects, and a fourth wall having a second recess including electrical connection terminals, wherein, when the ten pins of the bus connector are introduced in their receiver, the first wall is positioned next to the third wall and the first casing is joined to the second casing by securing means.