Modular Bus Function Modules with Removable I/O Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing functional modules in industrial automation lack flexibility in combining different functionalities, as the number of motherboards providing various desired functionalities is unmanageably large, increasing development costs and not adequately covering smaller automation systems' needs.
Innovation Solution
The functional module is designed with separately removable functional units, each with its own plug-in functional circuits, allowing for flexible combination of functionalities without a common main circuit board, using a distribution circuit board to connect all units to a shared bus interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a common main circuit board is used to provide various functionalities, then the system structure is simplified, but the number of required motherboards becomes unmanageably large and development costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the previously integrated main circuit board into separate functional modules. Each functional module contains dedicated circuitry for specific tasks (digital I/O, analog I/O, communication interfaces, etc.), allowing selective combination without requiring a single large motherboard to support all functionalities simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The functional modules are designed with standardized interfaces and a common architecture that allows them to be universally combined. The modules can be mixed and matched in various configurations to create customized I/O systems, providing multi-functionality through combination rather than requiring a single multi-functional motherboard.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate functional modules are used to cover various desired functionalities, then adaptability is improved, but the number of modules required increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent functional modules that can be individually selected and combined. Each module handles a specific function (digital input, analog output, communication protocol, etc.), allowing the system to be configured with only the necessary modules rather than requiring a complex integrated motherboard.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional modules are combined through standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces. The modules integrate into a unified system architecture where they communicate through a common backplane or bus system, simplifying the overall structure compared to using numerous separate devices.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed main circuit board design is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but flexibility in combining different functionalities is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into producing standardized functional modules that can be manufactured independently using optimized processes for each module type. This allows each module to be manufactured efficiently in volume while maintaining flexibility in final system configuration through module selection and combination.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
Bus-compatible, connectable function module (1) for controlling and/or monitoring technical processes, in particular in industrial automation equipment, via a function circuit (36), wherein the function module (1) is designed for mounting on a mounting base, preferably with locking means (3) for snapping onto a mounting rail (12), and has at least one or more bus conductor contacts (10, 11) and at least two connection areas via which the function circuit (36) can be contacted, wherein the function module (1) has at least two separately removable function units (30), each of which is assigned at least one of the connection areas and each of which comprises at least one function circuit (36).