Modular Communication Unit for Multi-Protocol Industrial Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial electronic devices require enhanced reliability and adaptability in communication protocols and power supply functions, particularly in industrial control systems, where existing solutions lack flexibility and security in data communication and parameterization.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a modular communication unit that supports bidirectional conversion between external and internal communication protocols and physical layers, allowing for easy replacement and adaptation of communication modules, along with software-defined power supply functions and overcurrent protection, enabling flexible operation and secure data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the electronic device uses a fixed communication module with a specific protocol, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different communication protocols is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module is designed to be dynamically replaceable, allowing the device to adapt to different communication protocols by swapping modules. The module can be exchanged during operation or maintenance, providing dynamic adaptability without redesigning the entire device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication module interface is designed with universal connection characteristics that support multiple communication protocols. A standardized interface structure allows different protocol-specific modules to be connected to the same base device, enabling multi-functionality across protocol families.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic device integrates multiple communication protocols in one module, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication functionality is segmented into separate protocol-specific modules rather than integrating multiple protocols in one complex module. Each module handles a specific communication protocol independently, reducing the complexity within each module while maintaining overall system adaptability through modular composition.
3Reliability
If the communication module is made non-replaceable, then the device reliability is improved, but the ease of repair and adaptation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module is designed with dynamic replaceability, allowing it to be exchanged when failures occur or when protocol upgrades are needed. The standardized interface ensures reliable electrical connections during operation while enabling easy replacement during maintenance, balancing operational reliability with repairability.
4Manufacturing precision
If the electronic device uses proprietary communication protocols, then the manufacturing precision and control are improved, but the adaptability to external systems is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module acts as an intermediary between the device's internal proprietary protocol and external communication standards. The module translates and adapts signals, maintaining precise control of internal operations while enabling compatibility with external systems through standardized interfaces and protocol conversion capabilities.
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an electronic device, which has control electronics, which comprise at least one program memory having a computer program stored therein and a computer for executing the computer program, the computer program having software control functions for controlling functions of the electronic device, the electronic device having at least one communication unit, which is coupled to the control electronics and by means of which the electronic device is designed for data communication with an external computer device, characterized in that the communication unit is designed as an exchangeable communication module, the communication module having a gateway functionality, by means of which a bidirectional conversion is carried out between an external communication protocol and/or physical layer used by the external computer device and an internal communication protocol and/or physical layer used between the communication module and the computer, the communication module supporting either exactly one external communication protocol or a plurality of external communication protocols.