Modular Electropneumatic Controller for Compact Functional Expansion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electropneumatic controllers face challenges in varying functionality while maintaining compact dimensions, limiting their adaptability and efficiency in process control devices.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of an extension module assembly with a diverting module that redirects compressed air within the electropneumatic controller, allowing for modular expansion and customization of the fluid connection between the control valve and the actuator, enabling independent control of compressed air for actuation without requiring special treatment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the electropneumatic controller is designed with fixed functionality, then the device structure is simple and compact, but the adaptability and functional variability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional variabilityVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is divided into a control unit and a separate extension module assembly. The extension module assembly can be selectively attached or detached from the control unit via an extension interface, allowing functionality to be segmented into core control functions and optional extension functions. This enables the system to maintain simplicity when extensions are not needed while providing adaptability when required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The extension module assembly is designed with universal interfaces that can be attached to the control unit to provide additional functionality. The assembly includes extension working passages that can be configured through the diverting module to perform multiple functions such as additional actuation control, safety functions, or integration with other system components, making the controller adaptable to various application requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If extension modules are added to increase functionality, then adaptability improves, but the device dimensions and compactness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional variabilityVSAvoiddevice dimensions

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The extension module assembly is designed to nest with the control unit through the extension interface, allowing the extension modules to be integrated into the existing controller structure. When not in use, the extension modules can be detached, maintaining the compact dimensions of the base controller. The nested design allows functionality to be added without permanently increasing the overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If the extension module assembly is made modular for flexible configuration, then ease of operation and customization improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexible configurationVSAvoidmodular assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The extension module assembly employs dynamic attachment and detachment capabilities through the extension interface, allowing the configuration to be changed as needed. The modular design enables users to attach or remove extension modules based on specific operational requirements, providing flexibility without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire system. The standardized interface simplifies the attachment process despite the modular complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enhances the functional variability of the electropneumatic controller, allowing for flexible configuration and retrofitting, while maintaining compact dimensions, thereby improving the adaptability and efficiency of the process control device.

Implementation Method 1

a diverting module redirecting the extension working passage from the extension working outlet to the extension working inlet

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow redirection:

Data Source

PatentUS11274683B2Electropneumatic controller and process control device equipped therewith

Publication Date: 2022.03.15 FESTO AG & CO KG

AI summary

An electropneumatic controller has an electropneumatic control unit on which is provided an expansion interface, on which an expansion module arrangement is fitted. In the expansion module arrangement there extends at least one expansion working channel which is connected to a main working output and which is fluidically connected to the control unit at the expansion interface for connection to control valve means. The control unit further contains control electronics for electrically controlling the control valve means. Also proposed is a process control device equipped with a controller of this type.