Modular Field Device Connection Unit With Wedge-Shaped Code Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field device connection units are prone to incorrect configurations, leading to serious errors in the connection of field devices to control components in automation systems.
Innovation Solution
A field device connection unit with a base plate and plug-in units featuring wedge-shaped code elements that provide a unique coding system, ensuring that only compatible plug-in units can be correctly inserted, preventing incorrect configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If plug-in units with different circuit configurations are used to accommodate different field device types, then the adaptability of the connection unit is improved, but the risk of incorrect configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing each slot with a unique asymmetric code pattern consisting of multiple code elements (e.g., 3-7 code elements per slot). Each plug-in unit type has a corresponding asymmetric code pattern that must match the slot. This asymmetric coding system ensures that only the correct plug-in unit type can be inserted into a specific slot, preventing incorrect configurations while maintaining high adaptability for different field device types.
2Manufacturing precision
If mechanical coding means are provided on connection elements to ensure correct terminal block connection, then configuration accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coding function into discrete, modular code elements (e.g., 3-7 wedge-shaped code elements per slot) that can be independently configured. Each code element represents a binary state (present/absent), creating a compact coding system. This segmentation allows for precise configuration identification without requiring complex mechanical structures, as the coding is achieved through simple presence/absence patterns of multiple small elements rather than a single complex mechanism.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple code elements are used to form a unique coding system for each slot, then configuration accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standardized code element design that can be replicated across multiple slots and plug-in units. Each code element follows the same wedge-shaped geometry and mounting principles, allowing for efficient manufacturing through replication. The coding pattern is created by selectively placing or omitting identical code element copies in specific positions, rather than manufacturing unique complex structures for each slot. This copying approach maintains high configuration accuracy while simplifying the manufacturing process.
Data Source
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AI summary
An exemplary field device connection unit includes a base plate on which a plurality of connection elements for connection of connecting lines with field devices and a plurality of module slots for receiving in each case one plug-in unit of different plug-in unit types. To avoid erroneous configurations, an identical type coding is assigned to the plug-in units of the same plug-in unit type, which identical type coding is formed by a plurality of wedge-shaped code elements which are anchored rigidly in the plug-in unit, and a plurality of wedge-shaped code elements are assigned to each module slot, which wedge-shaped code elements are mounted moveably about a rotary spindle between two opposite stops and whose wedge tips are oriented, in an initial rest position, centrally between the stops.