Modular Field Device Wireless Radio Module Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular field devices face challenges in energy supply for integrated radio modules, often requiring additional power sources due to limited energy capacity in the 4 mA to 20 mA current loop, which can lead to insufficient energy for both the radio module and sensor operation, and require physical modifications to the wiring for connection.
Innovation Solution
A modular field device design that integrates a radio module with an internal energy supply, such as a battery or rechargeable battery, allowing wireless communication and enabling seamless expansion with a detachable display or operating unit, while maintaining compatibility with existing energy concepts and preventing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a radio module is integrated into the field device with energy supply via the 4 mA to 20 mA current loop, then wireless communication capability is improved, but the energy capacity becomes insufficient for simultaneous operation of the radio module, electronic unit, and sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The field device is divided into separate functional modules: a sensor module with its own energy supply, an electronic unit, and a radio module. This segmentation allows each module to be independently powered, with the sensor module's excess energy being made available to the radio module, thus enabling wireless communication without compromising the energy supply to other components.
2Ease of operation
If operating units are physically connected to the 4 mA to 20 mA current loop for communication, then field device operation is enabled, but the two-wire line must be modified (isolated and/or severed) which increases expense and implementation difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/wired connection system with a wireless communication system. Instead of physically connecting the operating unit to the 4 mA to 20 mA current loop and modifying the two-wire line, the solution uses radio frequency communication to enable field device operation without any physical modifications to the existing wiring.
3Use of energy by moving object
If additional power supply lines are provided for the radio module, then sufficient energy is available, but wiring and installation expense as well as safety measures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the energy supply function by combining the sensor module's energy supply with the radio module's power requirements. The sensor module is designed to provide excess energy that is transferred to the radio module, eliminating the need for separate power supply lines and reducing wiring complexity while ensuring sufficient energy availability.
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
Enables efficient operation of radio modules and sensors with internal energy supply, reducing installation costs and complexity, and allows for wireless communication without disrupting existing energy systems, with features like battery status warnings and deactivation to prevent functionality risks.
Implementation Method 1
an internal energy supply (15), particularly a battery or a rechargeable battery, for at least partial supply of the radio module (11) with energy
Data Source
AI summary
A modular field device comprising a housing, sensor and an electronics unit arranged in the housing, and comprising a display and/or operating unit that can be releasably connected to the electronics unit, said display and/or operating unit having a radio module for wireless communication with at least one other unit and an internal power supply, particularly a battery or rechargeable battery for at least partially supplying power to the radio module.