Modular Field Housing Rotation Without Cable Twist
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radar-based level gauges face limitations in installation flexibility due to the need for electrical connections between modules, which restrict the rotation of housing parts, hindering compact and flexible alignment in process plants.
Innovation Solution
A modular level measuring device with a rotatable high-frequency module and a transmission mechanism that allows the first housing part to rotate relative to the second housing part, ensuring the electrical connection does not impede assembly or alignment, using a rotatable plug connector and a transmission means to transfer rotations to the second electronic module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the high-frequency module is rigidly connected to the housing, then the electrical connection is stable, but the rotation of housing parts is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the high-frequency module rotatable relative to the housing instead of rigidly fixed. The module can rotate at least 90 degrees around the housing axis while maintaining electrical connection through a rotatable connector, enabling flexible alignment during installation while preserving stable electrical contact throughout the rotation range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the housing parts are made rotatable for flexible alignment, then the adaptability improves, but the electrical connection between modules is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an intermediary solution by introducing a rotatable electrical connector as a mediator between the housing and the high-frequency module. This connector specifically designed to rotate allows the module to be aligned flexibly with the housing while maintaining continuous electrical connection, thus enabling adaptability without significantly increasing device complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If the high-frequency module is relocated to the gauge neck, then the compactness improves, but the rotation capability is limited by electrical connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the high-frequency module, now relocated to the gauge neck, to rotate relative to the housing. The rotatable connector maintains electrical connection during rotation, allowing the compact integrated design to still achieve flexible alignment and installation in various orientations.
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
Facilitates compact and flexible installation of radar-based level gauges by allowing unhindered rotation of housing parts, reducing assembly errors and enhancing alignment flexibility in process plants.
Implementation Method 1
radar-based measuring methods are predominantly used in the field of continuous level measurement (in the context of this patent application, the term 'radar' refers to signals or electromagnetic waves with frequencies between 0.03 GHz and 300 GHz)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular field device (1), the housing of which comprises a first housing part (11) for a first electronic module (14) and a separate, second housing part (12) for a second electronic module (15). The housing parts (11, 12) are connected by a connecting means (13) such that the interiors thereof are interconnected and the housing parts (11, 12) are rotatable relative to one another by at least 90° in relation to a common housing axis (a). According to the invention, the field device (1) comprises, in the housing interior, a transmission means (16) which mechanically couples the second electronic module (15) in the interior of the second housing part to the first housing part (11) such that the transmission means (16) transmits a rotation of the first housing part (11) relative to the second housing part (12), in relation to the housing axis (a), to the second electronic module (15). According to the invention, the electrical connection (19) between the modules (14, 15) does not thus restrict the rotatability of the housing parts (11, 12) relative to one another, and therefore the final assembly of the field device (1) or the orientation of the field device (1) in the process facility is simplified.