Modular Connection Interface With Guide Surfaces for Automation Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling functional modules of an automation platform can be complex and error-prone, leading to inefficiencies in modular automation solutions.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with main and auxiliary connections, guide surfaces, and a base body housing facilitates the assembly of functional modules by providing mechanical guidance and electrical connections, allowing for a decentralized automation platform with flexible and reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional assembly methods are used for functional modules, then the automation platform can be assembled, but the assembly process becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a connecting device as an intermediary component between functional modules and the automation platform. This connecting device includes a connection arrangement with guide surfaces that mediate the assembly process, providing mechanical guidance and alignment features that simplify module installation while managing the complexity of electrical connections through a standardized interface structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functional modules are connected to a common connecting device, then the automation platform becomes more flexible and scalable, but the connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is designed with universal connection arrangements that can interface with multiple different functional modules through standardized interfaces. The connection arrangement includes guide surfaces and alignment features that work across various module types, enabling a single connecting device to handle diverse modules while maintaining consistent connection procedures and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting device (10) for providing a decentralized automation platform (1), comprising: - an arrangement of a plurality of main and auxiliary connections (50, 55) provided for the electrical connection of a plurality of functional modules (200) in a connection area (A) of the connecting device (10), - a plurality of or precisely one main connection surface (21) on which at least the main connections (50) are arranged, - at least one guide surface (80) arranged at a defined angle (W1) to the respective main connection surface (21) in order to mechanically guide the functional modules (200) into the connection area (A) and thus to support the assembly of the functional modules (200) provided for connection to the main and/or auxiliary connections (50, 55), - a base body (20) with a base body housing (30) and with a connection arrangement (40),wherein the connection arrangement (40) is electrically connected to the main and/or auxiliary connections (50, 55) in order to provide an electrical connection for at least some of the connected functional modules (200) to one another, - electrical lines (45) of the connection arrangement (40) which are arranged in the base body housing (30) in order to provide a main power flow, an auxiliary power flow and a data flow for the connected functional modules (200) in order to operate the automation platform (1) for controlling electrical devices (300) of an industrial plant.