Modular Master Unit Architecture for Flexible Connector Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing master units in communication coupler systems have standardized designs for connectors and power supply units, making it difficult for operators to change specifications without affecting the master processing circuit, which varies by application and industrial network type.
Innovation Solution
The master unit is configured with a separable signal processing module and connector module, allowing for easy replacement of connectors and power supply units, with connection terminals connecting these modules to the master processing circuit, enabling flexible specification changes without affecting the processing circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the master unit uses a standardized design for connectors and power supply units, then manufacturing cost is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability to different applications and industrial network types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The master unit is divided into separate functional modules: a standardized connector module and a configurable master processing circuit module. This segmentation allows the connector module to be manufactured uniformly across different models, reducing manufacturing costs, while the master processing circuit module can be customized for different industrial network types and applications, maintaining adaptability.
2Device complexity
If the connector and power supply unit are integrated with the master processing circuit, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation for specification changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The master unit is segmented into a connector module and a master processing circuit module that can be independently handled. This allows operators to replace or reconfigure the master processing circuit without affecting the connector and power supply unit, improving ease of operation for specification changes while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The master unit is designed with dynamic reconfigurability, where the master processing circuit can be changed or updated independently of the standardized connector module. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different applications and industrial network types without requiring complete unit replacement, enhancing ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the master processing circuit is customized for different applications, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the master unit into standardized and configurable portions, the patent allows custom master processing circuits to be developed for different applications without increasing overall system complexity. The standardized connector module remains unchanged, providing a consistent interface, while only the master processing circuit module requires customization, isolating complexity to a manageable component.
Data Source
AI summary
A master unit that transmits a signal with a device via an I/O unit comprises: a connector module having a first connector and a power source unit; and a signal processing module having a branch terminal and a master processing circuit. The connector module and the signal processing module further comprise connection terminal units that connect the first connector and the power source unit with the master processing circuit.