Modular Industrial Network Connector for Safe Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for connecting industrial devices to data networks are poorly adaptable to a wide range of devices due to fixed connectors, limiting customization and unreliable transmission of safety signals.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a removable and reversible connection system, featuring a communication unit and safety unit that encode and transmit signals using ProfiSAFE or CIP Safety protocols, allowing connection to various industrial devices via interchangeable operation connectors, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed connectors are installed in the apparatus, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the adaptability to different device types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides a universal base structure with standardized connection means that can accommodate multiple types of connectors (4-pole, 5-pole, 8-pole, 12-pole, 19-pole configurations). Instead of creating different apparatus models for each connector type, a single universal apparatus can be configured with different connector assemblies to match various device requirements, thereby achieving multi-functionality and broad adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system is divided into separable components: the fixed connection means on the apparatus and the removable connectors that can be attached or detached. This segmentation allows the apparatus to maintain a simple fixed structure while enabling flexibility through interchangeable connector modules, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
2Ease of manufacture
If connectors are soldered to the electronic printed circuit board, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and customization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into the electronic printed circuit board with fixed connection means, and separate removable connectors. The soldering is performed only on the fixed connection means during manufacturing, while the connectors themselves are attached through reversible mounting methods. This segmentation enables both manufacturing precision (through controlled soldering) and ease of customization (through removable connectors).
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly transitions from a static soldered connection to a dynamic reversible connection. The connectors can be attached and detached multiple times, allowing the system to adapt to different configurations while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the fixed connection means on the circuit board.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wide range of connectors is supported, then adaptability increases, but device complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs a universal base design with standardized connection means that serves as a platform for supporting multiple connector types. Instead of designing separate apparatus for each connector type, the universal design allows a single apparatus model to support 4-pole, 5-pole, 8-pole, 12-pole, and 19-pole connectors through configurable connector assemblies, thereby achieving wide adaptability without increasing fundamental apparatus complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different connector types are accommodated through localized variations in the connector assembly rather than changing the entire apparatus structure. The fixed connection means on the electronic printed circuit board remains standardized, while only the external connector portions vary to match different device requirements, keeping overall device complexity manageable.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (10) for connecting industrial devices to a data network comprises a protective case (11), communication and safety means (13, 15) housed in the protective case (11) and suitable for receiving and/or transmitting signals of a safe and/or non-safe type from/to one or more industrial devices and to be connected to the data network to transmit thereto electrical signals relating to the operation of the one or more industrial devices, one or more operation connectors (26) associated with said protective case (11) in a removable way and suitable for each being connected to at least one or more industrial devices, connection means (17) connected to the operation connectors (26) and to the communication and safety means (13, 15) to allow the communication of the latter with industrial devices.