Modular Industrial Network Connector for Safe Signal Integration
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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 can connect a variety of industrial devices via interchangeable operation connectors, enabling reliable transmission of both safe and non-safe signals using secure protocols like ProfiSAFE and CIP Safety.
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 employs a universal connector system where a single base connector design can accommodate multiple device types (4-pole, 5-pole, 8-pole, 12-pole, and 19-pole configurations) through modular adapter components. This allows one apparatus to serve multiple functions and connect to various industrial devices without requiring completely different connector designs for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system is divided into separable components including a base connector, adapter components, and cable assemblies. This segmentation allows users to configure the appropriate number of poles and connector types based on specific application requirements, enabling customization while maintaining a standardized base structure that simplifies manufacturing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom connectors are designed for each device type, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus comes pre-configured with a standardized base connector and includes pre-fabricated adapter components for different pole configurations. This preliminary preparation of modular components allows for quick customization at the application level without requiring custom manufacturing for each device type, thereby reducing both cost and time while maintaining high adaptability.
3Reliability
If safety signals are transmitted through standard data networks, then network compatibility is improved, but transmission reliability of safety conditions is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus functions as an intermediary device that receives safety signals from industrial devices through dedicated safety connectors and interfaces with the data network through standardized communication protocols. This intermediary role ensures that safety signals are properly handled and transmitted with appropriate reliability while maintaining compatibility with various network protocols including ProfiNET/ProfiSAFE, I/O link, Ethernet IP, and CIP Safety.
Data Source
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.