Modular Safety Switching Modules for Hierarchical Multi-Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety switching devices operate independently, making it complex to manage and control a large number of electrical devices safely, as they require laborious cross-wiring and programmable logic controllers for coordination.
Innovation Solution
A modular safety switching device with hierarchically linked safety switching modules, where each module's logic depends on the state of the previous one, allowing for flexible and efficient control of multiple electrical devices without the need for extensive cross-wiring or software configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple independent safety relays are used to control multiple electrical devices, then each device can be safely controlled independently, but the system complexity increases due to laborious cross-wiring and the need for programmable logic controllers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent safety relays into a single modular safety switching device with multiple modules integrated in one housing. The modules share common wiring infrastructure and are coordinated through internal signaling, eliminating the need for separate cross-wiring for each relay while maintaining independent safety control for multiple electrical devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If contact extensions are used to expand the function of safety relays, then the number of outputs increases, but the system requires laborious cross-wiring between the safety relay and contact extension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple safety switching modules within a single device housing, providing multiple outputs without requiring external cross-wiring. The modules are pre-configured to work together through shared internal connections, eliminating the manual cross-wiring process required when using separate contact extensions
3Adaptability or versatility
If safety switching devices are arranged hierarchically to enable flexible control, then the system becomes more adaptable, but the installation and reconfiguration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the safety switching device into separate functional modules, each handling specific safety functions. These modular units can be independently configured and arranged in hierarchical relationships through simple connections, enabling flexible control structures while maintaining ease of installation and reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal module interfaces and standardized connection methods that work across all modules in the system. This universality allows modules to be easily arranged in different hierarchical configurations without requiring complex installation procedures, as the same interface standards apply regardless of the specific hierarchical arrangement
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular safety switching apparatus (100) for controlling a plurality of electrical devices. The modular safety switching apparatus (100) comprises a first safety switching module (101) having a first switching signal output (101c) for controlling a first electrical device, a second safety switching module (102) having a second switching signal output (102c) for controlling a second electrical device, and a connection element (110a) which is designed to electrically connect the first safety switching module (101) to the second safety switching module (102). In addition, the second safety switching module (102) is connected downstream of the first safety switching module (101) for signal transmission, and the first safety switching module (101) can be deactivated in response to the receipt of a first control signal, and is designed to apply a second control signal to the second safety switching module (102) in order to deactivate the second safety switching module (102).