Modular Sensor Electronics Bridge for Protocol Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement arrangements without conventional transducers require specialized intelligent sensors, leading to increased logistical costs and complexity due to multiple variants, and the limited service life of analysis sensors results in frequent electronics disposal, despite longer-lived circuit components.
Innovation Solution
A modular measurement arrangement that includes a sensor with integrated electronics, an electronics module acting as a bridge to convert proprietary digital signals into standardized protocols, and a signal cable with a cable circuit for routing, allowing the use of conventional sensors without additional modifications and reducing the need for multiple sensor types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If measurement arrangements use specialized intelligent sensors without conventional transducers, then device complexity is reduced, but logistical costs increase due to multiple sensor variants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the sensor assembly to work with multiple transducer types (conventional and intelligent) through standardized plug connector interfaces. This allows a single sensor design to serve multiple functions across different measurement arrangements, reducing the need for specialized sensor variants and thereby lowering logistical costs while maintaining device complexity benefits
2Measurement precision
If analysis sensors with limited service life are used, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of substance increases due to frequent electronics disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the sensor assembly (containing the measurement sensor element and sensor electronics) from the transducer unit. This allows the sensor assembly to be replaced independently when its service life expires, while the transducer electronics can be retained and reused. This segmentation reduces electronics waste while maintaining measurement precision through regular sensor replacement
3Measurement precision
If proprietary communication protocols are used in sensors, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability decreases due to incompatibility with standard fieldbus protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing the transducer as a mediator between the sensor assembly and the fieldbus network. The transducer receives proprietary protocol signals from the sensor, processes and converts them to standard fieldbus protocols, and transmits them to the control system. This intermediary function maintains measurement precision while enabling protocol compatibility and adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a measurement arrangement including a sensor, an electronics module, a signal cable having a cable circuit, and a superordinate unit. The sensor is releasably pluggable to the electronics module which itself is releasably pluggable to the signal cable. The signal cable is connected with the superordinate unit. The plug connections between the sensor and the electronics module and between the electronics module and the signal cable may be galvanically isolated. The sensor outputs digital data in a first format to the electronics module. The electronics module outputs digital data in a second format to the signal cable. The superordinate unit is configured to receive and to process the digital data in the second format.