Modular Terminal Block Layout for Expandable Bus Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional measurement systems require complex wiring and installation, leading to increased labor and costs due to over-specification of signal input/output apparatuses, limited expandability, and unnecessary functions, especially when dealing with sensors and control apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A modular terminal block unit with expandable configurations (Type X, Y, Z) that allows direct connection between units and a host apparatus via a common bus, eliminating the need for separate power sources and wiring, and includes indicators and control circuits for digital or analog signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If signal lines are connected to many terminals provided on a terminal block first, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but wiring becomes very complicated and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the terminal block into multiple terminal block units, each handling a subset of signal lines. This segmentation allows signals to be grouped and routed more efficiently, reducing overall wiring complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connections through standardized terminal interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal block units serve as intermediary components between sensors/apparatuses and the signal input/output apparatus. By introducing these modular terminal units with standardized interfaces, the system achieves reliable connections while simplifying the overall wiring architecture through intermediate connection points.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a general-purpose signal input/output apparatus is used, then versatile functionality is provided, but installation and maintenance costs increase due to over-specification
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the terminal block functionality from the signal input/output apparatus, creating modular terminal block units that can be independently selected and configured. This allows the main apparatus to be optimized for specific applications, reducing over-specification costs while maintaining versatility through modular additions.
Solution Approach 2:
Different terminal block units can be configured with specific functionalities tailored to local requirements (e.g., specific signal types, connection configurations). This allows each terminal unit to be optimized for its specific function rather than requiring the entire system to support all possible functions, reducing overall costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of signal lines connected to the terminal block increases, then more sensors and apparatuses can be monitored, but wiring becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block is divided into multiple independent terminal block units that can be individually connected to the signal input/output apparatus. This segmentation allows signals to be grouped and routed through standardized terminal interfaces, enabling easy expansion to accommodate more sensors and apparatuses without proportionally increasing wiring complexity.
4Device complexity
If signal lines are stripped and directly connected to the signal input/output apparatus without a terminal block, then wiring is simplified, but installation and maintenance work become labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block units serve as intermediary components that provide standardized connection interfaces between sensors/apparatuses and the signal input/output apparatus. These intermediaries simplify installation and maintenance by offering organized, accessible terminal points for wiring operations, eliminating the need for direct stripping and connection to the main apparatus.
Data Source
AI summary
[Problem] To provide a terminal block unit that reduces wiring work and wiring mistakes, lessens installation work, and is capable of flexibly providing necessary functions, and that furthermore has excellent expansion capabilities and can flexibly provide necessary functions even if the number of contacts increases. [Solution] A terminal block unit 10 that is the minimum unit for constructing a measurement system using a sensor or a control system for a monitoring and/or control device using the measurement system, the terminal block unit 10 being used interposed between a sensor or control device connected downstream of the terminal block unit 10 and host devices 28, 30 connected upstream of the terminal block unit 10, the terminal block unit 10 including a plurality of contact terminals 12 and being electrically connected to the sensor or control device through the contact terminals 12, and the terminal block unit 10 being configured such that it is possible to provide direct connection between terminal block units 10 and between the terminal block unit 10 and the host devices 28, 30 via a common bus.