Multifunctional I/O Device Reducing Circuit Board Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input/output (I/O) devices require multiple connection terminals and significant space on circuit boards to implement multiple functions, leading to increased costs and limited voltage signal recognition capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional I/O device with a single connection terminal having two connections, utilizing adjustable operating states to detect active and passive input signals and control externally driven loads, featuring a switching element, signal generator, energy source, and protective device controlled by a logic unit to achieve three distinct functions, including signal rectification and current limiting, while ensuring safety and galvanic isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If three different connection terminals are used to implement output and input functions, then functional versatility is improved, but space requirement on circuit board increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single connection terminal that can perform multiple functions (output function, passive input function, and active input function) by switching between different operating states. The logic unit controls switching elements to configure the terminal for different signal types, eliminating the need for separate terminals for each function and thereby reducing circuit board space while maintaining full functional versatility.
2Area of stationary object
If a single connection terminal is used to reduce space, then space requirement is improved, but functional versatility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection terminal is designed with dynamic reconfigurability through switching elements controlled by the logic unit. The terminal can dynamically switch between different operating states (first operating state for output, second operating state for passive input, third operating state for active input) based on control signals, allowing a single static physical terminal to fulfill multiple functional roles that would traditionally require separate terminals.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct voltage signal or alternating voltage signal is used as active input signal, then signal compatibility is improved, but voltage range recognition capability remains limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a signal generator that can be configured to recognize different signal types (direct voltage or alternating voltage) by changing its operational parameters. The logic unit adjusts the signal generator's detection thresholds and signal processing characteristics based on the detected signal type, enabling accurate recognition across a broader voltage range while maintaining compatibility with both DC and AC input signals.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration minimizes space requirements on circuit boards, enables detection of both direct and alternating voltage signals across a wide range, and meets safety standards, allowing for use in potentially explosive areas.
Implementation Method 1
A rectifier device is provided which, when an AC voltage is applied as a passive input signal or active input signal, rectifies the applied passive input signal or active input signal and feeds the rectified passive input signal or active input signal to the downstream signal generator
Data Source
AI summary
Multifunctional I/O device (1), having a connection terminal (2) with two connections (3) and one electronic circuit (4) which detects, via a plurality of adjustable operating states, an active input signal (19) or passive input signal (5) present at the two connections (3) of the connection terminal (2), or controls/switches an externally driven load (18).