PLC Automation Power Module for Adjustable Sensor Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automation devices for process and manufacturing plants require external power sources for sensors and actuators, which occupy space, complicate electrical installations, and increase error-proneness due to confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
An automation device with a programmable logic controller (PLC), backplane bus, interfaces, and power module, which supplies sensors and actuators with adjustable electrical energy via internal connections, eliminating the need for external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If external power sources are used for sensors and actuators, then sensors and actuators can receive necessary electrical energy, but the electrical installation becomes more complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply function into the automation device itself, merging the PLC and power supply into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate external power sources and reduces the complexity of electrical installations by consolidating multiple functions into one device.
Solution Approach 2:
The automation device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the control unit (PLC) and the power supply unit. The power supply can provide different voltage levels (e.g., 5V, 12V, 24V) to different sensors and actuators through the same device, making it a universal power source for various electrical components.
2Use of energy by moving object
If external power sources are used for sensors and actuators, then sensors and actuators can be powered, but the available space in confined areas is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the power supply function into the automation device, the patent eliminates the need for separate external power source housings and their associated cabling. This consolidation frees up significant space in confined installation areas, as the power supply shares the same housing and mounting space as the PLC.
3Use of energy by moving object
If external power sources are used for sensors and actuators, then sensors and actuators can receive electrical energy, but the electrical installation is more prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of power supply and control functions into a single automation device reduces the number of connection points, cables, and interfaces in the electrical installation. Fewer connection points mean fewer potential failure points, improving overall system reliability and reducing installation errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply unit can monitor and control the electrical parameters (voltage, current) supplied to sensors and actuators, providing feedback control to ensure proper operation. This monitoring capability helps detect and prevent electrical errors before they cause system failures.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an automation device (1) for the automated control of a process plant or manufacturing plant, comprising a programmable logic controller (11a, 11b), a backplane bus (7), interfaces (10), terminals (3) and a power module (13a, 13b), wherein the programmable logic controller (11a, 11b), the power module (13a, 13b), the interfaces (10) and the terminals (3) are interconnected via the backplane bus (7), and wherein the power module (13a, 13b) is configured and provided to supply the programmable logic controller (11a, 11b) with electrical energy for control operation, and wherein the automation device (1) can be connected to sensors (4, 5, 6) and actuators of the process plant or manufacturing plant via at least some of the terminals (3).The automation device (1) is characterized in that it is designed to supply the sensors (4, 5, 6) and actuators connected to the automation device (1) via at least part of the connections (3) with an adjustable electrical energy.