Rack Apparatus for Modular Control System Module Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modular control and monitoring systems, replacing a failed module requires disconnecting and reconnecting cables associated with the module, which is inconvenient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A rack apparatus with individual functional module receivers and terminal block module receivers, along with a vertical attachment/detachment guide unit, allows for separate attachment and detachment of functional modules and terminal block modules, enabling easy replacement of failed modules without cable connection tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If modules are replaced in a traditional modular control system, then module replacement is achieved, but cable disconnection and reconnection is required which increases maintenance time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the terminal block module and the functional module into separate replaceable units. The terminal block module with connection pins can be detached from the functional module, allowing the functional module to be replaced independently without disturbing the cable connections at the terminal block module.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal block module acts as an intermediary between the external cable connections and the functional module. By keeping the terminal block module in place during functional module replacement, it mediates the connection interface and eliminates the need to disconnect cables when replacing functional modules.
2Reliability
If terminal block modules are integrated with functional modules, then cable connections are maintained, but module attachment and detachment becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structure is segmented into distinct components: the terminal block module receiver, the functional module receiver, and the vertical attachment/detachment guide unit. This segmentation allows each component to have a specific function while maintaining overall system reliability through separate but coordinated attachment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism utilizes vertical movement (another dimension) to achieve connection and disconnection. The terminal block module can be vertically attached to or detached from the functional module through the guide unit, providing a simple one-dimensional motion that controls the attachment state without complex multi-axis mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack apparatus for module attachment/detachment in a modular control and monitoring system is disclosed. In the rack apparatus, individual functional modules configured to perform control and monitoring functions and terminal block modules connected to external devices or external systems by cables and configured to perform input/output interface functions of respective individual functional modules are implemented such that attachment and detachment of the individual functional modules and the terminal block modules are achieved in a separate manner and such that attachment and detachment of the terminal block modules are achieved on the basis of respective individual functional modules. Accordingly, it is possible to easily and conveniently replace a failed one of the individual functional modules with a new one without requiring a cable connection task.