Reconfigurable I/O Control Circuit for Multi-Signal PLC Interfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need to improve the universality, safety, and reliability of input-output control circuits in industrial automation systems, particularly in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Direct Digital Control (DDC) systems, which face challenges in efficiently managing and converting input and output signals.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves an input-output control circuit comprising a signal input-output end, multiple switch modules, resistors, an amplification module, and a control module, which allows for the conversion of input or output signals through simple operations by controlling switch modules based on control signals, enhancing the circuit's universality, safety, and reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional input-output control circuits are used in PLC and DDC systems, then the basic control function is maintained, but the universality, safety, and reliability are insufficient for intelligent upgrading demands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability of input-output control circuitVSAvoiduniversality of input-output control circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a multi-functional input-output control circuit that can handle multiple signal types (analog voltage, analog current, digital switch量) through a unified circuit architecture. The control module selectively connects different circuit paths based on signal type, enabling the same physical interface to universally support various protocols and signal formats, thereby improving both universality and reliability simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple switch modules and control paths are added to improve signal conversion capability, then the universality and functionality are enhanced, but the circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal conversion capabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple signal processing paths into a single integrated circuit structure. Different signal types (analog voltage, analog current, digital) share common circuit elements such as the control module, switch modules, and protection circuits. This consolidation reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to handle multiple signal formats through selective path activation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamically controllable switch modules that can change their connection states based on the input signal type. The control module dynamically selects which circuit paths are active, allowing the circuit architecture to adapt its configuration in real-time. This dynamic reconfigurability enables complex signal conversion capabilities without requiring permanently complex circuit wiring

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If protection circuits and isolation measures are implemented to improve safety, then the safety and reliability are enhanced, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety of input-output control circuitVSAvoidcircuit protection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements protection circuits that automatically detect and respond to abnormal conditions without external intervention. The isolation circuits and protection modules activate automatically when detecting signal anomalies, voltage spikes, or ground loops, providing self-protecting functionality that enhances safety while minimizing the need for additional complex control mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20240255911A1Input-output control circuit, controller, and air conditioner
Publication Date: 2024.08.01 SHANGHAI MEICON INTELLIGENT CONSTR CO LTD
  • US20240255911A1 patent drawing
  • US20240255911A1 patent drawing
  • US20240255911A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An input-output control circuit, a controller and an air conditioner are provided. The circuit includes a signal input-output end, a first switch module, a first resistor, a second switch module, a second resistor, a third resistor, a fourth resistor, a fourth switch module, a fifth switch module, an amplification module, a sixth switch module and a control module. The control module outputs a first control signal by a first control end to control the on-off of the second switch module, outputs second control signals by a second control end to correspondingly control the on-off of the second switch module and the third switch module, and outputs a third control signal by a third control end to control the on-off of the fifth switch module.