Sensor Data Transmission Device for Automation Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems require additional interfaces and modifications to transmit sensor data from external devices or sensors to control units in automation technology, which complicates integration and installation in existing automation systems.
Innovation Solution
A device with a slave interface connected to a master interface of a control device, a master interface connected to a slave interface of a measuring device, and a circuit arrangement comprising a manipulation unit and a protocol unit, allowing sensor data to be processed and transmitted without modifying the measuring device, using existing interface connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional interfaces are added to transmit sensor data from external devices to control units, then sensor data transmission capability is improved, but device complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder housing is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical protection for the encoder components, acts as a mounting structure for the additional interface, and enables sensor data transmission. By making the housing multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate complex mounting structures while enabling sensor data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the additional interface for sensor data transmission with the existing encoder housing structure. Instead of creating a separate interface module, the solution merges the interface functionality into the housing, thereby reducing overall system complexity and simplifying integration into existing automation systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional interfaces are added to rotary encoders for sensor connection, then sensor integration capability is improved, but installation complexity and accessibility requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder housing serves as both a protective enclosure and an interface mounting structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate interface modules and simplifies installation, as the interface is integrated into the housing that is already part of the encoder assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure itself provides the mounting functionality for the additional interface, eliminating the need for external mounting brackets or separate interface modules. The housing 'services' its own function as a mounting structure, thereby simplifying installation and reducing the number of components that need to be assembled.
3Device complexity
If existing interface connections are used to transmit sensor data, then device complexity is reduced, but data transmission reliability over longer distances may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol unit acts as an intermediary between the sensor data and the existing interface communication protocol. It translates and adapts the sensor data to match the requirements of the existing interface, ensuring reliable transmission without requiring modifications to the physical interface or cabling infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulation unit and protocol unit change the parameters of the sensor data to match the interface protocol requirements. This includes formatting, encoding, and timing adjustments that ensure the data can be reliably transmitted over the existing interface connection without physical modifications.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device has manipulation unit that receives master-data input signal (DIN-M) of master interface (18) and sensor-data signal (S-M), and outputs slave-data output signal (DOUT-S) to slave interface (12). A protocol unit receives protocol-relevant interface signals (DIN-S,TCLK-S) of slave interface or master interface and sensor-data signal, and generates sensor-data output signal. The protocol unit selects protocol-relevant interface signal based on manipulation rules, when manipulation unit outputs master-data input signal or sensor-data output signal.