Separable Interface and Wireless Modules for Industrial Field Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless devices require redesign and individual authentication for each communications protocol and location, leading to high costs and instability in wireless communications due to integrated antenna and communication devices.
Innovation Solution
A wireless device configuration with a separable interface module and wireless module, allowing local communications between them to transmit and receive signals, enabling flexible installation and reducing redesign and authentication needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the interface and wireless communications device are integrated in a single wireless device, then the device structure is simplified, but redesign and device authentication are necessary for each communications protocol and location
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless device is divided into two separate modules: an interface module that connects to the field device and a wireless communications device that handles wireless transmissions. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently - the interface module can be adapted to different field devices and communication protocols, while the wireless communications device can be positioned for optimal signal transmission without requiring complete redesign of the entire system for each protocol or location.
2Ease of manufacture
If the wireless device is installed near the field device to omit conduit installation work, then installation cost is reduced, but stable wireless communications become difficult due to wave reflection and shielding from pipes and production facilities
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the wireless communications device from the interface module, the system allows the interface module to remain installed near the field device (maintaining low installation cost), while the wireless communications device can be positioned independently at locations optimized for wireless signal transmission, away from sources of wave reflection and shielding.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface module acts as an intermediary between the field device and the wireless communications device. It receives signals from the field device via wired connection and transmits them wirelessly, allowing the wireless communications device to be positioned remotely where signal conditions are better while still maintaining connection to the field device through the interface module.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an antenna is separated from the wireless communications device using an antenna cable, then the degree of freedom in installing the antenna is increased, but cable length is limited due to noise and loss effects
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the wireless communications device into two independent modules connected by a wired interface: the interface module and the wireless communications device. This segmentation provides installation flexibility similar to antenna separation, but without the limitations of antenna cables, as the wired connection between modules can use robust industrial communication cables that are less susceptible to noise and loss over longer distances.
Data Source
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AI summary
An interface module according to an aspect of the invention comprises an interface unit and a local communication unit. The interface unit, which is connected to a field device, receives a first radio signal from the field device. The local communication unit transmits the first signal to a radio module via a first local communication. The local communication unit receives, from the radio module via a second local communication, a second signal radio-transmitted from an external device, radio-received by the radio module and having been addressed to the field device. The interface unit outputs the second signal to the field device.