Series Module Z-Chain Supply Lines for Modular Control Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular control arrangements lack a simple and effective means to ensure safety-related operation of electric consumers, particularly in scenarios where multiple series modules are interconnected, requiring complex configurations to manage supply voltages and control signals.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a series module with at least three supply lines and a bus communication line, where one supply line is used for ground potential and the others for signal voltage, allowing for safe operation and shutdown of electric consumers by providing a control voltage or signal, and enabling Z-chaining of supply lines for interchangeable module configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple supply lines are used to provide supply voltage to electric consumers in modular control arrangements, then the supply voltage can be provided reliably, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple connection lines and complex configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the supply function by providing at least two different supply voltages through different supply lines (first supply line for first supply voltage, second supply line for second supply voltage). This segmentation allows independent control of different consumer groups while maintaining reliability. The series module architecture divides the control arrangement into interchangeable modular units, each with its own consumer interface and supply line connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The series module is designed as a universal building block that can be interconnected in series to form control arrangements of any size and configuration. Each series module contains both a consumer interface for electric consumers and a connection interface for linking to other modules, making it a multi-functional unit that combines power distribution, control, and system expansion capabilities in a single standardized component.
2Reliability
If safety-related operation is implemented in modular control arrangements, then operational safety is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary safety actions by providing a third supply line that is coupled to the consumer interface in addition to the normal supply lines. This third supply line can be used to provide control voltages or signals that enable safety-related shutdown functions. The safety mechanism is pre-configured into the series module architecture, allowing safety functions to be activated without adding complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The series module itself acts as an intermediary device between the control system and the electric consumers. It contains the consumer interface that directly connects to consumers and the connection interface that links to other modules, mediating all control and power signals. This intermediary architecture simplifies safety implementation by centralizing control functions within the modular units rather than requiring complex distributed control mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different supply voltages are provided to different groups of series modules, then independent control of consumer groups is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control arrangement into multiple groups of series modules, where each group is supplied by dedicated supply lines (first supply lines for first group, second supply lines for second group). This segmentation enables independent voltage application and control to different consumer groups. Each series module is manufactured as a standardized unit with predefined connection interfaces, ensuring consistent voltage distribution across the system without requiring high precision in individual module variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The series modules are designed as homogeneous standardized units with identical consumer interfaces and connection interfaces. This homogeneity ensures that each module responds predictably to voltage applications, simplifying the control logic for providing different supply voltages to different groups. The uniform architecture across all modules reduces manufacturing variability and ensures consistent electrical characteristics throughout the system.
Data Source
AI summary
A series module for a modularly configured control arrangement, with a module housing having a first series interface, a first bus interface, a second series interface and a second bus interface. A bus communication line is formed between the first bus interface and the second bus interface and at least three supply lines are formed between the first series interface and the second series interface, wherein a connecting contact is assigned to two of the supply lines in each case in order to form a consumer interface, which is configured to connect an electric consumer, and wherein at least one connecting contact coupled to the consumer interface is assigned to the third supply line and/or the bus communication line in each case.