Versatile SIL2 Detector With Dual Outputs And Test Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety detectors with SIL2 or higher levels face challenges in diagnosing faults on outputs and cables, requiring integrated diagnostic modules, limited compatibility with logic processing units, and the need for multiple detector variants to monitor presence or absence effectively.
Innovation Solution
A versatile safety detector with two outputs (NO and NC types) and a cyclic test input, using a comparison module and power supply module with a capacitor to maintain voltage during testing, compatible with M12 connectors, allowing for redundancy and adaptability to different processing unit configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a detector is equipped with two NO outputs and an integrated diagnostic module to diagnose output failures, then the reliability of fault detection is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for integrated diagnostic modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a test input signal as an intermediary that allows external testing of the detector's outputs without requiring complex integrated diagnostic modules. The test signal is applied to the power supply terminal and routed through the detection circuitry to the outputs, enabling fault detection via an external testing mechanism rather than internal diagnostics.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic function is extracted from the detector itself and moved to an external testing mechanism. By providing a test input terminal that accepts external test signals, the detector allows fault diagnosis to be performed externally, removing the need for complex integrated diagnostic modules while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If a detector provides a cyclic test input for output monitoring, then the reliability of fault detection is improved, but the loss of time increases due to periodic testing cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic testing through a cyclic test input signal that is applied at regular intervals to monitor the detector's outputs. This periodic action ensures reliable fault detection while allowing normal operation to continue between test cycles, balancing reliability with operational continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector maintains continuous monitoring capability by quickly executing test cycles and returning to normal operation. The test input signal is applied in brief periodic intervals, allowing the useful detection function to continue operating continuously with minimal interruption, thus reducing the effective loss of time while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a detector uses an M12 connector with four connection terminals for power supply and outputs, then the ease of manufacture and standardization is improved, but the adaptability for different configuration modes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality with the M12 connector by assigning multiple functions to the available terminals. The four terminals are used for power supply (V+, V-), test input, and output signals, allowing the same connector to support different configuration modes (presence detection, absence detection, fault monitoring) without requiring additional connectors or terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector configuration is dynamically adaptable through software or circuit switching that reconfigures the terminal assignments based on the required operating mode. The same physical M12 connector can be reconfigured to support different detection modes and output types, providing flexibility despite the fixed connector structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient fault detection on outputs and cables while maintaining compatibility with standard connectors, enhancing the safety integrity level and reducing the need for additional variants, thus overcoming previous limitations.
Implementation Method 1
the detector comprises a power supply module comprising a capacitor arranged to charge in normal operation and to discharge while maintaining a supply voltage sufficient for the correct operation of the detector during the test of the outputs
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4D
AI summary
The invention relates to a detector (D1) including: a detection stage (1) connected to a sensor member (10), to be used for generating a detection signal; a first power supply terminal (A1) and a second power supply terminal (A2); a first output terminal (01) connected to a first output; a second output terminal (02) connected to a second output; a processing stage (12) for processing the detection signal and controlling the first output and the second output based on the received detection signal; a test module (MT) connected to the first power supply terminal (A1) or the second power supply terminal and configured to receive a test input signal (S_test) from the first power supply terminal or the second power supply terminal, wherein said test module is configured to generate an output signal (Sig) configured to place each output in a predetermined state that can be interpreted by an external logical processing unit (2).