SPE Device Adapter for Protocol Conversion and PoDL Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-Ethernet-capable field devices, such as IO-Link-based devices, cannot be easily connected to Ethernet-based process control systems using Single-Pair Ethernet (SPE) technology, which requires a two-wire Ethernet cable for both data exchange and power supply.
Innovation Solution
An SPE-based device adapter with multiple communication interfaces and conversion devices to convert between non-Ethernet communication protocols and Ethernet data frames, utilizing Power Over Data Line (PoDL) technology for power supply, enabling connection of non-Ethernet field devices to Ethernet systems via two-wire cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional four-wire or eight-wire Ethernet cables are used to connect non-Ethernet-capable field devices, then reliable communication is achieved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data communication and power supply functions into a single two-wire Ethernet cable connection. The SPE interface merges previously separate data lines and power lines into one integrated cable, reducing the number of wires from four or eight to just two while maintaining reliable communication and power delivery to field devices
Solution Approach 2:
The two-wire Ethernet cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides both data communication and power supply to the field device. This multi-functional cable replaces traditional separate connections, simplifying the overall system while ensuring reliable operation of non-Ethernet-capable devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If protocol conversion devices are added to enable non-Ethernet field devices to communicate over Ethernet, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device adapter acts as an intermediary between non-Ethernet field devices and the Ethernet network. It contains protocol conversion functionality that translates field device protocols into Ethernet protocols, enabling seamless communication while keeping the adapter's internal complexity manageable through standardized conversion mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The device adapter performs automatic protocol detection and conversion without requiring manual configuration or intervention. The adapter self-configures to handle the specific field device protocol being connected, reducing operational complexity while maintaining broad protocol compatibility
3Reliability
If separate power supply connections are provided for field devices, then power reliability is improved, but installation simplicity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply connection is merged with the data communication cable. The same two-wire Ethernet cable that carries data also delivers power to the field device, eliminating the need for separate power connections and simplifying installation while maintaining reliable power delivery through PoDL technology
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
Facilitates simple, cost-effective integration of non-Ethernet field devices into Ethernet-based process control systems, enhancing flexibility and scalability while providing power to the adapter through the Ethernet cable.
Implementation Method 1
SPE technology not only enables data exchange but also power supply to the connected network devices, a process known as Power Over Data Line (PoDL)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an SPE-based device adapter (10) for connecting a non-ethernet-compatible field device (20, 30) to an ethernet-based process control system (1), comprising: a first SPE-based communications interface (11), which is designed for transmitting and receiving ethernet data frames via a two-core ethernet line (40); a second communications interface (12), which is designed for transmitting and receiving data, according to a first communication protocol, to and from a non-ethernet-compatible field device (20), wherein the first communication protocol is not an ethernet-based communication protocol; and a first conversion unit (15), which is designed to convert data received via the second communications interface (12) into ethernet data frames for transmission via the first SPE-based communications interface (11), and to convert ethernet data frames received via the first SPE-based communications interface (11) into data for transmission via the second communications interface (12) according to the first communication protocol.