Split-Converter Adapter Cable for Cross-Bus Data and Power Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for connecting different data bus systems require complex converters and extensive warehousing due to the variety of possible system combinations, and known adapters are mechanically unstable, necessitating frequent replacement when changing coupling configurations.

Innovation Solution

An adapter cable with divided conversion electronics in two components connected by a two- or multi-wire cable, featuring conversion units with microprocessors and DC converters, allowing for seamless data and power conversion between different communication systems, including physical sensors and data acquisition units, and storage for measurement data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complex converters are used to connect different data bus systems, then data and power conversion capability is improved, but device complexity and warehousing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata and power conversion capabilityVSAvoidconverter complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter cable is divided into two separate connecting elements (first and second), each with its own conversion unit. The first connecting element includes a first conversion unit with electronic components for converting signals from the first communication system, while the second connecting element includes a second conversion unit for the second communication system. This segmentation allows each unit to handle specific conversion tasks independently, reducing the complexity of any single converter while maintaining overall versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A cable with multiple conductors acts as an intermediary between the two conversion units, transmitting electrical or optical signals. This intermediary structure enables flexible connection between different communication systems without requiring a single complex converter to handle all conversion scenarios, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If rigid adapters are used for mechanical connection, then structural stability is improved, but mechanical stability and ease of replacement worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmechanical stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter cable employs detachable connectors that allow dynamic assembly and disassembly. The first and second connecting elements can be connected and disconnected from the cable, enabling flexible reconfiguration. This dynamic design maintains structural stability when connected while allowing easy replacement when configuration changes are needed, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and mechanical stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If standardized connecting elements are used across different communication systems, then ease of connection is improved, but adaptability to different system combinations worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of connectionVSAvoidsystem combination flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Each connecting element is designed with universal functionality to interface with different communication systems. The first connecting element can connect to systems using the first communication standard, while the second connecting element handles the second standard. This multi-functionality allows standardized connectors to adapt to various system combinations without sacrificing ease of connection or system flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4235981A1Adapter cable and method for operating electronic system components
Publication Date: 2023.08.30 TURCK HOLDING GMBH
  • EP4235981A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4235981A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4235981A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to an adapter cable for the power and data conducting connection of two electronic system components from two different communication systems, comprising two connecting elements which are connected to each other by a two- or multi-core connecting cable in a power and/or data conducting manner, wherein both connecting elements have a plug body, a contact element and a cable entry for the respective end of the connecting cable, wherein the first and second connecting element each have a conversion unit.The first conversion unit of the first connecting element is designed and includes corresponding first electronic components to perform a first part of the data and/or power conversion, and the second conversion unit of the second connecting element is designed analogously and includes corresponding further electronic components to perform a second part of the data and/or power conversion. Furthermore, the invention includes a method for operating electronic system components from two different communication systems, wherein the aforementioned adapter cable is used as a connecting element.