Universal Connection Module for Multi-Protocol Transducer Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of supporting multiple transducer types in drive control devices and amplifiers leads to increased hardware and software complexity, requiring multiple interfaces and manual configuration, which is costly and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
A universal connection module with configurable data transmission means and a control matrix allows for flexible integration of various measured value converters, reducing hardware complexity and enabling easy software reconfiguration to support multiple transducer types with a single mechanical interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transducer types are supported in drive control devices, then the versatility and adaptability improve, but the hardware and software complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal interface design where a single connection module can handle multiple transducer types (encoders, resolvers, frequency converters) through configurable data transmission means. The connection means includes electrical connections that can be configured via control signals to adapt to different transducer protocols, eliminating the need for separate dedicated interfaces for each transducer type.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection means incorporates dynamic configurability through control signals that can change the operational mode of the data transmission means. This allows the same hardware interface to dynamically adapt its behavior based on the detected transducer type, enabling flexible switching between different communication protocols and data formats without physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interfaces are provided for different transducer types, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple dedicated interfaces into a single universal connection module. This module contains configurable data transmission means that can be programmed to support various transducer protocols, reducing the number of physical interfaces from multiple dedicated connections to one multi-functional interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate interfaces (for incremental encoders, absolute value encoders, resolvers, and frequency converters) into a single integrated connection means. This consolidation combines the electrical connections, data transmission capabilities, and configuration controls into one unified interface structure.
3Measurement precision
If manual configuration is required for each transducer type, then the measurement precision can be optimized, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic transducer detection and configuration capabilities. The control device automatically detects the connected transducer type through the configurable connection means and configures the appropriate communication parameters without requiring manual intervention. This self-configuration process maintains measurement precision while eliminating manual setup efforts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control device queries the connected transducer to identify its type and capabilities. Based on this feedback information, the system automatically adjusts the data transmission parameters and configuration settings to optimize measurement accuracy for the specific transducer type connected.
Data Source
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AI summary
\The evaluation arrangement (10) has an evaluation unit (13) and a connecting unit (18) for connecting the estimation unit to a transducer (12). The connecting unit comprises mechanical connection units (11,14,15,16,17a,17b), which are partially configured in electrical manner, such that a connection of the estimation value is realized in transducer differently relative to the measuring value transmission. An independent claim is included for a method for operating an evaluation arrangement.