Universal I/O Channel Routing for Redundant Field Device Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
High reliability redundant designs for input/output devices in industrial applications are costly due to the need for multiple channels connected to the same types of field devices, leading to increased complexity and expense.
Innovation Solution
A configurable input/output device with a plurality of input/output terminals, a routing module, and a universal input/output channel that controls connections and signal sequences, allowing various types of field devices to share the same channel, reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple I/O channels are connected to the same types of field devices for reliable data acquisition, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal I/O channel that can be dynamically configured to connect to different types of field devices through a routing module. This single channel performs multiple functions by sequentially connecting to various devices, replacing the need for dedicated I/O channels for each device type. The routing module directs signals between the universal channel and different field devices, enabling one channel to serve multiple purposes while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple dedicated I/O channels into a single universal I/O channel that shares the connection resources among different field devices. By combining the functions of multiple channels into one shared resource with intelligent routing, the system reduces the total number of physical channels needed while maintaining the ability to communicate with all field devices, thereby reducing complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If multiple I/O channels are connected to the same types of field devices for reliable data acquisition, then redundant design is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal I/O channel with routing capability provides redundant communication paths to field devices without requiring duplicate physical channels for each device. The system can route signals through the universal channel to different devices sequentially, providing redundant access and failover capability while using a single physical channel, thereby reducing the quantity of physical components needed and lowering cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of multiple I/O channels through software-controlled routing logic rather than physical duplication. The routing module implements virtual channel assignments that allow the universal channel to behave as if multiple dedicated channels exist, providing redundant design functionality without the cost of physical channel multiplication.
3Reliability
If multiple dedicated I/O channels are used for different field devices, then connection reliability is improved, but circuit design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The routing module serves as an intermediary between the universal I/O channel and multiple field devices. It manages the connections and signal routing, isolating the complexity of managing multiple device connections from the universal channel itself. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of switching and routing while presenting a simplified interface to both the channel and the field devices, reducing overall circuit design complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable input/output device includes a plurality of input/output terminals, a routing module, and a first universal input/output channel. The input/output terminals are connected a plurality of field devices. The input/output terminals receive a plurality of input signals from the field devices, and output a plurality of output signals to the field devices. At least two of the input signals are different, at least two of the output signals are different, and at least two the field devices are different. The routing module is connected to the input/output terminals. The first universal input/output channel is connected to the routing module. The routing module controls connections between the first universal input/output channel and the input/output terminals. The routing module also controls the transceiving sequence for the input signals and the output signals.