Valve Module Integrated Switching Outputs Reduce Wiring Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve modules require complex wiring and separate control signals for additional switching devices, such as clamping or braking mechanisms, which complicates the control of fluid-technical working devices like pneumatic cylinders.
Innovation Solution
A valve module with integrated switching outputs that can generate or receive safety switching signals, allowing direct control of connected devices, and includes a local control device and sensor arrangement for parameterization and fault detection, reducing the need for separate cables and complex wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional switching devices are connected to the higher-level controller via separate lines, then the switching devices can be controlled, but the wiring complexity and control signal complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into the valve module by integrating switching outputs directly into it. The valve module now controls both the working device (via working connections) and switching devices (via switching outputs) from a single location, eliminating the need for separate control lines to the higher-level controller and reducing wiring complexity while maintaining full control capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional switching devices are connected to the higher-level controller, then the switching devices can be controlled, but separate control signals must be generated
Solution Approach 1:
The valve module integrates multiple control functions including working device control and switching device control into a single unit. This consolidation allows the valve module to generate and manage all necessary control signals locally, eliminating the need for the higher-level controller to generate separate control signals for switching devices, thereby reducing control signal complexity while preserving full control functionality
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a fluid power valve module (13a) with a supply connection (24) for supplying fluid, and with at least one fluid power valve (38), in particular pneumatic, controllable via a control interface (36) of the valve module (13a) for controlling a fluid power working device (12a) via working ports (20a, 21a) based on the supplied fluid. The valve module (13a) is provided to have at least one switching output (52a) integrated into its housing (26) for outputting a switching signal (54) for switching a switching device (49a) for influencing, in particular deactivating, the working device (12a).