Wireless Field Linking Unit for Process Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Process control systems require costly and complex wired connections between field devices and control system components, limiting the ease and efficiency of initial installation and expansion.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for wireless communication between field devices and control system components, utilizing field linking units and system gateways that communicate using related or the same protocols, with optional encryption and intermediate nodes for redundancy and protocol conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections are used between field devices and control system components, then communication reliability is ensured, but installation cost and system complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system. Field linking units and system gateways establish communication links without physical wire connections, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining communication reliability through protocol conversion and error handling mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate nodes (field linking units and system gateways) that mediate between field devices and control system components. These intermediaries handle protocol conversion, signal processing, and communication management, enabling reliable wireless communication while simplifying the overall system architecture
2Stability of the object's composition
If wired connections are installed for each field device, then communication stability is maintained, but initial installation cost and expansion complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes physical wiring infrastructure with wireless communication infrastructure. This replacement eliminates the need for extensive cable installation and configuration while maintaining communication stability through robust wireless protocols and intermediate processing units that ensure data integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The field linking units and system gateways are designed as universal communication interfaces that can work with multiple field devices and control system components simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single wireless infrastructure to support numerous connections, reducing both installation cost and expansion complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for transferring a signal between a field device and a control system component includes a field linking unit and a system gateway. The field linking unit is electrically coupled to a field device, and a signal is transferred between the two using a first protocol. The system gateway is electrically connected to a control system component, and the signal is transferred between the two using a second protocol. The field linking unit and the system gateway communicate wirelessly. One of the field linking unit and the system gateway may encrypt the signal before sending, and the other may decrypt the signal upon receipt. The system may also include at least one intermediate node, and the field linking unit and the system gateway may communicate wirelessly via the intermediate node(s).