Wireless Fieldbus Converter for Automation Network Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fieldbus systems in technical automation installations are vulnerable to disturbances, which can affect the entire network, and lack efficient means for accessing installation management information from peripheral devices connected via analog interfaces or HART communication, requiring costly and complex multiplexer solutions and additional wiring for power supply.
Innovation Solution
A communication system with a converter that enables wireless communication between peripheral devices and a central control device, while maintaining a cable-based connection to the central device, allowing for decoupled communication systems and reducing the need for additional space and power wiring, and enabling access to installation management information without disrupting the central controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If field devices are galvanically connected to the field bus network, then data transmission is enabled, but disturbances affect the entire network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the field bus network into multiple independent segments using wireless communication. Each field device or group of devices communicates wirelessly with the control system, creating isolated communication channels. This segmentation prevents disturbances from propagating across the entire network, as each wireless connection is independent and localized.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between field devices and the control system. Instead of direct galvanic connections, wireless signals act as mediators that transmit data without creating galvanic loops. This intermediary layer isolates field devices from each other electrically while maintaining data communication.
2Loss of information
If multiplexer solutions are installed in the communication path, then installation management information is provided, but connection disruption and documentation effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the field devices themselves multi-functional by enabling them to provide both process control data and installation management information through their wireless communication capability. Field devices can simultaneously serve process control functions and asset management functions without requiring separate multiplexer hardware, eliminating the need for additional components in the communication path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the installation management information function from the communication path infrastructure and integrates it directly into the field devices. Instead of using separate multiplexers to extract and route management information, each field device independently provides its own management information wirelessly, removing the need for intermediate extraction components.
3Device complexity
If wireless communication is used for sensor signals, then cable supply lines are eliminated, but power supply becomes dependent on batteries or solar cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply function with the existing process control infrastructure. Field devices continue to receive power through the same cable connections used for process control, while wireless communication handles data transmission. This combination eliminates the need for separate power supply systems like batteries or solar cells, maintaining reliability while achieving wireless data communication.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a communication system for interchanging data in an automation system for communication between central and peripheral devices. A converter is connected into the communication path between the central devices and peripheral devices and being designed for line-bound communication with the central device and for wireless communication with the peripheral devices.