Field Adapter Architecture for Wireless HART Retrofitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing field devices designed for exclusive wire-bound data transfer lack the capability for wireless communication, limiting their ability to transmit data wirelessly to databases or mobile control units.
Innovation Solution
A field device adapter with an adapter electronics unit that includes a HART modem and a wireless module, allowing for the conversion of two-wire signals to UART signals and vice versa, and providing independent supply circuits for the HART modem and wireless module, enabling wireless data transfer using protocols like Bluetooth, 6LoWPAN, WirelessHART, or 6TiSCH.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing field devices are used with exclusive wire-bound data transfer, then compatibility with existing two-wire systems is maintained, but wireless data communication capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a field device adapter as an intermediary component that connects between the existing two-wire field device and the wireless communication system. The adapter contains a HART modem for receiving signals from the two-wire line and a wireless module for transmitting data wirelessly, thereby enabling wireless communication without modifying the original field device.
Solution Approach 2:
The field device adapter is designed to be universally compatible with various two-wire field devices by implementing the HART protocol standard. It can work with different types of field devices (sensors, actuators, etc.) that use two-wire connections, providing a universal solution for adding wireless capability to existing devices.
2Reliability
If a single supply circuit is used for both HART modem and wireless module, then device complexity is reduced, but reliable independent power supply for both modules cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into two independent supply circuits: a first supply circuit dedicated to powering the HART modem and a second supply circuit dedicated to powering the wireless module. This segmentation ensures that each communication module has its own reliable power source, preventing power interference and ensuring stable operation of both modules simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If field devices are retrofitted for wireless communication, then wireless data transfer capability is enabled, but existing two-wire system compatibility must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The field device adapter is designed as a nested structure that can be inserted into or attached to the existing field device housing. The adapter contains all necessary components (HART modem, wireless module, supply circuits, EMC protection) in a compact form factor that integrates with the original device, allowing retrofitted wireless capability without replacing the entire field device.
Data Source
AI summary
A field device adapter for wireless data transfer, comprises at least: an adapter housing; an adapter electronics unit arranged in the adapter housing, the adapter electronics unit comprising a first supply circuit, which is introduced into the first connection line, for providing a first supply voltage from a loop current flowing in the first connection line, and a second supply circuit, which is introduced into the second connection line, for providing a second supply voltage from the loop current flowing in the second connection line, wherein the adapter electronics unit further comprises a HART modem and a wireless module with an antenna for transmitting and/or receiving, and the adapter electronics unit is configured such that the first supply circuit supplies the HART modem with the first supply voltage, and the second supply circuit supplies the wireless module with the second supply voltage.