DE102012102517A1 - Field device housing - Google Patents

Abstract

Field device housing (10) for a field device of process automation technology, wherein the housing (10) has a housing cover (1) and a housing base part (2), wherein the housing cover (1) is connectable to the housing base part (2), wherein the housing cover (1) a first electronic unit, and the housing base part (2) has a second electronic unit, wherein in the housing cover (1) and the housing base part (2) corresponding transformer modules (7, 8, 9) are provided, which serve a wireless energy and Data transmission between the first electronic unit and the second electronic unit perform, wherein the first electronic unit comprises a display unit (AE), which display unit (AE) for displaying over the corresponding transformer modules (7, 8, 9) transmitted data, wherein the power supply of the housing cover (1), in particular the first electronic unit of the housing cover (1), exclusively via the corresponding transformer modules (7, 8, 9) between the housing cover (1) and the housing base part (2).

Description

The invention relates to a field device housing for a field device of process automation technology. Furthermore, the invention relates to a field device of the process automation technology with such a field device housing. The invention further relates to a housing cover or a display unit for a field device or a field device housing. Furthermore, the invention relates to a housing base part for a field device or a field device housing.

From the prior art it has become known to equip field devices of process automation technology with RFID chips. For example, the published patent application DE 10 2008 030 315 A1 a modular field device, which consists of several components, each component is associated with an RFID chip. There, the information deposited on the RFID chips is read out by a reader arranged on the main electronics in order to carry out a compatibility check of the components. The components are, for example, a display module, an input or output module, a sensor or electronic module, a process connection or a sensor.

In addition to the retrieval of data stored statically in the RFID chip, it is for example from the published patent application DE 10 2008 054 829 A1 It has become known to also read out measurement signals via an RFID chip or RFID transponder and also to supply sensors exclusively with energy via an RFID transponder.

It has also become known from the prior art to operate a field device via operating elements provided on a housing cover of the field device. Furthermore, field devices have become known, which have a housing cover with a display unit integrated therein. The display unit is connected via a cable to the operating electronics of the field device. Consequently, transmission of energy as well as data between the display and operating unit and the operating electronics of the field device can take place via this cable connection. Such housing cover are usually connected via a thread with multiple threads on the field device or the housing base part of the field device. However, such an installation has proven to be extremely error-prone. In particular, because it can come to a twisting of the cable due to the screwing of the housing cover.

Furthermore, housing covers have become known from the prior art, which have a display and / or operating element, wherein the display and / or operating element is movably mounted relative to the housing cover in the housing cover. Depending on the installation position of the field device, the display unit u. U. difficult to read.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome these disadvantages.

The object is achieved by a field device housing, a field device, a housing cover or a display unit, and a housing base part.

With regard to the field device housing, the object is achieved by a field device housing for a field device of the process automation technology according to claim 1.

The housing of a field device is usually used to protect an operating electronics or a sensor of the field device from disturbing environmental influences, as they usually occur in a system of process automation. The operating electronics are usually introduced into the field device housing within the housing base part through an opening in the housing base part, which opening can be closed by the housing cover.

The first electronic unit, which is part of the housing cover and preferably integrated in the housing cover, can be a display unit, on which measurement data recorded by a sensor of the field device is displayed. On the display unit, other field device data such as parameters of the field device can be displayed. In the second electronic unit, which is housed in the housing base part, it may be the mentioned operating electronics of the field device. By means of the operating electronics, for example, a measurement signal recorded by a sensor can be pre-processed and / or further processed.

According to the invention, provision is made for providing corresponding transformer modules in the housing cover and the housing base part, which serve to carry out a wireless energy and / or data transmission between the first electronic unit and the second electronic unit. The data transmitted via these corresponding transformer modules data can be displayed for example on the display unit. Furthermore, it is also possible, via an operating element provided on the housing cover, to transmit information relating to the operation of the field device from the housing cover to the second electronic unit, which is preferably the operating electronics of the field device. For example. can be made on the control panel on the housing cover settings on the field device by z. B. parameters of Field device can be set or changed via inputs on the control. In addition, it is provided that the power supply of the housing cover, in particular the first electronic unit of the housing cover takes place exclusively via the corresponding transformer modules. These transformer modules, which are respectively connected to the first and second electronic unit, can serve for unidirectional energy and data transmission between the housing base part and the housing cover. In this case, unidirectional energy and / or data transmission can take place from the housing base part to the housing cover or from the housing cover to the housing base part. Furthermore, the transformer modules can serve for bidirectional energy and / or data transmission between the housing base part and the housing cover. Thus, a wireless connection for the transmission of energy and data between the housing cover and the housing base part is possible.

Housing cover and housing base part may, for example, at least partially made of a metal or a metal alloy or alternatively consist of a plastic.

In one embodiment of the field device housing, the housing cover has at least one input element, and the corresponding transformer modules serve to transmit inputs made via the input element from the housing cover to the housing base part. The input element may be particularly preferably a control element in the form of a key or a switch. It is also possible that the input element is an interface for data transmission, such as, for example, a plug-in contact. By way of such an interface provided on the housing cover, data transmission via the housing cover to the second electronic unit arranged in the housing base part, which is preferably the operating electronics of the field device, can then take place.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the corresponding transmitter modules are modules operating according to the transponder principle, such as modules operating according to the RFID standard and / or the NFC standard, for example.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the corresponding transformer modules consist of at least one transformer module pair, i. H. a first and a second transformer module. The first transformer module can be attached to the housing cover, for example, and the second transformer module to the housing base part. The transmitter module pair is preferably a reader module and a transponder module. The read module can be used to read the transponder module. For this purpose, the reading module can, for example, build up an electrical and / or magnetic field which is disturbed by the transponder module in such a way that data transmission takes place by means of the disturbances caused by the transponder module. The electrical and / or magnetic energy of the electric and / or magnetic field generated by the reading module can also be used to supply the power to the first electronic unit.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the housing base part has at least one first transformer module and the housing cover has at least one second transformer module. As already mentioned, the first transmitter module may be a read module and the second transmitter module may be a transponder module. Furthermore, it is also possible to mount a read module on the housing cover and a transponder module on the housing base part. In addition, corresponding transformer modules, which serve for bidirectional energy and / or data transmission, may be provided on the housing cover and the housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the housing cover can be connected to the housing base part via a multi-threaded screw thread. The housing cover may preferably serve to close an opening in the housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the first and the second transmitter module, which are preferably at least one transponder or read module, serve for orientation, for example based on the signal strength of a signal transmitted between the read and transponder module, of the housing cover relative to the housing base part to determine. For example, based on the first transmitter module and the second transmitter module, a passage of the first transmitter module past the second transmitter module can be used to determine a number of revolutions of the housing cover in the screw thread.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the display unit is movably arranged in particular rotatable relative to the housing cover. Furthermore, at least one first transfer module is mounted on the display unit, wherein at least one second transfer module preferably at least two second transfer modules are mounted on the housing base part, and wherein the at least one first transfer module and the at least one second transfer module thereto serve to determine the orientation of the display unit relative to the housing base part. Based on the orientation of the display unit relative to the housing base part, an alignment of the display shown on the display unit can take place. The orientation of a display displayed on the display unit can be carried out continuously depending on the orientation or in steps of a predetermined degree. Thus, a representation of a display on the display unit adapted to the installation position of the field device is possible. The display unit may be an LCD or LED display for this purpose. The determination of the orientation is required in particular in the case in which, for example, the screw thread does not provide a defined stop for the housing cover and therefore there is an indefinite orientation of the housing cover relative to the housing base part with each installation of the housing cover with the housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, a first and a second read module are arranged at an angle α to an axis of symmetry of the housing cover or of the display unit on the housing base part. The axis of symmetry of the housing cover is preferably a rotation axis of the housing cover or of the display unit about which the housing cover or the display unit is rotated when screwed to the housing base part. Because of this, offset by an angle α arrangement of the first and second read module, a position, d. H. Orientation of the housing cover or the display unit relative to the housing base part in particular be clearly determined. The determination of the orientation can be determined, for example, based on the transit time (s) and / or signal strengths (s) of the signals received by the first and second read modules from the transponder module.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, a tilt or bearing sensor is provided, which serves to determine the inclination or position of the field device housing, wherein the tilt or bearing sensor for aligning the display shown on the display unit is used relative to the inclination or position of the field device. The determined by the tilt or position sensor inclination or position of the field device housing and determined by the first and second transformer module orientation of the display unit relative to the housing base part can be used together to align the display shown on the display unit. This tilt or position sensor is preferably arranged on the housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the housing cover serves to close an opening in the housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, a passage of the first transfer module past the second transfer module for determining a number of revolutions of the housing cover in the screw thread is determined based on the first transfer module and the second transfer module.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the corresponding transformer modules are used for unidirectional energy and / or data transmission between the housing base part and the housing cover.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the corresponding transformer modules serve for bidirectional energy and / or data transmission between the housing base part and the housing cover.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, an insert, in particular pot-shaped or trough-shaped, insert, which can be introduced into the opening of the housing base part, and to close the opening in the housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the insert serves to generate a further housing space demarcated from the interior of the housing formed by the housing base part between the housing cover and the interior of the housing.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the housing cover, which can be connected to the housing base part above the insert, serves to mechanically bias the insert.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the second electronic unit is arranged in the housing base part, wherein the housing base part, the second electronic unit disposed therein completely surrounds the environment, wherein the housing cover is attached to this completely closed housing base part.

In a further embodiment of the field device housing, the housing cover serves to be at least partially introduced into a depression, such as, for example, a blind hole, of the housing base part.

With regard to the field device, the object is achieved by a field device of the process automation technology with a field device housing according to one of the aforementioned embodiments.

With regard to the housing cover or the display unit, the object is achieved by a housing cover or a display unit for a field device solved with a field device housing according to one of the aforementioned embodiments.

With regard to the housing base part, the object is achieved by a housing base part for a field device or field device housing according to one of the aforementioned embodiments.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the following drawings. It shows:

1 : an exploded view of a field device housing,

2 a schematic representation of a section through a field device housing, and

3a and 3b a schematic representation of a housing base part and a housing cover, and

4 : a schematic representation of the installation position of a field device in a plant of process automation technology.

1 shows a schematic representation of a field device housing 10 consisting essentially of a housing base part and a housing cover.

The housing cover 1 has a display unit AE and is a screw thread 3 with the housing base part 2 connectable. Furthermore, sealing rings 6 provided to the inner space of the field device housing 10 seal.

The housing base part 2 serves to accommodate an operating electronics, not shown. Furthermore, the housing base part 2 a process or sensor connection 4 on, over which the housing base part 2 connected to a process and / or can be connected to a sensor.

On the housing base part 2 is also a cable connection 5 , which is for the connection of the housing base part 2 with a cable. The cable may be a two-wire line via which the field device can be connected to a higher-order unit. The field device, ie the operating electronics of the field device, can be supplied with energy via this cable connection.

2 shows a cross section through a field device housing 10 gem. 1 , with one on the housing base part 2 screwed housing cover 1 ,

3a shows a schematic representation of Gehäusebasisteils 2 in a supervision. Here are in the housing base part 2 two transmission modules 7 . 8th , which are read modules, arranged. These transmission modules 7 . 8th are in a designated housing neck portion of the housing base part 2 arranged. The housing neck has a multi-start thread on its outside 3 on, for fixing the housing cover 1 serves. The transmission modules 7 . 8th , in this the reading modules, are gem. the embodiment in 3a arranged on the inside of the housing neck. However, it is also possible the transmission modules 7 . 8th ie the readers, at a different location on the housing base 2 to arrange. The symmetry axis of the housing base part 2 is marked with S. Concerning. This symmetry axis is the transmission modules 7 . 8th , which are preferably read modules, spaced apart at an angle α. The transmission modules 7 . 8th , ie the read modules, are with the operating electronics, not shown, in the housing base part 2 is arranged, connected.

3b shows a housing cover 1 in a supervision. This housing cover 1 is with the housing base part 2 out 3a connectable. For this purpose, it preferably has on its inside an internal thread 3 on, with the external thread of the housing base part 2 can be engaged.

The symmetry and rotation axis of the housing cover 1 is also marked with S. The housing cover 1 also has a transmission module 9 preferably in the form of a transponder.

About the corresponding transmission modules 7 . 8th . 9 can the housing cover 1 , ie the display unit AE and / or operating unit of the housing cover 1 to be energized. Furthermore, it is possible the transmission modules 7 . 8th . 9 to use to exchange data between the case cover 1 and the housing base part 2 , More precisely, the operating electronics and the display unit AE and / or operating unit to allow.

Furthermore, the orientation of the housing cover 1 relative to the housing base part 2 by means of the corresponding transformer modules 7 . 8th . 9 be determined. This orientation can be used to make an indication displayed on the display unit AE easy to read for a user, ie substantially perpendicular to the floor on which the user is standing. Such display units AE which allow rotation of the display have become known from the prior art. The display unit AE can be, for example, a touchscreen in which inputs can be made via the display unit AE itself, so that rotation of the operating elements X, Y, Z can also take place as a function of the orientation of the display unit AE facilitated operation of the field device to make.

4 shows a schematic representation of a plant A of process automation technology in which a field device is inserted into a pipeline. At the in 4 The field device shown is a flowmeter that has a field device housing 10 with an on-site display / control unit AE has. Due to the vertical installation position of the flow meter would be in 4 shown display of a conventional display unit rotated by 90 ° counterclockwise. By the proposed field device or field device housing 10 and the determination of the orientation of the display unit and / or the position of the field device, the display shown on the display unit AE can be easily read, ie substantially perpendicular to the floor B, so that the display is easily readable for a user. For this purpose, for example, a position sensor, not shown, in the housing base part 2 be integrated. Due to the orientation of the display unit AE and the position of the field device housing 10 can then be made an orientation of the display on the display unit AE.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

housing cover

2

Housing base part

3

screw thread

4

Process connection / sensor connection

5

cable

6

seal

7

Transmission module (read module)

8th

Transmission module (read module)

9

Transmission module (transponder)

10

Field device housing

A

investment

AE

display unit

B

ground

S

axis of symmetry

X, Y, Z

controls

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102008030315 A1 [0002]
• DE 102008054829 A1 [0003]

Claims (13)

Field device housing ( 10 ) for a field device of process automation technology, wherein the housing ( 10 ) a housing cover ( 1 ) and a housing base part ( 2 ), wherein the housing cover ( 1 ) with the housing base part ( 2 ) is connectable, wherein the housing cover ( 1 ) has a first electronic unit, and the housing base part ( 2 ) has a second electronic unit, wherein in the housing cover ( 1 ) and the housing base part ( 2 ) corresponding transformer modules ( 7 . 8th . 9 ), which serve to carry out a wireless energy and data transmission between the first electronic unit and the second electronic unit, wherein the first electronic unit comprises a display unit (AE), which display unit (AE) for displaying via the corresponding transformer modules ( 7 . 8th . 9 ), whereby the power supply of the housing cover ( 1 ), in particular the first electronic unit of the housing cover ( 1 ), exclusively via the corresponding transformer modules ( 7 . 8th . 9 ) between the housing cover ( 1 ) and the housing base part ( 2 ) he follows. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to claim 1, wherein the housing cover ( 1 ) at least one input element, particularly preferably at least one operating element (X; Y; Z), wherein the corresponding transformer modules ( 7 . 8th . 9 ) serve, via the input element made inputs from the housing cover ( 1 ) to the housing base part ( 2 ) transferred to. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein it is in the corresponding transformer modules ( 7 . 8th . 9 ) to gem. the transponder principle working modules, particularly preferably gem. the RFID standard and / or the NFC standard. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the corresponding transformer modules ( 7 . 8th . 9 ) consist of at least one transformer module pair, ie a first and a second transmitter module, the transmitter module pair preferably consisting of a read module ( 7 . 8th ) and a transponder module ( 9 ), which read module ( 7 . 8th ) for reading the transponder module ( 9 ) serves. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing base part ( 2 ) at least a first transformer module ( 7 . 8th ), particularly preferably at least one reading module, and wherein the housing cover ( 1 ) at least one second transmitter module ( 9 ), particularly preferably at least one transponder module. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing cover ( 1 ) and the housing base part ( 2 ) via a multi-thread screw thread ( 3 ) are connectable to each other. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transponder module ( 9 ) and the reading module ( 7 . 8th ) are used, an orientation, for example. Based on the signal strength of a between reading and transponder module ( 7 . 8th . 9 ) transmitted signal, the housing cover ( 1 ) relative to the housing base part ( 2 ). Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display unit (AE) movable, in particular rotatable, relative to the housing cover ( 1 ), and wherein at least one first transmitter module ( 9 ) is attached to the display unit, wherein at least one second transmitter module ( 7 . 8th ), preferably at least two second transformer modules ( 7 . 8th ), on the housing base part ( 2 ), and wherein the at least one first transmitter module ( 9 ) and the at least one second transmitter module ( 7 . 8th ) serve the orientation of the display unit (AE) relative to the housing base part ( 2 ), wherein based on the orientation of the display unit (AE) relative to the housing base part ( 2 ) an orientation of the display unit (AE) displayed on the basis of the orientation of the display unit (AE) relative to the housing base part ( 2 ) he follows. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a first reading module ( 7 ) and a second read module ( 8th ) at an angle α to an axis of symmetry (S) of the housing cover ( 1 ) or the display unit (AE), preferably a rotational axis of the housing cover ( 1 ) or the display unit, about which axis of rotation of the housing cover ( 1 ) or the display unit (AE) when screwed to the housing base part ( 2 ) is rotated on the housing base part ( 2 ) are arranged. Field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a tilt or position sensor is provided, which is used to determine the inclination or position of the field device housing ( 10 ), in particular of the housing base part ( 2 ), wherein the tilt or position sensor further for aligning the on the Display unit (AE) displayed relative to the inclination or position of the field device housing ( 10 ), in particular by rotation of the display on the display unit (AE) based on the inclination or position of the field device housing ( 10 ), serves. Field device of process automation technology with a field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims. Housing cover ( 1 ) or display unit (AE) for a field device or a field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of claims 1 to 10. Housing base part ( 2 ) for a field device or field device housing ( 10 ) according to one of claims 1 to 10.

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