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US 6,397,322 B1Granted
Integrated intrinsically safe input-output module
AssigneeSchneider Automation Inc.
InventorRalph Thomas Voss
Life of this patent
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AssigneeSchneider Automation Inc.
InventorRalph Thomas Voss
Estimating the term…
A method and system for performing a task in an intrinsically safe environment using an intrinsically safe, integrated module located on the safe side to convey signals to and from a field device on the hazardous side. The integrated module is configurable in order to suit the electrical characteristics and requirements of the field device. Preferably, the integrated module is software configurable, in that the module can be configured by a command signal without using switches. Furthermore, the integrated module is configurable in order to control the field device in performing the task. The integrated module includes an input/output module which is electrically connected to the field device through a Zener barrier or a galvanic isolation barrier, and a power supply to power the field device through a Zener barrier.
An integrated module to be used in conjunction with a field device in an intrinsically safe environment having a safe side and a hazardous side, wherein the field device is located on the hazardous side while the integrated module is located on the safe side, said module comprising:
A method of conveying signals between a field device in a hazardous area and an associated input/output module in a safe area, wherein the field device has electrical requirements for performing an intended function, and wherein the associated input/output module comprises:
A system for performing a task in an intrinsically safe environment having a safe side and a hazardous side, said system comprising:
A method of performing a task by a field device in a hazardous area, wherein the field device has electrical requirements for performing the task and is connected to an associated intrinsically safe module located in a safe area for conveying signals between the field device and the module, and wherein the module comprises a power supply having a plurality of power settings to provide electrical power to the field device, and a control circuit operatively connected to the power supply, wherein the module is configurable so as to allow the control circuit to select the power setting of the power supply to meet the electrical requirements of the field device, said method comprising the step of sending a command signal to the module in order to configure the module.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.