DE102006017243B4 - Transceiver for wireless transmission of field device signals - Google Patents

Abstract

A transceiver for wireless transmission of a field device signal, comprising: a radio interface (204, 205) for wireless communication; a field device interface (201, 202, 206) for exchanging the field device signal; wherein the radio interface (204, 205) and the field device interface (201, 202, 206) are coupled such that the field device signal is convertible between the radio interface (204, 205) and the field device interface (201, 202, 206); The field device interface (201, 202, 206) is designed such that a field device-specific function can be provided in a first operating state, so that the transceiver (R, T, D) has a field device (100, 500, 505) via the field device interface , 600, 601, 602, 604) can be coupled; the field device interface (201, 202, 206) being designed such that an evaluation device-specific function can be provided in a second operating state, so that the transceiver (R, T, D) can be coupled to an evaluation device via the field device interface; the operating state for the transceiver (R, T, D) can be specified so that by ...

Description

The present invention relates to metrology. More particularly, the present invention relates to a transceiver for wireless transmission of field device signals, a wireless transceiver assembly, and a method for wireless transmission of field device signals.

Field device signals are signals provided by a field device, a sensor or a meter. In a field device signal, results of measurements, ie measured values, are packed or coded. In the field of measurement and control technology, as well as the process-processing systems, where sensors or actuators are connected to a controller or an evaluation device, today increasingly digitally communicating devices are used. Fieldbuses such as HART ^® Bus, Profibus or Fieldbus Foundation are used for the communication between these devices.

The wiring of the participating devices designed this may be difficult if z. B. obstacles, such as river courses or the like are overcome. Also, existing wiring is difficult to change once it is installed. Likewise, a necessary extension of a measuring arrangement can cause problems since permanently installed bus systems usually specify the installation locations of field devices. This applies in particular to cabling using conduits. The wiring of the evaluation devices and field devices can be complicated and expensive in complicated geographic structures or widely separated field devices, measuring devices, sensors or actuators. In addition, wiring is not flexible with respect to changes.

The publication EP 1 293 853 A1 discloses a radio module for field devices, which consists of a transmitting and receiving unit for radio signals, a communication unit which is connectable to a field device and an intermediate converter unit which converts the radio signals into field device signals or field device signals into radio signals.

From the EP 1 211 582 A1 is a method for independent commissioning of a device for controlling and / or regulating process variables known to be operated via a communication means input / output modules for field devices.

Further, the DE 198 10 350 A1 a field device of the type of protection of flameproof enclosure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a simple transmission of measured values.

Accordingly, a transceiver for wireless transmission of field device signals, a wireless transceiver assembly, and a method for wireless transmission of field device signals is provided.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver for wireless transmission of a field device signal is provided. The transceiver has a radio interface for wireless communication and a field device interface for connection to a field device or for connection to an evaluation device. The transceiver is configured to convert a field device signal, that is to say a measured value or a control command, between the radio interface and the field device interface, the transceiver and in particular the field device interface being designed to provide a field device-specific function at the field device interface in a first operating state. The transceiver and in particular the field device interface is also designed to provide an evaluation device-specific function in a second operating state at the field device interface. The operating state in which the transceiver is located, is predefinable.

If the transceiver or transceiver performs a field device specific function, the transceiver may be coupled to the field device via the field device interface. In this case, the transceiver can perform functions such as querying the field device or stimulating the field device to perform a measurement.

When carrying out an evaluation device-specific function, the transceiver device can be connected to an evaluation device or the transceiver device can itself also provide a measured value at a field device interface.

According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a wireless measured value transmission arrangement is specified with a first transceiver and a second transceiver. In this wireless measured value transmission arrangement, the first transceiver is in a first operating state and the second transceiver is in a second operating state. In this case, the wireless measured value transmission arrangement is set up to provide a field device signal recorded at the field device interface of the first transceiver at the field device interface of the second transceiver.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method for wireless transmission of field device signals by means of a transceiver is provided. In the method, a first operating state is initially adopted by the transceiver or a second operating state is assumed, a field device-specific function being provided in the first operating state at a field device interface, and an evaluation device-specific function being provided in the second operating state on a field device-specific interface becomes. The field device signal is converted between a radio interface and the field device interface.

The distinction between a first operating state and a second operating state may allow a transceiver device to allow the transceiver to assume different roles in a measurement transmission arrangement without having to use different devices. This means that based on the same hardware platform with only one device type, the wireless transmission of readings can be realized. The operating state which the transceiver assumes can be predefinable. However, the desired operating state can also be detected, for example, by means of a field device connected to the transceiver or a connected evaluation device. For this purpose, the transceiver can have a recognition device, which allows to recognize the type of a connected device. The detection can be done by exchanging a corresponding signal with a coding.

Accordingly, a transceiver can be used flexibly. In most cases, a flow direction for measured values during the measured value transmission can be specified. The flow of a measured value or of a field device signal can take place in the direction from the field device to an evaluation device. An evaluation device can be a device which is designed to control a field device and to further process or output received measurement values.

During a measurement, the evaluation device can control the field device. Despite the signal flow from the field device to the evaluation device, which is related to the measured value, bidirectional data exchange can take place between the evaluation device and the field device in order, for example, to excite the field device to a measurement and to receive a measured value. This bidirectional data exchange can also be used to communicate by means of commands and responses to commands.

If the communication between the field device and the evaluation device is wireless, it may be necessary to convert a field device interface and in particular field device signals into radio signals for transmission by means of a radio interface. Since, based on the measured value transmission direction, transmission of the measured values from a field device in the direction of an evaluation device can take place, it may be necessary for wireless transmission to distinguish between a field device side transceiver and an evaluation device side transceiver.

Relative to the measured value exchange, the fel device-side transceiver may designate the wireless transmitting device and the evaluator-side transceiver the wireless receiving device. The field device side transceiver can be connected to the field device and for controlling the field device, the transmitting device can provide field device specific functions. In this case, functions that control the field device are to be understood as field-device-specific functions. For example, the functions that instruct a field device to generate a measured value, but also functions that record the measured value determined by the field device.

On the receiving side, ie in the evaluation device side transceiver, other, namely evaluation device specific functions can be performed. Among the evaluation device-specific functions can be understood here, for example, functions that serve to provide a measured value.

In other words, this means that a wireless transmitting device is designed to control sensors and record measured values and to adapt these measured values or field device signals to the transmission over the air interface. On the other hand, the wireless receiving device can be designed to receive a radio signal and to unpack a field device signal packed in the radio signal and in turn provide this to an evaluation device.

A field device can also be an actuator which receives a signal from an evaluation device, wherein in the case of an actuator the signal flow takes place in a direction opposite to that in the flow direction during the acquisition of the measured value. Consequently, in the case of control of an actuator, the signal flow from an evaluation device to the field device or actuator take place.

However, both in the case of measured value recording and the control of an actuator, between the field device-side transceiver and the transmitter side transmitter Receiving device take place a bidirectional communication with respect to the exchange of control commands.

For wireless transmission, wireless protocols such as WLAN (Wireless LAN), Bluetooth or Zigbee can be used. The transceiver can be understood as a gateway for converting the field device interface in the radio interface. Whether the transceiver is used on the evaluation device side or whether the transceiver is used on the field device side can be determined by selecting the operating state. Therefore, a different functionality can be provided with the same hardware platform when connected to the field device or when connected to the evaluation device. Alternatively, the transceiver can also be used as a wireless display device. A wireless display device may be a wireless receiver with a display / control device.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver is specified, wherein the field device signal of the field device interface of the transceiver is a fieldbus signal. The field device signal may be part of the group of field bus comprising a HART ^® signal, a Profibus signal, a Fieldbus Foundation signal, a 4 ... 20 mA signal, an I ² C signal and a switching signal.

I ² C, I2C or IIC (for Integrated Circuit) is a serial bus for computer systems. It can be used to connect low-speed devices to an embedded system or motherboard.

The HART ^® protocol (Highway Adressible remote transmitter) can be described as an open master slave protocol for bus-addressable field devices in particular. It can implement a method of transmitting data using Frequency Shift Keying (FSK), based on the 4 to 20 mA process signal, to enable remote configuration and diagnostic checks. A HART ^® interface of the HART ^® protocol can be used as two-wire bus with integrated power supply be (active) formed or four-wire bus with separate power supply (passive). A HART ^® signal that conforms to the HART ^® protocol is a digital signal for transmitting measured values. The digital HART ^® signal is modulated onto a 4 ... 20 mA signal. Consequently, the digital signal can be transmitted in parallel to the analogue 4 ... 20 mA signal. If such parallel transfer of analog and digital signals instead of only one field device may be connected to a HART ^® bus.

On the other hand, up to 15 digital field devices can be connected to a HART ^® bus in a so-called multi-drop mode. The analogue current is essentially set to 4 mA. The field devices exchange a digitally coded signal in multi-drop mode. The digital signal is a frequency modulated signal and the frequency modulated signal can occupy the two frequencies 1200 Hz and 2200 Hz.

Both I2C and HART ^® are suitable as protocol for communication with a field device, eg. B. with a level gauge or with a pressure gauge.

For the purposes of this application, field devices may be any type of measuring device, for example level measuring devices, pressure measuring devices, limit level measuring devices or temperature measuring devices, to name just a few examples. To capture different physical effects can be exploited. The data acquisition can be done with the help of radar beams, ultrasound, vibration, guided microwave (TDR, Time Domain Reflexion) or capacitive effects.

The variable provision of different field device signal interfaces makes it possible to work together with different evaluation devices or different field devices or display devices. An evaluation device or a field device can be connected to the field device interface of the transceiver. The fieldbus signals that are provided at the field device interfaces can be converted into radio signals in the transceiver and thus transmitted over the air, ie wirelessly.

It can be made possible by the wireless transmission by means of an evaluator-side and a field device-side transceiver, a connection that is wired over a field bus to disconnect and thus replace the wired transmission by wireless transmission.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the field device interface is formed as an internal interface.

For example, in a display device, a function for detecting the display values may be performed in the transceiver. In this case, the determined value to be displayed can be provided via the internal field device interface in the transceiver to a display / control device integrated in the transceiver. So It may also be possible to display a measured value received via radio at the transceiver via an I ² C interface. The use as a display device may be another adjustable operating state of a transceiver.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver in which the radio interface is formed as an antenna. The antenna has a predeterminable antenna characteristic.

By means of a predeterminable antenna characteristic, the transmission behavior of a radio interface can be adapted. A predeterminable antenna characteristic can be effected, for example, by means of an antenna array, wherein the antenna characteristic can be electronically controlled. It can thus be blasted, for example, targeted in a particular direction. As a result, the range of a radio signal can be increased. By means of a predeterminable antenna characteristic it can also be made possible to create so-called radio cells, which means that areas in which different radio frequencies are used can be separated from one another. This can be achieved that small cells are created, and thus more bandwidth can be provided on a total area.

Furthermore, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver is provided in which the radio interface has a power limiting device.

The radio interface can be realized by means of a radio module. Due to legal requirements, it may be necessary to reduce the transmission power of a radio module. In addition, it may be necessary to reduce the transmission power of a radio interface in order to avoid overreach and interference between different radio modules. The power limitation can be specified. By means of a predefinable power limitation, the transmission power of a transceiver can be adjusted without using a different hardware.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver is provided, wherein the radio interface is configured to operate at a predeterminable frequency of 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz. By the predetermined frequency can be switched between different frequencies. As a result, the transceiver can also be flexibly adapted to comply with legal requirements. Radio transmission technologies, such as WLAN or Bluetooth, for example, use the so-called ISM (industrial, scientific and medical band) band for transmitting data. The ISM band can be used license-free for industrial, scientific or medical applications. The 2.4 GHz band is released worldwide for industrial, scientific or medical applications.

This ISM band can also z. B. use cordless phones or baby monitors. Although there may be restrictions on the transmission power to be maintained and the interference of adjacent frequencies, transmission noise of the many devices operating in this band may occur within the free ISM band. These errors may make it necessary to repeat transmitted information. Thus, there may be delays in transmission.

According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transceiver device can be parameterized by means of a detachable operating device or display device.

The display / operator may provide a man-machine interface for the transceiver. Via the display / operating device, a user can parameterize the transceiver or display received values. For example, it is also possible to switch over between the operating states of the transceiver via the display / control device.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver is provided, wherein the transceiver is switchable between a master function and a slave function.

A master function can instruct a field device connected to the field device interface via the field device interface to provide measured values. A wireless transmitting device or a field device-side transceiver configured as a master can thus instruct a connected sensor or a connected field device to start measuring and to provide a measured value.

If, on the other hand, a transceiver accepts a slave function, then the transceiver can control an evaluation device connected to the field device interface via the field device interface. Thus, a transceiver may be instructed to poll a field device. By taking a Slave function, a transceiver can simulate a transparent fieldbus compared to an evaluation device. In other words, this means that the transceiver can serve as a receiving device or evaluator-side transceiver to an evaluation, the transceiver is a field device.

A request of an evaluation device to an evaluation device side transceiver can trigger a function in the transceiver, which brings the transceiver to query a remote field device. As a result of this query, the transceiver returns a value to the evaluation unit.

Since there may be delays due to the radio transmission, which takes place between the transceiver and the field device, a proprietary field device protocol adapted to this delay can be used between the evaluation device and the transceiver.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver, the transceiver comprising a remote interface device having a plurality of field device interfaces. The remote interface device can be coupled to the transceiver by means of one of the plurality of field device interfaces of the remote interface device. At least one of the plurality of field device interfaces of the remote interface device is configured to provide a field device final of a remote field device.

Transceivers connected to field devices can provide the field device signals via the radio interface. In this case, for example, a plurality of field devices can be connected to a transceiver which has correspondingly many field device interfaces, or several transceivers can also communicate in the field with an analyzer-side transceiver. The evaluation device-side transceiver can forward the signals of the field devices to the remote interface device via only a single interface. The remote interface device may provide the signals of the plurality of field devices to each of the plurality of field device interfaces. This makes it possible to provide the signals from several field devices to a single transceiver, which few transceivers must be used to query several field devices can.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver with a modular housing, the modular housing having a head housing module and a socket housing module. The socket housing module is configured to provide a field device interface, and the socket housing module is coupleable to the head housing module.

Because of the coupling between the head housing module and the base housing module, for example, a same function for several transceivers can be accommodated in the head housing module, whereas different field device interfaces for different applications can be provided via the dockable base housing module. The transceivers can thus be easily manufactured. In addition, a transceiver can be extended and retrofitting with various field device interfaces can also be enabled.

Thus, while maintaining a basic functionality, the field device interfaces are interchangeable and consequently, if required, a plurality of field device interfaces can be provided via a single base housing module. On the other hand, it may also be desirable to provide only a single field device interface for a single field device.

The basic function, namely the interrogation of the one or more field device interfaces and the conversion into a radio protocol, can be the same for all transceivers, regardless of the number of interfaces to be operated.

By means of a removable and replaceable base housing module but can also be attached to a head housing module, a bottom plate, which does not provide an interface, however, which serves to attach the transceiver. The use of a bottom plate as a base housing module may be desirable when using the transceiver as a display device.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver is provided wherein the interface provided by the socket housing module is configured as a connector for a two-wire field device. A connection for a two-wire field device may have, for example, two terminals for connecting a two-wire connection. A two-wire field device can be supplied with power via this two-wire connection.

The characteristic as a two-wire connection may be an exemplary physical expression of Represent field device interface. Although signals transmitted via this interface may differ physically from physically designed physical field device interfaces, the contents may correspond to the signals transmitted via the field device interfaces. As a result, an adaptation to the physical conditions of a field device interface can take place in the base housing module, whereas, for example, basic function accommodated in the head housing module can be identical for all different physical characteristics of the field device interfaces. Relative to a layer model developed for the representation of protocols, functions of the physical adaptation layer can be accommodated in the base housing module.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the interface provided by the socket housing module may be configured as a terminal for a four-wire field device. A four wire connection may have four terminals, allowing separate transmission of field device signals and power supply signals. For the power supply two terminals can be provided and for the communication, i. H. for data transmission, two additional terminals of the four terminals can be provided.

However, a transceiver can also have only two terminals for connecting a four-wire device to the transceiver because the four-wire device can be powered by an external power or power supply. Compared to the two terminals of a two-wire system, the two terminals of the four-wire device can differ in that there is no power supply via the terminals of the four-wire device.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver in which the socket housing module provides an interface for the connection of a digital switch.

An interface for a switch may include, for example, an optocoupler, whereby a galvanic isolation of a switching input can be made. The switching signal can be converted into a radio signal in the transceiver, in particular in a circuit accommodated in the base housing module, and then transmitted via the air interface. At the evaluation device, in particular at the remote interface device, the state of a connected switch can be queried by the radio signal is received and evaluated.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver with a socket housing module, wherein the socket housing module is configured to provide an interface for connection of a 4 ... 20 mA device. A 4 ... 20 mA device can be a measuring device that provides an analogue measured value. The 4 ... 20 mA device connection can also be used to transmit an analogue measured value or a percentage value wirelessly.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver with a socket housing module, wherein the socket housing module is configured to determine and adjust the operating state of the transceiver.

In the base housing module, for example, a coding for identifying the base housing module may be provided, which can be queried by the transceiver in a coupling with the housing head module. The type of interface provided by the socket housing module can be automatically recognized by the transceiver. Thus, the transceiver can adapt to the interface provided by the socket housing module and the transceiver can adjust its operating condition accordingly.

Consequently, it can also be determined by means of the base housing module whether the transceiver is currently being used as a wireless transmitting device, ie as a field device-side transceiver, or as a wireless receiving device, ie as a transceiver-side transceiver. In addition to the automatic switching, the switching of the operating state can also be done manually, by a corresponding configuration of the transceiver.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver, wherein the pedestal housing module is configured to determine a type of transceiver depending on the provided interface.

The type of the transceiver can be set between a wireless receiving device, a wireless transmitting device or a display device. The transceiver can also detect the number of connected field devices and also the type of connected field devices. So it can be determined whether, for example, a HART ^® field device, a 4 ... 20 mA field device or a switch is connected to the transceiver. This allows the transceiver to adapt to the particular interfaces provided and the function or type that the transceiver is to adopt.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a transceiver whose modular head housing module has an antenna. Via the antenna, which can be arranged externally or internally on the head housing module, the radio transmission can take place.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the antenna may be threadably attachable to the head housing module. This allows the antenna to be easily installed or uninstalled.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the antenna can be screwed to the head housing module by means of an M20 x 1.5 or a ½ "NPT (National Pipe Thread) fitting.

In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a transceiver is provided wherein the field device interface is adapted to connect a conduit.

A conduit is a mostly metallic sheath of a wire connection. A conduit can protect a bus from mechanical influences.

According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transceiver has a power supply, wherein the power supply is configured to provide power to a field device connected via the field device interface.

By means of a power supply in the transceiver with which a field device, for example a two-wire field device, can be supplied with energy, an autonomous use of a transceiver with a field device can take place. Consequently, can be dispensed with a separate power supply in the field device. The power supply can be done for example via a photocell in the transceiver or another regenerative energy source.

On the other hand, in the transceiver a power supply for conversion and power supply of the field device or sensor may be present. The energy or power generated by this power supply can be transmitted via the two-wire connection together with useful signals. In a four-wire system, this energy is transmitted via separate lines, separated from the useful signals.

Previously, many embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to the transceiver. These embodiments also apply correspondingly to the wireless measured value transmission arrangement and the method for the wireless transmission of field signals.

In the following, further exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with regard to the wireless measured value transmission arrangement and the method for the wireless transmission of field device signals. These embodiments also apply to the transceiver.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a wireless communication transmission arrangement further comprising a third transceiver configured as described above, and wherein the measurement arrangement comprises a remote interface device having a plurality of field device interfaces. In this case, the third transceiver is in the first operating state and the remote interface device can be coupled by means of a first field device interface of the plurality of field device interfaces to the second transceiver.

A second field device interface of the remote interface device is configured to provide a measured value recorded via the field device interface coupled to the second transceiver of the first transceiver. A third field device interface of the remote interface device is designed to provide a measured value recorded at the field device interface of the third transceiver.

It is therefore possible to provide the measured values which are recorded on locally separate measuring devices on a single remote interface device. Although the meters are connected to the first transceiver as well as the third transceiver, the meters can be provided to a remote interface device. However, the provision of the measured values can again take place on separate field device interfaces of the remote interface device.

The communication of the remote interface device with the second transceiver can also be done via a proprietary field device interface of the remote interface device. Thus, the remote interface device can provide a standard field device protocol at the field device interfaces, whereas the remote interface device can use a proprietary field device interface protocol to communicate with the transceiver.

In the following, advantageous embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the figures.

1 shows a wired Meßwertübertragungsanordnung according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

2 FIG. 10 shows a wireless measurement transmission arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

3 shows a wireless Meßwertübertragungsanordnung with an evaluation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

4 FIG. 10 shows a wireless measurement transmission arrangement with a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

5 FIG. 12 shows two parallel wireless measurement transmission arrangements according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

6 FIG. 10 illustrates a wireless multi-party transmit communication transmission arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

7 shows a transceiver in a plastic housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

8th shows a transceiver with a display / operating device in a plastic housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

9 shows a transceiver with bottom plate in a plastic housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

10 shows a transceiver in an aluminum housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

11 shows a transceiver with a display / operating device in an aluminum housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

12 shows a transceiver with bottom plate in an aluminum housing an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

13 shows a socket housing module with a connection for a two-wire field device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

14 shows a multi-port socket housing module for field devices according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

15 shows an arrangement for parameterizing a transceiver according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

16 FIG. 12 is an overview block diagram of a transceiver according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

17 FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a transceiver according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

18 shows a perspective view of an antenna according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

19 shows a side view of a fastener for an antenna according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

20 shows a sectional view of a fastener for an antenna according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

21 shows a message format of a proprietary transmission protocol according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

22 shows a transceiver that is looped into an analog bus connection, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The illustrations in the figures are schematic and not to scale. In the following description of the 1 to 21 the same reference numbers are used for the same or corresponding elements.

1 shows a wired Meßwertübertragungsanordnung according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Here is the field device 100 , Measuring device 100 , Sensor 100 or actor 100 over the bus 101 , in particular via the fieldbus 101 , with the evaluation unit 102 or control unit 102 connected. The from the sensor 100 generated measured values are wired to the evaluation unit 102 transmitted. When transmitting between sensor 100 and evaluation unit 102 over the bus 101 a distinction can be made between an analog transmission and a digital transmission. An analog transmission can be done for example by means of a 4 ... 20 mA signal. A digital broadcast or digital communication can take place by means of a field bus protocol, such as HART ^® -Profibus, Fieldbus Foundation.

As in 2 shown, it is possible by means of a transceiver according to the invention, the wired bus 101 disconnect and through a wireless connection 200 to replace. In addition come in 2 two transceivers T and R are used. The two transceivers T and R are based on the same hardware platform, which however is used in different configurations or in different operating states.

On the field device side, ie on the one with the field device 100 connected side, the transceiver is used in the configuration as a wireless transmitter (transmitter). In the following, a field device side transceiver with the name T will be marked.

On the evaluation device side, the transceiver is used in the configuration or in the operating state as a wireless receiving device (receiver). An evaluation device-side transceiver is to be identified in the following with the letter R.

In the 2 is not an evaluation device drawn because 2 represents the simple case of the separation of an analog field device bus. For this, the wireless transmitter T communicates via HART ^® protocol over the connection 201 with the sensor 100 , Using the HART ^® protocol, it is possible to use the HART ^® standard via the compound 201 transmit analog current value in parallel with the digital information, because a single field device to the HART ^® bus is connected. For the in 2 However, in the case illustrated, it is first assumed that the connection 201 an analogue 4 ... 20 mA current value is exchanged with the wireless transmitting device T.

The of the transmitting device T via the analog connection 201 recorded analog measured values are converted into a radio protocol and as radio signals via the radio interface 200 transmitted to the wireless receiving device R. The wireless receiving device R converts the received radio signals back into analog measured values and provides them as a 4 ... 20 mA signal on the connection 202 an evaluation device or a programmable logic controller (PLC) for processing available.

With reference to the measured value transport, a signal flow takes place 2 from the sensor 100 , which receives the measured value, via the wireless transmitter T to the wireless receiving device R to the output 202 or to the field device interface 202 instead of. In the field device 100 It may also be an actuator instead of a sensor, in which case the signal flow in the reverse direction, ie of the connection 202 via the wireless receiving device R, the wireless radio link 200 , the wireless transmitter T and the connection 201 to the actor 100 takes place. Thus, operations of the actuator can be controlled.

Despite the direction given by the measured value flow from a sensor 100 to the connection 202 For example, bidirectional communication for exchanging control signals may take place between the wireless transmitter and the wireless receiver R. By means of in 2 shown measured value transmission arrangement, the wireless transmission of an analogue 4 ... 20 mA signal is possible. The wireless transmitter T and the wireless receiver R can be considered in this deployment as a gateway for wireless communication. In this case, the wireless transmission device T converts a field device interface 203 into the radio interface 204 and the wireless receiving device R converts the radio interface 205 into the field device interface 206 around, at the connection 202 connected.

3 shows a wireless Meßwertübertragungsanordnung with an evaluation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Also by means of in 3 arrangement shown can be a fieldbus 101 disconnect and through a wireless communication 200 replace. The sensor 100 is about the HART ^® - connection 201 connected to the wireless transmitting device T. For those in the 3 illustrated HART ^® compound 201 should now be accepted digital communication.

In the 3 shown transmitting device T has next to the HART ^® interface 201 additionally a purely analog field device interface 300 in the form of a 4 ... 20 mA interface and also two digital interfaces 301 for switching signals. These additional field device interfaces can be provided by replacing a connection module or socket housing module of the wireless transmission device T. At the HART ^® interface 201 can be standard HART ^® sensors 100 connect. The HART ^® interface communicates digitally with a connected field device. At the analog connection 300 or the analog field device interface 300 4 ... 20 mA devices can be connected. The digital inputs 301 are intended for the connection of digital switches, such as limit switches or alarm switches.

The over the interfaces or connections 201 . 300 and 301 received signals, such as measured values are converted by the transmitting device T in a radio protocol and the radio link 200 wirelessly forwarded to the wireless receiving device R. From the receiving device, the signals are passed through a proprietary protocol to the evaluation. Consequently, the sensor can 100 be operated as if it were directly connected to the evaluation or the evaluation device. The evaluation device is a device that is capable of measuring values from a field device 100 to query and display the received measurements again. The communication between the sensor 100 and the evaluation takes place here on a "nested Communicaion", ie the HART ^® protocol telegrams are packed into the wireless protocol.

At the receiving device R is on the connection 302 the data collector S or the evaluation or control unit S connected. The connection between the wireless receiving device R and the data collector S can take place via a standard ^HART® protocol 302. However, it may also be desirable to make adjustments to the HART ^® protocol for communication between S and R, so that between the wireless receiver R and the data collector S a proprietary communication protocol 302 expires. This proprietary communication protocol may be based on the HART ^® protocol and appropriate adjustments, such as adjusting a time behavior or timing behavior, characteristics of the wireless transmission 200 consider.

The data collector S represents a remote interface device S. The remote interface device S can have a plurality of field device interfaces 303 exhibit. The data collector S has, for example, three analogue 4 ... 20 mA interfaces 303 and three switch interfaces 303 on. The interfaces 303 are usually switched as outputs, since usually a communication of the measured values of the field device 100 to the data collector S takes place. When controlling an actuator 100 can the field device interfaces 303 However, also be designed as inputs to control signals from the data collector S to the actuator 100 forward.

In the data collector S or the remote interface device S, an association between the field device interfaces 303 and the field device side field device interfaces 201 . 300 and 301 respectively. Thus, any sensors can be 100 at the exits 303 represent and further process their signals accordingly. The data collector S can also have a display / operating device for displaying the measured values.

In addition, via the communication interface 304 an operation of the data collector done. The communication connection 304 can be designed as RS-232 interface or Ethernet interface. By means of the communication network 305 to which the data collector S is connected, a remote control of the data collector S can take place.

Digitally communicating HART ^® sensors, analogue 4 ... 20 mA sensors and limit switches can be connected to the wireless transmitter T.

4 shows a wireless Meßwertübertragungsanordnung with a display device. In 4 the taking of a measured value takes place by means of the sensor 100 , The measured value is transmitted via the HART ^® interface 201 transmitted to the wireless transmitting device T and via the radio interface 204 sent. The measured value is received by the wireless display device D and displayed on the display / control device 400 displayed on the wireless display device D is displayed. The wireless transmitter T, the wireless receiver R and the wireless display device D are based on the same hardware platform. By setting an operating state, this hardware platform can act as a wireless transmitting device T, a wireless receiving device R or a wireless indicating device D.

The wireless display device D essentially corresponds to a wireless receiving device R, in which the measured values do not have an external field device interface 302 . 206 or 202 provided externally, but via an internal field device interface, such as an I ² C interface to the display / control device 400 to get redirected. The hardware platform of the wireless transmitting device T, the wireless receiving device R and the wireless display device D has for this purpose the same I ² C sliding contacts on the display / operating device 400 can establish a connection to the internal bus.

Consequently, the use of a display / control device 400 in addition to the use of the wireless display device D in the wireless transmitter T and the wireless receiving device R possible. The wireless display device D can be used in the field as a display device for displaying measured values or for parameterizing field devices. Since an input option is desired for the parameterization, the display / operating device 400 Buttons as controls on which values can be entered.

5 FIG. 12 shows two parallel wireless measurement transmission arrangements according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. Since the transceivers R, T, D have an adjustable frequency, different transceivers R, T, D can be operated in parallel without interference. So can the radio transmission links 200 and 501 be decoupled from each other by using different frequencies. The frequency can also be switched during operation of the transceiver, whereby a so-called frequency hopping can be achieved. Here, different hopping sequences can be set, which are traversed in a particular order. Since the frequency sequences of the individual devices differ, it can be largely avoided that overlays of the same frequencies occur.

By means of alternating the frequencies, it is also possible to reduce the susceptibility to error of the radio transmission. For example, local circumstances can lead to the extinction of a certain frequency. By means of frequencies which change during the transmission, it is possible that only a few radio telegrams are disturbed by the frequency cancellation. However, these disturbed radio telegrams can be safely transmitted by a repeated transmission.

Consequently, at the same time providing the analog 4 ... 20 mA signal of the meter 505 at the exit 202 while at the display / control device 400 the indication of one over a HART ^® connection 502 recorded signal takes place. The wireless transmission devices T1 and T2 are both in the operating state, which distinguishes them as transmitting devices.

In addition, the wireless transmission devices T1 and T2 provide different field device interfaces. The wireless transmitter T1, for example, provides the analog 4 ... 20 mA signal connection 506 available via the analog measured values of the measuring sensor 505 be queried. By contrast, the transmitting device T2, for example, the HART ^® compound 502 available via which the measured values of the HART ^® sensor 500 be queried.

That the display / control device 400 is not limited to the representation of signals which have been provided over a HART ^® connector, showing 22 , This in 22 shown transceiver T was in the analog 4 ... 20 mA signal connection 2201 of an existing measuring system. In this configuration, the transceiver T behaves passively. In other words, this means that the transceiver T does not have its own power supply for the sensor 2200 having. The split analogue 4 ... 20 mA signal bus 2201 is on the sensor side with the passive 4 ... 20 mA signal input 2202 connected. The evaluation / supply unit 504 is via the 4 ... 20 mA signal bus 2201 with the passive 4 ... 20 mA signal output 2203 connected. The loop-through facility 2203 closes the analogue 4 ... 20 mA signal bus interrupted by the transceiver T. The loop-through facility 2201 also ensures that the measured values, via the analogue 4 ... 20 mA signal bus 2201 , from the sensor 2200 to the signal conditioning instrument 504 be sent, be packaged in a radio protocol and via the radio interface 2204 be transmitted to the wireless display device D. Finally, the received data is processed by the display device D and on the display / control device 400 shown.

6 shows a wireless metering arrangement with multiple subscribers. The wireless transmitter T3 connects the two HART ^® sensors 601 and 602 with the wireless receiver R. The HART ^® sensors 601 and 602 are in multidrop mode.

The wireless transmitter T4 wirelessly connects the analog sensor 604 with the receiving device R. The analogue sensor 604 communicates with the wireless transmitter T4 via the analog field device protocol 300 , which is designed as a 4 ... 20 mA signal.

The wireless transmitter T5 connects the HART ^® sensor 600 via the HART ^® connection 201 with the wireless transmitter T5.

The wireless transmitter T5 also provides the ability to connect to the analog port 300 to connect a 4 ... 20 mA sensor. In addition, to the two switching inputs 301 digital signalers, such as level limit switches or general limit switches are connected.

All via the radio interface 205 Radio signals received by the wireless receiving device R are converted by the wireless receiving device R into a field bus protocol and via the fieldbus connection 302 passed on to the data collector S bundled. In the data collector S, an assignment of individual measuring sensors takes place 600 . 601 . 604 and 602 . 300 and 301 to the corresponding output interfaces 303 , The data collector S can provide three analogue 4 ... 20 mA signals and at the same time three digital switching inputs. It can thus be at the outputs 303 the signals of the sensors 601 . 100 and 600 and the signals at the digital inputs 301 connected sensor can be displayed.

The assignment of the individual remote sensors or field device interfaces 300 . 301 . 600 . 601 . 602 . 604 to the field device interfaces 303 at the data collector S, can be done via the assignment by means of addresses. The wireless transmitter T3 represents the HART ^® bus 603 available, at the same time several sensors 601 and 602 are connected in multidrop_mode for digital communication. Every single one of the sensors 601 . 602 is an exit 303 clearly assignable.

7 shows a transceiver in a plastic housing according to an embodiment of the present invention. The transceiver R, T is designed as a wireless transmitting device T or wireless receiving device R. The operating state in which the transceiver R, T is located, for example, determined by a device-specific parameters.

The 7 shows the case 708 a wireless transmitter T or a wireless receiver R. The housing 708 has the head box module 700 and the socket housing module 701 on. The socket housing module shows the feeders 705 . 706 and 707 , where the feeder 707 is designed as a feeder for the 4 ... 20 mA signal connection to a field device interface and the feeder 706 is designed as a supply to the HART ^® connection, while the supply 705 is designed as a supply to the digital terminals or switching inputs. The head housing module 700 has the twist-off lid 702 on, with the inside of the head housing module is accessible.

On the head housing module 700 is also a connection 703 provided for a power supply and also is on the head housing module 700 the radio interface 704 or antenna 704 arranged. The antenna 704 is by means of an M20 × 1.5 709 or alternatively a ½ "NPT connection thread 709 on the head housing module 700 attached. The antenna 704 is by means of the screw connection 709 arranged at right angles to the housing and is by means of the hinge 1800 bendable up to an angle of substantially 90 °, so that the antenna 704 essentially parallel to the housing wall of the head housing module 700 runs.

The housing 708 is modular. The head housing module 700 and the socket housing module 701 let go to the case 708 so that the socket housing module is detachable from the head housing module. The base housing module 701 provides a physical interface for the head housing module, in particular for one in the head housing module 700 housed circuit, ready. Due to the base housing module 701 used interface or the setting of the circuit in the head housing module 700 , the operating state is determined thereby determining whether the transceiver 708 act as a transmitting device T or as a receiving device R.

In order to set the corresponding operating state, the base housing module can be coded such that the circuit in the head housing module recognizes the respectively connected base housing module and can thus independently or automatically set the respective operating state R, T.

8th shows a transceiver with a display / operating device in a plastic housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The use of a plastic housing allows the transceiver to be used 708 in an acid-contaminated environment. In other words, the plastic housing protects a circuit housed in the housing from influences that would act on the circuit by an acid-contaminated ambient air.

The construction of the housing essentially corresponds to that in FIG 7 illustrated housing. Unlike the in 7 shown housing has the head housing module 700 a connection housing or one opposite the lid 702 raised lid 800 on to the display / control device 801 take.

9 shows a transceiver with bottom plate in a plastic housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The head housing module 700 in turn corresponds to the head housing module for a wireless transmitter T and for a wireless receiver R. The in 9 shown housing is used with the arranged in the housing display / control device 801 the display of radio signals or the field device signals contained in the radio signals. With the bottom plate 900 can the head housing module 700 together with the raised lid 800 and the display / control device 801 be attached to a wall.

The bottom plate 900 does not provide any interfaces because the measured value is internally in the housing 708 is processed and the measured value thus does not have to be passed on to another external device. A control circuit of the transceiver can detect that the housing bottom plate 900 instead of an interface device 701 is mounted as a base housing module and the control circuit can put the transceiver in an operating state for displaying measured values or as a display device.

10 shows a transceiver in an aluminum housing. The head housing module 1000 Made of aluminum has a high mechanical strength.

The base housing module 701 corresponds to the base housing module of the plastic housing and is also made of plastic. The connection housing 701 or the socket housing module 701 can in turn be replaced and the head housing module 1000 provide different physical interfaces.

11 shows a transceiver with a display / operating device in an aluminum housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. To accommodate the display / control device 801 is also with the aluminum housing 1001 one opposite the lid 702 raised lid 1100 provided, which makes it possible, the display / control device 801 to operate on a transmitting device T and a receiving device R. The antenna 704 is with the screw connection 709 on the head housing module 1001 attached.

12 shows a transceiver with a bottom plate in an aluminum housing. The housing made of aluminum 1001 and the lid made of aluminum 1100 correspond to the case with the lid of the 11 , Since the transceiver D is only intended to display measured values, a base housing module has been dispensed with, and instead the bottom plate 900 on the head housing module 1001 appropriate.

13 shows a socket housing module with a connection for a two-wire field device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 13 shows a view of the bottom of a base housing module 701 , The base housing module 701 has the breakthroughs 705 . 706 and 707 through, for example, a connection cable can be inserted into the base housing module. The base housing module 701 make the connection 1300 to disposal. The connection 1300 It can be configured as an active HART ^® input or passive HART ^® input, as an active HART ^® output or as an active 4 ... 20 mA signal output.

The configuration of the connection 1300 can be done via an adjustment of the transceiver, but the configuration can also by means of an identifier or coding on the base housing module 701 be detected by the transceiver T, R, D. Due to the provided interface 1300 An operating state of the transceiver T, R, D can be set.

The connection 1300 has the terminals 1301 and 1302 on. The term clamp 1301 a positive terminal while the clamp 1302 denotes a negative terminal. Determining if the connection 1300 is configured as an input or output, in turn, depends on the operating state in which the transceiver is located.

14 shows a multi-port socket housing module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In 14 is also the bottom of a socket housing module 701 with the passages 705 . 706 and 707 to see. The base housing module has the connections 1400 . 1401 . 1402 and 1403 on. The connection 1400 is configurable as active analogue 4 ... 20 mA input or passive analogue 4 ... 20 mA input. The connection 1401 can be configured as an active input with digital communication or as a passive input with digital communication, as an active output with digital communication or as an active 4 ... 20 mA output. The data collector S can be connected to the active output with digital communication. A PLC can be connected to the active 4 ... 20 mA output. Opposite a sensor connected to the wireless transmitter T, the wireless transmitter T behaves like a master and waits for the response of the sensor configured as a slave.

The wireless receiving device R is arranged opposite the data collector S as a slave and responds to requests from the data collector S.

The connections 1400 and 1401 are intrinsically safe, which means that measures have been taken internally to meet requirements that allow sensors located in a hazardous area to be connected and operated at the transceiver T, R, D. For example, the one at the ports 1400 or 1401 occurring maximum short-circuit current limited.

To separate the intrinsically safe area from a non-intrinsically safe area is the partition wall 1404 intended. In the non-intrinsically safe area are the two digital inputs 1402 and 1403 arranged. The analog connection 1400 indicates the positive terminal 1400 ' and the negative terminal 1402 ' on. The connection 1401 indicates the positive terminal 1401 ' and the negative terminal 1401 '' on. The digital input 1402 , indicates the negative terminal 1402 '' and the positive terminal 1402 ' on.

The second digital input 1403 has the negative terminal 1403 '' and the positive terminal 1403 ' on. The terminals 1301 . 1302 . 1400 ' . 1400 '' . 1401 ' . 1,401 '' . 1402 ' . 1402 '' . 1403 ' and 1403 '' are designed as spring terminals for a cable diameter of 2.5 mm ² .

Due to the different configuration of a transceiver, in particular by the different operating states, different configurations of the connections can be made 1300 . 1400 . 1401 . 1402 and 1403 differ.

If the transceiver is configured as a wireless transceiver T, then the ports are 1300 . 1400 . 1401 . 1402 and 1403 configured as inputs. HART ^® compatible field sensors can be connected to a HART ^® input. With a HART ^® input, the active mode and the passive mode can be distinguished. The switching of the modes can be done, for example, by configuring a parameter, by setting the firmware or by determining the operating state. In active mode, both an input and an output are connected to the terminals 1300 . 1400 and 1401 the supply voltage for the operation of the connected sensors available. In the case of an active output, the transceiver R, T, D provides at the terminals 1300 . 1400 . 1401 a stream. In passive mode, sensors with their own power supply can be connected.

In other words, this means that in an active HART ^® input a two-wire sensor is connected, as a power supply voltage can be provided over the active input of the sensor. By contrast, the two-wire sensor delivers digital readings to the active input. An active 4 ... 20 mA signal input also provides a supply voltage for a sensor and the connected 4 ... 20 mA sensor sets a current that corresponds to the measured value. This can be measured by the transceiver T, for example via a measuring resistor.

A passive input, on the other hand, is an input that does not supply a supply voltage to a connected sensor. Consequently, a four-wire device can be connected to a passive HART ^® input, which is supplied from an external power supply. A passive 4 ... 20 mA input is used to determine an analog current that corresponds to a measured value. However, the passive 4 ... 20 mA input does not provide a supply voltage. This is provided for example by an external voltage source. The sensor uses the external voltage to set a current that can be measured with a measuring resistor in the transceiver T.

An active output of the transceiver R behaves like an active output of a sensor. In this case, an active output of a transceiver R has a voltage supply and drives a current corresponding to the measured value at the active output. The active output works as a power source.

A passive output provides an external power supply. Using the external power supply, a current is drawn through the passive output according to the measured value. The passive output works as a current sink.

In the operating state in which the transceiver operates as a wireless transmitting device T is a field device interface 1300 . 1400 . 1401 . 1402 . 1403 with a field device 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 . 602 . 604 connected. For communication with the field device 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 . 602 . 604 via a HART ^® bus 1300 . 1401 the wireless transmitter device operates as HART ^® master, wherein the wireless transmitting device can work both as the primary master and as a secondary master. A second master on the HART ^® bus may be allowed. The setting as HART ^® -Master also takes place by determining the current operating status.

As a HART ^® master, the wireless transmission device T is formed commands to field devices 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 . 602 . 604 and thus the field devices 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 and 602 query.

Up to three HART ^® sensors can be connected to one terminal 1300 or 1401 be connected. If three sensors are connected, the HART ^® addresses # 1, # 2 and # 3 are used. If only one sensor is connected, this sensor can 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 602 and 604 use the addresses # 0, # 1, # 2 or # 3. If several HART ^® sensors are connected, they will be connected in parallel with the connection terminal 1300 or 1401 connected.

The connection 1400 is configured as 4 ... 20 mA input. It is for the analog 4 ... 20 mA input 1400 also an active mode and a passive mode are allowed. In active mode is at the port 1400 a voltage is applied and the current flowing through a connected sensor is measured.

In passive mode, the wireless transmitter T becomes, for example, a circuit, as in FIG 22 is shown, looped and the current flowing through the wireless transmitter T current is measured to that of a sensor 2200 to get the measured value.

The switching of the transceiver R, T, D between active mode and passive mode can also be determined via a configuration, via a firmware setting or via the detection of the operating state or via the detection of the base housing module.

The wireless transmitter T also has the digital switch inputs 1402 and 1403 on. Any switches, such as float switches or relays, can be connected to these digital switching inputs. Limit switches with open collector can also be used, whereby the sensor requires its own power supply.

If the transceiver is the evaluation device side, ie operated in a second operating state or as a wireless receiving device R, so the interfaces 1300 and 1401 be configured as HART ^® output. The HART ^® outputs work here 1300 and 1401 as active HART ^® outputs, ie as power sources.

For communication with the at an output 1300 . 1401 connected to digital communication data collector S, the wireless receiving device R operates as a slave. In this case, find the communication between the data collector S and the wireless receiving device according to a proprietary protocol HART ^® -like instead. This means that the wireless receiving device R is formed on the HART interface ^® 302 . 1300 and 1401 Receive commands and process further to provide a measured value. However, these commands may differ from HART ^® commands.

Due to the fact that there may be delays in the response behavior because of the radio link, a proprietary protocol can be used between the connection of the wireless receiving device R and the data collector S. This can be a special timing due to delays on the radio link 200 Be taken into account. The protocol running between the wireless receiving device R and the data collector S on the link 302 may differ from the standard ^HART® protocol.

The connections 1300 . 1400 and 1401 can be configured as analog 4 ... 20 mA outputs when using the transceiver in the second operating state. It can therefore be connected directly to an evaluation unit or a programmable logic controller as a stand-alone device. A remote interface device is therefore no longer necessary to provide interfaces. The analog output 1300 . 1400 and 1401 can be connected to any passive analog input of an evaluation device.

Are the terminals 1300 . 1400 and 1401 configured as 4 ... 20 mA outputs, they work actively, ie as a current source. The at the power outlet 1300 . 1400 and 1401 a provided as a wireless receiving device R transceiver current is variable in the range 4 ... 20 mA. In this case, the wireless receiving device R determines the sensor value that is provided to it by the wireless transmitting device T available. This sensor value has occurred during a query of the sensor 100 through the wireless transmitter T. The sensor value is transmitted by the wireless transmitter T as a percentage in the range 0 ... 100% to the wireless receiving device R. In turn, R converts the received percentage value into a current value so that 0% corresponds to 4 mA output current and 100% corresponds to 20 mA output current. R represents the reconverted current value at its output 302 and in particular at the output terminals 1300 . 1400 and 1401 to disposal. Here, R behaves like a proxy, ie like a buffer for a measured value.

• • der letzte an dem Ausgang 302 angelegte Stromwert bleibt unverändert erhalten;
• • der an dem Ausgang 302 angelegte Stromwert nimmt einen Wert von 0 mA an;
• • der an dem Ausgang 302 angelegte Stromwert nimmt einen Wert von 20,5 mA an;
• • der an dem Ausgang 302 angelegte Stromwert nimmt einen Wert von 22 mA an;
• • der an dem Ausgang 302 angelegte Stromwert liegt bei einem Wert von 0% (beispielsweise 4 mA) oder bei einem Wert von 100% (beispielsweise 20 mA).

The behavior of the wireless receiving device R in case of failure is selectable. There are the following options:

• • the last one at the exit 302 applied current value remains unchanged;
• • the one at the exit 302 applied current value assumes a value of 0 mA;
• • the one at the exit 302 applied current value assumes a value of 20.5 mA;
• • the one at the exit 302 applied current value assumes a value of 22 mA;
• • the one at the exit 302 applied current value is at a value of 0% (for example 4 mA) or at a value of 100% (for example 20 mA).

15 shows an arrangement for parameterizing a transceiver according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. For parameterizing the transceiver R, D, T, in 15 through the head housing module 700 is shown, the parameterization 1500 which may be a PC, for example, over the connection 1501 , for example a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection, with a parameter adjustment device 1502 connected. The parameter adjustment device 1502 can be connected to the sliding contacts of the internal field device interface or the I ² C interface of the transceiver.

The display / operating device can also be parameterized 801 be used. For this purpose, a parameterization for a transceiver can be stored on a memory of the display operator. The display / control device 801 or parameterization device 801 is coupled to the transceiver. On the parameterization device 801 For example, the operating state or an address of one or more transceivers can be stored.

The parameterization device 801 can then be coupled to a transceiver to be parameterized. The transceiver recognizes one for the corresponding transceiver on the display / control device 801 stored parameters and can take over the relevant parameters for parameterization. In this case, the operating state and in particular the behavior of the transceiver can be adjusted. It can thus be set whether the corresponding transceiver device behaves as a wireless receiving device or as a wireless transmitting device. After the parameterization of the transceiver device has taken place, the corresponding parameterization entry for the corresponding transceiver can be deleted from the display / operating device and the display / operating device 801 can be attached to another transceiver for parameterization.

By this procedure can be avoided that specialist staff must go to the configuration of a transceiver on site, since the parameterization by means of the display / control device can also be performed by untrained persons.

16 FIG. 11 is an overview block diagram of a transceiver according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. In 16 is the power supply 1600 with the voltage converter 1602 to see. This voltage transformer 1602 provides a supply voltage for the transceiver T, R, D. With the supply voltage, the digital part 1601 energized.

The digital part 1601 the transceiver is used to evaluate the input or output signals and the definition of the operating state. On the digital part 1601 regulates the conversion circuit 1603 the conversion of field device interface signals to radio signals. Depending on the selected operating state, in the case of a wireless receiving device R, the conversion circuit takes 1603 Radio signals of the radio module 1604 opposite and converts in the conversion circuit 1603 these into signals at the field device interface 1401 can be provided.

If the transceiver is configured as a wireless transceiver T, the conversion circuit takes 1603 Signals coming in at the entrances 1401 . 1400 . 1402 or 1403 supplied by field devices are opposed and converts these received signals into radio signals. The conversion circuit 1603 gives the radio signals to the radio module 1604 continue and the radio module 1604 finally radiates the radio signals through the antenna 1605 from.

The digital inputs 1402 and 1403 are about the optocouplers 1606 and 1607 connected to the conversion device. Through the use of optocouplers 1606 and 1607 there is a galvanic isolation of the outputs. For galvanic isolation also serves the transformer 1608 that the light-emitting diodes 1606 and 1607 the optocoupler is powered.

If the transceiver is configured as a wireless receiver R, a HART ^® signal is at the field device interface 1401 by means of the HART ^® adjustment circuit 1609 provided. the interface 1401 can also be configured as an analog signal output, in which case the Signal-processing circuit 1610 the conversion takes place in a corresponding analog signal.

17 FIG. 12 shows a block diagram of a transceiver R, T, S according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the 17 The circuit shown describes the common hardware platform for the wireless receiving device R, the wireless transmitting device T and the wireless display device D.

The circuit has the supply 1600 on. One at the entrance 1700 provided DC or AC voltage in the range of 20 to 250 V, for example, the breakthrough 703 the transceiver R, T, D is supplied to the rectifier circuit 1701 and is by means of the circuit adjustment circuit 1702 into the internal supply voltages of 5V 1703 , from +3 V 1704 and +20 V 1705 reshaped and provided the circuit. Also via the supply circuit 1600 the power supply for the analog output takes place 1400 , by means of current regulation 1706 and the power supply for the HART ^® output 1401 , by means of current regulation 1707 ,

The current to be adjusted in the current regulation 1706 and 1707 is via the microprocessor 1708 and the pulse width modulation circuit 1709 and 1710 and the low pass circuit 1711 or 1712 provided. The HART ^® adjustment device 1609 or the HART ^® -IC 1609 is used for receiving and interpreting HART ^® commands or measured values in HART ^® format, which are transmitted via the connection 1401 to be provided. The HART ^® -IC is responsible for the modulation or demodulation of the digital data. It converts the binary information into the two frequencies 1200 Hz for logical "1" and 2200 Hz for logical "0".

The voltage frequency conversion circuit 1713 determines the at the analog input 1400 For example, provided by a 4 ... 20 mA sensor power and leads him to the processor 1708 to. The current corresponds to a measured value measured by the 4 ... 20 mA sensor. To determine the current, the 4 ... 20 mA input is used 1400 flowing current at the measuring resistor 1725 transformed into a tension. This voltage is converted by the U / F converter (voltage-frequency converter) in a frequency proportional to the voltage. The frequency is the microprocessor 1708 at the port 1715 supplied and from the microprocessor 1708 evaluated. This is the microprocessor 1708 the measured value measured by the sensor in the form of the measured frequency. This value can after a corresponding conversion via the radio interface 1605 be transmitted.

The microprocessor 1708 serves to accommodate the HART ^® signals via the five interface lines 1714 and recording analog signals in the form of a frequency across the pin 1715 ,

The determined values can be determined by the processor 1708 be converted into radio signals and on the five signal lines 1716 via the level adjustment circuit 1717 the radio module 1604 to be provided. In the level adjustment 1717 the power limitation is to a maximum value and in the radio module 1604 the selection of the radio frequency takes place. The radio signals finally reach the antenna via the radio module 1605 and are transmitted via the air interface.

The microprocessor 1708 also sets the internal field device interface 1718 available, for example, via the sliding contacts 1719 the values corresponding to the I ² C protocol for a display are provided. In the EPROM 1720 (Eraseable programmable read-only memory), the selected operating state for the transceiver R, T, D are stored. The value for this can be entered manually or determined on the basis of the socket housing module used.

In addition, the transceiver R, T, D has a static memory 1723 and a flash memory 1722 on, both with the microprocessor 1708 are connected. In the flash memory 1722 For example, the firmware of the transceiver R, T, D deposited. Depending on the role of the transceiver in wireless communication, the appropriate firmware may be loaded or executed.

In the block diagram of 17 is also the terminal circuit 1726 shown. The on the terminal circuit 1720 illustrated connections 1400 . 1401 . 1402 . 1403 , the optocouplers 1606 . 1607 , the transmitter 1608 and the push-pull converter 1724 are essentially in the socket housing module 701 accommodated. In contrast, the power supply circuit 1600 and the digital circuit 1721 as well as the microprocessor 1708 and the radio module 1604 in the head box module 700 accommodated.

The digital circuit 1721 includes the pulse width modulators 1709 . 1710 , the low-pass filter 1711 . 1712 , the HART ^® adjustment device 1609 and the voltage-frequency conversion circuit 1713 ,

The terminal circuit 1726 includes the first digital connection 1402 and the second digital input 1403 , The digital input 1402 leads to the optocoupler 1606 and on the microprocessor 1708 , Likewise, the second digital input leads 1403 via the optocoupler 1607 to the microprocessor 1708 , About the transformer 1608 become the light-emitting diodes of the opto-couplers 1606 and 1607 powered.

The clamp also has the HART ^® input 1401 , HART ^® outlet 1401 or the 4 ... 20 mA output 1401 on and the analog 4 ... 20 mA input 1400 , The function is whether the connection 1401 as a HART ^® input, as a HART ^® output or as a 4 ... 20 mA signal output, via the microprocessor 1708 established.

The supply circuit 1600 , the radio module 1604 , the microprocessor 1708 and the digital circuit 1721 are present for the transceiver regardless of the operating state as a wireless transmitting device T, as a wireless receiving device R or wireless display device D. The connection circuit 1726 However, by replacing the base housing module 701 and thereby the terminal circuit 1726 change. Whether the inputs or outputs 1400 . 1401 . 1402 or 1403 are configured as inputs or outputs depends on the respective operating state in which the transceiver R, T, D is located from.

18 shows the perspective view of an antenna according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The antenna 704 indicates the joint 1800 on. By means of the joint 1800 can be an angle between the antenna rod 1801 and the antenna attachment 1802 set in a range between 90 ° and 270 °. In 18 is an angle of 180 ° between the antenna mount and the antenna rod 1801 shown. The antenna attachment 1802 has an angle of 90 ° to the axis of the thread 1803 on.

By means of the screw connection 709 can connect between the antenna rod 1801 and the head housing module 700 getting produced. By means of the connection thread 1803 can the antenna rod 1801 and the screw connection 709 on the head housing module 700 be attached. The thread 1803 can be designed as M20 × 1.5 or alternatively as ½ "NPT thread. The electrical connection of the antenna to the radio module 1604 can over the coaxial cable 1804 and the coaxial connector 1805 respectively.

19 shows a side view of a fastener for an antenna according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the 19 is the screw connection 709 shown. At the coaxial antenna connector 1900 can the antenna rod 1801 and in particular the antenna attachment 1802 be coupled. The axial direction of the coaxial antenna connector 1900 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the screw thread 1803 arranged. The screw connection 709 is made of metal and in it is the coaxial cable 1804 led, whose on 19 referenced right end in the antenna connection 1900 empties. The left end has the coaxial connector 1805 for coupling to the radio module 1605 on.

20 shows a sectional view of a fastener for an antenna according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The 20 shows the internal structure of the connecting element 709 , The coaxial connector 1900 is with the coaxial conductor 1804 inside the fastener 709 coupled. In the first cavity 2000 of the fastener 709 becomes the coaxial line 1804 deflected in accordance with a predetermined bending radius to get out of the hole 2001 to be able to step out. Thus, an antenna attached to the coaxial connector 1900 is mounted, are arranged parallel to the head housing module wall.

21 shows a message format of a proprietary transmission protocol according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. This message format comes for example in the 3 shown wireless Meßwertübertragungsanordnung used to between the data collector S and the wireless receiving device T or between the data collector S and the sensor 100 to communicate.

The extended message format, especially the extended data packet 2100 , indicates the protocol extension 2101 and the payload telegram 2102 on. The protocol extension 2101 includes the parameter NP 2108 which is fixed at 1. The length field L_P1 2109 includes the length of the useful telegram 2102 in addition to that in the field 2113 stored value plus the value 5. The field N_P1_I 2110 always has the constant value 1. In the parameter field P1 2111 a parameter value is provided which gives a data collector S or a parameterization device the instruction for passing through the packet. Next includes the protocol extension 2101 the field GOP # 2112 and the field N_ADR 2113 , Finally, the protocol extension includes 2101 the field G_ADR. About the number of existing fields N_ADR 2113 It can be determined for which device a message or a telegram is intended. If a packet is routed via the various evaluation devices, parameterization devices or transceivers, each device that passes the packet looks at the address information N_ADR 2113 and remove the corresponding field until the target is reached. So it can be communicated through several devices.

The protocol extension field 2101 becomes as a header the useful telegram 2102 prefixed. The extension header 2101 is interpreted by the wireless receiving device R and according to the stored parameters is the useful telegram 2102 forwarded.

By means of this protocol extension, which takes place via the connection between a parameterization device and the wireless receiving device R, two cases can be distinguished. First, in the first case with the protocol 2107 an instruction from the wireless receiving device R to the wireless transmitting device T are directed. This includes the message telegram 2107 the extension header 2101 and the useful signal 2102 with the parameter for the wireless receiving device 2104 , The message format 2107 is used in a transmission as in 2 shown used. When the wireless receiving device R the data message 2107 receives, in the wireless receiving device R, the address information from the parameter 2111 evaluated. The address of the wireless transmitter T to be addressed is from the address field G_ADR 2114 accepted. A new data telegram is assembled and the parameter for the wireless transmitter T is received from the wireless receiver R over the radio link 200 transfer. The wireless transmitter T, which coincides with the address in the address field G_ADR, is responsible for answering the telegram.

The telegram 2106 shows a transmission according to a Meßwertübertragungsanordnung, as in 3 shown. If the data collector S the message telegram 2106 receives, the data collector S evaluates the address information from the parameter 2111 out. The address of the wireless receiving device R to be addressed is in the address information field G_ADR 2114 saved. The address information from the address field G_ADR is adopted and a new message telegram is assembled in the data collector S. This data diagram is transmitted to the connected wireless receiving device R. The header information for the data collector 2101 will be removed and the payload 2103 and 2102 are forwarded to the wireless receiving device R. The wireless receiving device R composes a new transmission telegram and transmits this new transmission telegram via the radio interface 200 to the wireless transmitting device T. The wireless transmitting device T recognizes that in the Nutztelegramm 2102 a request to the connected HART ^® sensor is located and the wireless transmitting device T is the useful telegram 2102 and in particular the parameter for the sensor 2105 to the sensor 100 further.

In addition, it should be noted that "encompassing" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a multitude. It should also be appreciated that features or steps described with reference to any of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims are not to be considered as limiting.

Claims (26)

Transceiver for wireless transmission of a field device signal, comprising: a radio interface ( 204 . 205 ), for wireless communication; a field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 ), for exchanging the field device signal; where the radio interface ( 204 . 205 ) and the field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 ) are coupled such that the field device signal between the radio interface ( 204 . 205 ) and the field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 ) is convertible; the field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 ) is designed such that in a first operating state, a field device-specific function can be provided, so that the transceiver (R, T, D) via the field device interface with a field device ( 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 . 602 . 604 ) can be coupled; the field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 ) is designed such that in a second operating state an evaluation device-specific function can be provided, so that the transceiver (R, T, D) can be coupled via the field device interface with an evaluation device; wherein the operating state for the transceiver (R, T, D) can be predetermined, so that by setting the operating state, the transceiver acts as a wireless transmitting device (T) or wireless receiving device (R) or wireless display device (D). A transceiver according to claim 1, wherein the field device signal is selected from the group comprising a HART ^® signal, a Profibus signal, a Fieldbus Foundation signal, a 4 ... 20 mA signal, an I ² C signal and a switching signal , Transceiver according to claim 1, wherein the field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 ) as an internal interface ( 1719 ) is trained. Transceiver according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the radio interface ( 204 . 205 ) an antenna ( 704 ) having a predeterminable antenna characteristic. Transceiver according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the radio interface ( 204 . 205 ) has a power limiting device. Transceiver according to one of Claims 1 to 5, the radio interface ( 204 . 205 ) is designed to operate at a predeterminable frequency of 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz. Transceiver according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the transceiver (R, T, D) by means of a removable display / control device ( 801 ) is parameterizable. A transceiver according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the transceiver (R, T, D) is switchable between a master function and a slave function. Transceiver according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: a remote interface device (S) wherein the remote interface device (S) a plurality of field device interfaces ( 302 . 303 ) having; wherein the remote interface device (S) by means of one of the plurality of field device interfaces ( 302 . 303 ) can be coupled to the transceiver (R, T, D); wherein at least one of the plurality of field device interfaces ( 302 . 303 ), a field device signal of a remote field device ( 100 . 500 . 601 . 602 ). A transceiver according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: a modular housing ( 708 ) with a head housing module ( 700 ) and a socket housing module ( 701 ); the socket housing module ( 701 ) is a field device interface ( 201 . 201 . 202 . 206 . 300 . 301 . 302 ) to provide; the socket housing module ( 701 ) to the head housing module ( 700 ) can be coupled. A transceiver according to claim 10, wherein the data received from the socket housing module ( 701 ) provided field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 . 300 . 301 . 302 . 506 ) as connection ( 1300 . 1400 . 1401 ) is designed for a two-wire field device. A transceiver according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the data received from the socket housing module ( 701 provided interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 . 300 . 301 . 302 . 506 ) is designed as a connection for a four-wire field device. A transceiver according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the data received from the socket housing module ( 701 provided interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 . 300 . 301 . 302 . 506 ) as connection ( 1402 . 1403 ) is designed for a switch. A transceiver according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the data received from the socket housing module ( 701 provided interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 . 300 . 301 . 302 . 506 ) as connection ( 1300 . 1400 . 1401 ) is designed for a 4 ... 20 mA device. A transceiver according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the socket housing module ( 701 ) is configured to determine the operating state of the transceiver (R, T, D). A transceiver according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the socket housing module ( 701 ) is formed, depending on the provided interface ( 1300 . 1400 . 1401 . 1402 . 1403 ) to determine a type of the transceiver (R, T, D). A transceiver according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the head housing module ( 700 ) an antenna ( 704 ) having. A transceiver according to claim 17, wherein the antenna ( 704 ) to the head housing module ( 700 ) can be screwed. A transceiver according to claim 18, wherein the antenna ( 704 ) by means of a M20 × 1.5 screw connection or a ½''NPT screw connection ( 1803 ) to the head housing module ( 700 ) can be screwed. A transceiver according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the field device interface ( 201 . 202 . 206 . 300 . 301 . 302 . 506 ) is designed for connecting a conduit. Transceiver according to one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising: a power supply for supplying a field device ( 100 . 500 . 505 . 601 . 602 ) with energy. A wireless data transmission arrangement, comprising: a first transceiver (T1, T2, T3) according to any one of claims 1 to 21; a second transceiver (R) according to any one of claims 1 to 21; wherein the first transceiver (T1, T2, T3) is in the first operating state; wherein the second transceiver (R) is in the second operating state; wherein the wireless measured value transmission arrangement is set up, one at the field device interface ( 502 . 506 . 603 ) of the first transceiver field signal received at the field device interface of the second transceiver ( 202 ). A wireless communication device according to claim 22, further comprising: a third transceiver (T4, T5) according to any one of claims 1 to 21; a remote interface device (S) having a multiplicity of field device interfaces ( 302 . 203 ); wherein the third transceiver (T4, T5) is in the first operating state; wherein the remote interface device (S) by means of a first field device interface ( 302 ) can be coupled to the second transceiver (R); wherein a second field device interface ( 303 ) of the remote interface device (S), one at the field device interface ( 603 ) of the first transceiver (T3); wherein a third field device interface ( 303 ) of the remote interface device (S), one at the field device interface ( 201 ) of the third transceiver (T4, T5). A method for wireless transmission of a field device signal by means of a transceiver, comprising: selecting between a first operating state and a second operating state for the transceiver (R, T, D), so that the transceiver as a wireless transmitter (T) or wireless Receiving device (R) or wireless display device (D) acts; Converting the field device signal between a radio interface ( 204 . 205 ) of the transceiver (R, T, D) and a field device interface ( 201 ) of the transceiver (R, T, D); Providing a field device-specific function at the field device interface ( 201 ), when the transceiver (T) is in the first operating state, so that the transceiver (R, T, D) via the field device interface with a field device ( 100 . 500 . 505 . 600 . 601 . 602 . 604 ) can be coupled; Providing an evaluation device-specific function at the field device interface ( 202 ), When the transceiver (R, D) is in the second operating state, so that the transceiver (R, T, D) can be coupled via the field device interface with an evaluation device. The wireless transmission method of claim 24, further comprising: Selecting the transceiver (R, T, D) between the first operating state and the second operating state by means of a base housing module. The wireless transmission method of claim 24 or 25, further comprising: selecting a type of the transceiver (R, T, D) from an interface provided by the transceiver (R, T, D) ( 1300 . 1400 . 1401 . 1402 . 1403 ).

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