Modular control apparatus

A control apparatus has a number of modules arranged next to one another in a longitudinal direction. The modules each comprise at least one module part having a housing. Furthermore, the module part comprises a first electrical bus connector on a first side of the housing for electrical connection to a first neighboring module part adjacent in the longitudinal direction, and a second electrical bus connector on a second side, opposite the first side, of the housing for electrical connection to a second neighboring module part adjacent in the longitudinal direction. The module part further comprises at least one movable element, movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the movable element provides an electrical connection between the first bus connector and the second bus connector and, in the second position, provides an insulation point between the first bus connector and the second bus connector.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a modular control apparatus for the automated control of a technical installation.

A control apparatus in terms of the present invention can be, for example, a modular control apparatus such as, for example, it is marketed by the applicant of the present invention under the trade name PNOZ® or a programmable controller such as, for example, it is marketed by the applicant of the present invention under the trade name PSS®, or controllers similar to these.

In particular, applicant's PSSuniversal® provides a modular programmable control apparatus for standard and safety tasks, as described by the system description “Pilz, PSSuniversal, Programmable Control Systems PSS®, System Description, No. 21256-EN-04”. In this case, a module comprises a first module part in the form of an electronics module part and a second module part in the form of a basic module part, also referred to as bus module part in the following. The electronics module part is plugged onto the bus module part by virtue of a linear movement.

The electronics module part in this system has two different designs. In a first design, the electronics module part can be an input/output module part (for example for failsafe (FS) or standard (ST) applications). In a second design, the electronics module part can be a voltage supply module part, also referred to as feed module, for feeding a module supply, i.e. an internal supply voltage, or for feeding a periphery supply, i.e. an external supply voltage. It is thus possible for a plurality of voltage groups to be formed. For the first design (input/output module part), a corresponding bus module part is used which has bus connectors in both directions (towards the right and towards the left) of the longitudinal direction in order to connect the supply voltage from the module adjacent on the left-hand side onto the module adjacent on the right-hand side. This design is therefore also referred to as a design with connected bus. For the second design (voltage supply module part), a special bus module part is required which does not have a connection to the supply voltage bus in a first direction (for example towards the left) and has a connection to the supply voltage bus in the other direction (for example towards the right) in order to pass on the supply voltage only to the modules adjacent on the right-hand side. That is to say that, when forming a new voltage group, the connection on the supply voltage bus needs to be interrupted by a suitable bus module part. Therefore, this design is also referred to as the design with interrupted bus. Accordingly, two designs of the second module part (bus module part) have to be provided, firstly with connected bus and secondly with interrupted bus.

A control apparatus comprising a module with three module parts is known, for example, from the X20 system by B&R, as described in the system description “X20-System, User's Manual, Version: 2.10 (May 2009), Model number: MAX20-ENG”. In this case, a module comprises a first module part in the form of an electronics module part, a second module part in the form of a bus module part and a third module part in the form of a field terminal module part, also referred to as connection module part. The external connections in this system are accommodated in a separate connection module part.

In this system, too, the bus module part has two designs: a first design with a connected-through supply (referred to by X20BM11) and a second design with interruption of the supply in one direction (referred to by X20BM01). The latter design is used for connection to corresponding voltage supply module parts. As a result, different voltage groups can also be formed in this system.

A problem with such control apparatuses lies in the fact that a special design of the bus module part is necessary for a corresponding voltage supply module part. This increases the production costs and it may be complicated for the user to correctly assemble the appropriate designs of the module parts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide a control apparatus of the type mentioned at the outset which have lower production costs and/or increased user friendliness.

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a control apparatus for automated control of a technical installation, comprising a plurality of modules which are arranged next to one another in a longitudinal direction, wherein the modules each comprise a bus module part, and wherein a first module from the plurality of modules additionally comprises an electronics module part and a connection module part, wherein the electronics module part and the bus module part of said first module are mechanically and electrically combined to form a first combined arrangement, and wherein the electronics module part and the connection module part of said first module are mechanically and electrically combined to form a second combined arrangement, wherein each bus module part comprises a housing having a first side and a second side opposite from the first side in the longitudinal direction, and comprises a first bus connector on the first side for electrical connection to a first neighboring bus module part adjacent in the longitudinal direction, and comprises a second bus connector on the second side for electrical connection to a second neighboring bus module part adjacent in the longitudinal direction, the first and second bus connectors establishing a supply voltage bus, wherein the connection module part comprises a first electrical contact and the electronics module part comprises a first electrical mating contact, which, in the second combined arrangement, makes contact with the first electrical contact for electrical connection between the electronics module part and the connection module part, wherein the electronics module part comprises a further electrical contact and the bus module part of said first module comprises a further electrical mating contact, which, in the first combined arrangement, makes contact with the further electrical contact for electrical connection between the electronics module part and the bus module part of said first module, wherein the bus module part of said first module further comprises at least one movable element, which is selectively movable between a first position and a second position, the movable element, in the first position, providing an electrical connection between the first bus connector and the second bus connector and, in the second position, providing an insulation point between the first bus connector and the second bus connector, wherein the connection module part further comprises an external connector for applying an external supply voltage, and wherein the electronics module part feeds the external supply voltage from the connection module part to the bus module part using the further electrical contact and the further electrical mating contact, while the movable element is in the second position.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a control apparatus for the automated control of a technical installation, comprising a plurality of modules which are arranged next to one another in a longitudinal direction, wherein the modules each comprise a bus module part, said bus module part comprising a housing, wherein said bus module part further comprises at least one first electrical bus connector on a first side of the housing for electrical connection to a first neighboring bus module part which is adjacent in the longitudinal direction, and wherein said bus module part further comprises at least one second electrical bus connector on a second side of the housing, opposite the first side, for electrical connection to a second neighboring bus module part which is adjacent in the longitudinal direction, said first and second bus connectors thereby establishing a supply voltage bus for carrying a supply voltage, wherein said bus module part comprises at least one movable element, which is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the at least one movable element, in the first position, provides an electrical connection between the first bus connector and the second bus connector in order to connect through the supply voltage and, in the second position, provides an insulation point between the first bus connector and the second bus connector.

The novel control apparatus therefore makes it possible for, in the first position of the movable element, a voltage present at one of the bus connectors to be connected between the first and second bus connectors and, in the second position of the movable element, galvanic isolation to be provided between the first and second bus connectors. Instead of two different designs of the module part (one design with connected bus and one design with interrupted bus), in this case only a single design of the module part (also referred to as bus module part) is therefore required.

Overall, the novel control apparatus and the novel module or module part therefore enable reduced production costs and increased user friendliness. The abovementioned object is therefore completely achieved.

In a first refinement, the module part is a second module part, and at least one module comprises said second module part and furthermore a first module part. The first module part and the second module part can be mechanically and electrically combined to form a first combined arrangement. The first module part comprises at least one first electrical contact. The second module part comprises at least one first electrical mating contact, which, in the first combined arrangement, makes contact with the first electrical contact for the electrical connection between the first and second module parts.

In this refinement, a modularity of the module is provided. It is thus possible for the individual module parts to be assigned different functions.

In a further refinement, the first module part comprises a signal processing unit. Thus, the function of an electronics module part is assigned to the first module part, and the function of a bus module part is assigned to the second bus module part.

In a further refinement, at least one of the first module parts has a basic width in the longitudinal direction, and the second module part has a width in the longitudinal direction which is an integer multiple of the basic width.

In this refinement, a granularity of a so-called backplane formed by the second module parts is achieved. Fewer second module parts are required here in comparison with the use of exclusively second module parts of a width corresponding to the basic width. The second module part can thus be provided, for example, in two width forms with different widths, namely in one width form with the basic width and in a second width form with a width which is an integer multiple of the basic width. The integer multiple can in particular be an even-numbered multiple.

This refinement is particularly advantageous in combination with any of the other described refinements. However, it can in particular also be implemented separately.

In a further refinement, the second module part (in the second width form) comprises a number of movable elements which corresponds to the integer, which movable elements are each movable into the first position and the second position. Each of the movable elements comprises an electrical line, which is arranged in such a way that, by virtue of the electrical lines, an electrical connection is provided between the first bus connector and the second bus connector when each of the movable elements is in the first position. Each of the movable elements in its second position provides an insulation point between the first bus connector and the second bus connector.

In this refinement, it is freely selectable where and how many first module parts are positioned on a second module part. If a corresponding movable element is in the first position, the bus is connected at this point. It is not necessary for a first module part to be positioned here. However, if a corresponding movable element is in the second position, the bus is interrupted at this point and a corresponding first module part (electronics module part or feed module part) is positioned.

In a further refinement, at least one other of the first module parts has a width in the longitudinal direction which is an integer multiple of the basic width.

In this refinement, the first module part is provided in two width forms with two different widths, namely in a first width form with the basic width and in a second width form with a width which is an integral multiple of the basic width. In the second width form, the first module part can be arranged beyond a disconnection point between two mutually adjacent second module parts. The integer multiple can in particular be an even-numbered multiple.

In a further refinement, the second module part has a first contact point, which is electrically connected to the first bus connector, and a second contact point, which is electrically connected to the second bus connector. The insulation point is located between the first contact point and the second contact point when the movable element is in the second position.

In this refinement, a simple implementation of the insulation point is provided. The insulation point is formed between two contact points.

In a further refinement, the electrical mating contact is one of the contact points, with the result that, in the first combined arrangement, the first electrical contact makes contact with one contact point of the second module part for the electrical connection between the first and second module parts when the movable element is in the second position in order to provide a feed connection.

In this refinement, the supply of a voltage, in particular an operating voltage, from the first module part to the second module part is enabled. This supplied voltage can then be passed to one bus connector, but not to the other. This makes it possible for the first module part in the form of a supply voltage module part (or feed module part) to be connectable to the second module part (bus module part) in order to supply or feed a supply voltage from the first module part to the second module part.

In a further refinement, the first electrical contact of the first module part is insulated from the other contact point of the second module part.

This refinement ensures that the supplied (operating) voltage is only passed to one connection, but not to the other bus connector. That is to say that the supply voltage can only be passed on in one direction on the bus, for example only towards the right or only towards the left. Therefore, a feed of a new or further voltage is possible, with the result that a new or further voltage group can be formed.

In a further refinement, the movable element comprises at least one electrical line, which is arranged in such a way that, by virtue of the electrical line, an electrical connection is provided between the first contact point and the second contact point and/or between the first bus connector and the second bus connector when the movable element is in the first position.

By virtue of this refinement, connection of the voltage between the first and second bus connectors is enabled.

In a further refinement, the module part further comprises a further connector, which is connected to the electrical connection between the first bus connector and the second bus connector.

In this refinement, a further connector is provided when the bus is connected through. It is thus possible for the voltage connected between the first and second bus connectors to be tapped off when the movable element is in the first position.

In a further refinement, the first module part has a first and a second design, wherein the first module part with the first design has its first electrical contact arranged in such a way that, in the first combined arrangement, the first electrical contact, together with the further connector, provides an electrical connection between the first and second module parts.

In this refinement, the first module part is provided with two different designs, for example an input/output module part in a first design and a supply voltage module part (or feed module part) in a second design. For the first design of the first module part (for example input/output module part), the movable element needs to be in the first position, with the result that the connected voltage can be tapped off. The voltage tapped off can then be used by the first module part.

In a further refinement, the first module part with the second design has its first electrical contact arranged in such a way that, in the first combined arrangement, the first electrical contact, together with the feed connector, provides an electrical connection between the first and second module parts for feeding a voltage from the first module part to the second module part.

In this refinement, in the case of the second design (for example supply voltage module part), a voltage of the first module part is supplied or fed by the first module part to the second module part.

In a further refinement, the insulation point is an air-filled region when the movable element is in the second position.

In this refinement, a simple and therefore inexpensive type of interruption or disconnection is provided. Alternatively, the insulation point can also be formed in another suitable way. For example, an insulating material can be arranged in the insulation point.

In a further refinement, the movable element is a sliding element which is guided on a guide and is capable of shifting between the first and second positions.

In this refinement, a simple and therefore inexpensive embodiment of the movable element is provided. The sliding element is capable of shifting, for example linearly, between the first and second positions, in particular parallel to the interface or backplane. Alternatively, the sliding element can be capable of shifting or rotating, for example, in angular fashion about a defined center of rotation between the first and second positions.

In an alternative refinement, the movable element is a jumper, which can be or is inserted into the insulation point in the first position and can be or is removed from the control apparatus in the second position.

In this refinement, a simple and therefore inexpensive embodiment of the movable element is provided. A jumper is in this case understood to mean a separate, completely removable component with an electrical line. For example, a plug-in station can be provided in the vicinity of the insulation point, into which plug-in station the jumper can be inserted in the second (removed) position or can be retained therein.

In a further refinement, the first bus connector and the second bus connector each are a bus connector of a supply voltage bus which connects a supply voltage. Alternatively, the first and second bus connectors each can be a bus connector of a communications bus, which transmits a communication signal between at least two modules.

In a further refinement, at least one module comprises at least the first module part, the second module part and a third module part. The first module part and the second module part can be mechanically and electrically combined to form a first combined arrangement. The first module part and the third module part can be mechanically and electrically combined to form a second combined arrangement.

In a further refinement, the third module part comprises at least one external connection for supplying a signal or a voltage.

In a further refinement, the first module part has two redundant signal processing channels in order to process at least one input signal in a manner redundant with respect to one another. The two redundant signal processing channels each can be capable of performing logic signal combinations in order to generate a signal depending on this. This signal can preferably be used to drive a switching element for shutdown of the technical installation. The at least one input signal can be a signal which is present at the external connection of the third module part. Preferably, the two signal processing channels process two input signals with redundancy with respect to one another. Each of the two input signals can then be a signal which is present at in each case one external connection of the third module part.

In this refinement, the corresponding module or module part implements safety tasks or safety functions. In particular, in this case the corresponding module or module part can be used for failsafe (FS) shutdown of the technical installation.

It goes without saying that the features mentioned above and yet to be explained below can be used not only in the respectively cited combination, but also in other combinations or on their own without departing from the scope of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1illustrates a technical installation10with an exemplary embodiment of the novel control apparatus1for the automated control of the technical installation10. In this exemplary embodiment, the control apparatus1is configured for the failsafe shutdown of the installation10, i.e. the control apparatus1is used for safety tasks. The installation10in this case comprises, by way of example, a robot12, whose movements during working operation pose a risk to people in the working area of the robot12. For this reason, the working area of the robot12is safeguarded by a safety fence with a safety door14. The safety door14enables access into the working area of the robot12, for example for maintenance work or for setup work. During normal working operation, however, the robot12should only be able to operate when the safety door14is closed. As soon as the safety door14is opened, the robot12needs to be shut down or brought into a safe state in another way.

In order to detect the closed state of the safety door14, a safety door switch with a door part16and a frame part18is fitted to the safety door14. The frame part18generates a safety door signal on a line20, which signal is transmitted to the novel control apparatus1via line20.

In this exemplary embodiment, the control apparatus1has an I/O part24with a plurality of connectors (external device connectors)29. In some exemplary embodiments, the connectors29are connection terminals or field terminals which are arranged on one housing side of the housing27of the control apparatus1, for example on a connection module part, as will be explained below. For example, these may be spring-loaded terminals or screw terminals. In other exemplary embodiments, the connectors can be male connectors or female connectors which contain a plurality of contact elements (pins), wherein in each case one pin forms one connection. Often, female M8 connectors with five contact pins are used for the connection of signaling devices or other sensors on field level. Correspondingly, exemplary embodiments of the novel control apparatus can be or can comprise field devices which are arranged outside a switchgear cabinet in the physical vicinity of the robot12.

In this exemplary embodiment, the control apparatus1has two redundant signal processing channels. By way of example, in this case two microcontrollers28a,28bare illustrated, which are each connected to the I/O part24. The microcontrollers28a,28bin this case process, with redundancy with respect to one another, input signals which are picked up by the control apparatus1at the device connectors of the I/O part24, and said microcontrollers compare the results of this, which is illustrated by an arrow29. Instead of two microcontrollers28a,28b, microprocessors, ASICs, FPGAs and/or other signal-processing circuits can be used. Preferably, exemplary embodiments of the control apparatus1have at least two signal-processing channels which have redundancy with respect to one another and which are each capable of performing logic signal combinations in order to generate a signal depending thereon. This signal is then used to drive a switching element for shutting down the robot12. Such a control apparatus1can then be used for the failsafe (FS) shutdown of the installation10, in this case the robot12.

In the case illustrated here, the control apparatus1has two redundant switching elements30a,30b. Each of these two switching elements is capable of connecting a high voltage potential32to a device connector38a,38bof the control apparatus1in order to enable a current flow to a contactor40a,40bor to interrupt this current flow. Thus, each of the switching elements30can shut down an actuator, such as a contactor or a solenoid valve.

The contactors40a,40beach have working contacts42a,42b. The working contacts42a,42bare in this case arranged in series with one another in a power supply path from a power supply44to the robot12. As soon as the control apparatus1shuts down the contactors40a,40b, the contacts42drop out and the power supply for the robot12is shut down. It is clear to those skilled in the relevant art that such a “radical” shutdown is described here by way of example. As a deviation from this, in the case of a safety requirement only parts of the robot12may be shut down, such as the hazardous drives, while other parts of the robot12may remain functional. A delayed shutdown is also conceivable in order that the robot12can be braked in a controlled manner, possibly prior to the shutdown of the drives.

The control apparatus1controls the switching elements30a,30bin this case depending on the signal of the safety door switch on the line19and depending on a further input signal from an emergency stop button46. The emergency stop button46is also connected to device connectors of the control apparatus1via lines. Preferably, each of the input signals can be present in redundant fashion or in each case two input and output lines or connections may be provided (not illustrated inFIG. 1). In the example shown inFIG. 1, therefore, two input lines or inputs may be provided for the emergency stop button46, which input lines or inputs each provide an input signal from the emergency stop button46. The same applies to the signal of the safety door switch.

In some exemplary embodiments, the control apparatus1generates output signals which are transmitted to the individual signaling devices. By way of example, such an output signal is passed via a line48to the frame part18of the safety door switch. The frame part18loops the output signal of the safety switching device1from the line48onto the line19when the door part16is located in the vicinity of the frame part18, i.e. when the safety door14is closed. Therefore, the control apparatus1can monitor the safety door switch with the aid of the output signal on the line48and with the aid of the input signal on the line19. In a similar manner, the control apparatus1in this case monitors the emergency stop button46.

As a deviation from the illustration inFIG. 1, in practice two redundant output signals of the control apparatus1are often used which are each passed via a separate signal line to a signaling device and are looped back to the control apparatus1via this signaling device. Reference is made by way of example for such an embodiment to DE 10 2004 020 995 A1, which is incorporated by reference in respect of the details relating to such a redundant monitoring of a signaling device. The emergency stop button46is also often in practice monitored using redundant input and output lines, as mentioned above.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1of the control apparatus1, the control apparatus is used for safety tasks, in particular for the failsafe (FS) shutdown of an installation. However, the control apparatus1can also be used for non-safety-related tasks or standard tasks (ST).

The control apparatus1can be in particular a programmable control apparatus for programmable control of the technical installation. Alternatively, the control apparatus1can also be a configurable control apparatus. Configurable is in this case understood to mean matching or adjusting of a hardware component of the controller, such as wiring, for example. Programmable is in this case understood to mean matching or adjusting of a software component of the controller, for example by means of a programming language.

The control apparatus1can comprise at least one bus, in particular a communications bus and/or supply voltage bus. For example, the control apparatus1can be a decentralized control apparatus, whose components are connected to one another via a bus. The control apparatus can comprise in particular a head module for coordination of the data traffic on the (communications) bus. In the case of a control apparatus1for safety tasks, the (communications) bus can be, for example, a failsafe bus such as SafetyBUS p or PROFINET. In the case of a control apparatus1for standard tasks, the bus can be, for example, a standard field bus such as CANOpen or DeviceNet or the like.

The control apparatus1is in particular a modular control apparatus comprising at least one module.FIG. 2shows a perspective illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the modular control apparatus comprising a plurality of modules100arranged next to one another with first module parts102and second module parts104. Third module parts106are not illustrated inFIG. 2. The first module part102comprises a housing103. The second module part104comprises a housing105. The second module part104comprises at least one bus connector117,118. The second module part104is therefore also referred to as bus module part in the following.

FIG. 3shows a perspective illustration of the exemplary embodiment of the control apparatus shown inFIG. 2with only the second module parts (bus module parts)104. The second module parts (bus module parts)104or the modules100are arranged next to one another in a longitudinal direction L. The second module parts104or the modules100are fitted on a guide rail101, as shown inFIG. 3. The second module part (bus module part)104has a bus connector117for a supply voltage bus and a bus connector118for a communications bus. The second module part (bus module part)104comprises a first electrical bus connector117,118on a first side of the housing105for electrical connection to a neighboring module part which is adjacent in the longitudinal direction L (inFIGS. 2 and 3a neighboring module part which is adjacent on the right-hand side). The second module part (bus module part)104further comprises a second electrical bus connector117′,118′ (not shown inFIG. 3) on a second side, which is opposite the first side, of the housing105for the electrical connection to another neighboring module part which is adjacent in the longitudinal direction L (a neighboring module part which is adjacent on the left-hand side inFIG. 2andFIG. 3). In particular, the second electrical bus connector117′,118′ can be connected to the corresponding first electrical bus connector117,118of the other neighboring module part. In this way, the supply voltage bus and the communications bus are connected through by the second module parts (bus module parts)104.

The control apparatus1can furthermore comprise a head module (not illustrated inFIG. 2andFIG. 3), which comprises interfaces and a processing part, in particular for coordination of the data traffic on the (communications) bus, as described above. The head module can then likewise be fitted on the guide rail101. The head module can be arranged next to the second module parts (bus module parts)104or modules100, in the longitudinal direction L, as described above. InFIG. 2andFIG. 3, the head module can be arranged on the left-hand side next to the first module100in the longitudinal direction L, for example, and connected to the modules via the first bus connector117,118. Each module100or the corresponding first module part (electronics module part102), can be an I/O (input/output) module or module part. The I/O module or module part can be a failsafe (FS) module or a non-failsafe standard module (ST). By way of example, reference is made in respect of such an embodiment to WO 2005/003869 A1, which is incorporated by reference in respect of details relating to such a modular control apparatus.

As can be seen fromFIG. 3, a so-called backplane is provided by the mutually adjacent second module parts (bus module parts)104. Then, first module parts102can be arranged in freely selectable fashion on this backplane. The backplane in this case forms in particular a substantially planar face. A continuous arrangement of first module parts (electronics module parts)102next to one another in a row on the backplane is not necessary. As can be seen inFIG. 2, it is not necessary for a first module part (electronics module part)102to be arranged on a specific second module part (bus module part)104or a specific section of a basic width d of a second bus module part (bus module part)104.

Again with reference toFIG. 2, at least one first module part102can be plugged onto a respective second module part104(bus module part). Preferably, the first module part102comprises an electrical control circuit for the automated control, for example using one or more processing units, as explained with reference toFIG. 1. The first module part102is also referred to below as electronics module part. The first module part102(electronics module part) and the second module part104(bus module part) can be mechanically and electrically combined to form a first combined arrangement, as shown inFIG. 2. By virtue of this modular design of the control apparatus1, it is possible to respond to changes and adaptations without considerable complexity.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2andFIG. 3, the second module part (bus module part)104is provided with a plurality of width forms. The first module part (electronics module part)102has a basic width d in the longitudinal direction L. Some of the second module parts104(bus module part) each have a width in the longitudinal direction L which is an integer multiple (n times) the basic width d, in particular in this case a width which is four times the basic width d (denoted by4dinFIG. 2andFIG. 3). In this case, the integer multiple is therefore an even-numbered multiple, namely4. Four times the basic width has proven to be particularly suitable for the assembly of a relatively large backplane. However, any other suitable integer multiple can also be selected.

As can be seen from the exemplary embodiment inFIG. 2andFIG. 3, another second module part (bus module part)104has a width which corresponds to the basic width d. The second module part (bus module part) is therefore provided in two width forms with different widths, namely in a first width form with the basic width d and in a second width form with a width4d, which is four times the basic width d. The backplane can thus be combined in freely selectable fashion by arranging second module parts (bus module parts) of the first and/or second width form next to one another. By providing second module parts (bus module parts)104with a width which is an integer multiple of the basic width d, fewer second module parts104are required in comparison with the use of exclusively second module parts104with the basic width d.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2, all of the first module parts (electronics module parts)102have the basic width d in the longitudinal direction L. However, it is also possible for other first module parts102to be provided which have a width in the longitudinal direction L which is an integer multiple of the basic width d (m times), in particular an even-numbered multiple (for example double). For example, other first module parts can have a width in the longitudinal direction which is double the basic width d. The first module part (electronics module part) is thus provided in two width forms with two different widths, namely in a first width form with the basic width d and in a second width form with a width which is an integer multiple (m times) the basic width d. The first module part in the second width form can then be arranged bridging a disconnection point between two second module parts (bus module parts)104adjacent to one another.

FIG. 4shows a perspective illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a module100, which comprises a first module part102, a second module part104, and a third module part106.FIG. 4ashows a corresponding cross-sectional view of the module100shown inFIG. 4. The first or second module part102,104in this exemplary embodiment can be in particular a first or second module part as explained with reference toFIG. 2andFIG. 3. The third module part106comprises a housing107. The third module part106furthermore comprises at least one external connector129for supplying a signal or a voltage from the outside. The connectors129can in particular be or comprise the connectors29described with reference toFIG. 1. InFIG. 4andFIG. 4a, a plurality of external connectors129are illustrated which are arranged adjacent to one another on the housing107of the third module part. The third module part106is therefore referred to as connection module part in the following. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the third module part106comprises sixteen external connectors129, which are arranged in a single row (16-pole and single-row). However, it should be understood that any other suitable number and arrangement of external connectors may be provided. An external connector can be an output for transmitting an output signal (for example to an actuator) or an input for picking up an input signal (for example from a sensor).

As already explained with reference toFIG. 2, the first module part102and the second module part104can be mechanically and electrically combined to form a first combined arrangement. The first module part102and the third module part106can also be mechanically and electrically combined to form a second combined arrangement.FIG. 4andFIG. 4ashow the module parts in the first and second combined arrangements.

The mechanical assembly of the module parts will now be described in more detail below with reference toFIG. 4a. As can be seen fromFIG. 4a, the third module part (connection module part)106has a pivoting holder element112, on which the first module part (electronics module part)104can be or detachably is held. The pivoting holder element112thus defines a pivot point S′ with a pivot axis A′. In this way, the first module part102and the third module part106can be mechanically combined by a pivoting movement along a defined movement path into the second combined arrangement. As can be seen fromFIG. 4a, the first module part (electronics modular part)102also comprises a pivoting holder element110, on which the second module part104(bus module part) is detachably held. The pivoting holder element110thus defines a pivot point S with a pivot axis A. In this way, the first module part102and the second module part104are combined by a pivoting movement along a defined movement path into the second combined arrangement. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4a, the pivoting holder element110,112in each case comprises a projection (for example curved projection, hook or the like), which engages in a cutout in the corresponding other module part. A pivotable connection is thus provided. The module parts can thus be combined safely and reliably by a simple pivoting movement about a fixedly defined pivot point. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the pivoting holder element110of the first module part102and the pivoting holder element112of the third module part are arranged on mutually opposite sides of the module100. Thus, the third module part106can be pivoted away in a first direction (towards the right inFIG. 4a), and the first module part102can be pivoted away in a second direction opposite the first direction (towards the left inFIG. 4a).

The electrical assembly of the module parts will now be described in more detail below with reference toFIG. 4a. The first module part (electronics module part)102comprises at least one electrical contact120and the second module part (bus module part)104comprises at least one first electrical mating contact130, which, in the first combined arrangement, makes contact with the first electrical contact120for the electrical connection between the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104. The first electrical contact120of the first module part102is a conductor track on a nonconductive plate, with the result that a printed circuit board121is formed. The first mating contact130of the second module part104is a contact element (pin) which is arranged in a male or female connector131. The printed circuit board121can be inserted into the male or female connector131. Thus, a plug-type connection is formed. In particular, a plurality of electrical contacts120and a plurality of corresponding mating contacts130are provided. The plurality of contacts120are arranged next to one another on the printed circuit board121. The plurality of corresponding mating contacts130are arranged correspondingly next to one another in the male or female connector131.

As can be seen fromFIG. 4andFIG. 4a, the contacts120and the corresponding mating contacts130each form a first group. In this exemplary embodiment, the first group serves the purpose of transmitting the voltage or the signal of the communications bus which is connected by means of the bus connectors117from the second module part (bus module part)104to the first module part (electronics module part)102. Furthermore, a second group of contacts120′ is provided on a corresponding printed circuit board121′, and corresponding mating contacts130′ are provided in a male or female connector131′, as already described with reference to the contacts120and mating contacts130. In this exemplary embodiment, the second group of contacts120′ or mating contacts130′ serves the purpose of transmitting the voltage of the supply voltage bus, which is connected by means of the bus connectors118, from the second module part (bus module part)104to the first module part (electronics module part)102.

FIG. 5shows a perspective illustration of the first exemplary embodiment of the module100shown inFIG. 4in a state in which the third module part (connection module part)106is detached.FIG. 5ashows a corresponding cross-sectional view of the module100shown inFIG. 5. As can be seen fromFIG. 5andFIG. 5a, the third module part (connection module part)106also comprises at least one first electrical contact132, and the first module part (electronics module part)102comprises at least one corresponding first electrical mating contact122, which, in the second combined arrangement, makes contact with the first electrical contact132of the third module part (bus module part)106for the electrical connection between the first module part (electronics module part)102and the third module part (connection module part)106. The first electrical mating contact122of the first module part102is a conductor track on a nonconductive plate, with the result that a printed circuit board123is formed. The first electrical contact132of the third module part106is a contact element (pin) which is arranged in a male or female connector133. The printed circuit board123can be inserted into the male or female connector133. Thus, a plug-type connection is formed. In particular, a plurality of first electrical contacts132of the third module part106and a plurality of corresponding first electrical mating contacts122of the first module part102are provided. The plurality of first electrical contacts132of the third module part106are arranged next to one another in the male or female connector133. The plurality of corresponding first electrical mating contacts122of the first module part102are arranged correspondingly next to one another on the printed circuit board123.

In order to secure the first and second module parts102,104in the first combined arrangement against one another, the first module part102(electronics module part) comprises a securing element114with a securing engagement section114b. The securing element114or the securing engagement section114bis movable into a first and a second position. In the first position, as illustrated inFIG. 4andFIG. 4a, the securing engagement section114bis in securing engagement with the second module part104(bus module part) in the first combined arrangement, with the result that the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104are secured against one another. The securing engagement section114bshown inFIG. 4ais a projection or bar which, in the first position, is in securing engagement with a cutout115bof the second module part. It should be understood that this mechanical engagement can be achieved or described in any suitable manner. For example, a projection or bar of the second module part104may engage in a cutout in the first module part102or the securing element114.

In the second position (not illustrated inFIG. 4andFIG. 5) of the securing element114, the securing engagement section114bis arranged in the first combined arrangement in such a way that the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104are detachable from one another. In the second position of the securing element114, the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104are therefore not secured against one another. The securing element114furthermore comprises a securing actuation section114a, by means of which the securing element114is movable in the first combined arrangement between the first and second positions when a force is exerted on the securing actuation section114a.

FIG. 6shows a perspective illustration of the first exemplary embodiment of the module100shown inFIG. 4andFIG. 5in a state in which the first module part102in the first combined arrangement is detachable.FIG. 6ashows a corresponding cross-sectional view of the module100shown inFIG. 6.FIG. 7shows a perspective illustration of the first exemplary embodiment of the module100shown inFIGS. 4 to 6in a state in which the first module part102is detached.FIG. 7ashows a corresponding cross-sectional view of the module shown inFIG. 7.

FIG. 5andFIG. 5ashow the securing element114in the first position, in which the first module part (electronics module)102and the second module part (bus module part)104are secured against one another. The securing actuation section114ais in this case arranged in the first position in a first spatial region R1.FIG. 6andFIG. 6ashow the securing element114in the second position, in which the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104are detachable from one another. The securing actuation section114ais in this case arranged in a second spatial region R2 in the second position.

The third module part106has a blocking section113, which, in the second combined arrangement or state (FIG. 4andFIG. 4a), is arranged at least partially in the second spatial region R2. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the blocking section113is a projection or comprises a projection, which makes contact with the securing actuation section114a. Thus, a blocking section113is used which is designed in such a way that the securing element114is prevented or blocked in the first and second combined arrangements from moving into the second position, in which the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104would be detachable from one another. The first module part (electronics module part)102is blocked thereby until the third module part (connection module part)106has been dismantled. The removal or detachment of the first module part (electronics module part)102from the second module part (bus module part)104is therefore only possible when the third module part (connection module part)106has been dismantled. The first module part (electronics module part)102can therefore not be withdrawn from the second module part (bus module part)104when the module is still in use, for example when voltages or signals are present at the external connections129of the connection module part106. Therefore, no faults can occur on the bus and/or on a connected peripheral (for example actuator). Furthermore, a user cannot become injured by high voltages. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the blocking section113is part of the pivoting holding element112or coincides therewith.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 4 to 7, the securing element114is a lever with a defined fixpoint F. The lever is in this case a two-sided lever with a first lever part and a second lever part with respect to the fix point F. The securing actuation section114is located on the first lever part, and the securing engagement section114bis located on the second lever part. By exerting a force on the securing actuation section114of the lever, the securing element114or the lever is movable between the first position (FIG. 4andFIG. 4a,FIG. 5andFIG. 5a) and the second position (FIG. 6andFIG. 6a). The securing element114is fastened on the housing103of the first module part102and formed integrally therewith. By fastening the securing element114(or the lever) on the housing103, the fixpoint F is defined.

A plane EF is defined which is arranged perpendicular to a fixpoint axis FA defined by the fixpoint F of the lever. InFIGS. 4 to 6, the fixpoint axis FA runs perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and the plane EF is in or parallel to the plane of the drawing. The securing actuation section114aof the lever is movable in one direction in the plane EF. In other words, the securing actuation section114aof the lever can be moved to and fro in the direction of the plane of the drawing. In the first position (FIG. 4andFIG. 4a,FIG. 5andFIG. 5a), the securing actuation section114ais arranged in a first angular position in the plane EF. The securing actuation section114ais then arranged in the first spatial region R1. In the second position (FIG. 6andFIG. 6a), the securing actuation section114aof the lever is arranged in another, second angular position in the plane EF. The securing actuation section114ais then arranged in the second spatial region R2. As can be seen fromFIG. 4a, the blocking section113in the second combined arrangement or state is arranged at least partially in a region between the first angular position and the second angular position. The projection or blocking section113in this case extends as far as into the region between the first angular position and the second angular position.

FIG. 8shows a perspective illustration of a second exemplary embodiment of a module100comprising a first module part102, a second module part104and a third module part106in a first and second combined arrangement.FIG. 8ashows a corresponding cross-sectional view of the module100shown inFIG. 8. Reference is substantially made to the statements relating to the first exemplary embodiment with reference toFIGS. 4 to 7. The difference between the second exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 8andFIG. 8aand the first exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 4 to 7consists, however, in that the securing element114is in this case a one-sided lever.FIG. 8bshows an enlarged region X of the cross-sectional view inFIG. 8a. The securing element114is in the form of a one-sided lever and is illustrated in enlarged form here. The securing actuation section114aand the securing engagement section114bare both arranged on the one-sided lever. The securing engagement section114bis a projection or bar which, in the first position (as illustrated inFIG. 8,FIG. 8aandFIG. 8b), is in securing engagement with a cutout115bin the second module part104. The cutout115bin the second module part104is located in a protruding (in relation to the interface or backplane) section138of the housing105of the second module part104.

As can be seen fromFIGS. 4, 4a,5and5a, the third module part106(connection module part) also comprises a securing element116with a securing engagement section116bin order to secure the first and third module parts102,106in the second combined arrangement against one another. The securing element116or the securing engagement section116bis movable into a first and a second position. In the first position, as illustrated inFIG. 4a, the securing engagement section116bis in securing engagement with the first module part102(electronics module part) in the second combined arrangement, with the result that the first module part (electronics module part)102and the third module part (connection module part)106are secured against one another. The securing engagement section116bshown inFIG. 4ais a projection or bar which, in the first position, is in securing engagement with a cutout in the first module part102. It should be understood that this mechanical engagement can be achieved or described in any suitable manner. For example, a projection or bar of the first module part102can also engage in a cutout in the third module part106or the securing element116.

In the second position (not illustrated inFIG. 4andFIG. 5) of the securing element116, the securing engagement section116bis arranged in the second combined arrangement in such a way that the first module part (electronics module part)102and the third module part (connection module part)106are detachable from one another. In the second position of the securing element116, the first module part (electronics module part)102and the third module part (connection module part)106are therefore not secured against one another. The securing element116furthermore comprises a securing actuation section116a, by means of which the securing element116in the second combined arrangement is movable between the first and second positions when a force is exerted on the securing actuation section116a. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the securing element116is a (one-sided) lever with a defined fixpoint F′. The securing element116is fastened on the housing107of the third module part106and formed integrally therewith. By virtue of the securing element116(or the lever) being fastened on the housing107, the fixpoint F′ is defined.

Furthermore, the third module part106comprises an anti-overextension means (or anti-detachment means)166for protecting the securing element116from an overextension (or from a detachment of the third module part106). The securing element116(or lever) is thus protected against overextension or detachment both during the transport and during construction (assembly of the module). As can be seen inFIGS. 4, 4a,5and5a, the anti-overextension means (or anti-detachment means)166in this exemplary embodiment is a bar which is arranged in front of the securing element116of the third module part106. By means of the bar166, a cutout is formed in which the securing actuation section116bis arranged. The cutout is large enough to move the securing actuation section116bbetween the first and second positions.

The mechanical assembly or detachment of the first module part (electronics module part)102and the second module part (bus module part)104will be described in more detail in the following. The housing103of the first module part (electronics module part)102in this case comprises an interface103aand the housing105of the second module part (bus module part)104comprises an interface105a(shown inFIGS. 7 and 7a), which are opposite one another in the first combined arrangement or state (as can be seen, for example, inFIGS. 4 to 6) in such a way that a limit plane G is defined. InFIGS. 4a, 5a, 6aand 7a, the limit plane G runs horizontally into the plane of the drawing. The interfaces105aof the second module parts (bus module parts)104form the backplane. The printed circuit boards121,121′ of the first module part102can be introduced into corresponding cutouts (with mating contacts130,130′ or male or female connectors131,131′) in the housing105or the interface105aof the second module part. The first module part (electronics module part)102and second module part (bus module part)104therefore lie in planar fashion one on top of the other in the limit plane G in the first combined arrangement or state.

FIGS. 9 to 11each show a further exemplary embodiment of a module100on a first module part102and a second module part104. Reference is substantially made to the statements in relation to the first and second exemplary embodiments with reference toFIGS. 4 to 8. The difference between the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 9and the first exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 4 to 7, however, relates to the fact that the guide pocket into which the pivoting holder element110is introduced is formed between two straight edges137. The straight edges lie in the limit plane G or in the interface105a. The pivoting holder element of the first module part102in this case extends beyond the limit plane G or the interface103aof the first module part103ain the form of a projection or bar. A further difference distinguishing the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 9relates to the fact that the securing element114is formed by a planar surface. The exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 10substantially corresponds to the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 8. The difference between the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 10and the first exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 4 to 7relates to the fact that the pivoting holder element110in the form of a projection is not guided in a guide pocket. In order nevertheless to ensure a clean pivoting movement, in this case guides139are provided on both sides of the protruding (in relation to the interface G or backplane) section138of the housing105. The difference between the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 11and the first exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 4 to 7relates to the fact that the pivoting holder element110of the first module part (electronics module part)102comprises a bar which is arranged in a cutout formed by the housing103of the second module part. More precisely, this cutout is formed by a curved projection140arranged on the interface105a. The pivoting holder element110is in this case not formed by a protruding projection in the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 11, as in the first exemplary embodiment with reference toFIGS. 4 to 7, but by a bar formed in a cutout. Correspondingly, inFIG. 11, the cutout in the second module part (bus module part)104in which the bar110engages is formed by the curved projection140.

FIG. 12shows a perspective illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the second module part104, in particular the second module part (bus module part)104inFIGS. 2 and 3.FIG. 13shows a plan view from above of the second module part104inFIG. 12.FIG. 14shows a perspective internal view of the second module part104inFIGS. 12 and 13.FIG. 14ashows an enlarged region X of the perspective view shown inFIG. 14.

The second module part (bus module part)104comprises at least one movable element150, which is movable into a first position and a second position. In the first position, the movable element150provides an electrical connection between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′. In the second position, the movable element150provides an insulation point152between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′. As already explained with reference to the preceding figures, the first and second bus connectors117,117′ are here in each case a bus connector of a supply voltage bus which connects through a supply voltage.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 12 to 14, the second module part (bus module part)104comprises a number of movable elements150,150a-cwhich corresponds to the integer n. Since the width of the second module part (bus module part)104in this exemplary embodiment is four times the basic width d, as already explained with reference toFIG. 2andFIG. 3, the second module part104therefore comprises four movable elements150,150a-c. The movable elements150,150a-care each movable into the first position and the second position. However, it should be understood that the second module part104can comprise any desired number of movable elements150. In particular, the second module part104can comprise only one movable element150, for example likewise illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 3. The function of a movable element will now be described in more detail below.

In the exemplary embodiment of the second module part (bus module part)104illustrated, the first movable element150, the second movable element150aand the fourth movable element150c(when viewed from right to left in one direction) are in the first position. Only the third movable element150bis in this case in the second position. As can be seen inFIG. 13, the second module part (bus module part)104has a first contact point156, which is electrically connected to the first bus connector117′, and a second contact point158, which is electrically connected to the second bus connector117′. The insulation point152is located between the first contact point156and the second contact point158when the movable element150is in the second position (movable element150binFIG. 13). The insulation point152is in this case an air-filled region.

The movable element150,150a-cin each case comprises an electrical line154, which is arranged in such a way that an electrical connection between the first contact point156and the second contact point158or between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′ is provided by the electrical line154when the movable element150is in the first position (movable element150,150a,150cinFIG. 13). Each of the movable elements150,150a-cin this case comprise an electrical line, which is arranged in such a way that an electrical connection between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′ is provided by the electrical lines154when each of the movable elements150,150a-cis in the first position. This is not the case in the state illustrated inFIG. 13since the movable element150bis in the second position, i.e. not every movable element is in the first position. Each of the movable elements150,150a-ccan therefore, in its second position, provide an insulation point152between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′. In the state illustrated inFIG. 13, this is only the movable element150b. The supply voltage bus is interrupted by this insulation point152.

As can be seen fromFIG. 14a, the movable element150,150a-cis a sliding element guided on a guide164, which sliding element can be shifted between the first and second positions. The sliding element comprises a lower region (in relation to the interface105aor backplane), on which the electrical connections are arranged, and an upper region (in relation to the interface105aor backplane), which is designed for manual operation. As can be seen inFIG. 12, the movable element or sliding element is arranged with the upper region on or over the limit plane G or the interface105aof the second module part105, with the result that it is easily accessible from the outside. As can be seen inFIG. 14a, the sliding element in this exemplary embodiment is capable of being shifted linearly between the first and second positions, parallel to (or in) the interface105aor backplane. It should be understood that the movable element or the sliding element can be movable in any other suitable manner between the first and second positions. For example, the sliding element may be capable of being shifted or rotated in angular fashion between the first and second positions about a defined center of rotation. In another example, the movable element may be a jumper, which can be or is inserted into the insulation point in the first position and can be or is removed from the control apparatus in the second position. A jumper is in this case understood to mean a separate, completely removable component with an electrical line.

The first module part (electronics module part)102, as described with reference to the preceding figures, for example, is in this case provided in particular with a first design and a second design. The first design of the first module part (electronics module part)102can in this case be an input/output module part (for example for failsafe (FS) or standard (ST) applications). In the second design, the first module part (electronics module part)102can be a voltage supply module part (or feed module part) for feeding a module supply, i.e. an internal supply voltage, or for feeding a periphery supply, i.e. an external supply voltage, in order to form a new voltage group.

In the second design (voltage supply module part), at least one first contact120′ (in particular contacts120′ of the second group, as described previously) or printed circuit board121′ of the first module part102is arranged in such a way that it can be inserted into the insulation point152. One of the contact points156,158is the electrical mating contact130of the second module part (bus module part)104. In the first combined arrangement, the first electrical contact120′ of the first module part (electronics module part or voltage supply module part) thus makes contact with the one contact point156,158of the second module part (bus module part) for the electrical connection between the first module part102and the second module part104when the movable element150is in the second position. A feed connection160is thus provided. The feed connection160is used for connection to the first module part (voltage supply module part or feed module part)102. The first module part (electronics module part)102therefore has, in its second design (voltage supply module part) its first electrical contact120′ arranged in such a way that, in the first combined arrangement, the first electrical contact120with the feed connection160provides an electrical connection between the first module part102and the second module part104. In this way, a voltage is fed from the first module part (electronics module part or voltage supply module part)102onto the second module part (bus module part).

The second module part (bus module part)104furthermore comprises a further connector170, which is connected to the electrical connection between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′. The first module part (electronics module part)102has in the first design (input/output module part) its first electrical contact120′ or the printed circuit board121′ arranged in such a way that, in the first combined arrangement, the first electrical contact120′ together with the further connector170provides an electrical connection between the first module part (electronics module part or input/output module part) and the second module part (bus module part)104.

As illustrated by arrows inFIG. 13, in this exemplary embodiment the supply voltage on the supply voltage bus is connected by the first bus connector117in the direction of the second bus connector117′, i.e. in this case from left to right in the longitudinal direction L. Therefore, the above-described contact point is in this case the right-hand contact point158. Contact is therefore made with the contact point158by the first electrical contact120′ of the first module part102. The first electrical contact120′ of the first module part102is insulated from the other contact point156of the second module part104. In this way, a new voltage can be fed towards the right.

By virtue of the above-described exemplary embodiment, when the movable element150,150a-cis in the first position, a voltage present at one of the bus connectors117is connected between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′ and, when the movable element150,150a-cis in the second position, a galvanic disconnection is provided between the first bus connector117and the second bus connector117′.

Instead of two different designs of the second module part (bus module part)104(one design with connected bus and one design with interrupted bus), therefore, in this case only a single design of the second module part (bus module part)104is required. The production costs are thus lower owing to the production of only one design of the second module part (bus module part)104. In addition, an increased user friendliness is provided since any design of the first module part (electronics module part)102can be positioned onto the second module part (bus module part)104.

Although previously a control apparatus for the automated control of a technical installation has been described, it should be understood that the control apparatus can also be used for controlling another application. Furthermore, the control apparatus can be any other apparatus in which electrical contacts of a first module part and mating contacts of a second module part are combined (by pivoting movement).