초록 ▼

A method and system for performing a task in an intrinsically safe environment using an intrinsically safe, integrated module located on the safe side to convey signals to and from a field device on the hazardous side. The integrated module is configurable in order to suit the electrical characteris

A method and system for performing a task in an intrinsically safe environment using an intrinsically safe, integrated module located on the safe side to convey signals to and from a field device on the hazardous side. The integrated module is configurable in order to suit the electrical characteristics and requirements of the field device. Preferably, the integrated module is software configurable, in that the module can be configured by a command signal without using switches. Furthermore, the integrated module is configurable in order to control the field device in performing the task. The integrated module includes an input/output module which is electrically connected to the field device through a Zener barrier or a galvanic isolation barrier, and a power supply to power the field device through a Zener barrier.

대표청구항 ▼

1. An integrated module to be used in conjunction with a field device in an intrinsically safe environment having a safe side and a hazardous side, wherein the field device is located on the hazardous side while the integrated module is located on the safe side, said module comprising: a first intri

1. An integrated module to be used in conjunction with a field device in an intrinsically safe environment having a safe side and a hazardous side, wherein the field device is located on the hazardous side while the integrated module is located on the safe side, said module comprising: a first intrinsically safe barrier; a signal processor having a plurality of I/O connectors for conveying signals to or from the field device through the first intrinsically safe barrier; a second intrinsically safe barrier; a power supply to provide electrical power to the field device through the second intrinsically safe barrier and the first intrinsically safe barrier; and a control circuit operatively connected to the signal processor and the power supply, wherein the signal processor has electrical characteristics necessary for processing said signals, and the power supply has a plurality of power settings, and wherein the control circuit can be used to change the electrical characteristics of the signal processor and to select the power setting of the power supply to meet operating current/voltage requirements of the field device.