Cost-effective, installer friendly and flexible control devices: modular operating concept for bus systems

The great advantage of the modular operating concept is the connection of several expansion modules via a basic module and the associated saving of costs. Only the basic module includes the bus-specific bus connection and the bus node which communicates with the corresponding bus system. Thus, the basic module is the most complex module of the total package. The expansion modules are connected via a cable connection to the basic module, which then communicates with all connected command points. The usual additional cabling of the command points is no longer necessary, thus, saving installation time and reducing wiring outlay and space requirement. Moreover, customers who opt for the modular control concept, enjoy high long-term flexibility. If their requirements change, for example if more actuators are required, the modular operating concept can be expanded at any time until the maximum number of expansion modules is reached. Also, switching to a different bus system can be implemented quickly. For this purpose, only the basic module needs to be replaced by one that is compatible with the new bus system, no further installation work must be done. Thanks to its modular and standardised design, the operating concept is suitable for all applications and allows cost-optimised solutions even at quantities of only 10 to 20 units – a fact that is of particular interest for the special machinery construction with small lot sizes.