This trend fits in with the context of convertible systems, the Smart Factories of Industrie 4.0. Thus, two major mega-trends come together here: the Smart Factory trend and the trend towards the Smart Grid. But what prerequisites does the connector need to bring along which enable a DC system component to be reconfigured while also offering users additional value?
- Personal protection: unintentional unplugging of a connector in a DC industrial setup must be avoided.
- Protection for connectors: under EN 61 984, disengaging under load is not permitted for connectors since it poses risks for the user and damages the contact surface.
- Equipment protection: disengaging under load leads to an undefined system standstill that can destroy the workpiece, the machine and/or the entire system.
Protection for persons and system/equipment can only be achieved by actively locking the connector and thus preventing unintentional or improper disengagement. The Industrial Power Outlet DC accesses sensor data on the operating state and virtually rules out human error. One advantage offered by this is that even non-specialists can plug in equipment modules.
Corresponding electromechanical precautions ensure that plugging and unplugging are no problem for the operator and the system or equipment.
The Han-Smart Industrial Power Outlet DC meets all these requirements. It represents a universal interface for the transmission of power, data and signals. Additionally integrated is an option for locking under load, a step that protects both operator and equipment. As a result, the module interface becomes a smart I4.0 component.
The basic version of the Industrial Power Outlet features sensor-based evaluation that checks whether the requirements in IEC 61984 are met. The connector is only released when the contacts are voltage and current-free. The "Enhanced" version is also equipped with a comprehensive sensor system. This allows the box to collect metrics data needed for predictive maintenance and make the "Smart Factory" available. The condition of the equipment upstream to the Box is continuously monitored, which reduces downtime.
