Modbus Interface Extension of D-flows Engineering Kit

Abstract: In today's connected world easy and reliable communication between sensors and systems is key. Being able to collect all sensor data from a single main communication unit increases the usability of the system.
Modbus is a popular industrial communication protocol. It is simple to implement, extensively used and supported by a large number of devices used in industrial settings. Due to the popularity of the Modbus protocol, supporting it is key to ensure a competitive product.
D-Flow desired to provide a Modbus interface extension for their Engineering kit. A new subsystem was designed to provide the required hardware and software requirements to support the Modbus protocol.
One of the key features of D-Flow's flow meters is its low power consumption. This demands equal low power restrictions of the Modbus interface, as D-Flow's flow sensors are commonly battery operated.
In the end a fully functional prototype was completed. The power consumption did not meet specified ranges that allow for long term battery operation, but was judged to be as low as possible with the transceivers available on the market.