Abstract: A modular apparatus comprising a mounting rail, a first assembly and a second assembly, wherein the assemblies are arranged on the mounting rail which has a profile configured for attaching the assemblies to a rear wall associated with the assemblies. A space is formed between the rear wall and the mounting rail, and the first assembly is configured to produce an overpressure in the space. In addition, the second assembly is configured such that the overpressure results in a medium, which is located in the space, flowing into the interior of the second assembly, for cooling assemblies.

Abstract: An automation system for controlling a technical process having an electronic processing unit, input/output (I/O) modules for inputting and outputting process signals to operating means of the technical process, such as sensors and actuators, and terminal modules for connecting the operating means to the I/O modules. The automation system also includes a programmable matrix module that can be used by the electronic processing unit to dynamically associate, i.e., connect, one or more I/O modules with one or more terminal modules.