Logic board for variable speed drive

Abstract

This disclosure relates to an electronic identification system (160) for a logic board (100) for a variable speed drive. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a logic board (100) for a variable speed drive, comprising: a configuration block (162) including a plurality of resistors (190); a control system (166) communicatively coupled to the configuration block (162) and configured to receive a signal (164) from the configuration block, wherein the control system (166) is configured to decode the signal (164) to generate data indicating an identifier of the logic board (100); and a communication interface (180) coupled to the control system (166), wherein the communication interface (180) is configured to provide an operator with the data indicating the identifier of the logic board (100).

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This section aims to introduce the reader to various aspects of the technology that may be related to the various aspects of this disclosure described below. It is believed that this discussion will help provide the reader with background information to better understand the various aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that these statements should be read in this context and not as an admission of prior art.

[0002] Cooler systems used in commercial or industrial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems typically contain relatively large motors to power the compressor. The motor's power output can be selected based on the HVAC&R system's capacity, such as its cooling requirements. For example, the horsepower (HP) output of the motor can range from 100 HP to 5,000 HP, or greater. Many of these systems include a variable speed drive (VSD) to control the motor speed in response to changes in the HVAC&R system's cooling requirements. When the HVAC&R system's cooling requirements increase, the VSD increases the motor speed, thereby increasing the compressor's speed. Conversely, when the HVAC&R system's cooling requirements decrease, the VSD decreases the motor speed.

[0003] The threshold power output of a motor can determine the size of a VSD (e.g., the power output range). For example, a relatively high-power motor may be controlled by a VSD capable of supporting higher current draw and voltage requirements compared to a VSD used to control a relatively low-power motor. Therefore, HVAC&R systems may contain VSDs of different sizes to accommodate motors operating over a wide power output range. Each size of VSD may contain a logic board (e.g., a printed circuit board) that controls the operation of the VSD. In some cases, the logic board may contain various programming and / or instructions specific to the VSD's size. Unfortunately, existing HVAC&R systems do not allow for electronic identification of the logic board. Therefore, identifying the logic board for a VSD in an existing HVAC&R system may involve manual observation of the logic board, which may increase the likelihood of operators misidentifying the correct logic board and / or otherwise increase the time associated with logic board identification. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure relates to an electronic identification system for a logic board used in a variable speed drive. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a logic board for a variable speed drive, comprising: a configuration block including a plurality of resistors; a control system communicatively coupled to the configuration block and configured to receive signals from the configuration block, wherein the control system is configured to decode the signals to generate data indicating an identifier of the logic board; and a communication interface coupled to the control system, wherein the communication interface is configured to provide the data indicating the identifier of the logic board to an operator or to another logic board.

[0005] This disclosure also relates to an electronic identification system for a logic board, comprising a power supply configured to output a voltage; and a plurality of resistors electrically coupled to the power supply and communicatively coupled to a control system of the logic board. One or more pairs of the plurality of resistors are configured to establish a voltage difference between the power supply and a ground point, and wherein the control system is configured to receive the voltage difference from the one or more pairs of the plurality of resistors.

[0006] This disclosure also relates to a method for identifying a logic board, comprising: establishing a first voltage difference between a first pair of resistors disposed between a power supply and a ground point; establishing a second voltage difference between a second pair of resistors disposed between the power supply and the ground point; directing a signal indicating the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference to a control system of the logic board; and decoding the signal to generate data indicating an identifier of the logic board. Attached Figure Description

[0007] A better understanding of the various aspects of this disclosure can be achieved by reading the following detailed description and referring to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a building in a commercial environment that utilizes a heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) system according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0009] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a vapor compression system according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0010] Figure 3 This is based on one aspect of the disclosure. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vapor compression system;

[0011] Figure 4 This is based on one aspect of the disclosure. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vapor compression system;

[0012] Figure 5 It is available under one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 2-4 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a typical configuration of a variable speed drive (VSD) for a vapor compression system.

[0013] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a logic board identification system according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit diagram of a logic board identification system according to one aspect of this disclosure; and

[0015] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a decoded version of a signal configured to output and / or otherwise be used by a logic board to identify the system according to one aspect of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0016] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described below. These described embodiments are merely examples of the technology currently disclosed. Furthermore, in an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of actual implementations may be described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Moreover, it should be understood that such development efforts can be complex and time-consuming, but remain routine tasks of design, assembly, and manufacture for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0017] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to “an embodiment” or “an embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the described features.

[0018] Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems are used to thermally condition spaces within buildings, residences, or other suitable structures. For example, an HVAC&R system may include a vapor compression system that transfers heat between a heat transfer fluid, such as a refrigerant, and a fluid to be conditioned, such as air. The vapor compression system may include a condenser and an evaporator, which are fluidly coupled to each other via ducts. A compressor is used to circulate the refrigerant through the ducts, thereby enabling heat transfer between the condenser and the evaporator.

[0019] In many cases, the compressor in an HVAC&R system can be driven by an electric motor. The motor can be communicatively coupled to a control system, including a variable speed drive (VSD). The control system can accelerate the motor from zero revolutions per minute (RPM) to a threshold speed. In some cases, the control system can further adjust the magnitude of the threshold speed during HVAC&R system operation. The motor's power output can be selected based on the HVAC&R system's capacity (e.g., cooling requirements). In some cases, the size of the VSD is proportional to the motor's power output. For example, a relatively large motor can be controlled by a VSD capable of providing greater current and voltage than a VSD configured to control a relatively small motor. Therefore, VSDs of various sizes can be used with HVAC&R systems to control a wide range of motors with different power output thresholds.

[0020] Each VSD may include a logic board (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)) that can monitor and / or control certain operating parameters of the corresponding VSD. For example, the logic board may monitor the magnitude of current and / or voltage drawn by the VSD (e.g., from a power source), the magnitude of current and / or voltage supplied by the VSD (e.g., to a motor), or both. Furthermore, the logic board may store predetermined (e.g., pre-programmed) thresholds associated with certain monitored operating parameters of the VSD. The logic board may compare the monitored operating parameters to the thresholds and may control the operation of the VSD based on the result of the comparison (e.g., adjusting the operation of components of the VSD and / or shutting down the VSD). A particular logic board may be configured to accommodate VSDs of a specific size, such that the logic board is configured to monitor the operating parameters of VSDs of that specific size. For example, a logic board configured to monitor the operating parameters of a relatively large VSD may be pre-programmed with relatively high thresholds (e.g., thresholds associated with the monitored operating parameters of the VSD) to enable the VSD to operate more efficiently under relatively high loads. Similarly, another logic board configured to monitor the operating parameters of a relatively small VSD can be programmed with a relatively low threshold (e.g., a threshold associated with the monitored operating parameters of the VSD) to enable the VSD to operate more efficiently under relatively low loads. Furthermore, a particular logic board can be configured to accommodate specific fault handling mechanisms or other characteristics associated with modified or unmodified versions of the logic board. Therefore, an HVAC&R system may contain one of multiple logic boards, each containing different internal components and / or programming associated with a VSD of a specific size. During the maintenance and / or assembly of an HVAC&R system, the operator may be responsible for determining the type of specific logic board (e.g., the PCB version of the logic board) used to control and / or otherwise monitor the VSDs of the HVAC&R system. Unfortunately, existing HVAC&R systems do not include electronic identification systems that allow operators to determine the type of logic board and / or the PCB version of the logic board without manual visual inspection. Specifically, existing HVAC&R systems cannot electronically identify the identification features of logic boards, such as pipeline numbers (e.g., corresponding to the size of the VSD), VSD versions, and / or PCB versions.

[0021] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic identification system for logic boards (e.g., printed circuit boards). In some embodiments, the electronic identification system can be added as an additional component to an existing logic board. The electronic identification system may include multiple resistors communicatively coupled to a control device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) of the logic board. The multiple resistors may be incorporated into a portion of the logic board and / or a separate printed circuit board communicating with the control device of the logic board. The multiple resistors are configured to direct signals indicating the identification of a particular logic board in use to a control system. In some embodiments, the signals may include multiple voltages and / or voltage differences, each representing a specific characteristic of the logic board (e.g., base number, pipeline number, bill of materials (BOM) revision level, and / or bare PCB revision level). In some embodiments, the multiple voltages and / or voltage differences may be represented as binary codes that enable the control system to determine the identification and / or specific characteristics of the logic board and direct additional signals to a user interface device (e.g., via a secure digital card, wireless communication, and / or another communication interface). Thus, an operator can quickly and accurately identify a particular logic board, thereby enabling appropriate maintenance to be performed based on the identified logic board. In some cases, different types of logic boards may require different troubleshooting processes and / or maintenance procedures. Therefore, the electronic identification system disclosed herein can facilitate maintenance operations and reduce maintenance costs and time for HVAC&R systems.

[0022] Now turn to the attached diagram. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an environmental embodiment of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC&R) system 10 in a building 12 for a typical commercial environment. The HVAC&R system 10 may include a vapor compression system 14 (e.g., a cooler) that supplies a cooling liquid that can be used to cool the building 12. The HVAC&R system 10 may also include a boiler 16 for supplying a heating liquid to heat the building 12, and an air distribution system for circulating air within the building 12. The air distribution system may also include a return air duct 18, a supply air duct 20, and / or an air handler 22. In some embodiments, the air handler 22 may include a heat exchanger connected to the boiler 16 and the vapor compression system 14 via a duct 24. Depending on the operating mode of the HVAC&R system 10, the heat exchanger in the air handler 22 may receive heating liquid from the boiler 16 or cooling liquid from the vapor compression system 14. HVAC&R system 10 is shown with a separate air processor on each floor of building 12, but in other embodiments, HVAC&R system 10 may include air processor 22 and / or other components that may be shared between floors.

[0023] Figure 2 and 3This is an embodiment of a vapor compression system 14 that can be used in an HVAC&R system 10. The vapor compression system 14 allows refrigerant to circulate through a loop starting from the compressor 32. The loop may also include a condenser 34, an expansion valve or device 36, and a liquid cooler or evaporator 38. The vapor compression system 14 may further include a control panel 40 having an analog-to-digital (A / D) converter 42, a microprocessor 44, non-volatile memory 46, and / or an interface board 48.

[0024] Some examples of fluids that can be used as refrigerants in the vapor compression system 14 are hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) based refrigerants, such as R-410A, R-407, R-134a, hydrofluoroolefins (HFO), “natural” refrigerants such as ammonia (NH3), R-717, carbon dioxide (CO2), R-744, or hydrocarbon-based refrigerants, water vapor, or any other suitable refrigerant. In some embodiments, the vapor compression system 14 may be configured to efficiently utilize a refrigerant having a normal boiling point of about 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit) at one atmosphere, also known as a low-pressure refrigerant, rather than a medium-pressure refrigerant such as R-134a. As used herein, “normal boiling point” can refer to the boiling point temperature measured at one atmosphere.

[0025] In some embodiments, the vapor compression system 14 may use one or more of a variable speed drive (VSD) 52, a motor 50, a compressor 32, a condenser 34, an expansion valve or device 36, and / or an evaporator 38. The motor 50 may drive the compressor 32 and may be powered by the VSD 52. The VSD 52 receives AC power with a specific fixed line voltage and fixed line frequency from an alternating current (AC) power source and supplies power with a variable voltage and variable frequency to the motor 50. In other embodiments, the motor 50 may be directly powered by an AC or direct current (DC) power source. The motor 50 may comprise any type of motor that can be powered by a VSD or directly by an AC or DC power source, such as a switched reluctance motor, an induction motor, an electronically commutated permanent magnet motor, or other suitable motor.

[0026] Compressor 32 compresses refrigerant vapor and delivers it to condenser 34 through a discharge passage. In some embodiments, compressor 32 may be a centrifugal compressor. The refrigerant vapor delivered by compressor 32 to condenser 34 can transfer heat to a cooling fluid (e.g., water or air) in condenser 34. As a result of heat transfer with the cooling fluid, the refrigerant vapor can condense into liquid refrigerant in condenser 34. The liquid refrigerant from condenser 34 can flow to evaporator 38 through expansion device 36. Figure 3In the illustrated embodiment, the condenser 34 is water-cooled and includes a tube bundle 54 connected to a cooling tower 56, which supplies cooling fluid to the condenser 34.

[0027] The liquid refrigerant supplied to evaporator 38 can absorb heat from another cooling fluid, which may or may not be the same cooling fluid used in condenser 34. The liquid refrigerant in evaporator 38 can undergo a phase change from liquid refrigerant to refrigerant vapor. For example... Figure 3 As illustrated in the described embodiment, the evaporator 38 may include a tube bundle 58 having a supply line 60S and a return line 60R connected to the cooling load 62. Cooling fluid (e.g., water, ethylene glycol, calcium chloride brine, sodium chloride brine, or any other suitable fluid) enters the evaporator 38 via the return line 60R and exits via the supply line 60S. The evaporator 38 can reduce the temperature of the cooling fluid in the tube bundle 58 through heat transfer with the refrigerant. The tube bundle 58 in the evaporator 38 may include multiple tubes and / or multiple tube bundles. In any case, vaporized refrigerant exits the evaporator 38 and returns to the compressor 32 via the suction line to complete the cycle.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a vapor compression system 14, in which an intermediate loop 64 is coupled between the condenser 34 and the expansion device 36. The intermediate loop 64 may have an inlet line 68 directly fluidly connected to the condenser 34. In other embodiments, the inlet line 68 may be indirectly fluidly coupled to the condenser 34. Figure 4 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, inlet line 68 includes a first expansion device 66 located upstream of intermediate container 70. In some embodiments, intermediate container 70 may be a flash tank (e.g., a flash intercooler). In other embodiments, intermediate container 70 may be configured as a heat exchanger or a "surface heat saver". Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate container 70 serves as a flash tank, and the first expansion device 66 is configured to reduce (e.g., expand) the pressure of the liquid refrigerant received from the condenser 34. During the expansion process, a portion of the liquid may evaporate, so the intermediate container 70 can be used to separate the vapor from the liquid received from the first expansion device 66.

[0029] Furthermore, due to the pressure drop experienced by the liquid refrigerant upon entering the intermediate container 70 (e.g., due to the rapid increase in volume experienced upon entering the intermediate container 70), the intermediate container 70 can provide further expansion of the liquid refrigerant. Vapor in the intermediate container 70 can be drawn by the compressor 32 through the compressor 32's suction line 74. In other embodiments, vapor in the intermediate container can be drawn into an intermediate stage of the compressor 32 (e.g., a non-suction stage). Due to the expansion in the expansion device 66 and / or the intermediate container 70, the liquid collected in the intermediate container 70 may have a lower enthalpy than the liquid refrigerant leaving the condenser 34. The liquid from the intermediate container 70 can then flow in line 72 through the second expansion device 36 to the evaporator 38.

[0030] It should be understood that any features described herein can be combined with vapor compression system 14 or any other suitable HVAC&R system. As described above, embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic identification system for a logic board for VSD 52. The size of VSD 52 can indicate the magnitude of the power output range (e.g., power supply current, power supply voltage) to which VSD 52 is configured. For example, a larger VSD can be used to control the operation of a relatively large motor (e.g., a 5,000 horsepower (HP) motor). Conversely, a smaller VSD can be used to operate a relatively small motor (e.g., a 100HP motor). In some embodiments, the logic board can monitor and / or control operating parameters of VSD 52 and / or contain programming or instructions that enable the logic board to control VSD 52 of a specific size. Therefore, different logic boards can be included in VSD 52 based on its size. In practice, the logic board can contain programming, fault handling systems, and / or other instructions that enable the logic board to control VSD 52 of a specific size in both retrofitted and non-retrofitted applications. Therefore, different logic boards can be included in a VSD 52 based on its specific size and / or whether the logic board is for a retrofit or non-retrofit application on the VSD. Existing systems do not include identification systems beyond visual, physical labels, or PCB etching that an operator can view to determine a particular type of logic board. Embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic identification system that can display and / or otherwise generate signals that can aid in the identification of a specific logic board in a VSD 52. For example, the electronic identification system may include multiple resistors that generate corresponding voltages and / or voltage differences indicating the identification and / or characteristics of the logic board. The multiple resistors may be communicatively coupled to a controller (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) for the logic board, which may be communicatively coupled to a display, external memory device, and / or operator device to provide the operator with identification information associated with the logic board. Therefore, the possibility of misidentifying a logic board can be reduced, thereby reducing maintenance time and costs for the HVAC&R system.

[0031] Considering the above, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a VSD 52 including a logic board 100, the VSD being used for control. Figure 1-4 The vapor compression system 14 includes a motor 50. An alternating current (AC) power source 102 supplies AC power to a VSD 52, which in turn supplies AC power to the motor 50. The AC power source 102 can provide three-phase, fixed-voltage, and fixed-frequency AC power to the VSD 52 from an AC grid or distribution system. For example, the AC power source 102 can provide the first phase, the second phase, and the third phase of AC power respectively through a first receiving line 104, a second receiving line 106, and a third receiving line 108.

[0032] AC power can be supplied directly from a power company or from one or more substations between the power company and AC power source 102. In some embodiments, AC power source 102 can supply VSD 52 with a three-phase AC voltage or line voltage of up to 15 kV at a line frequency between 50 Hz and 60 Hz, depending on the corresponding AC power source 102. However, in other embodiments, AC power source 102 can provide VSD 52 with any suitable fixed line voltage or fixed line frequency, depending on the configuration of AC power source 102. Additionally, a particular site may have multiple AC power sources to meet different line voltage and line frequency requirements.

[0033] VSD 52 directs AC power from AC power source 102 to motor 50 at a desired voltage and frequency. In some embodiments, VSD 52 may supply AC power to motor 50 having a higher or lower voltage and frequency than the fixed voltage and frequency received from AC power source 102. For example, VSD 52 may have three internal stages: converter 110 (e.g., rectifier), DC link 112, and inverter 114. Converter 110 may convert the fixed line frequency and / or fixed line voltage from AC power source 102 into DC power. DC link 112 may filter the DC power from converter 110 and / or store energy via components such as capacitors and / or inductors (not shown). Inverter 114 may convert the DC power from DC link 112 into variable frequency, variable voltage AC power (e.g., three-phase AC power) for motor 50. For example, inverter 114 can supply the first phase of AC power, the second phase of AC power, and the third phase of AC power to motor 50 through the first output line 116, the second output line 118, and the third output line 120, respectively.

[0034] In some embodiments, converter 110 may be a pulse-width modulation (PWM) boost converter or rectifier with an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) to provide a boosted DC voltage to DC link 112 and generate a basic RMS output voltage from VSD 52 that is greater than the fixed nominal basic root-mean-square (RMS) input voltage of VSD 52. Furthermore, in some embodiments, VSD 52 may be connected in parallel with... Figure 5 Additional components of the shown assembly are used to provide appropriate output voltage and frequency to motor 50.

[0035] In some embodiments, motor 50 may be an induction motor capable of being driven at a variable speed. The induction motor may have any suitable pole arrangement, including two, four, six, or any suitable number of poles. The induction motor is used to drive a load, such as compressor 32 of the vapor compression system 14. In other embodiments, motor 50 may be any suitable motor driving compressor 32 and / or another suitable device.

[0036] In some embodiments, logic board 100 may be communicatively coupled to VSD 52 via wiring harness 124 or multiple wiring harnesses (see Figure 5 The wiring harness 124 may contain multiple wires (e.g., copper wires, optical fibers) capable of transmitting data and / or signals between the VSD 52 and the logic board 100. In some embodiments, the logic board 100 may monitor and / or control various operating parameters of the VSD 52, such as the amplitude of the current drawn by the VSD 52 from the AC power supply 102. For example, the logic board 100 may be communicatively coupled (e.g., via the wiring harness 124) to an input current converter 130, which may be disposed on each of a first receive line 104, a second receive line 106, and / or a third receive line 108. The input current converter 130 may be used to monitor and / or control the current through the power lines (e.g., the first receive line 104, the second receive line 106, or the third receive line 108) and generate an output signal (e.g., current) that is proportional to but less than the current through the respective power line.

[0037] For example, a first input current converter 132 disposed on the first receiving line 104 can monitor the first phase of the AC power flowing through the first receiving line 104. Therefore, the first input current converter 132 can output a current (e.g., a signal) proportional to the amplitude of the first phase of the AC power. For example, the ampere value of the current flowing through the first receiving line 104 can be between 100 amperes (amps) and 2000 amps, while the ampere value of the output signal generated by the first input current converter 132 can be between 1 milliampere (mA) and 2 amps. Similarly, a second input current converter 134 disposed on the second receiving line 106 can monitor the second phase of the AC power flowing through the second receiving line 106, and a third input current converter 136 disposed on the third receiving line 108 can monitor the third phase of the AC power flowing through the third receiving line 108.

[0038] The logic board 100 may additionally monitor and / or control the amplitude of the current supplied to the motor 50 by the VSD 52. For example, the output current converter 140 may include a first output current converter 142, a second output current converter 144, and a third output current converter 146 respectively disposed on the first output line 116, the second output line 118, and the third output line 120. Therefore, the first output current converter 142, the second output current converter 144, and the third output current converter 146 may respectively monitor the first, second, and third phases of the AC power flowing through the first output line 116, the second output line 118, and the third output line 120. Similar to the input current converter 130, the output current converters 140 may each be communicatively coupled to the logic board 100 via wiring harness 124.

[0039] As described above, the VSD 52 may include a logic board 100, which may be selected from various logic boards of different types, models, and / or circuits depending on the size of the VSD 52 or its application (e.g., retrofit or non-retrofit). To facilitate identification of the logic board 100 used to control the operation of the VSD 52, the logic board 100 may include an electronic identification system 160. For example, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the electronic identification system 160 of the logic board 100. Figure 6As illustrated in the described embodiments, the electronic identification system 160 includes a configuration block 162 incorporated within the logic board 100. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the configuration block 162 may be a separate component (e.g., a separate printed circuit board) communicatively coupled to the logic board 100. As discussed in further detail below, the configuration block 162 includes a plurality of resistors that provide signals 164 to the control system 166 (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) of the logic board 100. The signals 164 may include a plurality of voltages (e.g., a plurality of voltage differences) indicating identification data of the logic board 100 (e.g., product number, logic board type, base number, pipeline number, bare PCB revision level, and / or bill of materials (BOM) revision level).

[0040] Therefore, the control system 166 can receive the signal 164 and interpret and / or decode identification data. For example, the control system 166 can receive the signal 164 as a plurality of voltages and decode and / or interpret each of the plurality of voltages as data bits. The data bits decoded and / or interpreted from the plurality of voltages can be combined with each other by the control system 166 to form a unique sequence corresponding to a particular logic board 100. In some embodiments, the control system 166 is configured to compare the unique sequence generated from the signal 164 with a lookup table stored in the memory 168 of the logic board 100 to determine information about the logic board 100 that can be interpreted and / or otherwise understood by the operator (e.g., information provided to the operator on a display of the operator's device). In some embodiments, the configuration block 162, the control system 166, and / or the memory 168 are communicatively coupled to each other via wired connections (e.g., buses and / or cables). In some embodiments, suitable connectors may be used to communicatively couple the configuration block 162, the control system 166, and / or the memory 168 to each other. For example, when configuration block 162 is a component separate from logic board 100 (e.g., PCB), a connector can be used to communicatively couple configuration block 162 to logic board 100. In other embodiments, configuration block 162, control system 166, and / or memory 168 are communicatively coupled to each other via wireless connections.

[0041] In some embodiments, the control system 166 may direct identification data, signal 164, and / or information related to logic board 100 to microcontroller 172 via a second signal 174. Microcontroller 172 may be configured to receive additional input 176 from logic board 100 and / or sensors and / or sensing devices of VSD 52 that monitor operating parameters of VSD 52. In addition to identification data, signal 164, and / or information related to logic board 100, microcontroller 172 may also utilize additional input 176 to further identify and / or characterize logic board 100. For example, operating parameters of VSD 52 may indicate the size of VSD 52, which may correspond to a specific logic board 100. Therefore, additional input 176 may provide further data and / or information, enabling microcontroller 172 to provide further identification information related to the specific logic board 100 used to control VSD 52. Alternatively or additionally, additional input 176 may be provided to an operator so that the operator can evaluate the suitability of logic board 100 for controlling VSD 52 based on the operating parameters of VSD 52. In other words, the operator can determine whether the size of a particular logic board 100 is designed and / or programmed to be sufficient to control the size of the VSD 52 installed thereon.

[0042] In some embodiments, the microcontroller 172 may be communicatively coupled to an external memory device 178 and / or a communication interface 180. The external memory device 178 may include a secure digital card (SD) and / or another removable memory device accessible to the operator for retrieving information associated with the logic board 100. Thus, the operator can utilize the external memory device 178 to retrieve information associated with the logic board 100 and identify the logic board 100. Similarly, the communication interface 180 may output a third signal 182 (e.g., a wireless signal) to an external computing device 184 (e.g., a mobile phone, computer, tablet, smart wearable device, display, or other suitable computing device) via a wireless or wired communication technology (e.g., Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-wave, ISM, embedded wireless module, another suitable wireless communication technology, or wired connection). Therefore, the logic board 100 is configured to provide the operator (e.g., to the operator's external computing device 184) with identification information associated with a specific logic board 100, enabling the operator to quickly and efficiently obtain the characteristics of the logic board 100.

[0043] As described above, configuration block 162 may include a plurality of resistors 190 communicatively coupled to control system 166 of logic board 100 (e.g., field-programmable gate array). For example, Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the electronic identification system 160 of the logic board 100. Figure 7As illustrated in the described embodiment, the electronic identification system 160 includes a configuration block 162 having a plurality of resistors 190. The plurality of resistors 190 may comprise groups or multiple groups of resistors 192 (e.g., multiple groups of resistors 192) that establish a voltage difference between a voltage source 194 and a ground connection 196. For example, a first resistor 198 in a first group of resistors 200 of the multiple groups of resistors 192 is coupled to the voltage source 194, and a second resistor 202 in the first group of resistors 200 is coupled to the ground connection 196. A tap 204 between the first resistor 198 and the second resistor 202 may be coupled to an input 206 of the control system 166 and may direct a signal 164 indicating a portion 208 of the voltage difference established between the first resistor 198 and the second resistor 202. It should be understood that each group of resistors 192 is configured to provide a corresponding portion 208 of the signal 164 to the control system 166. Therefore, in Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, signal 164 comprises six portions 208, each portion 208 being associated with one of six sets of resistors in a plurality of sets of resistors 192.

[0044] In some embodiments, voltage source 194 may comprise a power supply for logic board 100 (e.g., control system 166) and / or VSD 52. Therefore, voltage source 194 may comprise a single power supply configured to direct a constant voltage to each of the multiple sets of resistors 192. In other embodiments, voltage source 194 may be a power supply separate from logic board 100 and / or VSD 52. In any case, voltage source 194 provides a voltage (e.g., a single voltage or a varying voltage) to each of the multiple sets of resistors 192. The multiple sets of resistors 192 are configured to establish a voltage difference at a corresponding tap 204 of each set of resistors 192. Therefore, each of the multiple resistors 190 may comprise a different resistor, such that each set of resistors 192 is capable of generating a target voltage difference ultimately directed towards control system 166.

[0045] In some embodiments, a target voltage difference established by a corresponding set of resistors 192 can represent a data bit that is decoded and / or interpreted by the control system 166 to determine identification information associated with the logic board 100. For example, in some embodiments, the target voltage difference can indicate "0" or "1", such that portions 208 of signal 164 together form a binary sequence. More specifically, a first set of resistors in the plurality of sets of resistors 192 can generate a target voltage difference greater than a threshold voltage difference, thereby representing "1" as a data bit transmitted to the control system 166. Furthermore, a second set of resistors in the plurality of sets of resistors 192 can generate a target voltage difference less than a threshold voltage difference, thereby representing "0" as a data bit transmitted to the control system 166. Therefore, each voltage difference received by the control system 166 from the plurality of sets of resistors 192 can represent a bit of a data sequence indicating characteristics and / or features of the logic board 100. Figure 7 As illustrated in the described embodiment, the electronic identification system 160 includes six sets of resistors 192, enabling the control system 166 to receive six data bits forming a sequence. In embodiments utilizing binary codes, the control system 166 can receive sixty-four (e.g., 2...) data bits. 6 (Number) different sequences, each representing a specific logic board 100. In other embodiments, the electronic identification system 160 may include any suitable number of sets of resistors 192, enabling the control system 166 to identify any suitable number of logic boards 100. Alternatively, the voltage difference received by the control system 166 may not be in binary code format, allowing a sequence of actual voltage differences (e.g., values ​​detected by the control system 166) to be associated with logic board 100.

[0046] As described above, the control system 166 can decode the signal 164 received from the configuration block 162 and compare the information from the signal 164 (e.g., code, data bits) to identify the logic board 100. For example, as described above, the control system 166 can compare the unique sequence decoded or extracted from the signal 164 with a lookup table stored in the memory 168 of the electronic identification system 160. The lookup table can identify a specific logic board 100 and provide information indicating the identifier of the logic board 100 to the control system 166 and / or the microcontroller 172. Therefore, the control system 166 and / or the microcontroller 172 can determine specific information associated with the logic board 100 and output the information to the external memory device 178 and / or generate a third signal 182 (e.g., via the communication interface 180), which can be received by an operator at the external computing device 184.

[0047] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a logic board identification code 220 that can be provided to an operator via an external memory device 178 and / or a communication interface 180. For example, an external computing device 184 may include a display configured to provide a visual representation of the logic board identification code 220. The operator can scan the logic board identification code 220 (e.g., similar to a barcode) to extract additional identification information associated with a specific logic board 100. Therefore, when performing installation and / or assembly, maintenance, and / or other procedural tasks on an HVAC&R system, the operator can quickly identify the logic board 100 used in the VSD 52 of the HVAC&R system. In addition to the logic board identification code 220, the operator may also receive further information related to the identification of the logic board 100 (e.g., information from a lookup table provided to the operator via an external memory device, and / or a third signal 182). In any case, the logic board identification code 220 and / or other information received by the operator can facilitate the operator's operations on the HVAC&R system and reduce assembly costs, maintenance costs, and / or maintenance time.

[0048] like Figure 8 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the logic board identifier 220 may include a logic board identifier 222, a base number sequence 224, a board pipeline number sequence 226, a BOM revision sequence 228, a unique identifier 230, and / or a bare PCB revision or layout identifier 232. The logic board identifier 222 (in...) Figure 8 The sequence “031” in the embodiments can be any sequence of numbers, letters, or characters representing all different types of logic boards 100. It should be understood that the sequence “031” is for illustrative purposes, and in other embodiments, the logic board identifier 222 can contain any sequence of numbers, letters, and / or characters. In any case, the logic board identifier 222 can be the same regardless of what the specific logic board 100 used for the VSD 52 is. In other words, the logic board identifier 222 is used to confirm that the electrical hardware controlling the VSD 52 and / or another device is indeed a logic board. The base sequence 224 can be a unique sequence of numbers that can be associated with a specific logic board 100 and can identify one or more functions of the logic board 100 relative to the VSD 52. The base sequence 224 can represent a model or serial number, the type and size of the logic board, circuit-related information, and / or other identifying information associated with the logic board 100.

[0049] Board line number sequence 226 can indicate the application and / or use of a particular logic board 100. For example, logic board 100 can be used to control VSD 52 associated with motor 50 driving compressor 32. In other embodiments, logic board 100 can be used to control VSD 52 associated with another component driven by the motor, another suitable variable frequency drive, and / or another application that can utilize the logic board. Thus, an operator can quickly identify whether a particular logic board 100 is used for its intended purpose and / or application. BOM revision sequence 228 can indicate a particular component included in a particular logic board 100. For example, BOM revision sequence 228 can identify capacitors, resistors, inductors, transformers, power supplies, circuit breakers, switches, fuses, and / or other suitable components that can be included in logic board 100. Furthermore, unique identifier 230 can indicate and / or identify deviations from known BOM revision sequences 228. For example, BOM revision sequence 228 can contain a predetermined sequence indicating components typically included in a standard logic board. The unique identifier 230 may contain a sequence of characters, numbers, and / or letters that identify a particular logic board 100 as a specific component that differs from a predetermined component associated with BOM revision sequence 228. For example, a particular logic board 100 may contain additional components, components of different sizes, and / or fewer components compared to the components associated with BOM revision sequence 228, such that the unique identifier 230 is configured to identify and / or provide an indication of such modifications to the particular logic board 100.

[0050] The bare PCB revision or layout identifier 232 may contain information related to the design parameters of a specific logic board 100. For example, the bare PCB revision or layout identifier 232 may contain sequences of characters, numbers, and / or letters indicating the circuit layout, arrangement (e.g., data related to components and / or circuitry), and / or other suitable design parameters specific to a particular logic board 100. In any case, the logic board identifier 220 may be scanned or otherwise provided electronically to the operator to facilitate the identification of a specific logic board 100 contained in the VSD 52, thereby facilitating troubleshooting and / or maintenance of the VSD 52.

[0051] It should be understood that this application is not limited to the details or methods shown in the following description or figures. It should also be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered restrictive.

[0052] While the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures and described herein are currently preferred, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments but extends to various modifications that still fall within the scope of the appended claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or rearranged according to alternative embodiments.

[0053] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the VSD and / or logic board as illustrated in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. While only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art will readily understand that numerous modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter set forth in the claims. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or elements, the positions of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number or position of discrete elements may be altered or varied. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this application. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or reordered according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any device-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structure described herein that performs the functions, and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made to the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A logic board for variable speed drive (VSD), comprising: A configuration block includes multiple pairs of resistors disposed between a voltage source and a ground point, wherein the multiple pairs of resistors include a first pair of resistors and a second pair of resistors, the first pair of resistors being configured to generate a first voltage difference between the voltage source and the ground point, and the second pair of resistors being configured to generate a second voltage difference between the voltage source and the ground point. A control system communicatively coupled to the configuration block and configured to receive from the configuration block a signal including the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference, wherein the control system is configured to decode the signal to generate data indicating an identifier of the logic board; as well as A communication interface coupled to the control system, wherein the communication interface is configured to provide the operator with the data indicating the identifier of the logic board.

2. The logic board of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured to receive a corresponding portion of the signal from each of the plurality of pairs of resistors.

3. The logic board of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured to compare the first voltage difference, the second voltage difference, or both with a threshold voltage difference, and wherein the control system is configured to assign a digital identifier to the first voltage difference, the second voltage difference, or both based on the comparison.

4. The logic board of claim 1, wherein the data indicating the identifier of the logic board includes a logic board identification code.

5. The logic board according to claim 4, wherein the logic board identification code includes a logic board identifier, a base number sequence, a board pipeline sequence, a BOM revision sequence, a unique identifier, a layout identifier, or any combination thereof.

6. The logic board according to claim 1, wherein the communication interface includes a wireless communication device, a portable memory device, a wired communication interface, or a combination thereof.

7. The logic board of claim 6, wherein the communication interface includes the portable memory device, and wherein the portable memory device is a secure digital card.

8. The logic board of claim 1, comprising a microcontroller communicatively coupled to the control system, wherein the microcontroller is configured to receive operational data from the VSD and generate additional data based on the operational data indicating the identifier of the logic board.

9. An electronic identification system for a logic board, comprising: The power supply of the logic board, wherein the power supply is configured to output voltage; as well as The logic board has multiple pairs of resistors, wherein the multiple pairs of resistors are electrically coupled to the power supply and communicatively coupled to the control system of the logic board, wherein one pair of resistors is configured to establish a voltage difference between the power supply and a ground point, and wherein the control system is configured to receive the voltage difference from the one pair of resistors. The plurality of resistor pairs are configured to establish a voltage difference sequence, the control system is configured to receive a signal including the voltage difference sequence, and the control system is configured to decode the signal.

10. The electronic identification system of claim 9, wherein the voltage difference between one pair of resistors in the plurality of pairs of resistors indicates the identifier of the logic board.

11. The electronic identification system of claim 9, wherein the power supply is configured to provide at least a portion of the voltage to the control system.

12. The electronic identification system of claim 9, wherein the voltage difference sequence forms a binary code, and wherein the control system is configured to decode the binary code.

13. The electronic identification system of claim 9, wherein the plurality of pairs of resistors are arranged as pairs between the power supply and the ground point, and wherein the pairs of resistors are configured to generate the voltage difference at a respective tap located between a first resistor in a respective pair and a second resistor in the respective pair.

14. A method for identifying a logic board, comprising: A first voltage difference is established between the first pair of resistors positioned between the power supply and the ground point; A second voltage difference is established between the second pair of resistors positioned between the power source and the grounding point; The signals indicating the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference are directed to the control system of the logic board; as well as The signal is decoded to generate data indicating the identifier of the logic board.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein decoding the signal to generate the data indicating the identifier of the logic board includes detecting binary code associated with the first voltage difference and the second voltage difference.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein decoding the signal to generate data indicating the identifier of the logic board includes generating a logic board identification code.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the logic board identification code includes a logic board identifier, a base number sequence, a board pipeline sequence, a BOM revision sequence, a unique identifier, a layout identifier, or any combination thereof.

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