Interface with improved accessibility, method of forming the interface and communication system for improving accessibility of the interface

Abstract

Interfaces (402, 502, 602, 1202) having improved accessibility, methods of forming the interfaces, and communication systems for improving accessibility of the interfaces are provided. The interfaces (402, 502, 602, 1202) include a housing (430, 530, 630, 1230) and meter electronics (520, 620, 1220) disposed inside the housing (430, 530, 630, 1230). The meter electronics (420, 520, 620, 1220) are configured to attach to a connector (450, 550, 650, 1250) that extends into the housing (430, 530, 630, 1230). Other aspects are also provided.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on January 12, 2021, with application number 202180089929.4 and title "Interface with Improved Accessibility". Technical Field

[0002] The implementation described below relates to a meter with an interface, and more specifically, to an interface with improved accessibility. Background Technology

[0003] Vibration meters, such as Coriolis mass flow meters, liquid densitometers, gas densitometers, fluid viscometers, gas / liquid hydrometers, gas / liquid relative density meters, and gas molecular weight meters, are commonly known and used to measure the properties of fluids. Typically, a vibration meter comprises a sensor assembly and metering electronics. The material within the sensor assembly can be flowing or stationary. Vibration meters can be used to measure the mass flow rate, density, or other properties of the material within the sensor assembly. The metering electronics typically perform calculations to determine the values ​​of the mass flow rate, density, and other properties of the material within the sensor assembly.

[0004] Measuring electronics are typically housed in an interface that is communicatively and / or mechanically coupled to the sensor assembly; this interface is sometimes referred to as a transmitter. In addition to the measuring electronics, the interface may also include a display that shows various data, such as vibration meter parameters, historical data, communication status, etc. However, due to the installation of vibration meters in industrial environments, access to the interface may be limited, constrained, or obstructed. For example, the interface may be located where piping obstructs the display. For similar reasons, maintenance or adjustments performed on the interface can be difficult. Therefore, interfaces with improved accessibility are required. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An interface with improved accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the interface includes a housing and metering electronics disposed within the housing. The metering electronics are configured to attach to a connector extending into the housing.

[0006] A method is provided for assembling an interface with improved accessibility. According to one embodiment, the method includes: providing a housing; providing metering electronics and housing the metering electronics within the housing; providing a connector and extending the connector into the housing; and attaching the metering electronics to the connector extending into the housing.

[0007] An interface with improved accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the interface includes a housing and metering electronics. The metering electronics include: an upper metering electronics; a lower metering electronics; and a barrier plate disposed between and connected to the upper and lower metering electronics. The interface also includes a gasket disposed between the barrier plate and the housing and in contact with both the barrier plate and the housing to form a watertight seal separating the upper metering electronics portion of the housing from the lower metering electronics portion of the housing.

[0008] A method for assembling an interface with improved accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the method includes providing a housing and providing metering electronics. Providing the metering electronics includes: providing an upper metering electronics; providing a lower metering electronics; providing a barrier plate and disposing the barrier plate between the upper and lower metering electronics; and coupling the barrier plate to the upper and lower metering electronics. The method further includes providing a gasket between the barrier plate and the housing and contacting the gasket with the barrier plate and the housing to form a watertight seal separating the upper metering electronics portion of the housing and the lower metering electronics portion of the housing.

[0009] An interface with improved accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the interface includes a housing with a display opening and a dashboard disposed inside the housing near the display opening. The dashboard includes a panel and a wireless transceiver, wherein the panel includes a front portion facing the display opening and a rear portion facing an interior portion of the housing. The wireless transceiver is disposed on the rear portion of the panel and configured to communicatively connect to a wireless device via an opening in the panel.

[0010] A method for forming an interface with improved accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the method includes: providing a housing having a display opening; providing a dashboard and disposing the dashboard inside the housing near the display opening, wherein providing the dashboard includes providing a plate, wherein the plate includes a front portion facing the display opening and a rear portion facing an interior portion of the housing. The method further includes: providing a wireless transceiver and disposing the wireless transceiver on the rear portion of the plate; and configuring the wireless transceiver to communicatively connect to a wireless device via an opening in the plate.

[0011] A communication system for improving interface accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the communication system includes a wireless device and a dashboard disposed within a housing of the interface. The dashboard has a panel and a wireless transceiver, wherein the panel includes a front portion and a rear portion with a display opening facing the housing. The wireless transceiver is disposed on the rear portion of the panel and configured to communicatively connect to the wireless device via an opening in the panel.

[0012] A metering electronics device is provided for improving interface accessibility. According to one embodiment, the metering electronics device includes a processor disposed on an electronics board and a component disposed on the electronics board, the component being coupled to pins of the processor, the pins of the processor being configured to be coupled to a component of a display board coupled to the electronics board. The component of the display board is redundant with respect to the component of the electronics board.

[0013] A method for improving interface accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the method includes: providing a processor and mounting the processor on an electronics board; providing a component and mounting the component on the electronics board; connecting the component to pins of the processor; and configuring the pins of the processor to connect to a component of a display panel connected to the electronics board. The component of the display panel is redundant with respect to the component of the electronics board.

[0014] An interface with improved accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the interface includes: a housing; a dashboard disposed within the housing and near an opening in the housing; and a translation rod pivotally coupled to the dashboard, the translation rod being configured to displace the dashboard through the opening in the housing.

[0015] A method for improving interface accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the method includes: providing a housing; providing a dashboard and housing the dashboard inside the housing and near an opening in the housing; and providing a translation rod and pivotally connecting the translation rod to the dashboard, the translation rod being configured to displace the dashboard through the opening in the housing.

[0016] A method for improving interface accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the method includes displacing an instrument panel along a translation axis through an opening in a housing, the instrument panel being configured to perform at least one of: rotation about the translation axis and pivoting about a pivot axis.

[0017] A method for improving interface accessibility is provided. According to one embodiment, the method includes determining an operating value and adjusting a drive voltage supplied to a display based on the determined operating value and a relationship between the drive voltage and an actual contrast ratio. The operating value corresponds to the temperature of the metering electronics providing the drive voltage.

[0018] A metering electronics device is provided for improving interface accessibility. According to one embodiment, the metering electronics device includes a processor and a display driving circuit. The processor is configured to determine an operating value, and the display driving circuit is configured to provide a driving voltage to a display and adjust the driving voltage based on the operating value and a relationship between the driving voltage and an actual contrast ratio. The operating value corresponds to the temperature of the metering electronics device providing the driving voltage.

[0019] All aspects

[0020] According to one aspect, interfaces 402, 502, 602, and 1202 with improved accessibility include housings 430, 530, 630, and 1230 and metering electronics 420, 520, 620, and 1220 disposed within the housings 430, 530, 630, and 1230. The metering electronics 420, 520, 620, and 1220 are configured to attach to connectors 450, 550, 650, and 1250 extending into the housings 430, 530, 630, and 1230.

[0021] Preferably, housings 530, 1230 are rotatably connected to connectors 550, 1250 extending into housings 530, 1230.

[0022] Preferably, the metering electronics 1220 includes: an electronic board 1220b; and a housing 1220s attached to the electronic board 1220b, the housing 1220s being configured to be attached to a connector 1250 extending into a housing 1230.

[0023] Preferably, the connectors 450, 550, 650, and 1250 extending into the housings 430, 530, 630, and 1230 are part of the feedthroughs 415, 515, 615, and 1215 extending from one of the sensor assembly and the junction box.

[0024] Preferably, interfaces 602 and 1202 further include receiving disks 617 and 1217 rotatably disposed around connectors 650 and 1250, wherein at least a portion of the receiving disks 617 and 1217 is disposed between retaining rings 618 and 1218 of connectors 650 and 1250 and walls 632 and 1232 of housings 630 and 1230.

[0025] Preferably, the metering electronics 1220 further includes a post 1224p and a bolt 1224b, the post 1224p being configured to engage with a groove 1217g in the receiving disk 1217, and the bolt 1224b being configured to engage with a threaded hole 1217h in the receiving disk 1217.

[0026] Preferably, the receiving discs 617, 1217 include protrusions 617l, 1217l that engage with one of the grooves 618g and the lip 1218b of the retaining rings 618, 1218 to retain the metering electronics 620, 1220 to connectors 650, 1250 extending into the housings 630, 1230.

[0027] Preferably, the metering electronics 1220 includes: a lower metering electronics 1224 configured to be attached to a connector 1250 extending into the housing 1230; and an upper metering electronics 1222 configured to be attached to the housing 1230 and configured to be communicatively coupled to the lower metering electronics 1224.

[0028] According to one aspect, a method for assembling an interface with improved accessibility includes: providing a housing; providing metering electronics and housing the metering electronics inside the housing; providing a connector and extending the connector into the housing; and attaching the metering electronics to the connector extending into the housing.

[0029] Preferably, the method further includes rotatably connecting the housing to a connector extending into the housing.

[0030] Preferably, providing metering electronics and housing the metering electronics inside the housing includes: providing an electronic board; providing a housing and attaching the housing to the electronic board; providing a connector and extending the connector into the housing; and attaching the housing to the connector extending into the housing.

[0031] Preferably, providing a connector and extending the connector into the housing includes providing a feedthrough and extending the feedthrough from one of the sensor assembly and the junction box into the housing.

[0032] Preferably, the method further includes providing a receiving disk and rotatably arranging the receiving disk around the connector, wherein at least a portion of the receiving disk is disposed between the retaining ring of the connector and the wall of the housing.

[0033] Preferably, providing the metering electronics further includes providing a post, wherein providing a receiving disk includes providing a groove and a threaded hole in the receiving disk, and the method further includes providing a bolt, wherein the post is configured to engage with the groove and the bolt is configured to engage with the threaded hole in the receiving disk.

[0034] Preferably, the receiving disc includes providing a protrusion that engages with one of a groove and a lip of a retaining ring to retain the metering electronics to a connector extending into the housing.

[0035] Preferably, providing the metering electronics includes providing a lower metering electronics and providing an upper metering electronics, the lower metering electronics being configured to be attached to a connector extending into the housing, and the upper metering electronics being configured to be attached to the housing and configured to be communicatively connected to the lower metering electronics.

[0036] According to one aspect, the interface 2202 with improved accessibility includes a housing 2230 and a metering electronics 2220. The metering electronics 2220 includes: an upper metering electronics 2222; a lower metering electronics 2224; and a barrier plate 2223 disposed between and connected to the upper and lower metering electronics 2222 and the lower metering electronics 2224. The interface 2202 also includes a gasket 2230o disposed between and in contact with the barrier plate 2223 and the housing 2230 to form a watertight seal separating the upper metering electronics portion 2230u and the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of the housing 2230.

[0037] Preferably, the barrier plate 2223 does not have a hole that runs through the barrier plate 2223 inside the gasket 2230o.

[0038] Preferably, the gasket 2230o includes an O-ring compressed between the housing 2230 and the barrier plate 2223.

[0039] Preferably, the washer 2230o disposed between the barrier plate 2223 and the housing 2230 and in contact with the barrier plate 2223 and the housing 2230 includes a washer 2230o disposed between the boss 2230s of the housing 2230 and the barrier plate 2223 and in contact with the boss 2230s of the housing 2230 and the barrier plate 2223.

[0040] Preferably, the interface 2202 further includes a plurality of fasteners 2230b, which are positioned close to the washer 2230o and configured to attach the barrier plate 2223 to the boss 2230s of the housing 2230.

[0041] Preferably, the plurality of fasteners 2230b are disposed in at least one of the upper metering electronics portion 2230u and the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of the housing 2230.

[0042] Preferably, the plurality of fasteners 2230b are configured to pass through the barrier plate 2223 into the boss 2230s of the housing 2230.

[0043] According to one aspect, a method for assembling an interface with improved accessibility includes providing a housing and providing metering electronics. Providing the metering electronics includes: providing an upper metering electronics device; providing a lower metering electronics device; providing a barrier plate and disposing the barrier plate between the upper and lower metering electronics devices; and connecting the barrier plate to the upper and lower metering electronics devices. The method further includes providing a gasket between the barrier plate and the housing and contacting the gasket with the barrier plate and the housing to form a watertight seal separating the upper metering electronics portion of the housing and the lower metering electronics portion of the housing.

[0044] Preferably, the barrier plate includes a barrier plate that is not formed having a hole that runs through the barrier plate inside the gasket.

[0045] Preferably, providing the gasket includes providing an O-ring and compressing the O-ring between the housing and the barrier plate.

[0046] Preferably, providing a gasket between the barrier plate and the housing and making the gasket contact the barrier plate and the housing includes providing the gasket between the bosses of the barrier plate and the housing and making the gasket contact the bosses of the barrier plate and the housing.

[0047] Preferably, the method further includes providing a plurality of fasteners near the washer and using the plurality of fasteners to attach the barrier plate to the boss of the housing.

[0048] Preferably, the method further includes providing a plurality of fasteners in at least one of the upper metering electronics portion of the housing and the lower metering electronics portion of the housing.

[0049] Preferably, the method further includes configuring a plurality of fasteners to pass through the barrier plate into the boss of the housing.

[0050] According to one aspect, the interface 2502 with improved accessibility includes a housing 2530 having a display opening 2532 and a dashboard 2540 disposed inside the housing 2530 near the display opening 2532. The dashboard 2540 includes a panel 2540b and a wireless transceiver 2548, wherein the panel 2540b includes a front side 2540ba facing the display opening 2532 and a rear side 2540bp facing the interior portion of the housing 2530. The wireless transceiver 2548 is disposed on the rear side 2540bp of the panel 2540b and configured to be communicatively connected to a wireless device 2501 via an opening 2540bo in the panel 2540b.

[0051] Preferably, the instrument panel 2540 also includes an instrument panel chassis 2543 mechanically coupled to the panel 2540b, the instrument panel chassis 2543 including slots 2543s near the wireless transceiver 2548.

[0052] Preferably, the display 2544 is connected to the front side 2540ba of the board 2540b.

[0053] Preferably, the display 2544 is configured to be close to the opening 2540bo of the plate 2540b.

[0054] Preferably, the display 2544 is positioned on board 2540b opposite to the wireless transceiver 2548.

[0055] Preferably, the wireless transceiver 2548 includes an antenna 2548a, which is arranged near an opening 2540bo in the plate 2540b and a slot 2543s in the instrument panel chassis 2543.

[0056] According to one aspect, a method for forming an interface with improved accessibility includes: providing a housing with a display opening; providing a dashboard and disposing the dashboard inside the housing near the display opening, wherein providing the dashboard includes providing a plate, wherein the plate includes a front portion facing the display opening and a rear portion facing an interior portion of the housing. The method further includes providing a wireless transceiver and disposing the wireless transceiver on the rear portion of the plate, and configuring the wireless transceiver to communicatively connect to a wireless device via an opening in the plate.

[0057] Preferably, providing an instrument panel also includes providing an instrument panel chassis and mechanically connecting the instrument panel chassis to the plate, such that a slot in the instrument panel chassis is close to the wireless transceiver.

[0058] Preferably, the method further includes providing a display and attaching the display to the front side of the board.

[0059] Preferably, the method further includes arranging the display near an opening in the panel.

[0060] Preferably, the method further includes setting the display on the board opposite to the wireless transceiver.

[0061] Preferably, providing a wireless transceiver includes providing an antenna and positioning the antenna in an opening in the plate and a slot in the dashboard chassis.

[0062] According to one aspect, a communication system 2500 for improving the accessibility of interface 2502 includes a wireless device 2501 and an instrument panel 2540 disposed inside a housing 2530 of interface 2502. The instrument panel 2540 has a plate 2540b and a wireless transceiver 2548, wherein the plate 2540b includes a front portion 2540ba and a rear portion 2540bp facing a display opening 2532 of housing 2530. The wireless transceiver 2548 is disposed on the rear portion 2540bp of plate 2540b and configured to be communicatively connected to the wireless device 2501 via an opening 2540bo in plate 2540b.

[0063] Preferably, the instrument panel 2540 also includes an instrument panel chassis 2543 mechanically coupled to the panel 2540b, the instrument panel chassis 2543 including slots 2543s near the wireless transceiver 2548.

[0064] Preferably, the communication system 2500 further includes a display 2544 connected to the front side 2540ba of the board 2540b.

[0065] Preferably, the display 2544 is configured to be close to the opening 2540bo of the plate 2540b.

[0066] Preferably, the display 2544 is configured opposite to the wireless transceiver 2548.

[0067] Preferably, the wireless transceiver 2548 includes an antenna 2548a, which is arranged near an opening 2540bo in the plate 2540b and a slot 2543s in the instrument panel chassis 2543.

[0068] According to one aspect, the metering electronics 3220 for improving the accessibility of interface 3202 includes a processor 3228 disposed on an electronic board 3220b and a component 3226 disposed on the electronic board 3220b. The component 3226 is connected to pins of the processor 3228, and the pins of the processor 3228 are configured to connect to a component 3246 of a display board 3240b connected to the electronic board 3220b. The component 3246 of the display board 3240b is redundant with respect to the component 3226 of the electronic board 3220b.

[0069] Preferably, the pins of the processor 3228 are configured to be connected to the component 3246 of the display panel 3240b via a connector 3247 that connects the display panel 3240b to the electronic board 3220b.

[0070] Preferably, component 3226 of electronic board 3220b is one of light-emitting diode 3226l and switch 3226s of electronic board 3220b, and component 3246 of display board 3240b is one of light-emitting diode 3246l and switch 3246s of display board 3240b.

[0071] Preferably, the pins of the processor 3228 are connected to the first terminal of the component 3226 of the electronic board 3220b, and the second terminal of the component 3226 is connected to the grounding component 3220g.

[0072] Preferably, the metering electronics 3220 further includes a display panel 3240b, wherein pins of the processor 3228 are connected to a component 3246 of the display panel 3240b.

[0073] Preferably, the pins of the processor 3228 are connected to the first terminal of the component 3246 of the display panel 3240b, and the second terminal of the component 3246 of the display panel 3240b is connected to the grounding component 3220g.

[0074] Preferably, the metering electronics 3220 further includes amplifiers 3222a and 3222b having output terminals connected to a component 3226 disposed in the electronic board 3220. The amplifiers 3222a and 3222b are inverters configured to invert signals from the processor 3228 to the component 3226.

[0075] According to one aspect, a method for improving interface accessibility includes: providing a processor and mounting the processor on an electronic board; providing components and mounting the components on the electronic board; connecting the components to pins of the processor; and configuring the pins of the processor to connect to components of a display panel connected to the electronic board. The components of the display panel are redundant with respect to the components of the electronic board.

[0076] Preferably, the component that configures the processor's pins to connect to the display panel includes the component that configures the pins to connect to the display panel via a connector that connects the display panel to an electronic board.

[0077] Preferably, the component providing the electronic board includes one of a light-emitting diode and a switch, and the component providing the display board includes one of a light-emitting diode and a switch.

[0078] Preferably, connecting the component to the processor's pins includes connecting the processor's pins to a first terminal of the component on the electronic board and connecting the component's second terminal to a grounding element.

[0079] Preferably, the method further includes providing a display panel and components for connecting the processor's pins to the display panel.

[0080] Preferably, the component for connecting the processor's pins to the display panel includes a first terminal for connecting the processor's pins to the display panel and a second terminal for connecting the display panel to a grounding component.

[0081] Preferably, the method further includes providing an amplifier with an output terminal and connecting the output terminal to a component disposed in an electronic board, the amplifier being an inverter configured to invert a signal from the processor to the component.

[0082] According to one aspect, the interface 3402 with improved accessibility includes: a housing 3430; a dashboard 3440 disposed inside the housing 3430 and near an opening 3430o of the housing 3430; and a translation lever 3440t pivotally connected to the dashboard 3440, the translation lever 3440t being configured to displace the dashboard 3440 through the opening 3430o of the housing 3430.

[0083] Preferably, the translation rod 3440t pivotally connected to the instrument panel 3440 includes an instrument panel 3440 configured to rotate about a translation axis 3440at collinear with the longitudinal axis of the translation rod 3440t.

[0084] Preferably, the translation lever 3440t pivotally connected to the instrument panel 3440 includes an instrument panel 3440 configured to rotate about a pivot axis 3440ap orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the translation lever 3440t.

[0085] Preferably, the translation rod 3440t configured to displace the instrument panel 3440 through the opening 3430o of the housing 3430 includes a translation rod 3440t configured to displace the instrument panel 3440 in a direction collinear with the longitudinal axis of the translation rod 3440t.

[0086] Preferably, the translation rod 3440t is pivotally connected to the instrument panel 3440 at the pivot point 3440p.

[0087] Preferably, the pivot point 3440p is located at the position where the pivot axis 3440ap and the translation axis 3440at coincide, where the instrument panel 3440 pivots about the pivot axis 3440ap and rotates about the translation axis 3440at.

[0088] According to one aspect, a method for improving interface accessibility includes: providing a housing; providing an instrument panel and placing the instrument panel inside the housing and near an opening in the housing; and providing a translation rod and pivotally connecting the translation rod to the instrument panel, the translation rod being configured to displace the instrument panel through an opening in the housing.

[0089] Preferably, pivotally connecting the translation bar to the instrument panel includes configuring the instrument panel to rotate about a translation axis that is collinear with the longitudinal axis of the translation bar.

[0090] Preferably, pivotally connecting the translation bar to the instrument panel includes configuring the instrument panel to rotate about a pivot axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the translation bar.

[0091] Preferably, configuring the translation rod to displace the instrument panel through the opening in the housing includes configuring the translation rod to displace the instrument panel in a direction collinear with the longitudinal axis of the translation rod.

[0092] Preferably, pivotally connecting the translation rod to the dashboard includes pivotally connecting the translation rod to the dashboard at a pivot point.

[0093] Preferably, the pivot point is located where the pivot axis and the translation axis coincide, at which the instrument panel pivots about the pivot axis and rotates about the translation axis.

[0094] According to one aspect, a method for improving interface accessibility includes displacing the instrument panel along a translation axis through an opening in the housing, the instrument panel being configured to perform at least one of the following: rotation about the translation axis and pivoting about a pivot axis.

[0095] Preferably, the method further includes performing at least one of the following: rotating the instrument panel about a translation axis and pivoting the instrument panel about a pivot axis.

[0096] Preferably, the translation axis and the pivot axis are co-located at the pivot point, and the instrument panel is configured to rotate and pivot about the pivot point.

[0097] According to one aspect, a method for improving interface accessibility includes: determining an operating value; and adjusting the driving voltage supplied to the display based on the determined operating value and the relationship between the driving voltage and the actual contrast ratio. The operating value corresponds to the temperature of the metering electronics that provides the driving voltage.

[0098] Preferably, the method further includes determining a contrast value based on the determined operating value and the relationship between the driving voltage and the actual contrast, and adjusting the driving voltage based on the contrast value.

[0099] Preferably, the method further includes setting register values ​​in the display driver circuit based on the determined contrast value.

[0100] Preferably, the operating value is the driving voltage provided to the display.

[0101] Preferably, the method further includes determining the contrast value based on the relationship between the driving voltage and the contrast value.

[0102] Preferably, the operating value is the temperature of the metering electronics that provides the driving voltage to the display.

[0103] Preferably, the method further includes determining the contrast value based on the relationship between the temperature of the metering electronics and the contrast value.

[0104] According to one aspect, a metering electronics device 4420 for improving interface accessibility includes: a processor 4420p configured to determine an operating value; and a display driving circuit 4420d configured to provide a driving voltage to a display 4440 and adjust the driving voltage based on the operating value and the relationship between the driving voltage and the actual contrast ratio. The operating value corresponds to the temperature of the metering electronics device providing the driving voltage.

[0105] Preferably, the processor 4420p is further configured to determine a contrast value based on the determined operating value and the relationship between the drive voltage and the actual contrast, and to adjust the drive voltage based on the contrast value.

[0106] Preferably, the metering electronics 4420 is further configured to set the register value in the display driver circuit 4420d based on the determined contrast value.

[0107] Preferably, the operating value is the driving voltage provided to the display 4440.

[0108] Preferably, the processor 4420p is further configured to determine the contrast value based on the relationship between the drive voltage and the contrast value.

[0109] Preferably, the operating value is the temperature of the metering electronics 4420 that provides the driving voltage to the display 4440.

[0110] Preferably, the processor 4420p is also configured to determine the contrast value based on the relationship between the temperature of the metering electronics 4420 and the contrast value. Attached Figure Description

[0111] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0112] Figure 1 A vibration meter 5 is shown, including an interface 2 with improved accessibility.

[0113] Figure 2 A vibration meter 5 including an interface 2 with improved accessibility is shown, wherein, for clarity, the housing for the interface 2 and the sensor assembly 10 is not shown.

[0114] Figure 3 A block diagram of a vibration meter 5 is shown, which includes a block diagram representation of meter electronics 20.

[0115] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Block diagrams of vibration meters 405 and 505 are shown, which include interfaces 402 and 502 with improved accessibility.

[0116] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A partial perspective view of a vibration meter 605 is shown, which includes an interface 602 with improved accessibility.

[0117] Figure 8 and Figure 9 An interface 802 with improved accessibility is shown.

[0118] Figure 10 and Figure 11 An interface 1002 with improved accessibility is shown.

[0119] Figures 12 to 15 A vibration meter 1205 is shown, including an interface 1202 with improved accessibility.

[0120] Figures 16 to 20B The mounting of the lower metering electronics 1224 on the connector 1250 of the sensor assembly is shown.

[0121] Figure 21 A method 2100 for assembling an interface with improved accessibility is shown.

[0122] Figure 22 and Figure 23 An interface 2202 with improved accessibility is shown.

[0123] Figure 24 A method 2400 for assembling an interface with improved accessibility is shown.

[0124] Figure 25 A communication system 2500 including an interface 2502 is shown, which is used to improve the accessibility of the interface 2502.

[0125] Figures 26 to 28 Various views of the dashboard 2540 for the interface 2502 with improved accessibility are shown.

[0126] Figure 29 A method 2900 for forming an interface with improved accessibility is shown.

[0127] Figure 30 and Figure 31 Display interface 3002 and blind interface 3102 are shown, which are configured to improve their accessibility.

[0128] Figure 32A circuit diagram is shown of an interface 3202 including a display panel 3240b and a metering electronics 3220 configured to improve accessibility to the interface 3202 or blind instrument panel 3140 by means of the detection display panel 3240b.

[0129] Figure 33 A method 3300 for improving interface accessibility is shown.

[0130] Figures 34 to 38 An interface 3402 with improved accessibility is shown.

[0131] Figure 39 A method 3900 for forming an interface with improved accessibility is shown.

[0132] Figure 40 Method 4000 for improving interface accessibility is shown.

[0133] Figure 41 A graph 4100 showing the relationship between temperature and display contrast is presented.

[0134] Figure 42 A graph 4200 showing the relationship between the driving voltage and the contrast of the display is presented.

[0135] Figure 43 A graph 4300 showing the relationship between the driving voltage and the contrast of the display is presented.

[0136] Figures 44 to 46 Metering electronics 4420 for improving interface accessibility is shown.

[0137] Figure 47 A method 4700 for improving interface accessibility is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0138] Figures 1 to 47 The following description depicts specific examples to teach those skilled in the art the best mode of implementation for making and using interfaces with improved accessibility. Some conventional aspects have been simplified or omitted for the purpose of teaching the principles of the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand variations from these examples falling within the scope of this specification. It will be understood that the features described below can be combined in various ways to form multiple variations using interfaces with improved accessibility. Therefore, the embodiments described below are not limited to the specific examples described below, but are limited only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0139] Figure 1A vibration meter 5 is shown, including an interface 2 with improved accessibility. (As shown) Figure 1 As shown, the vibration meter 5 includes a sensor assembly 10, which is mechanically and communicatively coupled to the interface 2 via a feedthrough 15. The sensor assembly 10 can be inserted into the pipeline at flanges 10a, 10b to receive and measure material and return material to the pipeline. The interface 2 has improved accessibility.

[0140] For example, interface 2 can rotate relative to sensor assembly 10, thereby allowing easier observation of the display of interface 2. Interface 2 can also be configured to facilitate maintenance by, for example, allowing the display to be removed and pivoted without being detached from interface 2. Improvements to accessibility also include improvements to how interface 2 operates. For example, the contrast of the display in interface 2 can be automatically adjusted to be visible under different environmental conditions. The display can also be automatically detected by metering electronics in interface 2, thereby simplifying the configuration. These and other aspects will be described in more detail below.

[0141] Figure 2 A vibration meter 5 including an interface 2 with improved accessibility is shown, wherein, for clarity, the housing for the interface 2 and the sensor assembly 10 is not shown. Figure 1 As shown, the vibration meter 5 includes a sensor assembly 10 and a metering electronics 20, wherein the metering electronics 20 is disposed in... Figure 1 In the rotatable interface 2 shown, sensor assembly 10 responds to the mass flow rate and density of the processed material. Metering electronics 20 are connected to sensor assembly 10 via lead 100 to provide density, mass flow rate, and temperature information, as well as other information, at port 26.

[0142] The sensor assembly 10 includes a pair of manifolds 150 and 150', flanges 103 and 103' with flange necks 110 and 110', a pair of parallel conduits 130 and 130', an actuator 180, a resistance temperature detector (RTD) 190, and a pair of pickup sensors 170l and 170r. Conduits 130 and 130' have two substantially straight inlet branches 131, 131' and outlet branches 134, 134' that converge toward each other at conduit mounting blocks 120 and 120'. Conduits 130 and 130' are bent at two symmetrical locations along their length and are substantially parallel throughout their length. Supports 140 and 140' define axes W and W' about which each conduit 130 and 130' oscillates. Branches 131, 131' and 134, 134' of conduits 130, 130' are fixedly attached to conduit mounting blocks 120 and 120', and these blocks are in turn fixedly attached to manifolds 150 and 150'. This provides a continuously closed material path through sensor assembly 10.

[0143] When flanges 103 and 103' with orifices 102 and 102' are connected to a processing line (not shown) carrying the material to be measured via inlet end 104 and outlet end 104', the material enters the inlet end 104 of the meter through orifice 101 in flange 103 and is guided through manifold 150 to conduit mounting block 120 with surface 121. Within manifold 150, the material is split and routed through conduits 130, 130'. Upon exiting conduits 130, 130', the processed material is recombined into a single stream within block 120' with surface 121' and manifold 150', and is subsequently routed to outlet end 104', which is connected to the processing line (not shown) via flange 103' with orifice 102'.

[0144] Conduits 130 and 130' are selected and properly mounted to conduit mounting blocks 120 and 120' so that they have substantially the same mass distribution, moment of inertia, and Young's modulus with respect to bending axes W--W and W'--W', respectively. These bending axes pass through struts 140 and 140'. Since the Young's modulus of the conduits varies with temperature, and this variation affects the calculation of flow rate and density, an RTD 190 is mounted to conduit 130' to continuously measure the temperature of conduit 130'. The temperature of conduit 130', and therefore the voltage appearing on RTD 190 for a given current passing through it, is determined by the temperature of the material passing through conduit 130'. The temperature-dependent voltage appearing on RTD 190 is used by metering electronics 20 in a known method to compensate for any changes in the elastic modulus of conduits 130 and 130' due to variations in conduit temperature. RTD190 is connected to the metering electronics 20 via a lead carrying RTD signal 195.

[0145] Both conduits 130 and 130' are driven by an actuator 180 in opposite directions about their respective bending axes W and W' and in what is called the flowmeter's first out-of-phase bending mode. The actuator 180 may include any of many known devices, such as a magnet mounted to conduit 130' and a counter-coil mounted to conduit 130, with alternating current passing through the counter-coil to vibrate both conduits 130 and 130'. A suitable drive signal 185 is applied to the actuator 180 via leads through metering electronics 20.

[0146] Metering electronics 20 receives the RTD signal 195 on the leads and the sensor signal 165 appearing on the leads 100 that respectively carry the left sensor signal 165l and the right sensor signal 165r. Metering electronics 20 generates a drive signal 185 appearing on the leads leading to the driver 180 and causing the conduits 130, 130' to vibrate. Metering electronics 20 processes the left sensor signal 165l, the right sensor signal 165r, and the RTD signal 195 to calculate the mass flow rate and density of the material passing through the sensor assembly 10. This information, along with other information, is applied as a signal by metering electronics 20 onto path 26. A more detailed discussion follows regarding the vibration metering device 5 and metering electronics 20.

[0147] Figure 3 A block diagram of a vibration meter 5 is shown, which includes a block diagram representation of metering electronics 20. (As shown) Figure 2 As shown, the metering electronics 20 are communicatively connected to the sensor assembly 10. (Refer to the foregoing.) Figure 2 As described, the sensor assembly 10 includes a left pickup sensor 170l and a right pickup sensor 170r, a driver 180, and an RTD 190, which are communicatively connected to the metering electronics 20 via a communication channel 112 and a set of leads 100.

[0148] Metering electronics 20 provides a drive signal 185 via lead 100. More specifically, metering electronics 20 provides drive signal 185 to driver 180 in sensor assembly 10. Furthermore, sensor signal 165, including left sensor signal 165l and right sensor signal 165r, is provided by sensor assembly 10. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, sensor signal 165 is provided by left pickup sensor 170l and right pickup sensor 170r in sensor assembly 10. As will be understood, sensor signal 165 is provided to metering electronics 20 via communication channel 112.

[0149] The metering electronics 20 includes a processor 210 communicatively connected to one or more signal processors 220 and one or more memories 230. The processor 210 is also communicatively connected to a user interface 30. The processor 210 is communicatively connected to a host computer via a communication port on port 26 and receives power via a power port 250. The processor 210 may be a microprocessor, although any suitable processor may be used. For example, the processor 210 may include subprocessors such as a multi-core processor, serial communication ports, peripheral interfaces (e.g., serial peripheral interfaces), on-chip memory, I / O ports, etc. In these and other embodiments, the processor 210 is configured to perform operations on received and processed signals, such as digitized signals.

[0150] Processor 210 can receive digital sensor signals from one or more signal processors 220. Processor 210 can also receive signals from transducers such as viscometers, density meters, etc., via, for example, a port. That is, the transducer can be communicatively coupled to processor 210 via port 26. The transducer can be fluidly coupled to sensor assembly 10. One or more transducers can be upstream and / or downstream of sensor assembly 10. Therefore, processor 210 can be configured to use digital sensor signals and / or signals provided by transducers to determine fluid properties such as mass flow rate, density, viscosity, etc.

[0151] Processor 210 is also configured to provide information such as time delays, the properties of the fluid in sensor assembly 10, etc. Processor 210 can provide information to a host via port 26. Processor 210 can also be configured to communicate with one or more memories 230 to receive and / or store information in one or more memories 230. For example, processor 210 can receive calibration factors and / or sensor assembly zero points (e.g., time differences in the presence of zero flow) from one or more memories 230. Each of the calibration factors and / or sensor assembly zero points can be associated with the vibration meter 5 and / or sensor assembly 10, respectively. Processor 210 can use the calibration factors to process digitized sensor signals received from one or more signal processors 220.

[0152] One or more signal processors 220 are shown including an encoder / decoder (CODEC) 222 and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 226. The signal processors 220 can modulate analog signals, digitize modulated analog signals, and / or provide digitized signals. CODEC 222 is configured to receive sensor signals 165 from a left pickup sensor 170l and a right pickup sensor 170r. CODEC 222 is also configured to provide drive signals 185 to a driver 180. In alternative embodiments, more or fewer signal processors may be used.

[0153] As shown, sensor signal 165 is provided to CODEC 222 via signal conditioner 240. Drive signal 185 is provided to driver 180 via signal conditioner 240. Although signal conditioner 240 is shown as a single block, it may include signal conditioning components such as two or more operational amplifiers, filters such as low-pass filters, voltage-to-current amplifiers, etc. For example, sensor signal 165 can be amplified by a first amplifier, and drive signal 185 can be amplified by a voltage-to-current amplifier. Amplification ensures that the amplitude of sensor signal 165 is close to the full-scale range of CODEC 222.

[0154] In the illustrated embodiment, one or more memories 230 include read-only memory (ROM) 232, random access memory (RAM) 234, and ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM) 236. However, in alternative embodiments, one or more memories 230 may include more or fewer memories. Additionally or alternatively, one or more memories 230 may include different types of memories (e.g., volatile memory, non-volatile memory, etc.). For example, different types of non-volatile memory, such as erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), may be used instead of FRAM 236. One or more memories 230 may be storage devices configured to store processed data such as drive signals or sensor signals, mass flow rate or density measurements, etc.

[0155] The mass flow rate measurement can be generated according to the following equation ( ):

[0156] Equation (1)

[0157] The Δt term includes the operationally derived (i.e., measured) time delay value, such as when the time delay is due to the Coriolis effect related to the mass flow rate through the vibratory meter 5; this time delay value includes the time delay between the pickup sensor signal and the actual time delay. The measured Δt term ultimately determines the mass flow rate of the flowing material as it flows through the vibratory meter 5. The Δt0 term includes the time delay at zero flow calibration constant. The Δt0 term is typically determined at the factory and programmed into the vibratory meter 5. Even when flow conditions are changing, the time delay Δt0 term at zero flow may not change. The mass flow rate of the flowing material flowing through the flowmeter is determined by multiplying the measured time delay by the flow calibration factor FCF. The flow calibration factor FCF is proportional to the physical stiffness of the flowmeter.

[0158] Regarding density, the resonant frequency of the vibration of each conduit 130, 130' can be a function of the square root of the spring constant of the conduit 130, 130' divided by the total mass of the conduits 130, 130' containing material. The total mass of the conduits 130, 130' containing material can be the mass of the conduits 130, 130' plus the mass of the material inside the conduits 130, 130'. The mass of the material in the conduits 130, 130' is proportional to the density of the material. Therefore, the density of the material can be proportional to the square of the oscillation period of the conduits 130, 130' containing the material multiplied by the spring constant of the conduits 130, 130'. Therefore, by determining the oscillation period of the conduits 130, 130' and by appropriately scaling the result, an accurate measurement of the density of the material contained in the conduits 130, 130' can be achieved. The metering electronics 20 can determine the period or resonant frequency using sensor signal 165 and / or drive signal 185.

[0159] As discussed above, the metering electronics 20 can be located in the interface 2, which has improved accessibility. Also as mentioned above, the accessibility of the interface 2 can be improved in various ways, which will be discussed below, primarily by attaching the metering electronics to the connector of the feedthrough to simplify assembly and / or allow the interface to rotate relative to the sensor assembly.

[0160] Metering electronics mounted on connector

[0161] Measuring electronics can be connected to a connector extending into the housing using a cable. However, using a cable can present associated problems. For example, the cable must be long enough to allow sufficient space between the housing and the measuring electronics for easy access. In other words, the user attaching the cable to the connector must be able to reach it. Cables can also cause electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) issues. For instance, the cable may not be adequately grounded to the connector and the housing's grounding point or external body to prevent electromagnetic noise interference, such as with some electronic components within the measuring electronics or those outside the housing.

[0162] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Block diagrams of vibration meters 405 and 505 are shown, each including an interface 402 and 502 with improved accessibility. The block diagrams can represent the vibration meters described above, although they can represent any suitable vibration meter. Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, interfaces 402 and 502 are mechanically and / or communicatively connected to vibration meters 410 and 510 via feedthroughs 415 and 515. Metering electronics 420 and 520 are housed in housings 430 and 530 and attached to connectors 450 and 550 extending into the housings 430 and 530. Metering electronics 420 and 520 include upper metering electronics 422 and 522 and lower metering electronics 424 and 524. Lower metering electronics 424 and 524 are attached to connectors 450 and 550.

[0163] like Figure 4 As shown, the upper measuring device electronics 422 is not attached to the housing 430, but the upper measuring device electronics 422 and the lower measuring device electronics 424 are attached to each other. Furthermore, the housing 430 is rigidly connected to the connector 450. (Refer to...) Figure 6 and Figure 7 describe Figure 4 An exemplary implementation of interface 402 shown.

[0164] like Figure 5 As shown, the upper measuring instrument electronics 522 and the lower measuring instrument electronics 524 are not attached to each other, but are communicatively connected to each other via cable 527. Similarly, in Figure 5 The upper measuring instrument electronic device 522 shown is attached to the housing 530. Figure 5 The connector 550, shown extending into the housing 530, includes a connector flange 557. The connector flange 557 is shown abutting against a housing flange 537. The connector flange 557 and the housing flange 537 are pressed together in a direction axial with the longitudinal length of the connector 550. The connector flange 557 and the housing flange 537 are pressed together by a connector 516. More specifically, the connector 516 clamps around the connector flange 557 and the housing flange 537 to press the housing flange 537 and the connector flange 557 together. The connector 516 also prevents lateral and / or bending displacement of the housing flange 537 and the connector flange 557. Similar to those discussed below... Figure 4 Following the implementation of interface 402 shown, refer to Figures 12 to 20B Describes an exemplary implementation of interface 502.

[0165] Non-rotatable housing

[0166] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A partial perspective view of a vibration meter 605 is shown, which includes an interface 602 with improved accessibility. Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, interface 602 is mechanically and / or communicatively coupled to a sensor assembly (not shown for clarity) via feedthrough 615. Feedthrough 615 includes a connector 650 extending into a housing 630 of interface 602. Figure 7 The housing 630 is not shown to illustrate how the metering electronics 620 can be attached to the connector 650. The interface 602 and feedthrough 615 can be respectively similar to... Figure 4 The interface 402 and feedthrough 415, i.e., the metering electronics 620, are attached to the connector 650, without having to attach the metering electronics 620 to the housing 630.

[0167] like Figure 6 As shown, housing 630 includes a wall 632 containing metering electronics 620. Housing 630 is coupled to connector 650 via connector 616. Connector 616 is shown as a clamping member with screws, although any suitable connector may be used. Connector 616 may surround or enclose housing flange (not shown) of housing 630 and connector flange 657 of connector 650. Figure 7 (as shown in the diagram) and engages or abuts with the housing flange of housing 630 and the connector flange 657 of connector 650 to retain housing 630 to connector 650. Thus, connector 616 can rigidly attach housing 630 to connector 650.

[0168] Reference Figure 7 The metering electronics 620 is attached to the connector 650 via a receiving plate 617. The metering electronics 620 is connected to the receiving plate 617 by two bolts 624b, which pass through the metering electronics 620 and extend into the threaded retaining portion 617h of the receiving plate 617. The bolts 624b rigidly attach the metering electronics 620 to the receiving plate 617. The receiving plate 617 surrounds and encloses the metering electronics 620 and the connector 650 and is connected to both. Figure 7 In the example shown, the receiving disk 617 is a clamping element that engages with the connector 650, although any suitable receiving disk can be used. The receiving disk 617 can be configured to non-movably clamp to the connector 650, thereby holding or rigidly attaching the metering electronics 620 to the connector 650.

[0169] Specifically, the receiving disc 617 can engage with the retaining ring 618 of the connector 650. For example... Figure 7As shown, the receiving tray 617 includes a radially inward or internally extending protrusion 617l, although any suitable engagement feature may be employed. The receiving tray 617 is rotatably disposed about the connector 650. A portion of the receiving tray 617 is disposed between the retaining ring 618 and the wall 632 of the housing 630. The retaining ring 618 includes a groove 618g extending circumferentially around the connector 650, although any suitable retaining feature may be employed. The protrusion 617l extends into and engages with the groove 618g. By attaching the metering electronics 620 to the connector 650, the internal portion of the housing 630 can be more easily accessed by devices such as the user and / or service interface 602.

[0170] More specifically, if the metering electronics are not configured to attach to a connector within a housing extending to the interface, then a cable may be required to communicatively connect the metering electronics to the connector. Since the metering electronics are housed within the housing, the cable connecting the metering electronics to the connector must be of sufficient length to connect the cable to the connector when the metering electronics are at least partially outside the housing. That is, the space between the metering electronics and the interior of the housing must be sufficient to allow a hand or device to reach and connect the cable to the metering electronics.

[0171] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown and as described above, the metering electronics 620 is attached to the connector 650 using two bolts 624b that attach the metering electronics 620 to the receiving disc 617. The receiving disc 617 can be clamped to and / or around the connector 650. The receiving disc 617 is disposed inside the housing 630 around the connector 650. The receiving disc 617 can also be disposed around the connector flange 637 of the connector 650 to attach the metering electronics 620 to the connector 650 extending into the housing 630. The housing 630 can also be attached to the connector 650 using a connector 616. As mentioned above, the connector 616 can be any suitable connector, such as those described below. Figures 8 to 11 Examples of discussion.

[0172] Alternative connectors

[0173] Figure 8 and Figure 9 An interface 802 with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, interface 802 is mechanically and / or communicatively connected to the sensor assembly (not shown for clarity) via feedthrough 815. Interface 802 is mechanically connected to the sensor assembly using connector 816. Figure 8As shown, connector 816 is clamped around connector 850 extending into housing 830 of interface 802. Connector 816 is also clamped around a portion of housing 830. Figure 8 As shown, details of the clamped portions of the housing and connector 850 are not shown. Figure 9 As shown, connector 816 is removed from connector 850 and housing 830.

[0174] exist Figure 9 The connector 850, shown extending into the housing 830, includes a connector flange 857. The connector flange 857 is shown abutting against the housing flange 837. The connector flange 857 and the housing flange 837 are pressed together in a direction axial with the longitudinal length of the connector 850. The connector flange 857 and the housing flange 837 are pressed together by a connector 816. More specifically, the connector 816 clamps around the connector flange 857 and the housing flange 837 to press the connector flange 857 and the housing flange 837 together. The connector 816 also prevents lateral and flexural displacement of the housing flange 837 and the connector flange 857.

[0175] Figure 10 and Figure 11 An interface 1002 with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, interface 1002 is mechanically and / or communicatively coupled to a sensor assembly (not shown for clarity) via feedthrough 1015. Feedthrough 1015 includes a threaded connector 1016 disposed on connector 1050. Threaded connector 1016 can be configured to rotate about connector 1050. Threaded connector 1016 has a threaded portion (not shown) configured to thread into a threaded portion 1037 of housing 1030 of interface 1002.

[0176] Connector 1050 can be mechanically coupled to housing 1030 by inserting connector 1050 until threaded connector 1016 contacts threaded portion 1037. Connector 1050 can be inserted, for example, by lowering housing 1030 onto feeder 1015. Connector 1050 can remain stationary while threaded connector 1016 is rotated until it is tightly against housing 1030. Connector 1050 can remain stationary such that torque or bending moment will not cause connector 1050 to shift.

[0177] Rotatable housing

[0178] Figures 12 to 15 A vibration meter 1205 is shown, including an interface 1202 with improved accessibility. Figure 12 and Figure 13This is a perspective view of a vibration meter 1205 including interface 1202. A junction box 1203 is shown that communicatively connects a sensor assembly (not shown for clarity) to interface 1202. Figure 13 Metering electronics 1220 located in interface 1202 are shown. Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view of the measuring instrument electronic component 1220, and Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of interface 1202. (For example...) Figure 14 As shown, the measuring electronics 1220 includes an upper measuring electronics 1222 and a lower measuring electronics 1224. The upper measuring electronics 1222 is communicatively connected to the lower measuring electronics 1224 via an inserted cable 1223. The inserted cable 1223 can carry adjustment signals that will not cause electromagnetic compatibility issues. As explained below, the inserted cable 1223 allows the upper measuring electronics 1222 to rotate relative to the lower measuring electronics 1224.

[0179] Reference Figure 15 The lower metering electronics 1224 is mechanically connected to the connector 1250 of the feedthrough 1215 via a lower metering electronics connector 1224c. More specifically, the lower metering electronics 1224 includes an electronics board 1220b attached to a housing 1220s, and the housing 1220s is attached to the connector 1250. The ground planes of the housing 1220s, the connector 1250, and / or the electronics board 1220b can form a grounding path to prevent electromagnetic noise from interfering with electronics outside the housing 1220s, such as those in the upper metering electronics 1222. As shown, the lower metering electronics connector 1224c is disposed within the connector 1250 of the feedthrough 1215. Connector O-rings 1250c are disposed between the lower metering electronics connectors 1224c. As can be understood, the lower metering electronics 1224 is not attached to or directly connected to the housing 1230.

[0180] The connector 1216 is disposed around and pressed against the housing flange 1237 and connector flange 1257. Due to the bevels on the housing flange 1237 and connector flange 1257, the connector 1216 presses the housing flange 1237 and connector flange 1257 together, thereby securing the housing 1230 and connector 1250 and preventing relative rotation and other movements of the housing 1230 and connector 1250. When the connector 1216 is released, the housing 1230 can rotate relative to the connector 1250. Therefore, by releasing the connector 1216 and applying torque to the housing 1230, the housing 1230 can rotate relative to the connector 1250, and thus relative to the sensor assembly or junction box. The following describes in more detail how the metering electronics 1224 can be mechanically coupled or attached to the connector 1250.

[0181] Figures 16 to 20B The mounting of the lower metering electronics 1224 on the connector 1250 of the sensor assembly is shown. (Not shown for clarity.) Figure 12 and Figure 13 The upper measuring instrument electronic device 1222 and junction box 1203. For example... Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 19 As shown, housing 1230 includes a receiving plate 1217. The receiving plate 1217 is rotatably disposed about connector 1250 between retaining ring 1218 and wall 1232 of housing 1230. Receiving plate 1217 includes a threaded hole 1217h and a groove 1217g, configured to receive and engage with bolts 1224b and post 1224p of lower metering electronics 1224, respectively. Figure 16 As shown, the receiving disk 1217 also includes a protrusion 1217l extending radially inward or within the receiving disk 1217. The protrusion 1217l is adjacent to the recess 1217g. The retaining ring 1218, which is part of the connector 1250, includes a lip 1218b configured to engage with the protrusion 1217l of the receiving disk 1217. An exemplary process for mounting the lower metering electronics 1224 onto the connector 1250 is described below.

[0182] For example, through comparison Figure 16 and Figure 17 As you can see, receiving plate 1217 has rotated 90 degrees. (As...) Figure 16 As shown, the groove 1217g and the protrusion 1217l are disposed between the lip 1218b. That is, the line formed by connecting the groove 1217g is orthogonal to the line formed by connecting the center of the lip 1218b. Figure 17As shown, the groove 1217g is positioned close to the lip 1218b. That is, the line formed by connecting the groove 1217g is collinear or parallel to the line formed by connecting the center of the lip 1218b. This rotation is performed before the lower metering electronics 1224 is attached to the receiving disk 1217.

[0183] Rotate the receiving plate 1217 to Figure 17 After the indicated position, the lower measuring electronics 1224 is attached to the receiving tray 1217. More specifically and refer to... Figure 18 and Figure 19 The post 1224p of the lower measuring electronic device 1224 is aligned with the groove 1217g of the receiving disk 1217. That is, the lower measuring electronic device 1224... Figure 18 The device is flipped and falls into housing 1230, with post 1224p aligned with recess 1217g. Recess 1217g and post 1224p engage with each other. Similarly, bolt 1224b of lower metering electronics 1224 is aligned and engages with threaded hole 1217h of receiving plate 1217.

[0184] Now refer to Figure 19A , Figure 19B , Figure 20A and Figure 20B Details of the lower metering electronics 1224, which are connected to the receiving tray 1217 and the connector 1250, are shown. Specifically, details are shown in... Figure 19A and Figure 19B Details of the receiving plate 1217 and connector 1250 are shown, and Figure 20A This illustrates how the lower metering electronics 1224 is connected to the receiving tray 1217. Figure 20A In the middle, the lower measuring electronic device 1224 is disassembled from the receiving plate 1217. In particular, the bolt 1224b is shown disassembled from the threaded hole 1217h of the receiving plate 1217. Figure 20B The diagram illustrates the relative positions of the threaded hole 1217h of the receiving disc 1217 and the lip 1218b of the retaining ring 1218 when the lower measuring electronics 1224 is rigidly attached to the connector 1250.

[0185] As shown above (refer to the reference) Figure 18 and Figure 19 As described, when bolt 1224b is fitted into threaded hole 1217h, threaded hole 1217h is close to lip 1218b. When bolt 1224b... Figure 20AAfter the disassembled position shown is fitted into the threaded hole 1217h, the bolt 1224b is tightened to press the protrusion 1217l of the receiving disc 1217 against the lip 1218b, so as to hold the lower metering electronics 1224 to the connector 1250. This attaches the lower metering electronics 1224 to the connector 1250. The bolt 1224b, the receiving disc 1217, and the connector 1250 are part of the aforementioned grounding path to reduce electromagnetic noise.

[0186] Figure 21 A method 2100 for assembling interfaces with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 21 As shown, method 2100 includes providing a housing in step 2110. The housing can be any suitable housing, such as, for example, the housings 630 and 1230 described above. In step 2120, method 2100 provides and houses the measuring electronics within the housing. The measuring electronics can be the measuring electronics 620 and 1220 described above, although any suitable measuring electronics can be used. In step 2130, method 2100 provides a connector and extends the connector into the housing. The connector can extend into the housing, for example, by assembling a sensor assembly including the extended connector and lowering the housing onto the sensor assembly, although any suitable method can be used. In step 2140, method 2100 attaches the measuring electronics to the connector extending into the housing. Steps 2110 through 2140 can be performed in any suitable order. For example, the connector can extend into the housing before the measuring electronics are housed within the housing. Measuring electronics can be attached to the connector using any suitable means, such as screws, bolts, rotary cams or lips, clamps, retaining rings, snap rings, cotter pins, etc. Measuring electronics can be rigidly attached, rotatably attached, pivotally attached, etc.

[0187] Method 2100 may include additional steps, such as rotatably coupling the housing to a connector extending into the housing. For example, refer to the above. Figure 15 The housing 1230 can rotate relative to the connector 1250 extending into the housing 1230. The connector 1216 can be fastened to the housing flange 1237 of the housing 1230 and the connector flange 1257 of the connector 1250, thereby preventing the housing 1230 from rotating.

[0188] In step 2120, providing the measuring electronics may include providing an upper measuring electronics device and a lower measuring electronics device. The upper and lower measuring electronics devices may be the upper measuring electronics device 1222 and lower measuring electronics device 1224 described above, although any suitable upper and lower measuring electronics devices may be used. The upper and lower measuring electronics devices may be attached to each other or may not be attached to each other. For example, the upper and lower measuring electronics devices may be attached to each other using a barrier plate, which will be described below. The upper and lower measuring electronics devices may be attached to each other, for example, using a potting material combined with a support member, although any suitable means may be used. Additionally or alternatively, the upper and lower measuring electronics devices may not be mechanically connected to each other in a way that restricts the relative movement of the upper and lower measuring electronics devices. For example, the upper and lower measuring electronics devices may be communicatively connected to each other using, for example, cables, such as communication cables. Therefore, providing metering electronics may include providing a lower metering electronics and an upper metering electronics, the lower metering electronics being configured to attach to a connector extending into a housing, and the upper metering electronics being attached to the housing and configured to be communicatively connected to the lower metering electronics. Providing metering electronics may also include providing shielded metering electronics, such as the lower metering electronics 1224 described above, which prevents electromagnetic noise from propagating from the metering electronics.

[0189] As discussed above, in step 2130, a connector can be provided and extended into the housing by lowering the housing onto, for example, a sensor assembly, junction box, or other device from which the connector extends. However, alternative approaches are possible. For example, the housing can be coupled to the sensor assembly, junction box, or other device, and the connector can subsequently be coupled to the sensor assembly, junction box, or other device through the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the connector can extend through the sensor assembly, junction box, or other device into the housing. For example, the sensor assembly can have an upper portion attached to the housing, and the sensor assembly extends into the housing via the upper portion. Subsequently, a lower portion of the sensor assembly can be attached to the upper portion of the sensor assembly.

[0190] The connector extending into the housing can be part of a feedthrough that extends from the sensor assembly, junction box, etc. In other words, the connector can be part of a more complex assembly located between the sensor assembly, junction box, etc., and the housing. For example, the feedthrough extending into the housing can be as described above. Figure 15 The feedthrough element 1215 is described. Therefore, the feedthrough element may include portions that allow the housing to rotate relative to the sensor assembly, junction box, etc.

[0191] As discussed above with reference to step 2140, the measuring electronics can be attached to the connector using any suitable means, such as screws, bolts, rotary cams or lips, clamps, retaining rings, snap rings, cotter pins, etc. The measuring electronics can be rigidly attached, rotatably attached, pivotally attached, etc. For example, the connector can be similar to that described above. Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 15 The connectors described are 850, 1050, and 1250.

[0192] Accordingly, providing the connector may include providing a receiving disc and rotatably arranging the receiving disc around the connector. At least a portion of the receiving disc may be disposed between the retaining ring of the connector and the wall of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, providing the metering electronics may further include providing a post, wherein providing the receiving disc includes providing a recess and a threaded hole in the receiving disc. Step 2140 may further include providing a bolt. The post may be configured to mate with the recess, and the bolt may be configured to mate with the threaded hole of the receiving disc. A protrusion on the receiving disc may engage with the recess and / or lip of the retaining ring to retain the metering electronics to the connector extending into the housing.

[0193] Measuring electronics 420, 520, 620, 1220 and feedthroughs 415, 515, 615, 1215 provide interfaces 402, 502, 602, 1202 with improved accessibility. Measuring electronics 420, 520, 620, 1220 can be directly connected to feedthroughs 415, 515, 615, 1215 without needing to be connected to housings 430, 530, 630, 1230. When measuring electronics 520, 1220 are not connected to housings 530, 1230, housings 530, 1230 can be rotated relative to sensor assemblies, junction boxes, etc., thereby allowing easier access to interfaces 402, 502, 602, 1202. Furthermore, connecting the metering electronics 420, 520, 620, and 1220 to the feedthroughs 415, 515, 615, and 1215 can form a grounding enclosure that prevents the propagation of electromagnetic noise. When the metering electronics 420 and 620 can be connected to the housings 430 and 630, direct connection of the metering electronics 420 and 620 to the feedthroughs 415 and 615 allows for easier assembly of the interfaces 402 and 602. For example, cables between the metering electronics 420 and 620 and the feedthroughs 415 and 615 can be omitted.

[0194] Removable metering electronics with water barrier

[0195] The interface can have a single-compartment or double-compartment housing for the metering electronics. In a single-compartment housing, the metering electronics, terminals, and wiring are located within the same compartment. Traditionally, this requires protecting the metering electronics from water by encapsulating the entire device in a potting compound to prevent damage should water enter the housing. This potting, used to protect the electronics from water, can significantly increase the cost of the interface due to the potting material, the electronics housing, and the additional manufacturing steps required for filling and curing the potting material.

[0196] An alternative to single-compartment housings is the use of dual-compartment housings, which reduces the risk of water damage to the metering electronics. In a dual-compartment housing, terminals and wiring are located inside one compartment, while the metering electronics and circuitry are housed in a separate compartment sealed by the housing walls or diaphragm. This type of design allows the metering electronics to be sealed to prevent water from entering the terminal compartment. However, traditionally, dual-compartment housings are heavier and more expensive to manufacture than single-compartment housings. The metering electronics are also inaccessible due to the enclosed housing walls.

[0197] Figure 22 and Figure 23 An interface 2202 with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, interface 2202 includes metering electronics 2220, which has a gasket 2230o disposed between barrier plate 2223 and housing 2230. More specifically, gasket 2230o is disposed between bosses 2230s of barrier plate 2223 and housing 2230. Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, washer 2230o is an O-ring, although any suitable washer can be used. Barrier plate 2223 is disposed between and connected to the upper metering electronics 2222 and the lower metering electronics 2224. Upper metering electronics 2222 is disposed in the upper metering electronics portion 2230u of housing 2230, and lower metering electronics 2224 is disposed in the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of housing 2230. Barrier plate 2223 is attached to housing 2230 using a plurality of fasteners 2230b. As shown, the plurality of fasteners 2230b are screws, although any suitable fastener can be used.

[0198] The housing 2230 may be made of any suitable material, such as aluminum, stainless steel, polymer, etc. The housing 2230 may be a single, integrally formed structure, such as a cast, forged, or milled structure. The housing 2230 has an opening into which the measuring electronics 2220 can be inserted and removed from the housing 2230.

[0199] The barrier plate 2223 may not include any through-holes or holes through which water can flow. This can be achieved by using blind or concealed through-holes and by providing a seal around the holes that traverse the barrier plate 2223. Therefore, the barrier plate 2223 may not include any holes that traverse the barrier plate 2223 within the gasket 2230o. Because the barrier plate 2223 does not include any holes that traverse the barrier plate 2223 within the gasket 2230o, water cannot pass through the barrier plate 2223. This prevents water from entering the lower metering electronics section 2230l.

[0200] The barrier plate 2223 may have a periphery corresponding to and overlapping with the boss 2230s on the housing 2230 in which the washer 2230o is disposed. The boss 2230s may extend circumferentially around the inner surface of the housing 2230. The boss 2230s may define the boundary between the upper metering electronics portion 2230u and the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of the housing 2230. When the metering electronics 2220 is inserted, a plurality of fasteners 2230b may press the barrier plate 2223 against the housing 2230, or more specifically against the boss 2230s and the washer 2230o, thereby forming a watertight compartment below the upper metering electronics 2222.

[0201] The upper metering electronics 2222 may include wiring components such as cables and terminals, but may not include electronic components, although any suitable device may be used where exposure to water may not be a problem. For example, environmentally sealed electronics may be used. The lower metering electronics 2224 may similarly include electronic components as well as cables and terminals. The lower metering electronics 2224 may be communicatively and / or mechanically coupled to sensor assemblies, junction boxes, etc.

[0202] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the wiring terminals of the upper metering electronics 2222 can be located on top of the barrier plate 2223, and the additional electronic circuit boards of the electronic board stack can be suspended below the barrier plate 2223 without potting the various parts of the metering electronics 2220, allowing for additional board space. For example, the lower metering electronics 2224 may not require encapsulation. As will be understood, the metering electronics 2220 can be removed by removing multiple fasteners 2230b.

[0203] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, a plurality of fasteners 2230b are disposed outside the gasket 2230o or within the upper metering electronics portion 2230u of the housing 2230. However, the plurality of fasteners 2230b can be disposed in any suitable location. For example, the plurality of fasteners 2230b can be disposed inside the gasket 2230o or within the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of the housing 2230. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of fasteners 2230b may include fasteners located both inside and outside the gasket 2230o. For example, fasteners located inside the gasket 2230o may include gaskets coupled to the fasteners to provide a watertight seal.

[0204] Multiple fasteners 2230b are shown arranged to pass through the barrier plate 2223, although any suitable arrangement may be used. For example, an annular clamping member, such as one arranged around the circumference of the barrier plate 2223, may be used, wherein the clamping member presses the barrier plate 2223 against the boss 2230s of the housing 2230. The multiple fasteners 2230b may be disposed in or abut against the annular clamping member. Additionally or alternatively, the multiple fasteners 2230b may be arranged around the edge of the barrier plate 2223. For example, the multiple fasteners 2230b may abut against the edge of the barrier plate 2223, and the heads of the multiple fasteners 2230b may press the edge of the barrier plate 2223 against the boss 2230s.

[0205] Gasket 2230o may comprise a compressible material, such as rubber, polymer, soft metal, etc. Gasket 2230o is shown as having a circular cross-section, although any suitable cross-section may be used, such as a rectangular cross-section, and the circular cross-section may vary, for example, by increasing or decreasing its diameter. Gasket 2230o can form a watertight seal that prevents water from flowing into the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of housing 2230. Therefore, gasket 2230o defines the boundary between the upper metering electronics portion 2230u and the lower metering electronics portion 2230l of housing 2230.

[0206] Figure 24 A method 2400 for assembling interfaces with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 24As shown, in step 2410, method 2400 provides a housing. The housing can be the aforementioned housing 2230, although any suitable housing can be used. In step 2420, method 2400 provides metering electronics. For example, method 2400 may provide an upper metering electronics and a lower metering electronics. In step 2430, method 2400 may provide a barrier plate and position the barrier plate between the upper and lower metering electronics. Method 2400 may also connect the barrier plate to the upper and lower metering electronics. In step 2440, method 2400 may provide a gasket between the barrier plate and the housing and position the gasket in contact with the barrier plate and the housing to form a watertight seal separating the upper metering electronics portion of the housing from the lower metering electronics portion of the housing.

[0207] The step of forming the barrier plate may include forming a barrier plate without holes penetrating the barrier plate. For example, blind holes may be used in the barrier plate. Providing the gasket may include providing an O-ring, and method 2400 may compress the O-ring between the housing and the barrier plate. The step of placing the gasket between the barrier plate and the housing and contacting the gasket with the barrier plate and the housing may include placing the gasket between a shelf of the barrier plate and the housing and contacting the gasket with the shelf of the barrier plate and the housing.

[0208] Method 2400 may further include multiple fasteners disposed near the gasket, and the barrier plate may be attached to the shelf of the housing using the multiple fasteners. The method may also include multiple fasteners disposed in at least one of the upper metering electronics portion and the lower metering electronics portion of the housing. Method 2400 may further include multiple fasteners disposed through the barrier plate into the shelf of the housing.

[0209] The metering electronics 2220 and method 2400 can provide an interface 2202 with improved accessibility. For example, the metering electronics 2220 may include unencapsulated portions, thereby allowing greater access to components on the metering electronics 2220. Furthermore, the metering electronics 2220 can be mounted within a housing 2230 without having to seal the metering electronics 2220 to the housing 2230 using potting material. That is, a gasket 2230o can provide a water seal between the metering electronics 2220 and the housing 2230. Therefore, the metering electronics 2220 can be removed from the housing 2230.

[0210] Wireless communication with interface

[0211] Accessibility can be improved by enhancing the interface's ability to communicate with other devices, such as by using wireless communication protocols. However, interfaces are typically not designed to include wireless capabilities. For example, the interface housing may be designed to meet safety standards requiring a thick metal casing formed from a single piece. Wireless signals can be adversely affected by metal surfaces. Furthermore, components within the housing may be similarly configured to meet safety and user interface requirements. For instance, the display panel may have to be coplanar with the plane formed by openings in the housing to ensure the display is readable by the user. Such a panel may interfere with wireless signals between the interface and other devices.

[0212] Figure 25 A communication system 2500 is shown, including an interface 2502 with improved accessibility. Specifically, the communication system 2500 includes a wireless device 2501 configured to communicate wirelessly with the interface 2502 via a dashboard 2540. The dashboard 2540 can be considered as part of the metering electronics in the interface 2502. The dashboard 2540 is positioned close to a display opening 2532 in the housing 2530.

[0213] Apart from Figure 25 Interfaces other than interface 2502 shown may have very limited or almost no line-of-sight (LOS) openings required for integrating any Wi-Fi or other communication standards. Metal housings, such as aluminum or stainless steel, can be problematic for radio frequency (RF) signals. Another interface typically includes a limited number of plastic components such as sub-frame slots, display covers, terminal covers, and display glass covers, the combination of which significantly and negatively impacts the range of RF signals from the interface. This, combined with interfaces having external RF transparent openings, can make WiFi communication difficult. To address these issues, dashboard 2540 is provided with openings in the circuit board and slots in the dashboard, positioned to reduce the adverse effects of other components in interface 2502.

[0214] Figures 26 to 28 Various views of the dashboard 2540 for the interface 2502 with improved accessibility are shown. (See attached image.) Figure 26 As shown, the dashboard 2540 includes a panel 2542 through which a display 2544 is visible. The dashboard 2540 also includes a button 2546 disposed below the display 2544. The button 2546 is configured to detect a finger pressing on the dashboard 2540. Figure 27 As shown, panel 2542 was removed to expose Figure 27The instrument panel chassis 2543, the transmitter 2546e of the button 2546, and the sensor 2546s are shown. A wireless transceiver 2548 with an antenna 2548a is also shown. The antenna 2548a is positioned close to the slot 2543s in the instrument panel chassis 2543. Figure 28 From Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of dashboard 2540. (See attached image.) Figure 26 As shown, the dashboard 2540 includes a panel 2542, a dashboard chassis 2543, a display 2544, a button 2546 including a transmitter 2546e and sensors 2546s, a wireless transceiver 2548, and an antenna 2548a for the wireless transceiver 2548. A board 2540b and a display cable 2544c communicatively connecting the display 2544 and the board 2540b are also shown.

[0215] As described above, interface 2502 may include housing 2530 having a display opening 2532. Housing 2530 may include a metal such as steel or aluminum, and may be formed from a single piece to meet safety or other standards for explosion protection, waterproofing, or prevention of other intrusion. Because housing 2530 includes conductive materials, wireless signals propagating in the vicinity of housing 2530 may be adversely affected.

[0216] The display opening 2532 is shown as circular, although any suitable shape may be used. For example, a rectangular, elliptical, or hexagonal shape may be used. Furthermore, the display opening 2532 is shown as planar, although a non-planar opening may be used. The display opening 2532 may include a frame groove containing a transparent material as a dielectric that does not adversely affect wireless signals propagating through the display opening 2532.

[0217] The instrument panel 2540 is disposed inside the housing 2530 and may be located near the display opening 2532. As described above, the instrument panel 2540 may include a panel 2540b and a wireless transceiver 2548. The panel 2540b may include a front portion 2540ba facing the display opening 2532 and a rear portion 2540bp facing the interior portion of the housing 2530. As shown, the wireless transceiver 2548 may be disposed on the rear portion 2540bp of the panel 2540b. The wireless transceiver 2548 may be configured to communicatively connect to the wireless device 2501 via the opening 2540bo in the panel 2540b.

[0218] As described above, the instrument panel 2540 may include an instrument panel chassis 2543 mechanically coupled to the plate 2540b. The instrument panel chassis 2543 includes slots 2543s that can be adjacent to the wireless transceiver 2548. The instrument panel chassis 2543 may include conductive materials such as aluminum, steel, etc., although any suitable material may be used. The instrument panel chassis 2543 may provide a rigid support structure for the plate 2540b. The plate 2540b may be mechanically and / or electrically coupled to the instrument panel chassis 2543 via a grounding element. For example, the plate 2540b may have a substantially continuous ground plane on its rear side 2540bp. Therefore, the opening 2540bo may allow wireless signals to propagate through the plate 2540b.

[0219] Opening 2540bo is shown as a through-hole traversing plate 2540b. That is, opening 2540bo traverses both the dielectric material and a substantially continuous ground plane, such as on the rear portion 2540p of plate 2540b. An alternative plate may not include through-holes. For example, openings in an alternative plate may be formed only in the ground plane and / or other conductive layers of the plate. For example, openings in an alternative plate may be defined by the absence of a ground plane on the rear portion of the alternative plate. Therefore, openings in an alternative plate can be electrical openings, as the plate may be mechanically solid at the opening but electrically transparent to electromagnetic propagation or wireless signals.

[0220] Display 2544 can be connected to the front side 2540ba of board 2540b. Specifically, display 2544 is mechanically and electrically connected to the front side 2540ba of board 2540b, which is located on the side of board 2540b opposite to the wireless transceiver 2548. (As in...) Figure 28 As can also be seen, the display 2544 is recessed into the dashboard chassis 2543. That is, the front surface of the display 2544 is recessed from the front surface of the dashboard chassis 2543.

[0221] The wireless transceiver 2548 can be any suitable wireless transceiver capable of receiving and transmitting wireless signals. The wireless transceiver 2548 can be a WiFi wireless transceiver, although any suitable protocol can be used, such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc. The wireless transceiver 2548 can be configured to communicate with one or more devices 2501. Although a single wireless transceiver 2548 is shown, more than one wireless transceiver can be used. For example, a WiFi wireless transceiver and a Bluetooth transceiver can be used. In this configuration, the wireless transceiver can be located on the rear side of the board 2540b or may not be located on the rear side of the board 2540b.

[0222] Antenna 2548a may be an on-board ceramic antenna that can provide suitable performance in the constrained environment described above, although any suitable antenna may be used. For example, an antenna built into board 2540b may be used. Antenna 2548a may be configured for one or more communication protocols, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, and / or Zigbee protocols discussed above. Antenna 2548a may be part of wireless transceiver 2548, or may be connected to wireless transceiver 2548 using, for example, a coaxial cable. For example, wireless transceiver 2548 may be further displaced away from opening 2540bo of board 2540b, and the coaxial cable may be routed along the rear side of board 2540b between wireless transceiver 2548 and antenna 2548a.

[0223] like Figure 28 As shown, when the instrument panel 2540 is set and positioned within the housing 2530, the front side 2540ba of the panel 2540b can be close to the display opening 2532 in the housing 2530. Similarly... Figures 26 to 28 As shown, the display 2544 is positioned near the opening 2540bo of the board 2540b. The display 2544 is also positioned on the board 2540b opposite to the wireless transceiver 2548. Similarly... Figures 26 to 28 As shown, the wireless transceiver 2548 includes an antenna 2548a, which is arranged near the opening 2548a in the plate 2540b and the slot 2543s in the instrument panel chassis 2543.

[0224] Accordingly, the display 2544 may not be located in the area provided by Figure 28 The curve in the diagram indicates the transmission path of the wireless signal. Therefore, although some displays may be affected by wireless signal interference, since display 2544 is not located in the wireless signal path, ... Figures 26 to 28 The display 2544 shown can be free from interference. More specifically, the opening 2540bo in the plate 2548b and the slot 2543s in the dashboard chassis 2543 can form a signal path for wireless signals.

[0225] Furthermore, since antenna 2548a is positioned close to slot 2543s, wireless signals can propagate at LOS between wireless device 2501 and wireless transceiver 2548. More specifically, wireless signals can be transmitted to or from antenna 2548a via opening 2540bo in plate 2540b and slot 2543s in instrument panel chassis 2543, as well as via display opening 2532 in housing 2530. Because antenna 2548a is positioned approximately centrally relative to the inner surface formed by housing 2530 and the circular plane formed by display opening 2532 of housing 2530, the adverse effects of housing 2530 on wireless signals can be minimized.

[0226] As can be understood, since the antenna 2548a, mounted on the wireless transceiver 2548, is located behind the display 2544, the wireless signal may be obstructed without the slot 2543s. Furthermore, the antenna 2548a is positioned close to the opening for the transmitter 2546e. The opening allows infrared (IR) light emitted from the transmitter 2546e to be reflected by the user's finger to the sensor 2546s, thereby detecting finger pressure. The opening for the transmitter 2546e also allows the wireless signal to propagate through the dashboard chassis 2543. However, if the transmitter 2546e is sensitive to wireless signals, the opening for the transmitter 2546e may not be utilized by the wireless signal emitted by the antenna 2548a. For example, an alternative opening could be specific to the antenna 2548a, such as... Figures 26 to 28 As shown, or another reused opening, such as a switch opening, etc.

[0227] Figure 29 A method 2900 for forming an interface with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 29 As shown, in step 2910, method 2900 provides a housing with a display opening. The housing can be the aforementioned housing 2530, although any suitable housing can be used. In step 2920, method 2900 can provide a dashboard and position the dashboard inside the housing near the display opening. Providing the dashboard may include providing a plate and a wireless transceiver, wherein the plate includes a front portion facing the display opening and a rear portion facing the interior portion of the housing. Method 2900 may also provide a wireless transceiver in step 2930 and position the wireless transceiver on the rear portion of the plate. Positioning the wireless transceiver on the rear portion of the plate may include attaching the wireless transceiver to the plate. In step 2940, method 2900 may configure the wireless transceiver to communicatively connect to a wireless device via an opening in the plate.

[0228] Providing an instrument panel may also include providing an instrument panel chassis and mechanically attaching the instrument panel chassis to the panel, such that a slot in the instrument panel chassis is close to the wireless transceiver. Method 2900 may also provide a display and attach the display to the front side of the panel. Attaching the display to the front side of the panel may include attaching the display to the front side of the panel. The method may also position the display close to an opening in the panel. For example, the display may not extend or otherwise obstruct wireless signals propagating through the opening in the panel. Since the display is opposite the wireless transceiver on the panel, wireless signals can propagate through the opening in the panel. For example, method 2900 of providing a wireless transceiver may include providing an antenna and positioning the antenna in the opening in the panel and a slot in the instrument panel chassis.

[0229] The communication system 2500, interface 2502, and method 2900 can provide an interface 2502 with improved accessibility. The dashboard 2540 can be positioned near a display opening 2532 in the housing 2530 and may also include slots 2543s that allow wireless signals between the device and the interface 2502. A panel 2540b in the dashboard 2540 may include openings 2540bo to allow wireless signals to be transmitted and received by the antenna 2548a of the wireless transceiver 2548. Therefore, the interface 2502 and the device 2501 can communicate wirelessly.

[0230] Automatic detection display

[0231] The interfaces described above may include a display. Some interfaces do not have a display. These interfaces are sometimes referred to as blind interfaces, and blind interfaces may require configuration during assembly. For example, the display may be part of a panel included within a dashboard, similar to dashboard 2540 described above, and this part may not be included in the blind interface. Therefore, the blind interface may have to include some components included in the dashboard. For example, the dashboard may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), switches, etc., with which the user interacts. Therefore, the metering electronics in the blind interface may include a similar set of components. This can lead to configuration problems, such as enabling the metering electronics and LEDs in both the blind interface and the dashboard.

[0232] Figure 30 and Figure 31 Display interface 3002 and blind interface 3102 configured to improve their accessibility are shown. (See also...) Figure 30 As shown, the display interface 3002 includes a display dashboard 3040. (As...) Figure 31 As shown, the blind interface 3102 includes a blind dashboard 3140. Both the display dashboard 3040 and the blind dashboard 3140 include panels 3042 and 3142. Both the display interface 3002 and the blind interface 3102 may include status light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 30461 and 31261 and a set of switches 3046s and 3126s. However, the display dashboard 3040 also includes a display 3044 and a switch 3045 for controlling the display 3044, while the blind dashboard 3140 does not include a display or a switch for controlling the display.

[0233] The display dashboard 3040 may include something similar to the reference above. Figure 31 The description refers to the display panel of panel 2540b. However, the blind instrument panel 3140 may not include a display panel. Therefore, the electronic boards in the metering electronics of both the display instrument panel 3040 and the blind instrument panel 3140 may include components and features that are redundant with respect to the display panel in the display instrument panel 3040. For example, such as Figure 30 and Figure 31 As shown, LED 3046l and a set of switches 3046s in the display instrument panel 3040 can be located in the display panel, while LED 3126l and a set of switches 3126s in the blind instrument panel 3140 can be located in the electronic board of the metering electronics.

[0234] Accordingly, the electronic board and display board may include replication circuitry to support redundant components. For example, a set of general purpose input / output (GPIO) pins may exist in the board stack to support the LED 3046l and switch 3046s of the display board, and a separate set of GPIO pins may exist to support the LED 3126l and a set of switches 3126s of the electronic board. To avoid this, two different versions of the electronic board could exist, one intended to support the display board but excluding the LED 3126l and the set of switches 3126s, but this version would be too expensive.

[0235] Figure 32 A circuit diagram is shown of an interface 3202 including a display panel 3240b and metering electronics 3220, which is configured to improve the accessibility of the interface 3202 or blind instrument panel 3140 by means of the detection display panel 3240b. Figure 32 As shown, the circuit diagram is for electronic board 3220b, where, for clarity, only a portion of the circuitry in electronic board 3220b is illustrated. Display board 3240b and electronic board 3220b include components 3246 and 3226. Components 3226 and 3246 include a set of LEDs 3226l and 3246l and a set of switches 3226s and 3246s.

[0236] Component 3246 of display panel 3240b is connected to display connector 3247. More specifically, LED 3246l is connected to pins 2 and 4 of display connector 3247, which are designated as PF3 and PF2 pins, respectively. Switch 3246s is connected to pin 12 of display connector 3247, which is designated as PF1 pin. As can be seen, display connector 3247 also includes a PF0 pin, which is connected to ground component 3240g of display panel 3240b. LED 3246l is also connected to ground component 3240g of display panel 3240b.

[0237] Display connector 3247 is electrically connected to processor 3228 of electronic board 3220b. Correspondingly, the pins on display connector 3247 correspond to the pins of processor 3228. More specifically, PF0, PF1, PF2, and PF3 pins of display connector 3247 correspond to PF0, PF1, PF2, and PF3 pins of processor 3228, respectively. Therefore, when display board 3240b is connected to electronic board 3220b, the PF0, PF1, PF2, and PF3 pins of display connector 3247 are connected to the PF0, PF1, PF2, and PF3 pins of processor 3228, respectively.

[0238] Electronic board 3220b has a component 3226 that is also connected to processor 3228. More specifically, switch 3226s is connected to pin PF1 of processor 3228, and LEDs 3226l are connected to pins PF1 and PF2 of processor 3228, respectively. Figure 32 As shown, processor 3228 is connected to LED 3226l via first amplifier 3222a and second amplifier 3222b. Electronic board 3220b is configured to detect and support display board 3240b, while using the same pins to support a set of LEDs 3246l, 3226l and a set of switches 3246s, 3226s.

[0239] More specifically, refer to Figure 32 A total of twelve pins are allocated. Of these twelve pins, eight are used to control standard displays, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs). The other four pins, labeled PF0 through PF3, are used either with or without the display panel 3240b. The PF0 pin detects the presence of the display panel 3240b. If the display panel 3240b is present, the PF0 pin is latched to ground 3240g. If the display panel 3240b is not present, the PF0 pin is not latched to ground 3240g. The PF1 pin is compatible for use with either switch 3226s or 3246s. The PF2 and PF3 pins are used to control a set of LEDs 3246l and 3226l. When the display panel 3240b is present, the PF2 and PF3 pins are high-level enabled, and when the display panel 3240b is not present, the PF2 and PF3 pins are low-level enabled.

[0240] In other words, when the display board 3240b is connected to the electronic board 3220b, the PF2 and PF3 pins are at a high level, thus applying a voltage to the LED 3246l on the display board 3240b to turn it on. Amplifiers 3222a and 3222b are inverters, and therefore the high-level voltage is inverted to a low-level voltage (i.e., zero), thereby turning off the LED 3226l on the electronic board 3220b. Conversely, when the display board 3240b is not connected to the electronic board 3220b, the PF2 and PF3 pins are at a low level, and therefore the low-level voltage on the PF2 and PF3 pins is inverted by amplifiers 3222a and 3222b to turn on the LED 3226l on the electronic board 3220b.

[0241] As can be understood, the effect of the enabled high-level and low-level logic on LEDs 3226l and 3246l depends on the cathode of the LED connected to ground units 3220g and 3240g. Similarly, both switches 3246s on display board 3240b and electronic board 3220b are connected to ground units 3240g and 3220g. Accordingly, when display board 3240b is connected to electronic board 3220b, switching switch 3246s on display board 3240b latches pin PF1 to ground unit 3240g. If display board 3240b is not connected to electronic board 3220b, then switching switch 3226s in electronic board 3220b latches pin PF1 to ground unit 3220g. Accordingly, pin PF1 can be latched to ground via switch 3226s in electronic board 3220b or switch 3246s in display board 3240b.

[0242] Figure 33 A method 3300 for improving interface accessibility is illustrated. For example... Figure 33As shown, in step 3310, method 3300 provides a processor and mounts it on an electronic board. The processor and electronic board can be, for example, the processor 3228 and electronic board 3220b described above, although any suitable electronic board and processor can be used. In step 3320, method 3300 provides components and mounts them on the electronic board. The components can be, for example, LED 3226l or switch 3226s on electronic board 3220b described above. In step 3330, method 3300 connects the components to pins on the processor. For example, as described above, switch 3226s is connected to the PF0 pin of processor 3228, and LED 3226l is connected to the PF2 and PF3 pins of processor 3228. In step 3340, method 3300 configures the pins of the processor to connect to components on a display board connected to the electronic board. For example, as described above, the display connector 3247 connects the component 3226 on the electronic board 3220b and the component 3246 on the display board 3240b in parallel to the grounding components 3220g and 3240g.

[0243] Therefore, components that configure the processor's pins to connect to the display panel can include components that configure the pins to connect to the display panel via connectors that connect the display panel to an electronic board. However, any suitable device can be used, such as an enable switch controlled by the processor. Providing components may include providing either a light-emitting diode or a switch. However, other components can be used.

[0244] Method 3300 may also provide multiple components and connect the multiple components to multiple pins of the processor, and configure the multiple pins of the processor to be connected to the multiple components of the display panel respectively. For example, in addition to Figure 32 In addition to LED 3226l shown, method 3300 may also provide and configure other components. In a manner similar to LEDs 3226l, 3246l and switches 3226s, 3246s described above, multiple components of the display panel may be redundant for multiple components of the electronic board.

[0245] Pins connecting a component to a processor may include a first terminal connecting the processor's pins to a component on an electronic board and a second terminal connecting the component to a grounding element. For example, see reference... Figure 32On the electronic board 3220b, the first terminals 1 and 3 of LED 3226L are connected to the PF2 and PF3 pins of the processor 3228, and the second terminal 2 of LED 3226L is connected to the ground component 3220g. The first pin 1 of switch 3226s is connected to the PF1 pin of the processor 3228. Similarly, on the display board 3240b, the corresponding first terminals 1 and 3 of LED 3246L on the electronic board 3220b are connected to the PF2 and PF3 pins of the processor 3228, and the second terminal 2 of LED 3246L is connected to the ground component 3240g. The first terminal 4 of switch 3246s is connected to the PF1 pin of the processor 3228.

[0246] Method 3300 may also provide a display panel and components for connecting pins of the processor to the display panel. The components for connecting pins of the processor to the display panel may include a first terminal for connecting pins of the processor to the display panel and a second terminal for connecting pins of the display panel to a ground. For example, display panel 3240b may be connected to electronic board 3220b via display connector 3247, thereby connecting corresponding first terminals 1 and 3 of LED 3246l to PF2 and PF3 pins of processor 3228, and connecting first terminal 4 of switch 3246s to PF1 pin of processor 3228.

[0247] Metering electronics 3220 and method 3300 provide an interface 3202 with improved accessibility. For example, metering electronics 3220 includes a processor 3220p that can detect when a display panel 3240b is connected to metering electronics 3220. By detecting the display panel 3240b, the processor can configure its pins to have appropriate logic levels. Therefore, fewer GPIO pins can be used by allowing the same pins to be used. Furthermore, the same metering electronics can be used regardless of whether a display is used. This can reduce the material cost of the interface. However, when the instrument panel is used, accessing the metering electronics can be difficult if it is misplaced or mis-inserted into the interface.

[0248] Pivotable dashboard

[0249] The interface may have a dashboard, such as the dashboard 2540 described above, which may restrict user access to the metering electronics located behind the dashboard. Furthermore, once the dashboard is removed from the interface, the dashboard and its components, such as the display, may be damaged or misplaced. Additionally, improper removal of the dashboard may damage the interface, housing, and / or metering electronics.

[0250] Figures 34 to 38An interface 3402 with improved accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 34 As shown, interface 3402 includes instrument panel 3440, which is configured to rotate about translation axis 3440at and about pivot axis 3440ap to a pivot instrument panel 3440' position. Translation axis 3440at and pivot axis 3440ap are orthogonal and coincident at pivot point 3440p. Translation rod 3440t is aligned with translation axis 3440at. As will be described in more detail below, translation rod 3440t is displaced along translation axis 3440at. Pin 3440i connects translation rod 3440t to instrument panel 3440. Translation rod 3440t connects instrument panel 3440 to metering electronics 3420 in a rotatable and pivotable manner. Metering electronics 3420 may be a board stack, electronic board, etc. Metering electronics 3420 and instrument panel 3440 may be housed in housing 3430, such as Figure 35 As shown in the figure. Figure 35 Also shown is a rod post 3430p, which may be integral with or attached to the housing 3430. For example... Figure 36 As shown, the translation rod 3440t is disposed in the rod post 3430p and configured to translate within the rod post 3430p. Therefore, the instrument panel 3440 can be configured to shift through the opening 3430o of the housing 3430.

[0251] The dashboard 3440 may include any suitable material and any suitable components. For example, the dashboard 3440 may resemble the reference above. Figures 26 to 28 The instrument panel 2540 is described. That is, the instrument panel 3440 may include a display, electronic components, connectors, switches, etc. Alternatively, the instrument panel 3440 may be, for example, a plastic cover, such as a transparent plastic cover, which may be mounted on the metering electronics.

[0252] The translation lever 3440t, pin 3440i, and post 3430p may comprise, for example, metal, although any suitable material, such as a thermosetting polymer, may be used. The translation lever 3440t is shown as having a cylindrical shape, although any suitable shape may be used. The translation lever 3440t includes a hole into which the pin 3440i is mounted. When the pin 3440i is mounted in the hole to connect the translation lever 3440t to the instrument panel 3440, the hole in the translation lever 3440t can be aligned with a hole in the instrument panel 3440.

[0253] The translation rod 3440t is also shown to include a smooth portion and a threaded portion, the threaded portion being used to mount the translation rod 3440t into the rod post 3430p and to retain the translation rod 3440t within the rod post 3430p. Therefore, as... Figure 35 and Figure 36 As shown, the translation lever 3440t is captured by the lever post 3430p. The lever post 3430p allows the translation lever 3440t to shift or translate along the translation axis 3440at and rotate about the translation axis 3440at. The lever post 3430p can allow the translation lever 3440t to display a predetermined distance sufficient to allow the instrument panel 3440 to shift away from the housing 3430 and to the outside of the housing 3430.

[0254] As described above, the translation lever 3440t translates along the translation axis 3440at to allow the instrument panel 3440 to be moved away from the metering electronics 3420. Therefore, when the instrument panel 3440 includes electronic components, cables can be used to communicatively connect the electronic components of the instrument panel 3440 to the metering electronics 3420. Pin 3440i allows the instrument panel 3440 to pivot away from the metering electronics 3420, allowing access to, for example, cables and the metering electronics 3420 without having to disconnect the instrument panel 3440 from the interface 3402.

[0255] like Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, the translation rod 3440t is shifted to position the instrument panel 3440 outside the housing 3430. Figure 37 In the middle, the instrument panel 3440 is not pivoted. Figure 38 In this configuration, the instrument panel 3440 pivots but does not rotate. As explained above, the translation lever 3440t can also rotate to allow relatively easy access to both sides of the instrument panel 3440. For example, the user can move the instrument panel 3440 from... Figure 38 The indicated position pivots to allow the user to access the rear portion of the panel located within the dashboard 3440. Alternatively, the user can pivot the dashboard 3440 from... Figure 37 The position shown is rotated to allow the user to access the front of the instrument panel 3440, as well as the metering electronics 3420 housed in the housing 3430. For example, for troubleshooting purposes, the user may wish to switch the switches in the instrument panel 3440 and the metering electronics 3420.

[0256] Figure 39A method 3900 for forming an interface with improved accessibility is shown. In step 3910, method 3900 provides a housing with an opening. The housing may be the aforementioned housing 3430, although any suitable housing may be used. In step 3920, method 3900 provides an instrument panel and houses the instrument panel inside the housing and near the opening of the housing. The instrument panel may be the aforementioned instrument panel 3440, although any suitable instrument panel may be used. In step 3930, the method provides a translation rod and pivotally connects the translation rod to the instrument panel, the translation rod being configured to displace the instrument panel through the opening of the housing. The translation rod may be the aforementioned translation rod 3440t, although any suitable translation rod may be used. The translation rod may be pivotally connected to the instrument panel using, for example, a pin, a flexible connector, a U-shaped joint, etc., although any suitable means may be used.

[0257] Pivotibly connecting a translation lever to an instrument panel may include configuring the instrument panel to rotate about a translation axis collinear with the longitudinal axis of the translation lever. For example, the translation lever may have a longitudinal axis orthogonal to a plane extending through the rotation of the instrument panel. This plane may also be orthogonal to the translation direction of the instrument panel along the translation axis. Pivotibly connecting a translation lever to an instrument panel may also include configuring the instrument panel to rotate about a pivot axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the translation lever.

[0258] Configuring the translation lever to displace the instrument panel through an opening in the housing can include configuring the translation lever to displace the instrument panel in a direction collinear with the longitudinal axis of the translation lever. For example, the translation lever could cause the instrument panel to extend through the opening in the housing in a direction orthogonal to the plane formed by the opening in the housing. Pivotibly connecting the translation lever to the instrument panel can include pivotally connecting the translation lever to the instrument panel at a pivot point. The pivot point could be located where the pivot axis and the translation axis coincide, at which point the instrument panel pivots about the pivot axis and rotates about the translation axis.

[0259] Figure 40 A method 4000 for improving interface accessibility is shown. For example... Figure 40 As shown, in step 4010, method 4000 provides a housing with an opening. The housing may be the aforementioned housing 3430, although any suitable housing may be used. In step 4020, method 4000 displaces the instrument panel along a translation axis through the opening in the housing. The instrument panel may be configured to perform at least one of the following: rotation about a translation axis and pivoting about a pivot axis. Method 4000 may also include performing at least one of the following: rotation of the instrument panel about a translation axis and pivoting of the instrument panel about a pivot axis. The translation axis and the pivot axis may be juxtaposed at a pivot point, and the instrument panel may be configured to rotate and pivot about the pivot point.

[0260] Interface 3402 and method 3900 improve the accessibility of interface 3402. Specifically, interface 3402 includes a dashboard 3440 that is translatable to allow displacement of the dashboard 3440 through an opening 3430o in housing 3430. The dashboard 3440 can also rotate and pivot about a translation axis 3440at and a pivot axis 3440ap, respectively, which can be defined by a translation rod 3440t and a pin 3440i. Accordingly, the metering electronics 3420 can be accessed by the user, and furthermore, can be accessed by the user without damaging housing 3430, metering electronics 3420, or dashboard 3440. Furthermore, since the dashboard 3440 remains attached to the housing, it is impossible for the user to misplace the dashboard 3440.

[0261] Automatically adjusted monitor contrast

[0262] As described above, the interface for the vibration meter, such as interface 2502, may include a display. The display may have a contrast ratio that allows the display to be read by the user under nominal conditions. For example, the display may have a contrast ratio setting ranging from 0% to 100%, where a 50% contrast ratio is suitable for reading the display under normal light at room temperature. However, for various reasons, such as when the interface is connected to a vibration meter that measures materials at non-nominal temperatures, such as vibration meter 5 described above, the interface may not be under nominal conditions. Although the contrast ratio may be set to 50%, the actual contrast ratio of the display may vary significantly due to, for example, temperature changes within the interface. More specifically, temperature changes in the metering electronics within the interface may cause changes in the actual contrast ratio of the display, leading to the perception of a defective vibration meter, an unreadable display, etc.

[0263] Figures 41 to 43 The diagram illustrates how parameters in a display with an improved accessibility interface can be adjusted to ensure the display's contrast remains readable. More specifically, Figure 41 The diagram illustrates the relationship between temperature and display contrast, showing that contrast decreases as temperature increases. Figure 42 and Figure 43 The relationship between drive voltage and contrast is shown, which can be used to compensate for the relationship between temperature and display contrast, as will be described in more detail below.

[0264] Figure 41 A graph 4100 illustrates the relationship between temperature and display contrast. (As shown...) Figure 41As shown, graph 4100 includes a temperature axis 4110 ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius, although any suitable temperature range or other parameters, such as environmental parameters, can be used. Graph 4100 also includes a contrast axis 4120, which is a unitless percentage value ranging from 0% to 120% of the total contrast ratio. Graph 4100 includes a temperature versus contrast curve 4130 that correlates temperature and the display's contrast ratio.

[0265] Temperature axis 4110 can be a measured value of ambient temperature within the interface housing the display. For example, temperature axis 4110 can represent an instrument panel, such as the one mentioned above. Figures 26 to 28 The measured values ​​of the instrument panel 2540 are described. Temperature can be measured by any suitable device and at any suitable location. For example, a thermocouple can be located in a display panel on which a display is mounted. Additionally or alternatively, temperature can be measured by an indirect device, such as an infrared detector pointing towards the instrument panel chassis housing the display.

[0266] Contrast axis 4120 is a measured value of the contrast ratio of a display, such as the aforementioned display 2544. The contrast ratio of a display can be defined as the ratio of the brightness of the brightest color (e.g., white) to the brightness of the darkest color (e.g., black). A display can be powered by an electrical signal having voltage and / or current. The contrast ratio can correspond to voltage and / or current. For example, the display is driven by a drive voltage V0, which corresponds to and is related to the display's contrast ratio value. The drive voltage V0 can be positively correlated with the display's contrast ratio value. That is, the higher the voltage, the greater the contrast ratio.

[0267] Temperature vs. Contrast Curve 4130 illustrates the relationship between temperature values ​​on the temperature axis 4110 and contrast values ​​on the contrast axis 4120. This relationship is linear, although any suitable relationship can be used. As illustrated in Temperature vs. Contrast Curve 4130, the contrast value is also related to the temperature value. As can be understood, if the contrast is not suitable for reading, the display may be difficult to read. The following explanation explains that the change in contrast is due to the decrease in drive voltage as temperature increases.

[0268] Figure 42 A graph 4200 illustrating the relationship between the driving voltage and the contrast ratio of the display is shown. Graph 4200 includes an electron volume axis 4210 ranging from 0 to approximately 63 and a driving voltage axis 4220 ranging from 0 volts to 14 volts, although any suitable parameters and / or values ​​may be used in alternative embodiments. Graph 4200 also includes an electron volume versus driving voltage curve 4230 relating the driving voltage value to the display contrast ratio.

[0269] Electron volume axis 4210 is a register value that sets the driving voltage to control the contrast of the display. In other words, the electron volume value of electron volume axis 4210 is a setting in the board driving the display. It is set by setting the register value in the register. The driving voltage value is related to the electron volume value. The correlation between the driving voltage value and the electron volume value can be determined at a nominal temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. The determined correlation is represented as electron volume versus driving voltage curve 4230. Electron volume values ​​from 36 to 63 correspond to contrast ratio display values ​​from 0 to 100, where the nominal temperature is 25 degrees Celsius.

[0270] Electron volume versus driving voltage curve 4230 shows that as the electron volume increases from 10 percent, the driving voltage V0 also increases accordingly. It is noteworthy that this relationship is approximately linear starting from 10 percent. This linearity can be utilized by compensating for driving voltage changes due to temperature variations. Table 1 below shows the experiments conducted to determine a suitable relationship between temperature and driving voltage to maintain the display's visual contrast at approximately 50%.

[0271] Table 1. Relationship between contrast ratio and driving voltage at different temperatures

[0272] Contrast setting (%) Drive voltage (V0) at 25°C Drive voltage (V0) at 60°C Drive voltage (V0) at 85°C 0 10.3 V 9.8 V 9.56 V 10 10.4 V 10.0 V 9.64 V 20 10.6 V 10.1 V 9.80 V 30 10.8 V 10.3 V 9.96 V 40 10.8 V 10.4 V 10.1 V 50 11.1 V（50） 10.6 V 10.2 V 60 11.2 V 10.8 V 10.4 V 70 11.2 V 10.8 V 10.5 V 80 11.4 V 11.0 V（50） 10.7 V 90 11.6 V 11.1 V 10.8 V 100 11.8 V 11.2 V 10.9 V（50）

[0273] The voltage value, shown in bold and indicated by “(50)”, indicates that the contrast observed on the display is approximately 50 percent, or as close as possible to 50 percent, even though the contrast setting may vary. For example, at 85 degrees Celsius, a contrast setting of 100 is used to achieve an observed contrast of 50 or as close as possible to 50.

[0274] The drive voltage can be compensated using the following equation, which relates the board temperature BT and the contrast setting CS.

[0275] Equation (2)

[0276] Experiments show that a drive voltage of 11.6 V results in the best observed contrast over the temperature range compared to, for example, the 11.1 V discussed above. Accordingly, the correlation of Equation [2] can result in a drive voltage maintained between approximately 11.5 V and 11.7 V, as shown in the table below.

[0277] Table 2 shows the relationship between contrast setting and voltage to maintain the observed contrast at approximately 50%.

[0278] Plate temperature (BT) (°C) Contrast setting (CS) (%) V0(V) -30 13 11.6 -25 13 11.5 -20 14 11.5 -10 22 11.5 0 31 11.5 10 40 11.6 20 48 11.6 30 56 11.7 40 65 11.7 50 72 11.6 60 81 11.6 70 88 11.6 80 98 11.6 85 100 11.6

[0279] As can be seen, the contrast setting can be varied based on the board temperature to ensure that the observed contrast setting remains at the optimal observed contrast, which can be approximately 50%. However, alternative methods can be used to compensate for the temperature-dependent drive voltage. For example, the drive voltage can be compensated using other devices that do not necessarily require temperature measurement, as discussed below.

[0280] Figure 43 A graph 4300 illustrating the relationship between the driving voltage and the contrast ratio of the display is shown. Graph 4300 includes a driving voltage axis 4310 ranging from 10 volts to 11.8 volts and a contrast ratio axis 4320 ranging from 0% to 120%, although any suitable parameters and / or values ​​may be used in alternative embodiments. Graph 4300 also includes a driving voltage vs. contrast ratio curve 4330 that correlates the driving voltage values ​​with a target contrast ratio for the display. The driving voltage vs. contrast ratio curve 4330 is based on Table 3 below. An analytical driving voltage vs. contrast ratio curve 4340, derived from empirical data from the driving voltage vs. contrast ratio curve 4330, is also shown below.

[0281] Table 3 shows the relationship between the target contrast value and the actual driving voltage V0.

[0282] Temperature (°C) Actual contrast ratio (%) V0 actual (V) V0 target (V) Contrast target (%) -30 50% 11.6 11.6 13 -20 50% 11.6 11.6 13 0 50% 11.3 11.6 31 20 50% 11.2 11.6 48 40 50% 11.0 11.6 65 60 50% 10.7 11.6 81 80 50% 10.2 11.6 100

[0283] The driving voltage can be determined by using the relationship between electron volume and driving voltage, as shown in the reference above. Figure 42 The described electron volume versus driving voltage curve 4230 is related to the actual contrast. The relationship between electron volume and driving voltage is shown as follows:

[0284] Equation (3)

[0285] in:

[0286] It is the driving voltage;

[0287] It is the volume of electrons; and

[0288] It is the drive voltage offset parameter.

[0289] At that time, the above equation [3] can be used. According to this application document, we can determine the driving voltage. The change can be expressed by the following expression related to the electron volume. Related changes:

[0290] Equation (4)

[0291] in:

[0292] It is the change in driving voltage; and

[0293] It is a change in the volume of electrons.

[0294] As shown above (refer to the reference) Figure 42 The electron volume discussed has a linear relationship with the contrast, and therefore the electron volume... Electronic volume can be used (i.e., 63 to 36) and contrast The ratio of the corresponding full-scale (i.e., 100 to 0) is used to determine the relationship between electron volume and contrast. Based on this relationship, the change in electron volume The relationship between the change in contrast can be expressed as the following equation. Related:

[0295] Equation (5)

[0296] in:

[0297] It is a change in the volume of electrons; and

[0298] It's a change in contrast.

[0299] According to the above two equations [4] and [5], the change of driving voltage The following relationship can be used to correlate with changes in contrast. Related:

[0300] Equation (6)

[0301] In order to drive voltage To maintain a stable value, the following relationship can be used:

[0302] Equation (7)

[0303] We can use the actual drive voltage The contrast ratio test data is shown in Table 3 above. (Contrast ratio versus drive voltage) From the data, we can derive the following relationship:

[0304] Equation (8)

[0305] in:

[0306] The contrast is set as a percentage.

[0307] Accordingly, the driving voltage can be correlated with the display's contrast setting to maintain the observed contrast at, for example, 50%.

[0308] As can be understood from Table 3, Equation [8], analytical drive voltage versus contrast curve 4340, and drive voltage versus contrast curve 4330 correlate the measured operating temperature value with the actual contrast value, as shown in the figure. In other words, Equation [8], analytical drive voltage versus contrast curve 4340, and drive voltage versus contrast curve 4330 are the relationship between drive voltage and actual contrast value.

[0309] As shown in Table 3, the actual contrast ratio is 50%. Therefore, equation [8], analytical drive voltage versus contrast ratio curve 4340, and drive voltage versus contrast ratio curve 4330 are the relationship between the drive voltage and the actual contrast ratio, normalized to 50% of the actual contrast ratio. However, other values ​​may also be used. For example, additional tables may be provided that associate the operating values ​​with the actual contrast ratios, such as, but not limited to, 30%, 40%, 60%, and 70%.

[0310] As can also be understood from Table 3, the relationship between the driving voltage and the actual contrast ratio can include the relationship between the contrast ratio and the driving voltage. More specifically, as shown in Table 3, the contrast ratio values ​​(which can also be called contrast setpoints) in the "Contrast Target" column can be set based on the operating value in order to maintain the actual contrast ratio at 50%. Therefore, by adjusting the driving voltage supplied to the display based on the determined operating value and the relationship between the driving voltage and the actual contrast ratio, an actual contrast ratio of 50% can be achieved.

[0311] Figure 3 The operating value shown is temperature. However, the operating value can be the drive voltage supplied to the display. For example, the drive voltage supplied to the display can be pre-correlated with temperature by relating the contrast value of the display drive circuitry to the drive voltage at various temperatures, as shown in Table 1. Accordingly, the drive voltage supplied to the display can be measured and compared with Table 1 to determine the contrast value or contrast setpoint to achieve the desired actual contrast value.

[0312] More specifically, the drive voltage can be measured, and the contrast value or contrast setpoint of the display driver (e.g., 50%) can be determined. If the measured drive voltage is 10.2 V, then the temperature of 85 degrees can be inferred, but such inference may not be necessary. Instead, Table 1 can be used to determine that a 100 percent contrast setpoint can be used to obtain a 50% actual contrast value. Alternatively, equation [8] can be used, which is the relationship between the drive voltage and the actual contrast value, relating the drive voltage to the contrast value at 50% of the actual contrast value. The contrast value can be pre-correlated with a register value, as referenced above. Figure 42 As described, a 0% contrast setting corresponds to an EV value of 36, a 100% contrast setting corresponds to an EV value of 63, and the relationship is linear: .

[0313] Figures 44 to 46 A metering electronics device 4420 for improving interface accessibility is shown. (e.g.) Figure 44 As shown, the metering electronics 4420 includes a display 4440, a processor 4420p, and a display driver circuit 4420d connected to the processor 4420p. The display driver circuit 4420d is configured to provide a drive voltage 4420dv to the display 4440. A sampling circuit 4420s, communicatively connected to the display driver circuit 4420d, is configured to sample the drive voltage 4420dv and provide the drive voltage value 4420ds to the processor 4420p. The display driver circuit 4420d can be configured to determine the drive voltage 4420dv from a register value, such as the aforementioned electronic volume value. The electronic volume value can be set by the processor 4420p. A temperature sensor 4420t is optionally connected to the processor 4420p.

[0314] Measuring electronics 4420 may be the same as or similar to the measuring electronics 20 described above, although any suitable measuring electronics may be used. For example, measuring electronics 4420 may be the measuring electronics 20 described above with an additional temperature sensor 4420t, which is positioned close to the display drive circuit 4420d.

[0315] Temperature sensor 4420t can be a thermocouple, a resistance temperature detector, an infrared detector, etc. Temperature sensor 4420t can be configured to sense the temperature of metering electronics 4420. Temperature sensor 4420t can provide signals, such as analog signals, to processor 4420p. Temperature sensor 4420t can sense any suitable portion of the metering electronics 4420 where temperature changes can cause changes in the drive voltage 4420dv. For example, temperature sensor 4420t can be configured to sense the temperature of display driver circuit 4420d.

[0316] The display driver circuit 4420d can be configured to provide a drive voltage 4420dv to the display. The amplitude of the drive voltage 4420dv can be determined by the display driver circuit 4420d based on the register value in its register. The register value can be set by the processor 4420p. The processor 4420p can set the register value based on the drive voltage value 4420ds provided to it by the sampling circuit 4420s.

[0317] The sampling circuit 4420s can be configured to measure the drive voltage 4420dv and provide a signal representing the drive voltage 4420dv to the processor 4420p. For example, as referenced... Figure 45 In more detail, the sampling circuit 4420s can be a voltage divider circuit that regulates the drive voltage to be supplied to the processor 4420p. More specifically, the sampling circuit 4420s can proportionally reduce the drive voltage 4420dv to a scale suitable for the processor 4420p. Furthermore, the sampling circuit 4420s can digitize the sampled and regulated drive voltage 4420dv and provide the digitized signal as a drive voltage value 4420ds to the processor 4420p.

[0318] The display 4440 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, etc. Any suitable display can be used where contrast may be affected by environmental conditions, such as temperature. For example, the brightness of an LED may be adversely affected by environmental conditions, which in turn may adversely affect the LED's contrast. Figure 44 As shown, the display 4440 can be an LCD with pixels, and the pixels can be black or white depending on the driving voltage 4420dv.

[0319] Figure 47 A method 4700 for improving interface accessibility is shown. For example... Figure 47 As shown, in step 4710, method 4700 determines an operating value. This operating value may correspond to the temperature of a metering electronics device that provides a drive voltage to the display, such as the metering electronics device 4420 discussed above. In step 4720, method 4700 adjusts the drive voltage supplied to the display based on the determined operating value.

[0320] Method 4700 may also include determining a contrast ratio based on the determined operating value. For example, the contrast ratio may be determined in the range of 0% to 100%, relative to the temperature-compensated drive voltage of the metering electronics. For instance, while a nominal contrast ratio of 50% may be readable at 25 degrees Celsius, a contrast ratio of 100% may be required to ensure the display is readable at 85 degrees Celsius.

[0321] Method 4700 may further include setting a register value in the display driver circuit based on the determined contrast ratio value. The determined contrast ratio value may be associated with a register setting value. For example, the register value may be an electron volume value associated with the contrast ratio value. Referring to the foregoing discussion by example, a contrast ratio of 100 percent may be associated with an electron volume value of 63. Therefore, if a contrast ratio of 100 percent is determined to correspond to an operating value, then an electron volume value of 63 can then be set in the display driver circuit.

[0322] The operating value can be the driving voltage supplied to the display. For example, as mentioned above, the driving voltage can increase or decrease proportionally with the temperature of the metering electronics, particularly the display driving circuitry. Therefore, the driving voltage corresponds to the temperature of the metering electronics. The contrast ratio can be determined based on the driving voltage. For example, the driving voltage versus contrast ratio curve 4330 discussed above can be used to determine the contrast ratio. For example, if the driving voltage is 10.2 volts, then the contrast ratio can be 100%.

[0323] Additionally or alternatively, the contrast ratio can be determined based on the relationship between the temperature of the metering electronics and the contrast ratio. For example, as mentioned above, if the plate temperature BT is between 20 degrees Celsius and 85 degrees Celsius, then the contrast ratio can be determined from... Confirmed, where the contrast setting CS is the contrast value.

[0324] The aforementioned metering electronics 4420 and method 4700 can improve the accessibility of an interface, such as interface 2. Interface accessibility can be improved by temperature-compensating the contrast of the display 4440 for the metering electronics 4420. Specifically, the metering electronics 4420 can compensate for the driving voltage 4420dv used for the display 4440. The driving voltage 4420dv can be compensated based on the measured temperature of the metering electronics 4420, the display driving circuit 4420d, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the driving voltage 4420dv can be compensated based on the driving voltage 4420dv. The latter method allows compensation of the driving voltage 4420dv without using a temperature sensor. Because the contrast is compensated, the actual contrast of the display 4440 can be consistent, thereby improving the perceived quality and accessibility of the interface.

[0325] The detailed description of the embodiments above is not an exhaustive description of all embodiments intended to fall within the scope of this specification by the inventors. In fact, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain elements of the above embodiments can be combined or eliminated differently to create other embodiments, and such other embodiments fall within the scope and teachings of this specification. It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above embodiments can be combined, in whole or in part, to produce other embodiments within the scope and teachings of this specification.

[0326] Therefore, although specific embodiments have been described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of this specification, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. The teachings provided herein can be applied to other interfaces to improve interface accessibility, and not only to the embodiments described above and shown in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the scope of the above embodiments should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An interface (2502) with improved accessibility, said interface (2502) comprising: Housing (2530), the housing (2530) having a display opening (2532); as well as Instrument panel (2540), which is disposed inside the housing (2530) near the display opening (2532), the instrument panel (2540) includes a panel (2540b) and a wireless transceiver (2548), wherein the panel (2540b) includes a front portion (2540ba) facing the display opening (2532) and a rear portion (2540bp) facing the interior portion of the housing (2530). The wireless transceiver (2548) is disposed on the rear side (2540bp) of the board (2540b) and configured to be communicatively connected to the wireless device (2501) via an opening (2540bo) in the board (2540b).

2. The interface (2502) according to claim 1, wherein, The instrument panel (2540) also includes an instrument panel chassis (2543) mechanically connected to the panel (2540b), the instrument panel chassis (2543) including a slot (2543s) near the wireless transceiver (2548).

3. The interface (2502) according to claim 1 further includes a display (2544) connected to the front side (2540ba) of the board (2540b).

4. The interface (2502) according to claim 3, wherein, The display (2544) is positioned close to the opening (2540bo) of the plate (2540b).

5. The interface (2502) according to claim 3, wherein, The display (2544) is positioned opposite the wireless transceiver (2548) on the board (2540b).

6. The interface (2502) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless transceiver (2548) includes an antenna (2548a) arranged near the opening (2540bo) in the plate (2540b) and the slot (2543s) in the instrument panel chassis (2543).

7. A method for forming an interface with improved accessibility, the method comprising: Provides a housing with a display opening; A dashboard is provided and the dashboard is disposed inside the housing near the display opening, wherein providing the dashboard includes providing a plate, wherein the plate includes a front side facing the display opening and a rear side facing the interior portion of the housing; Provide a wireless transceiver and mount the wireless transceiver on the rear side of the plate; and The wireless transceiver is configured to be communicatively connected to a wireless device via an opening in the board.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, Providing the dashboard also includes providing a dashboard chassis and mechanically connecting the dashboard chassis to the plate such that a slot in the dashboard chassis is close to the wireless transceiver.

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising providing a display and attaching the display to the front side of the board.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising configuring the display near the opening of the plate.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising configuring the display on the board opposite to the wireless transceiver.

12. The method according to claim 7, wherein, Providing the wireless transceiver includes providing an antenna and positioning the antenna in the opening in the plate and the slot in the dashboard chassis.

13. A communication system (2500) for improving the accessibility of an interface (2502), the communication system (2500) comprising: Wireless device (2501); as well as Instrument panel (2540), the instrument panel (2540) is disposed inside the housing (2530) of the interface (2502), the instrument panel (2540) has a plate (2540b) and a wireless transceiver (2548), wherein the plate (2540b) includes a front portion (2540ba) and a rear portion (2540bp) facing the display opening (2532) of the housing (2530). The wireless transceiver (2548) is disposed on the rear side (2540bp) of the board (2540b) and configured to be communicatively connected to the wireless device (2501) via an opening (2540bo) in the board (2540b).

14. The communication system (2500) according to claim 13, wherein, The instrument panel (2540) also includes an instrument panel chassis (2543) mechanically connected to the panel (2540b), the instrument panel chassis (2543) including a slot (2543s) near the wireless transceiver (2548).

15. The communication system (2500) according to claim 13 further includes a display (2544) connected to the front side (2540ba) of the board (2540b).

16. The communication system (2500) according to claim 15, wherein, The display (2544) is positioned close to the opening (2540bo) of the plate (2540b).

17. The communication system (2500) according to claim 15, wherein, The display (2544) is configured to be opposite to the wireless transceiver (2548).

18. The communication system (2500) according to claim 13, wherein, The wireless transceiver (2548) includes an antenna (2548a) arranged near the opening (2540bo) in the plate (2540b) and the slot (2543s) in the instrument panel chassis (2543).

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