Actuator Memory Part Segmentation for Building Management Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
In building management systems, the exchange of actuators like electronic ballasts in luminaires results in the loss of programmed information, leading to high costs and difficulties in diagnosing defects due to the separation of control devices from memory units, and the increasing complexity of programming and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
Configuring actuators with a separate or separable memory part that stores function-relevant information, allowing the control device to access this information upon exchange, and enabling read/write capabilities for data transfer, either via plug contacts or wirelessly using RFID elements, to simplify programming and fault diagnosis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the control device is exchanged due to defect or wear, then the actuator can continue to operate, but the programmed information is lost and reprogramming is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate components: a control device that can be exchanged and a memory part that remains permanently in the actuator. The memory part stores all programmed information (luminaire-specific data, operating addresses, group addresses, permissible operating time) independently from the control device. When the control device is replaced, it reads the existing information from the memory part, eliminating the need for reprogramming while maintaining operational continuity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ballast is programmed with luminaire-specific information during production, then the ballast can control different lamp types, but the programming costs and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The memory part is pre-programmed during the production of the actuator with all necessary luminaire-specific information, lamp type data, and system configuration. This preliminary programming is performed once during manufacturing rather than repeatedly during maintenance or exchanges. The pre-programmed memory part remains in the actuator permanently, allowing rapid deployment and eliminating repeated programming time losses.
3Ease of operation
If the operating data is stored in the control device, then the data is easily accessible, but the data is lost when the control device is exchanged
Solution Approach 1:
The memory part acts as an intermediary between the control device and the permanent storage requirements. It stores operating data, fault information, and configuration parameters in a location that persists beyond control device exchanges. The control device can read and write to this intermediary memory part during operation, maintaining ease of data accessibility while ensuring data preservation through device replacement.
4Device complexity
If the memory part is integrated into the control device, then the structure is simplified, but the exchange of control device results in loss of programmed information
Solution Approach 1:
The system architecture is segmented into a control device portion and a memory part portion. The memory part is physically separated from the control device and permanently mounted in the actuator housing. This segmentation allows the control device to be exchanged independently while the memory part remains in place, preserving all programmed information. The separation creates a clear functional division: the control device handles processing and communication, while the memory part provides persistent storage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the need for complex reprogramming, enhances maintenance efficiency by logging operational data, and allows for easier identification of fault causes, thereby lowering costs and improving system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The memory part has the configuration of an RFID element and can be read and/or written to in a wireless manner
Data Source
AI summary
A building management system (1) for the control of plural actuators (10) arranged in a distributed manner, comprised of a central control unit (2) and at least one actuator (10) controlled by the central control unit (2), wherein the actuator (10) has a control device (11) which is formed to receive control commands from the central control unit (2) and to operate the actuator (10) in dependence upon these control commands, and a memory part (13) for storing function-relevant information. In accordance with the invention the memory part (13) is separate or separable from the control device (11).