Software-Configurable ATS Accessories for Flexible I/O Without Custom Hardware
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing automatic transfer switches (ATS) face challenges with high costs and risks of failure due to the need for discrete and customized I/O accessories, which increase material and labor costs and complicate manufacturing and inventory management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of software configurable accessories that can be enabled and interact with hardware components of the ATS, allowing for customizable I/O configurations through a graphical user interface, reducing the need for physical modifications and enabling flexible interaction with assigned circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete and customized I/O accessories are added to the ATS, then the functionality and adaptability of the system is improved, but the system cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal I/O accessory architecture where a single physical I/O module can be configured through software to perform multiple different functions. The controller enables software-based configuration that allows one hardware component to serve as different types of I/O accessories (digital input, digital output, analog input, etc.) depending on software settings, eliminating the need for multiple specialized hardware components and reducing overall system complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes software-configurable parameters to change the functional characteristics of I/O accessories without physical modification. The controller allows users to modify operational parameters, assignment mappings, and configuration settings through software, enabling the same hardware to adapt to different functional requirements by changing software parameters rather than physical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional I/O accessories are physically added to the ATS, then the system functionality is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and lead time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical customization process with a software-based configuration system. Instead of physically assembling different I/O accessories during manufacturing, the system uses software configuration files and controller settings to define accessory behavior. This substitution eliminates complex physical assembly variations and standardizes the manufacturing process while maintaining customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary software configuration capabilities that allow I/O accessory settings to be defined and stored before physical deployment. Configuration files can be prepared in advance, and the controller can be pre-programmed with accessory assignments, allowing for streamlined manufacturing and faster deployment without requiring complex real-time physical configuration during assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple customized I/O accessories are stocked for distributors, then the adaptability to customer needs is improved, but the inventory complexity and risk of under- or over-stocking increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where a single standardized I/O accessory hardware design serves as a template that can be replicated through software configuration to create multiple customized versions. Distributors only need to stock one physical I/O accessory type, and customer-specific customizations are achieved by copying the base hardware and applying different software configuration profiles, eliminating the need to maintain inventory of multiple specialized variants.
4Adaptability or versatility
If more I/O accessories are added to the ATS, then the system functionality is improved, but the risk of failure due to wiring faults and added circuitry increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple I/O accessory functions into a single integrated controller platform. By consolidating digital inputs, digital outputs, analog inputs, and other I/O functions into one unified controller with software-based configuration, the system reduces the total number of separate circuit boards, wiring harnesses, and physical components. This consolidation decreases the cumulative failure risk associated with multiple discrete accessories while maintaining full I/O functionality through software management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes identifying an enablement request to control enablement of a first software configurable accessory (SCA) of available SCAs that are each configured to interact, when activated, with at least one corresponding hardware components of a plurality of hardware components associated with the ATS, wherein the first SCA is configured to interact, when activated, with a first hardware component. The method further includes enabling the first SCA responsive to identifying the enablement request, wherein SCAs of available SCAs that have been enabled are available to be activated, and displaying an interactive graphical element (IGE) that corresponds to the first SCA at an interface of the ATS when the first SCA is enabled, wherein the IGE is configured to facilitate interaction between a user and the first SCA for activating and/or providing input to the first SCA for interacting with the first hardware component.