Movable Barrier Parameter Grouping for Faster Programming

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing programming method for movable barriers, such as roller shutters, is complex and laborious due to the limited number of keys and numerous operating parameters, leading to long selection sequences, potential errors, and the need for detailed manuals, with no distinction in importance between parameters.

Innovation Solution

The method organizes operating parameters into groups, allowing sequential access and reducing the number of keys required, using a device with features like touch-screen or voice detection for easier navigation and prioritization of frequently used parameters, enabling shorter sequences and preventing unauthorized access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional key sequences are used to access numerous operating parameters, then all parameters can be programmed, but the programming process becomes long and laborious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter accessibilityVSAvoidprogramming time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the set of operating parameters into multiple groups (first group, second group, third group, etc.). Each group contains specific parameters that can be accessed independently. This segmentation allows users to quickly access frequently used parameters in the first group without navigating through all parameters, significantly reducing programming time while maintaining full accessibility to all parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If many different key sequences are created for each parameter, then each parameter can be uniquely identified, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter identificationVSAvoidsequence complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By organizing parameters into groups, the patent reduces the number of unique key sequences needed. Instead of creating a distinct complex sequence for each individual parameter, users navigate to the appropriate group first, then select the specific parameter within that group. This dramatically reduces overall sequence complexity while maintaining unique identification capability for all parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal access structure where a single key sequence pattern can access multiple parameters across different groups. The group selection mechanism serves as a multi-functional gateway that routes to various parameter sets, reducing the need for entirely different sequences for each parameter and simplifying the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If all parameters are given equal importance in the sequence structure, then comprehensive access is provided, but frequently used parameters take as much time as rarely used ones

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter coverageVSAvoidaccess efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments parameters into priority-based groups, with the first group containing frequently used parameters that can be accessed quickly. Less frequently used parameters are placed in subsequent groups. This segmentation creates a hierarchical access structure that improves ease of operation for common tasks while maintaining comprehensive coverage of all parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different access characteristics to different parameter groups. The first group has optimized quick-access properties for frequently used parameters, while other groups have standard access procedures. This local differentiation of access quality allows efficient operation for common parameters without sacrificing comprehensive parameter coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP2617930B1Programming device and programming method
Publication Date: 2021.03.10 NICE SPA
  • EP2617930B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2617930B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

To simplify the programming of operating parameters (P1, ..., Pn) contained in a memory (M) of an operator (30) destined to move a movable barrier, a device is proposed adapted to program or select the parameters. It comprisese means (14, 16, 18) for selecting and/or changing one or more of said parameters, and it is characterized in that the operating parameters are partitioned into two or more groups (G1, ..., GM) and each group is accessible to select at least one of the parameters belonging to it.