Circuit Protection Device Configurable via External Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit breakers have limited configuration options due to lack of space for adjustable components, often requiring operating parameters to be set during assembly, which is inconvenient and restrictive.
Innovation Solution
A circuit protection device with operational parameters configurable only via a separate programming device, utilizing a processor and memory to select and set parameter values, allowing for various configurations without physical adjustment components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components (knobs, dials, keypads) are added to circuit breakers, then configuration flexibility is improved, but device space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adjustable components from the circuit breaker housing and places them in a separate programming device. The circuit breaker contains only a processor and memory for storing configuration data, while the programming device handles all user interaction for setting operational parameters. This separation eliminates the need for physical adjustment components within the circuit breaker, resolving the space constraint while maintaining configuration flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustable components are added to circuit breakers, then configuration options are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By removing all adjustable components from the circuit breaker and consolidating them in a separate programming device, the patent simplifies the circuit breaker manufacturing process. The circuit breaker becomes a simpler device with only fixed components (processor and memory), reducing assembly complexity while the separate programming device provides all necessary configuration options.
3Manufacturing precision
If operating parameters are set during assembly, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the circuit breaker configuration dynamic by allowing parameters to be set or changed after assembly through the separate programming device. The memory stores configuration data that can be updated remotely, enabling both precise manufacturing defaults and flexible post-installation adjustments, thus resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and operational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit protection device having operational parameters configurable only via a separate programming device includes a memory configured to receive a selector identifying one of a plurality of operational parameters to be adjusted, and to receive a parameter value from the programming device. A processor is coupled to the memory and is configured to receive the selector from the memory, select the operational parameter of the circuit protection device based on the selector, and to receive a parameter value for the operational parameter from memory, and set the selected operational parameter to the parameter value.