Communication Module Layout for Unambiguous Switch Parameterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Parameterization of switching devices can lead to ambiguity when parameters set directly on the device differ from those set via remote parameterization, causing confusion and potential inaccuracies, as users may inadvertently assume direct settings are effective even though remote values are used.

Innovation Solution

A communication module is designed to attach to the switching device in a defined position, covering setting elements and ensuring that only remote parameterization is used for certain parameters, with fastening elements providing positional stability and a method to establish a communication connection to transmit parameter values from the module to the device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If setting elements with scale displays are provided on the switching device for direct parameterization, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to ambiguity between direct and remote parameter values

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirect parameterizationVSAvoidparameter value accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the setting elements from the switching device housing by providing a communication module that covers the setting elements when attached to the device. This physical extraction prevents users from accessing and adjusting the setting elements, thereby eliminating the ambiguity between direct and remote parameter values while maintaining the ability to parameterize the device remotely through digital communication interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Adaptability or versatility

If remote parameterization is enabled without covering setting elements, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to user confusion about which parameter values are effective

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameterization flexibilityVSAvoidparameter value clarity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating the treatment of parameterization methods: setting elements remain accessible for some parameters while being covered for others. The communication module is designed to cover specific setting elements corresponding to parameters that should be exclusively controlled remotely, creating localized zones of accessibility that ensure parameter value clarity while maintaining overall adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If setting elements are covered to prevent direct adjustment, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for parameters that require direct access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter value consistencyVSAvoiddirect parameter adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by making the accessibility of setting elements conditional rather than fixed. The communication module can be attached or detached based on operational requirements, and different modules may cover different setting elements. This dynamic approach allows the system to switch between direct and remote parameterization modes depending on the specific application needs, maintaining both reliability and operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3905298B1Communication module
Publication Date: 2024.05.29 SIEMENS AG
  • EP3905298B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3905298B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3905298B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a communication module (10) for attachment to a parameterizable switching device (2), wherein the switching device (2) has one or more setting elements (4a - 4g) for setting parameter values. The communication module (10), which is attached in a predetermined position relative to the switching device (2), covers one or more (4d - 4g) of the setting elements (4a - 4g).