Companion Module Display Orientation for Load Center Slot Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intelligent circuit breakers in load centers face challenges in maintaining correct screen image orientation and slot identification due to different orientations on either side of the load center, leading to an undesirable user experience.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a menu selection technique based on the orientation of a companion module within the flexible load management system, utilizing an accelerometer to detect gravitational orientation and generate signals for corresponding changes in the user interface, ensuring proper orientation of menu displays depending on the physical position of the module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed menu display is used on the companion module, then the device structure is simple, but the screen orientation becomes incorrect when the module is installed in different positions in the load center
Solution Approach 1:
The menu display system dynamically adjusts its orientation based on the physical installation position of the companion module. The controller detects the module's orientation (e.g., left side vs. right side of load center) and automatically rotates or repositions the displayed menu items to maintain correct viewing orientation, transforming a static display into an adaptive one that responds to installation variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors the companion module's installation position and adjusts the menu display accordingly. This closed-loop approach ensures that the display always presents information in the correct orientation regardless of whether the module is installed on the left or right side of the load center.
2Measurement precision
If slot numbers are displayed without orientation consideration, then the display is simple, but slot identification becomes ambiguous when modules are installed in different orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs asymmetric display strategies where slot number presentation varies based on installation orientation. For example, odd slot numbers may be displayed with one visual style or position when the module is on the left side, while even slot numbers use a different presentation when on the right side, creating an asymmetric mapping that resolves ambiguity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the display are configured with different properties based on installation location. The menu and slot identification elements are locally adapted to their specific installation context, ensuring that each position in the load center has a unique, unambiguous display configuration that prevents confusion between symmetric positions.
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 approach ensures that menu information is correctly displayed, preventing inverted presentations and enhancing user experience by accurately identifying the physical location of the companion module within the load center, thereby facilitating proper configuration and operation.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer configured to detect a gravitational orientation (i.e., a first orientation and an opposite or upside-down orientation) and movement of the module
Data Source
AI summary
A menu selection technique is based on orientation of a companion module used in a flexible load management (FLM) system. The FLM system includes a load center that utilizes circuit breakers in combination with companion modules (i.e., intelligent controllers). Each companion module has a graphical display as well as a push button included on a face of the module as an input device used to display and input information including icons, buttons, controls, messages, status, menus or other desired text on a user interface (UI) to enable a user to configure and operate the companion module. The companion module also includes an accelerometer configured to detect a gravitational orientation (i.e., a first orientation and an opposite or upside-down orientation) and movement of the module and, in response, generate a signal that is translated to a corresponding change in orientation of the information displayed on the UI, particularly when the companion module inserted into the load center.