Compressor Memory Network for Persistent Data Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Compressor data is often lost when protection and control systems are replaced or disconnected from compressors, leading to operational issues and requiring reinstallation, which can result in errors and inefficiencies in refrigeration system performance.

Innovation Solution

A compressor system with a non-volatile memory module that stores compressor-specific data, including model, serial number, capacity, and operating coefficients, embedded in a tamper-resistant housing or connector block, allowing for secure and persistent storage of data even when the system is disconnected, and enabling remote access and communication for data retrieval and evaluation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If compressor data is stored in protection and control system memory, then data is accessible during operation, but data is lost when the system is replaced or disconnected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata retentionVSAvoidcompressor data loss

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the storage system into two segments: volatile memory in the protection and control system for operational access, and non-volatile memory embedded in the compressor for permanent retention. This segmentation allows data to be stored in multiple locations simultaneously, ensuring both accessibility and persistence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a copying mechanism where compressor data is duplicated from the non-volatile memory in the compressor to the volatile memory in the protection and control system. This copying process ensures that the data exists in both locations, preventing data loss when the control system is replaced while maintaining operational accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Ease of operation

If installer manually loads compressor data in the field, then data can be customized, but errors occur and data may be lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata loading flexibilityVSAvoiddata loading accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the compressor to self-configure by automatically providing its own data through the embedded non-volatile memory. When the protection and control system connects to the compressor, it automatically retrieves the data without requiring manual installer input, eliminating human error while maintaining customization through manufacturer-specific data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs data preparation in advance during the manufacturing process, where compressor data is pre-loaded into non-volatile memory embedded in the compressor itself. This preliminary action eliminates the need for field installation of data, as the data is already prepared and stored in the compressor before deployment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If compressor data is stored externally, then data can be accessed remotely, but data may be tampered with or lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote access capabilityVSAvoiddata integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements local quality by embedding non-volatile memory directly within the compressor housing, creating a secure local storage location that is physically protected and tamper-resistant. This localized storage maintains data integrity while still allowing remote access through the protection and control system's communication capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses the protection and control system as an intermediary between the embedded non-volatile memory and external access points. This intermediary layer provides authenticated access while maintaining security, allowing remote data retrieval without direct exposure of the embedded memory to potential tampering.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Duration of action of stationary object

If non-volatile memory is embedded in compressor, then data persistence is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata storage persistenceVSAvoidcompressor structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the data storage function directly into the compressor by embedding non-volatile memory within the compressor housing or connector block. This combining of functions eliminates the need for separate external storage devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining data persistence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7647201B2Compressor information network and method

Publication Date: 2010.01.12 COPELAND LP

AI summary

A compressor information network includes a remote module operable to communicate with a plurality of local modules. Each local module includes a processor and a first non-volatile memory associated with the processor. The processor communicates with the first non-volatile memory and the second non-volatile memory associated with a compressor. The remote module includes a database of information copied from the second non-volatile memory.