Compressor Protection Module with Snap-Fit Plug
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compressor protection and control systems in climate control systems face challenges in providing consistent and efficient operation, as existing solutions lack effective diagnostic capabilities and remote monitoring, leading to potential faults going undetected.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a housing and protection module that includes a plug for electrical communication with a compressor terminal assembly, featuring resiliently flexible tabs for secure engagement, and a display device for diagnostic information, allowing for both local and remote monitoring of compressor operating conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a protection and control device is added to monitor compressor operation, then compressor reliability and fault detection capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protection module, control module, and diagnostic module into a single integrated electronic device with a unified housing. This merging of previously separate functions into one compact unit improves compressor reliability through comprehensive monitoring while avoiding the complexity increase that would result from multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides protection against faults, controls compressor operation, and offers diagnostic capabilities. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices, improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If diagnostic and remote monitoring capabilities are added, then fault detection precision and operational efficiency are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic module continuously monitors compressor operation and provides feedback information about system status and potential faults. This feedback mechanism enables precise fault detection by comparing actual operating parameters against expected ranges, improving measurement precision without requiring overly complex external monitoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device acts as an intermediary between the compressor and remote monitoring systems. It processes sensor data locally and can communicate fault information remotely, providing precise fault detection capability while simplifying the overall system architecture by consolidating processing functions in one location.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple engagement features and receptacles are implemented for modular assembly, then ease of manufacture and assembly are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device is divided into modular components including a housing, base, cap, and removable display device, each with standardized engagement features. This segmentation allows independent manufacturing and assembly of components, improving ease of manufacture while the standardized interfaces prevent structural complexity from becoming unmanageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates removable and reconfigurable elements such as the detachable display device and snap-fit engagement features that allow for dynamic assembly and disassembly. This enables flexible manufacturing and maintenance operations without requiring permanently fixed complex structures.
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
The solution enables reliable protection and control of compressors, facilitates efficient fault detection and diagnosis, and allows for remote monitoring, ensuring consistent operation and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
The plug may include a plug body and a plurality of resiliently flexible tabs configured to snap into engagement with corresponding apertures in a fence of the terminal assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor may include a shell, a terminal assembly, an electronics module, and a molded plug. The terminal assembly may engage the shell and may include an outwardly extending conductor and a terminal fence at least partially surrounding said conductor. The electronics module may include a back plate having an opening through which said terminal fence is received. The back plate may include flexible tabs and a spring element. The flexible tabs may removably engage the terminal fence. The spring element may contact the shell and bias the back plate away from the shell. The molded plug may engage the terminal fence and may engage the conductor for electrical communication between the conductor and the molded plug.