Digital Decoder In-Place Programming via Power Supply Alteration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital control systems for multiple objects, such as model railroads or track-guided car race tracks, face challenges in efficiently and rapidly programming digital addresses and behavior modes, particularly due to cumbersome manual methods and the need to remove decoders from the system for programming, which disrupts operation and requires additional space and components.
Innovation Solution
A method where a digital decoder changes into a programming mode by altering its power supply conditions based on predetermined actuations of an operating device's actuating elements, allowing for in-place programming without disconnecting from the system, enabling rapid and simple assignment changes and data storage without affecting other decoders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual programming with DIP switches is used, then digital address can be programmed, but the process is cumbersome and requires additional space and components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical DIP switch system with an electronic programming method. The digital decoder enters programming mode electronically through specific command sequences transmitted via the operating device, eliminating the need for physical DIP switches and manual mechanical configuration. This substitution reduces hardware complexity while maintaining programming functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital decoder performs self-programming by entering programming mode autonomously when receiving specific command sequences. The system programs itself without requiring external manual intervention or additional programming equipment, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing hardware requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If programming mode is activated by removing decoder from system, then programming can be done, but operation is disrupted and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary programming actions to be performed while the decoder remains connected to the system. By allowing in-system programming through specific command sequences, the decoder can be programmed in advance without removing it, thus avoiding disruption to system operation and reducing programming time.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming process maintains continuity of useful action by allowing the decoder to remain connected and operational during programming. The system continues to function while programming commands are transmitted, ensuring uninterrupted operation and eliminating time loss associated with removing and reinserting decoders.
3Ease of operation
If all decoders are removed from transmission path for programming, then programming can be done, but system operation is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling programming functionality in a specific decoder without affecting other decoders in the system. Each decoder can independently enter programming mode through specific command sequences, allowing localized programming access while maintaining overall system operation and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming function is segmented and isolated to individual decoders. Each decoder can be programmed independently through specific command sequences without requiring removal from the transmission path or affecting other decoders. This segmentation allows programming access while maintaining system productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The control of a plurality of toy vehicles (10, 12) using a plurality of operating devices (14, 15) is effected in such a manner that the speed of the toy vehicles (10, 12) is controlled by means of a tappet (26). Each operating device (14, 16) is uniquely assigned to a toy vehicle (10, 12). The operating devices (14, 16) are connected to a control center (18). The latter converts the positions of the actuating elements (26, 28) of each operating device (14, 16) into digitally coded signals and adds a digital address, which identifies a particular operating device (14, 16), to each digitally coded signal or data packet. The control center (18) sends the data packets via the bus bars of the motor racing track, as symbolized with arrows (30), with the result that said data packets are picked up in each toy vehicle (10, 12) using the current collectors 922) and are forwarded to the respective digital decoder (24). A digital address is stored in each digital decoder (24) and the digital decoder (24) compares the digital address of each data packet received with the stored digital address. If the two addresses match, the digital decoder (24) identifies the corresponding data packet as belonging to this toy vehicle (10, 12) and evaluates the digitally encoded data contained in the data packet.