Drive System Parameter Configuration via Threshold-Based Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for configuring electrical drive systems with numerous parameter options are cumbersome, especially when the number of selection possibilities exceeds 15, as they require laborious scrolling through pull-down menus or lists, leading to inefficient input processes.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines the number of parameter values and uses a threshold value to switch between displaying all options and a search field dialogue, allowing users to input a character string to filter selections, thereby simplifying the selection process by displaying only relevant options when the number exceeds the threshold, typically around 15-20.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a pull-down menu with all parameter values is displayed, then all options are visible to the user, but the interface becomes complex and requires laborious scrolling when the number of options exceeds 15
Solution Approach 1:
A search field is introduced as an intermediary element between the user and the parameter value list. The search field filters the displayed options based on user input, allowing quick access to specific parameter values without scrolling through the entire list. This mediator resolves the contradiction by maintaining full visibility of options while enabling efficient selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The display mode of parameter values changes dynamically based on the number of options. When the number of parameter values exceeds a threshold (15), the interface switches from displaying all options to displaying a search field with filtered results. This parameter-based switching resolves the contradiction by adapting the interface to the data volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a scroll bar is added to the expanded list to handle more options, then all parameter values remain accessible, but the operation becomes more laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The search field enables preliminary filtering of parameter values before the user needs to select them. By allowing users to input search criteria in advance, the system pre-filters the results, eliminating the need for time-consuming scrolling through all options. This preliminary action significantly reduces the time to locate desired parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical scrolling action is replaced with a digital search mechanism. Instead of physically scrolling through a list using a scroll bar, users type keywords into the search field, and the system automatically filters and displays matching options. This substitution of mechanical interaction with intelligent filtering dramatically reduces search time.
3Ease of operation
If a search field dialogue is displayed for all parameter values, then selection is simplified, but the interface becomes unnecessarily complex for small numbers of options
Solution Approach 1:
The interface dynamically adapts its structure based on the number of parameter values. When there are fewer than 15 options, a simple pull-down menu is displayed. When the number exceeds 15, the interface dynamically transforms to include a search field dialogue. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by applying interface complexity only when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The threshold parameter (15 options) triggers a change in interface mode. Below the threshold, the simple pull-down menu is used; above the threshold, the search field dialogue is activated. This parameter-based switching ensures that interface complexity is optimized for the data volume, avoiding unnecessary complexity for small datasets.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for configuring an electrical drive system and a machine is provided that can execute such a method. In order to select and set drive system parameter values, it is possible here, when a selectable number exceeds a threshold value, to display a dialogue in which a search field for supporting the input is available.