Dual-Mode CAN Module Autonomous Control for Commercial Appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing commercial appliance control systems lack efficient communication and autonomous operation capabilities, particularly in scenarios where the master controller is not in communication with CAN modules, leading to potential appliance malfunctions and user errors.
Innovation Solution
A CAN bus system with dual-mode CAN modules that operate either in response to a master controller for centralized control or independently when communication is lost, ensuring continuous operation and monitoring of commercial appliances like ovens and refrigerators through a network of CAN modules and a master controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a master controller is used to control multiple commercial appliances, then centralized control capability is improved, but system reliability deteriorates when communication is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a master controller and multiple independent CAN modules, each capable of autonomous operation. Each CAN module can control its associated appliance independently when communication with the master controller is lost, ensuring system reliability while maintaining centralized control capability when available.
Solution Approach 2:
The CAN modules can change their operational parameter state between slave mode (responsive to master controller) and master mode (independent operation). This parameter change allows the system to adapt to communication availability, improving reliability without sacrificing centralized control capability.
2Reliability
If CAN modules operate independently when master controller communication is lost, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The CAN modules are designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in both slave mode (responsive to master controller) and master mode (independent operation). This universality allows a single device to perform multiple functions, improving reliability without requiring separate dedicated devices for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The CAN modules dynamically switch between operational modes based on communication availability. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt to changing conditions, maintaining reliability while managing complexity through flexible, context-dependent operation.
3Reliability
If dual-mode CAN modules are used for autonomous operation, then appliance downtime is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-mode CAN modules are manufactured as universal components that can operate in both slave and master modes. This multi-functionality is built into the standard design, allowing manufacturers to produce a single type of module that adapts to different operational requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The CAN modules are designed to self-determine their operational mode based on communication availability with the master controller. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external control logic during mode switching, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high appliance availability.
Data Source
AI summary
One or more commercial appliances for handling food and/or one of more subsystems of commercial appliances for handling food are linked to a master controller for controlling the operation of the commercial appliance(s) and/or its subsystem(s) via one or more CAN modules and a CAN bus.