Absolute Encoder Power-Fail Recording With Dual Processors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-rotation absolute encoders fail to process and record information when the main power source is disconnected, limiting their functionality during power outages.

Innovation Solution

An encoder system with a rotation detector and dual processors, one powered by a main power source and another by an auxiliary power source, allowing it to continue processing and storing information during power outages by managing a power feeding flag to switch between power sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single processor is used in the encoder, then the device complexity is reduced, but the encoder cannot perform multiple processing functions simultaneously during power outage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing capability during power outageVSAvoidprocessor configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The encoder is divided into two separate processors: a first processor that handles rotation speed detection and basic management functions, and a second processor that performs additional processing and recording operations. This segmentation allows each processor to be optimized for specific tasks and enables simultaneous execution of multiple processing functions during power outage without requiring a single complex processor

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the auxiliary power source supplies power to all components during main power source disconnection, then all processing functions can be maintained, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing continuity during power outageVSAvoidauxiliary power source consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of supplying power to all components during main power source disconnection, the system selectively supplies power only to the second processor when additional processing and recording are required. The power feeding flag controls this selective power supply, ensuring that the auxiliary power source is used only to the extent necessary for maintaining processing functions, thereby reducing overall power consumption while preserving reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the encoder processes multiple types of information during power outage, then the functionality is improved, but the power consumption from the auxiliary power source increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinformation processing capabilityVSAvoidauxiliary power source consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts its processing capability and power consumption based on the state of the power feeding flag. When the flag indicates that additional processing is needed, the second processor is activated to handle multiple types of information including rotation speed, position, and acceleration data. When the flag is reset, the system returns to basic operation mode, reducing power consumption. This dynamic adjustment allows the encoder to optimize the balance between functionality and power consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4722660A1Encoder, motor system, recording method, and program

Publication Date: 2026.04.08 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

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AI summary

Processed information is stored even when a main power source is power outage. Encoder (6) includes a rotation detector, first processor (661), and second processor (662). The rotation detector is fed with power from main power source (11) or auxiliary power source (12). First processor (661) is fed with power from main power source (11) or auxiliary power source (12). First processor (661) performs first processing and management processing. The first processing is processing of obtaining a rotation speed of a detection target. The management processing is processing of managing a power feeding flag that indicates whether to feed power from auxiliary power source (12) to second processor (662) when main power source (11) is power outage. Second processor (662) is fed with power from auxiliary power source (12) when the power feeding flag is on. Second processor (662) performs second processing different from the first processing. When the power feeding flag is on, second processor (662) performs recording processing of storing information processed in second processing in storage (63).