Energy Storage Device Wireless Commissioning via QR Code

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Solution Overview

Problem

The commissioning of electrical energy storage devices, particularly in domestic applications, is cumbersome due to the need for manual settings and complex configurations involving PC systems and serial interfaces, which limits flexibility and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a communication interface for wireless data access, including a QR code with authentication data, allows for flexible commissioning through mobile devices, enabling seamless connection to networks and cloud services, simplifying the setup process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If PC systems with serial interfaces are used for commissioning, then data transfer and configuration are possible, but the commissioning process becomes complex and inflexible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommissioning processVSAvoidcommissioning setup
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/physical connection system (PC via USB or serial cable) with a wireless communication system. The storage device creates its own Wi-Fi network, allowing commissioning via wireless connection instead of requiring physical cable connections and dedicated PC systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a wireless communication interface as an intermediary between the storage device and the commissioning device. This intermediary enables data transfer and configuration without requiring direct physical connections, simplifying the commissioning process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If manual settings are performed during commissioning, then configuration is possible, but time and effort are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommissioning speedVSAvoidcommissioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The storage device provides self-service capabilities by creating its own wireless network and providing authentication credentials (QR code or Wi-Fi password) that enable automatic connection and configuration. This eliminates the need for complex manual setup procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The storage device performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring its wireless communication interface and generating authentication credentials before the commissioning process begins. This allows the commissioning device to connect automatically without requiring manual configuration steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If wireless data access is provided, then flexibility and ease of commissioning are improved, but authentication and security measures are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommissioning flexibilityVSAvoidauthentication system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses QR codes as a simplified copy/representation of authentication credentials. Instead of requiring users to manually enter complex Wi-Fi passwords or configuration data, the authentication information is encoded in a QR code that can be scanned and automatically processed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS11705732B2Storage device for storing electrical energy
Publication Date: 2023.07.18 SIEMENS AG
  • US11705732B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments include a storage device for electrical energy, the device comprising: a rechargeable battery; two terminals to connect the battery to at least one of: a supply network, an electrical load, and/or an electrical generator; a control unit to control charging and discharging of the battery; a communication interface configured to provide wireless data access; and a display of machine-readable code including authentication data enabling wireless data access.