Fan-speed control device with adjustable preset speeds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems for motorized devices, such as ceiling fans, offer too many speed options, leading to user confusion and inefficient operation due to variations in motor performance across different models.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that allows users to configure a subset of discrete preset speeds for ceiling fans, enabling control devices to adjust rotational speeds based on user input and store configuration data for precise motor control, thereby simplifying operation and optimizing performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete speed options are provided for motor control, then the adaptability and control precision are improved, but the device complexity and user confusion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the speed control into two distinct layers: preset speeds (first number) and possible speeds (second number). This segmentation allows users to work with simplified preset options while the system internally manages the more granular possible speed values, thereby reducing user-facing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configuration where the relationship between preset speeds and possible speeds can be adjusted through configuration data. This allows the system to adapt the mapping between user-selected presets and actual motor speed values, providing flexibility without exposing users to the underlying complexity of multiple discrete speed options.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete speed options are provided for motor control, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By separating preset speeds from possible speeds, the patent creates a simplified user interface where users only need to select from preset options. The complex mapping to multiple possible speed values is handled internally, making operation easier while preserving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The preset speeds act as an intermediary layer between the user and the actual motor speed control. Users interact with simplified preset identifiers, and the system automatically translates these to the appropriate possible speed values, reducing user burden while maintaining precise control capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If configuration data is stored for preset speed mapping, then the manufacturing precision and control accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages the configuration data mapping between preset speeds and possible speeds without requiring manual intervention for each speed setting. This self-service approach maintains precise speed control through stored configuration while minimizing the operational complexity for users.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration data mapping between preset and possible speeds is established in advance during system setup or initialization. This preliminary configuration allows the system to accurately map user selections to precise motor speed values during operation without requiring complex real-time calculations or user input.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a load control device configured to control a motor load may comprise receiving an indication of a selected preset speed to configure, receiving an indication of a selected possible speed to which to set the selected preset speed, and storing configuration data comprising the selected preset speed and the selected possible speed. The selected preset speed may be one of a number of discrete preset speeds to which the load control device can control a rotational speed of the motor load in response to receiving an input. The selected possible speed may be one of a number of discrete possible speeds to which a motor control circuit of the load control device can control the motor load. The configuration data may allow the load control device to control the motor load to the selected possible speed when the input indicates the selected preset speed.