Function Block Combination System for Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-functional apparatuses face challenges in reducing volume and minimizing power consumption due to unseparated function blocks and unnecessary power usage from inactive functions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that sense connected function blocks, determine indexes, decide on functions to perform based on these indexes, and generate control signals to combine function blocks for efficient operation, utilizing a hypernetwork model to manage and optimize function execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If function blocks are not separated in a multi-functional apparatus, then the apparatus can perform multiple functions, but the volume of each block cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multi-functional apparatus into separate function blocks (first function block, second function block, etc.), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows each block to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall system complexity and volume compared to a monolithic design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each function block is designed with universal capabilities to perform multiple functions through configurable connections. The blocks can be connected in different configurations to achieve various functions, allowing a single block to serve multiple purposes rather than requiring separate dedicated blocks for each function.
2Reliability
If all function blocks are always active in a multi-functional apparatus, then the apparatus is ready for any function, but unnecessary power is consumed for functions not currently used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management where function blocks can be activated or deactivated based on current operational needs. The system transitions from a static all-active state to a dynamic state where only necessary blocks are powered on, reducing energy consumption while maintaining functionality through on-demand activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically manages power distribution to function blocks based on detected operational requirements. The system self-regulates by identifying which blocks are needed for current functions and activating only those, eliminating the need for manual intervention while optimizing power consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple function blocks are combined to perform a function, then the apparatus can achieve complex functions, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves as an intermediary that manages the complexity of coordinating multiple function blocks. It abstracts the complexity by providing a unified interface for controlling blocks, handling connection configurations, and managing data flow between blocks, thereby reducing the overall control complexity despite having multiple blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the system into independent function blocks with standardized interfaces, the patent reduces control complexity. Each block operates independently with well-defined communication protocols, making it easier to manage and coordinate compared to a monolithic system where internal complexities are intertwined.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of performing a function by combining one or more blocks including sensing whether the one or more blocks are connected, determining indexes respectively corresponding to the connected one or more blocks, deciding, by using the indexes, a function to be performed based on the sensing, the function being one of a plurality of functions, each function associated with a respective set of function blocks, and generating a control signal for performing the decided function may be provided.