Ignition System Single Action Fault Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ignition systems for outdoor power equipment often require users to manually diagnose and clear multiple start faults, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially for complex user interfaces.
Innovation Solution
An electronic ignition system with a processor and switch monitoring assembly that allows for the monitoring of multiple switches and automatic clearing of binary start faults with a single start fault clearance operator, enabling the engine to be started once all faults are resolved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a key operated switch with multiple switches and buttons is used to provide additional functionality, then the adaptability and versatility of the ignition system is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fault clearing process by identifying specific binary start fault operators (e.g., parking brake switch, PTO switch, blade engagement switch) that can be independently monitored and cleared. This segmentation allows the system to handle complexity through modular organization of fault conditions rather than a monolithic approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The ignition system performs self-diagnosis by automatically monitoring the status of multiple switches and identifying start faults without user intervention. The system then self-corrects by automatically clearing binary start faults, eliminating the need for users to manually diagnose and clear each fault condition.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches and buttons are added to provide additional functionality, then the adaptability and versatility of the ignition system is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors switch statuses and identifies start faults without requiring user diagnosis. It then automatically clears binary start faults through the start fault clearance operator, eliminating the need for users to manually interact with multiple switches and buttons to resolve fault conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by monitoring the status of multiple switches and communicating fault conditions to the user. When a start fault is detected, the system feedbacks the specific condition (e.g., parking brake not set, PTO engaged) and automatically clears it when the condition is corrected, guiding the user through the resolution process.
3Measurement precision
If manual diagnosis and clearing of multiple start faults is required, then the measurement precision of fault identification is improved, but the loss of time and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors all switch statuses and identifies start faults without user intervention. It then automatically clears binary start faults when conditions are corrected, eliminating the time users would spend manually diagnosing and clearing each fault condition while maintaining precise fault identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary monitoring of all switch statuses before engine start is attempted. When a start fault is detected, the system is already prepared to automatically clear binary faults when conditions are corrected, reducing the time required for fault resolution compared to manual diagnosis processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of enabling operation of an ignition system for outdoor power equipment may include monitoring status of a plurality of switches associated with respective components of the equipment where at least one of the respective components corresponds to one or more binary start fault operators, and setting a start enabling status for the one or more 5 binary start fault operators responsive to actuation of a start fault clearance operator.