Integrated HMI for Engine-Generator Parameter Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current power generation systems for vehicles, such as marine vessels, require frequent and costly adjustments by specialized technicians to modify operating parameters, which is inefficient and reliant on external experts, and can be prone to errors due to the need for external equipment and communication disruptions.

Innovation Solution

An integrated human-machine interface (HMI) is incorporated into the engine-generator, allowing authorized users to modify and save configurable operating parameters locally, with the ability to transfer these settings to other similar engine-generators, and to maintain parameter changes even during communication disruptions, using a non-volatile memory and a standardized interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If external technicians use portable computers and specialized software to modify parameters, then parameter modification capability is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter modification capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the parameter modification interface directly into the engine-generator control system, merging the previously separate portable computer, specialized software, and engine control functions into a unified system. This eliminates the need for external technicians to bring specialized equipment and reduces system complexity while maintaining full parameter modification capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The engine-generator system is equipped with built-in capabilities for parameter modification and tuning, allowing it to serve itself without requiring external specialists. The integrated control panel and interface enable operators to directly adjust parameters, making the system self-sufficient for routine parameter modifications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If technicians travel to the location to modify parameters, then parameter adjustment is possible, but time and expense increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter adjustment accessibilityVSAvoidtime for parameter modification

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables on-site parameter modification by any authorized operator without requiring travel from external technicians. The integrated control interface allows operators to directly access and modify parameters at the engine-generator location, eliminating travel time and making the system self-service capable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an integrated control panel as an intermediary interface between the operator and the engine-generator control system. This mediator provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies parameter modification while maintaining full access to control functions, eliminating the need for external specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple control panels are used for engine control, then control functionality is achieved, but communication reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidcommunication reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple separate control panels into a single integrated control system. By merging the control functions into one unified interface, the system eliminates communication protocols and interfaces between multiple panels, thereby improving communication reliability while maintaining all necessary control functionalities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of manufacture

If default parameter values are used, then system setup is simplified, but engine performance optimization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem setup simplicityVSAvoidengine performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains dynamic parameter adjustability built into the control architecture, allowing parameters to be easily modified from default values to optimized values. The integrated interface provides seamless access to parameter modification capabilities, enabling the system to transition from default operation to optimized performance without complexity or additional equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9630510B2System, method, and computer program for an integrated human-machine interface (HMI) of an engine-generator

Publication Date: 2017.04.25 TRANSPORTATION IP HOLDINGS LLC

AI summary

In one embodiment, an engine management system (EMS) can use a human machine interface (HMI) to modify operating parameters of a set of engine generators controlled by an engine control unit (ECU). The HMI can permit authorized users to adjust a plurality of operating parameters of the engine generators in accordance with an authorization level of the authorized users. The ECU can be a standalone system operable independent of the EMS. A communication network (e.g., ARCnet) can link the EMS to the ECU, wherein the changes of the operating parameters input via the HMI are maintained over a power-cycle of the EMS. Further, changes of the operating parameters input via the HMI can be maintained even when communications over the communication network linking the engine.