Portable Inverter Data Transfer Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for transferring firmware and setting values to inverters require the inverter to be powered on, are inconvenient due to the need for separate apparatuses and cables, and cannot efficiently handle firmware installation across multiple inverters.
Innovation Solution
A data transfer apparatus with a power supply unit, communication unit, memory, connection unit, and control unit that allows for the transfer of inverter control data to and from an inverter without a power supply, enabling firmware download and setting value storage even when the inverter is powered off, using various communication standards and a portable power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If setting values are transferred to inverters through a separate apparatus (e.g., personal computer), then data transfer capability is improved, but device complexity and operational convenience deteriorate due to requiring special purpose applications, special purpose cables, communication converters, and short distance location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the separate apparatus (PC), special purpose applications, communication converters, and power supply into a single integrated data transfer apparatus. This unified device performs all functions previously requiring multiple separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining data transfer capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The data transfer apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a data transfer device and a power supply device. It can transfer setting values and firmware to inverters while also providing power supply, eliminating the need for separate power supply operations and special purpose equipment.
2Loss of information
If setting values are transferred through a personal computer, then data transfer function is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring special purpose applications and cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the PC-based data transfer function and power supply function into a single portable apparatus, eliminating the need for special purpose applications and cables. The unified device can be easily connected to inverters without complex setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The data transfer apparatus includes built-in power supply capability, allowing it to operate independently without requiring external power sources or special purpose equipment. The device serves itself by providing both data transfer and power supply functions in one unit.
3Reliability
If multiple inverters are set up using separate apparatus connections, then individual inverter configuration is achieved, but loss of time increases due to repeating power supply and connection processes for each inverter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple inverter connection capabilities with power supply functionality in a single apparatus, allowing sequential configuration of multiple inverters without requiring separate power supply operations for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The data transfer apparatus stores setting values and firmware in advance in its memory, allowing rapid transfer to multiple inverters without requiring repeated power supply and connection processes. The pre-stored data can be quickly deployed to multiple devices.
4Reliability
If inverters are powered on to transfer setting values, then data transfer reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because data transfer cannot occur when inverters are powered off
Solution Approach 1:
The data transfer apparatus provides both data transfer and power supply functions, enabling it to transfer setting values and firmware to inverters regardless of their power state. The apparatus can power on the inverter temporarily for data transfer and then power it off, providing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus can prepare and store data in advance, and transfer it to inverters at appropriate times, enabling data transfer operations even when inverters are initially powered off. This allows maintenance and configuration activities without requiring continuous inverter operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a data transfer apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention including: a power supply unit supplying operation power; a communication unit connected with an external apparatus and downloading inverter control data from the external apparatus; a memory storing the inverter control data downloaded by the communication unit; a connection unit connected to an inverter, transferring the inverter control data stored in the memory to the inverter, and supplying the operation power supplied through the power supply unit to the inverter; and a control unit allowing the operation power to be supplied to the inverter and allowing the inverter control data to be transferred to the inverter whenever the inverter is connected.