Load Control Circuit for Correct Operation Mode Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing load control devices with multiple functions are prone to malfunction due to the need for different types of devices for each application, leading to increased complexity and potential malfunctions.

Innovation Solution

A load control system with an integrated control device that determines the operation mode of semiconductor devices based on obtained operation mode information via communication, using an operation mode determination circuit to match tentative and external settings, thereby reducing malfunctions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of devices are used for different applications, then device functionality is ensured, but device complexity and management difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoiddevice types
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single load control device that can operate in multiple operation modes depending on the connected load type. The device includes an operation mode determination circuit that automatically identifies the load type and switches between different operation modes (first operation mode for resistive loads, second operation mode for inductive loads, etc.), eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining proper functionality for each load type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of devices are used for different applications, then device functionality is ensured, but malfunction possibility increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoiddevice malfunction rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The operation mode determination circuit continuously monitors the load characteristics and provides feedback to the control circuit. Based on this feedback, the control circuit automatically adjusts the operation mode to match the connected load type. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the device operates in the correct mode for the specific load, preventing malfunctions that would occur if the wrong mode were used.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If a single device with multiple functions is used, then device types are reduced, but malfunction possibility increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice typesVSAvoiddevice malfunction rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The operation mode determination circuit performs preliminary identification of the load type before the main control operations begin. By determining the appropriate operation mode in advance and configuring the device accordingly, the system prevents malfunction conditions from arising during operation. This preliminary configuration step ensures that when the device starts operating, it is already properly configured for the specific load type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12470138B2Load control device, load control system, and load control method
Publication Date: 2025.11.11 NISSAN MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12470138B2 patent drawing
  • US12470138B2 patent drawing
  • US12470138B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A load control device includes a device that has a plurality of operation modes depending on applications and is electrically connected to a load. The device includes an operation mode determination circuit. The operation mode determination circuit is configured to: set a tentative operation mode indicating the operation mode before determination; obtain operation mode information regarding the operation mode via communication, the operation mode information including an error detection code for detecting an error of the tentative operation mode; determine whether or not a setting result of the tentative operation mode is correct using the error detection code; and determine the operation mode of the device based on a determination result.