Power Component Control Mode Switching via Authenticated Mobile Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for electric power systems require physical interaction to change control modes, posing safety risks for engineers and complicating remote mode transitions, especially when they are no longer present at the site.
Innovation Solution
A control device and mobile device system that allows for remote control mode setting via wireless communication, using authentication methods like biometric recognition and secure codes, eliminating the need for physical presence and enhancing safety by ensuring only authorized users can change control modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical interaction mechanism (key or code entry) is used to change control mode, then control mode can be changed, but engineer safety is compromised and remote mode transition becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical interaction system (physical key insertion or button pressing) with a wireless communication system. The mobile device communicates with the control device via wireless signals to transmit authentication data and control mode change requests, eliminating the need for physical contact with the control device and thereby improving engineer safety while maintaining secure control mode transitions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mobile device as an intermediary between the engineer and the control device. The mobile device captures authentication data (such as barcodes or QR codes) displayed by the control device, processes this data locally, and transmits it back to the control device wirelessly. This intermediary system enables remote authentication and control mode changes without requiring the engineer to physically interact with the control device
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical presence at control device is required for mode change, then authentication security is maintained, but remote mode transition capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to the authentication process by enabling wireless communication between the mobile device and control device. The authentication data is captured and transmitted through electromagnetic fields in the wireless domain, allowing the engineer to initiate and complete control mode changes from remote locations without physical presence at the control device, thus improving adaptability while managing complexity through standardized wireless protocols
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication interface is added for remote interaction, then remote control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device's communication interface is designed to serve multiple functions: it displays authentication data (such as barcodes or QR codes) for capture by the mobile device, and simultaneously receives wireless communications from the mobile device containing authentication verification and control mode change requests. This multi-functional design enables remote control capability while managing device complexity by reusing existing communication hardware for multiple purposes
Data Source
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AI summary
A control device (20) for at least one electric power system component (11) comprises at least one control circuit (30), configured to be coupled to a communication interface (21) and the at least one electric power system component (11). The at least one control circuit (30) is further configured to receive data from the communication interface (21), set the control device (20) to a local control mode based on the received data if a user of a mobile device is at a first location (16) local to the control device (20), and set the control device (20) to a remote control mode in response to a request of the user of the mobile device from a second location remote to the control device (20). A mobile device configured to interact with the control device (20) is also provided.