Modular Controller With Removable Radio Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing controller designs for valve assemblies restrict users to choosing between an electronics module without transmission or one with integrated wireless or wireline transmission, limiting design space and flexibility, especially in mass production and fluidic engineering applications.
Innovation Solution
An electronic controller with a modular design that allows flexible selection and removable radio modules for wireless data transmission, featuring a housing with protected electrical connections and a cover for environmental sealing, enabling cost-effective and secure data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a transmission module is integrated in the electronics module, then wireless or wireline data transmission is enabled, but the user loses flexibility in choosing different transmission options and the design space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission module is separated from the electronics module and placed in a separate housing. This segmentation allows users to choose different transmission modules (wireless, wireline, or none) independently, providing flexibility without complicating the core electronics module design.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate different types of transmission modules. The opening in the housing allows various module configurations (integrated, separate, removable), making the system adaptable to multiple transmission needs while maintaining a consistent base design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate transmission module is used, then flexibility is improved, but the module is limited in design space and may be more vulnerable to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission module is nested within the housing structure, which provides environmental protection. The housing acts as a protective container that shields the separate module from environmental factors while still allowing the module to be removable for flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves as an intermediary between the transmission module and the external environment. It provides mechanical protection and environmental sealing while maintaining the module's accessibility and replaceability through the opening.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the transmission module is removable from the housing, then user flexibility and cost-effectiveness are improved, but the electrical connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection is segmented into contact surfaces on the housing and corresponding contacts on the removable module. This segmentation allows the module to be easily inserted and removed while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the defined contact interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is designed to automatically establish and maintain connections when the module is inserted into the housing. The contact surfaces are positioned to engage automatically, reducing the need for complex manual connection procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic controller includes a housing. The housing has an opening configured such that a radio module is removably insertable into the housing, and a cover and plug are also insertable into the housing.