Modular Galley Control Panel for Reconfigurable Insert Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical control panels in aircraft galleys are hardwired to specific components, limiting flexibility, maintenance, and requiring unique parts for each function, which is time-consuming and costly, and occupies valuable space and weight on board vehicles.
Innovation Solution
An integrated electronic control system with a modular design featuring a control board and keypad that can control multiple galley inserts through programmable pin connections, allowing for easy replacement and software-based control configuration, eliminating the need for hardwired toggle switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardwired electrical interfaces are used to control galley inserts, then each control panel can control only a single galley insert, but this limits flexibility and requires unique parts for each function
Solution Approach 1:
The control board is designed with a universal interface that can control multiple different galley inserts through software configuration rather than hardwired connections. The processor can be programmed to recognize and control various insert types (chillers, ovens, coffee makers, etc.) using the same physical control panel, eliminating the need for unique hardwired interfaces for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical hardwired connection system with an electronic/software-based control system. Instead of physical wire connections that tie a control panel to a specific insert, the system uses electrical signals processed by a programmable microprocessor that can be configured through software to control different insert types, substituting rigid mechanical connectivity with flexible electronic control.
2Reliability
If hardwired control panels are used for each galley insert, then control functionality is specific, but maintenance and replacement are time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal control board can replace multiple specialized control boards. When maintenance or replacement is needed, the universal control board can be swapped out and reconfigured via software to control the same or different galley inserts, eliminating the need to source and install unique hardwired control panels for each insert type.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system allows changes in control parameters and configuration through software rather than requiring physical rewiring. When a control board needs maintenance or replacement, the new board can be programmed with different parameters to control various insert types, making the replacement process faster and more flexible without requiring specialized knowledge of hardwired connections.
3Ease of operation
If multiple hardwired control panels are installed for different galley inserts, then each insert can be controlled independently, but this occupies valuable space and weight on board vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate control panels into a single universal control board that can control multiple galley inserts. By combining the control functionality of what would otherwise require several separate hardwired panels into one integrated unit, the system significantly reduces the total weight and space required while maintaining the ability to independently control each insert through software configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
A single universal control board performs the function of multiple specialized control panels. The processor can be programmed to control different types of galley inserts (chillers, ovens, coffee makers, etc.), allowing one control unit to replace several, thereby reducing overall system weight and space occupation while preserving independent control capabilities for each insert.
4Reliability
If unique hardwired interfaces are used for each galley insert type, then control is specific, but procurement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal control board design that can control multiple types of galley inserts through software configuration. This eliminates the need to procure and stock multiple different specialized control panels for different insert types, reducing procurement costs while maintaining the ability to provide specific control functionality for each insert type through programmable interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is an integrated electronic control system including keypad with a keypad connector, one or more galley inserts controllable by the keypad; and a control board couplable with the keypad and the galley insert. The control board includes a first connector configured to removably and electrically couple with the keypad connector, a second connector configured to removably and electrically couple with a galley insert connector, and a processor implementing a plurality of control functions related to multiple galley inserts. The processor is configured to receive an input command related to a connected galley insert from the keypad, and generate a control signal, via a control function associated with the galley insert using the input command, to control the galley insert. Further, feedback from the galley insert is received, and based on the feedback, the keypad is configured to indicate a status of the galley insert.