Modular Memory for Machine Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex machines like gas turbine engines and industrial plants require control systems that can maintain and update data specific to independently replaceable modules, ensuring optimal operation and efficiency, but existing systems lack a seamless method for data persistence and transfer during module swaps.
Innovation Solution
A control system comprising a controller, memory modules associated with each module, and communication means for data transfer, allowing each memory module to be replaced independently and ensuring data continuity, with the controller able to access and update data specific to the current modules, including history, calibration, and deterioration data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If data is stored centrally in the controller, then data access is simplified, but data loss occurs when modules are replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data storage system by associating each replaceable module with its own dedicated memory module. This segmentation ensures that data is distributed across multiple independent storage units rather than centralized, preventing data loss when modules are replaced while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces memory modules as intermediary components between the replaceable modules and the controller. These memory modules act as mediators that hold data locally, allowing seamless data transfer when modules are replaced without requiring complex centralized data management or causing data loss.
2Ease of repair
If memory modules are permanently attached to the controller, then data access is fast, but module replacement becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into independently replaceable modules, each with its own memory module permanently attached. This segmentation allows modules to be replaced as complete units without complex disconnection procedures, as the memory module travels with the replaceable module rather than requiring separate attachment/detachment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the memory module with its associated replaceable module by permanently attaching them together. This merging ensures that when a module is replaced, its data storage unit is automatically replaced as well, simplifying the replacement process while maintaining fast data access through the permanent connection between the module and its memory unit.
3Loss of time
If data is transferred manually during module swaps, then data accuracy is maintained, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous automatic data transfer between memory modules and the controller during module replacement operations. The communication interface continuously maintains data flow without interruption or manual intervention, ensuring both time efficiency and data accuracy through automated protocols that prevent data loss or corruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service data transfer during module swaps through automated communication protocols between the memory modules and controller. The modules and memory units automatically synchronize data without requiring manual intervention, reducing time consumption while maintaining data accuracy through built-in error checking and automatic transfer protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a machine comprising a plurality of independently replaceable machine modules comprises a controller operable to control operation of the machine. Memory stores machine data for use by the controller. Communication means are operable to provide communication for data transfer between the controller and the memory. The memory includes a plurality of memory modules associated with respective machine modules. Each of the memory modules is replaceable with the respective associated machine module and independently of other memory modules. The communication means is operable to provide communication for data transfer between the controller and a replacement memory module associated with a replacement machine module.