Modular Intelligent Overload Device Single Configuration File

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity in commissioning and replacing intelligent electronic overload devices in motor control systems is high due to the need for multiple configuration files and sophisticated programming, leading to increased time and potential for human error, as well as the challenge of managing a large number of catalog numbers and configuration files.

Innovation Solution

A modular intelligent electronic overload device with embedded application files and a single configuration file, allowing for configuration without a personal computer, using integrated function block technology and off-board memory to store parameters, enabling easy replacement and reduced complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple configuration files and sophisticated programming are used to configure intelligent electronic overload devices, then the device functionality and adaptability are improved, but the commissioning complexity and time required are significantly increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidcommissioning complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the configuration process into standardized function blocks that can be independently selected and combined. Each function block represents a discrete operational mode or parameter set, allowing complex device functionality to be achieved through modular assembly rather than comprehensive programming, thereby reducing commissioning complexity while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements pre-configured function blocks that contain predetermined parameter sets and operational logic. These pre-programmed blocks are prepared in advance and can be directly applied to specific application scenarios, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site configuration and programming while preserving device adaptability to different motor control requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If a personal computer is required for configuring intelligent electronic overload devices, then configuration precision and capability are improved, but the ease of operation and现场 configurability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration precisionVSAvoid现场 configurability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-contained configuration system with an integrated user interface that allows maintenance personnel to directly configure and program the overload device at the installation location. The device includes built-in memory for storing configuration data and an onboard interface for inputting parameters, eliminating the need for external personal computers and enabling field configurability while maintaining configuration precision through structured function block selection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If extensive programming and configuration are required for intelligent electronic overload devices, then device adaptability to different applications is improved, but the installation and commissioning time are significantly increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication adaptabilityVSAvoidcommissioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent prepares multiple pre-configured function blocks during manufacturing, each optimized for specific application scenarios such as different motor types, starting methods, or operational modes. During commissioning, the appropriate pre-configured block is selected and applied, reducing commissioning time from hours to minutes while maintaining full application adaptability through the variety of available pre-configured options

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple catalog numbers and configuration files are manufactured to accommodate different applications, then product versatility is improved, but the device complexity and inventory management complexity are increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct versatilityVSAvoidinventory management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal base device architecture that can accommodate multiple applications through selectable function blocks rather than requiring separate device variants. The standardized platform with interchangeable function blocks allows a single catalog number to serve multiple application purposes, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining product versatility through software-based configuration rather than hardware differentiation

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

Data Source

PatentUS9779902B2Configurable modular intelligent electronic overload device and system with embedded programming tool
Publication Date: 2017.10.03 ROCKWELL AUTOMATION TECH INC
  • US9779902B2 patent drawing
  • US9779902B2 patent drawing
  • US9779902B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular intelligent electronic overload device that requires only a single configuration file to describe the device with all of the available options. Furthermore, the modular intelligent electronic overload device contains embedded application files that provide commonly used control algorithms into the non-volatile memory of the modular intelligent electronic overload device that can be accessed by a user to configure the device without the need for a personal computer. Finally, the modular intelligent electronic overload device configuration parameters can be stored to virtual non-volatile memory contained in an associated user interface device, allowing for easy replacement of the modular intelligent electronic overload device.