Modular Socket Insert Detection for Automatic Parameterization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The parameterization and setup of modular sockets with different functional modules are time-consuming and costly due to the need for manual selection and compatibility checks of attachments and inserts, which limits their versatility and efficiency in various applications.

Innovation Solution

A modular socket with an evaluation unit connected to the circuit board that automatically detects the type of insert and configures the socket based on the present functional modules, eliminating the need for manual compatibility checks and allowing automatic parameterization through a radio transmitter and voltage modulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual parameterization and compatibility checks are performed for modular sockets with different functional modules, then setup accuracy and compatibility are ensured, but time consumption and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetup accuracyVSAvoidparameterization time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service parameterization by allowing the modular socket to automatically identify its own configuration through sensor detection of functional modules and self-configure相应的 parameters without external intervention. The control unit autonomously determines the socket type based on detected modules and sets operational parameters automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-programming various socket types and their corresponding parameter sets in the control unit. During setup, the system pre-detects which functional modules are present and automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate pre-configured parameters, eliminating manual configuration steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple attachment and insert combinations are supported for different applications, then versatility and adaptability improve, but device complexity and compatibility checking requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication versatilityVSAvoidcompatibility check complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves universality by designing a standardized interface system where different functional modules can be combined with various attachments through common connection protocols. The control unit universally handles different module types using a unified parameterization approach, allowing one system to serve multiple applications without requiring application-specific complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensors detect the presence and type of functional modules and attachments, providing real-time information to the control unit. This feedback loop enables automatic compatibility verification and dynamic parameter adjustment, ensuring that only compatible combinations are activated while preventing incompatible pairings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Manufacturing precision

If functional modules are manually selected and configured, then setup precision is maintained, but productivity and efficiency decrease due to time-consuming processes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration precisionVSAvoidsetup efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated electronic detection and control systems. Sensors electronically identify functional modules, and the control unit automatically configures parameters through software, substituting manual selection and configuration steps with automated electronic processes that maintain precision while dramatically improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP4089852B1Modular socket and method for automatic parameterisation/installation
Publication Date: 2023.10.25 ALBRECHT JUNG GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4089852B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4089852B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4089852B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

For the purpose of creating a modular socket 1 that allows a predefined cover A from a selection of different covers to be modularly provided for different inserts E with different functional assemblies, thereby significantly simplifying the parameterization or setup of such a socket 1, a modular socket 1 is proposed, comprising a design frame 2 arranged in a cover A with a central piece 3 and a base part 6 arranged in an insert E and fixed to a support ring 7, wherein a power supply unit can be defined on the base part 6, which on the one hand makes contact with the base part 6 and on the other hand is suitable for the electrical connection of at least one electrical functional assembly in the insert E, wherein the power supply unit has at least one connection socket for connecting the at least one electrical functional assembly.a connector 4 is inserted into which socket, wherein a circuit board LA of the attachment A, having electrical/electronic functional components and which can be inserted into the central part 3, is adjacent to the central part 3, wherein a circuit board LE is arranged in the base part 6, which is suitable for receiving at least one electrical functional assembly, wherein the circuit board LA has an evaluation unit C, which is connected to the base part 6 via the connector 4, wherein the evaluation unit C records as an evaluation result which electrical functional assemblies corresponding to certain functionalities are present in the insert E, in particular in the base part 6.