Motor Control Device Customization via Buffer Memory

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Solution Overview

Problem

Industrial motor control devices face challenges in allowing users to easily modify system software parameters when load changes occur, as existing customization methods require technical expertise and risk erroneous motor operations, and may lead to leakage of manufacturer's knowledge.

Innovation Solution

A motor control device with a customization module and user module configuration, utilizing a buffer memory for data exchange, allowing users to modify specific functions without direct access to system software, thereby reducing the risk of erroneous operations and maintaining safety and expertise protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If users are allowed to directly modify system software parameters, then customization flexibility is improved, but system safety and reliability deteriorate due to risk of erroneous operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization flexibilityVSAvoidsystem safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a parameter setting unit that serves as an intermediary between the user and the system software parameters. This unit provides a controlled interface where users can input parameter values, which are then validated and processed through the customization module before being applied to the system. This intermediary structure allows customization while maintaining safety by preventing direct unauthorized modification of critical parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the parameter modification function into distinct modules: a parameter setting unit for user input, a customization module for processing and validation, and the system software for execution. This segmentation isolates the customization functionality from the core system software, allowing users to modify parameters through a controlled pathway while preserving the integrity and safety of the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If users can directly access and modify system software, then customization capability is improved, but manufacturer knowledge protection deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturer expertise protection
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The customization module acts as an intermediary layer between the user interface and the system software. It processes parameter values through validation rules and customization logic that are implemented by the manufacturer, allowing users to customize functionality while the manufacturer retains control over the underlying algorithms and proprietary knowledge embedded in the customization module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a parameter setting interface that copies or replicates the essential customization functionality needed by users without exposing the actual system software source code or proprietary algorithms. Users work with parameter values and configuration settings that are copies or abstractions of the underlying system, enabling customization while protecting manufacturer intellectual property.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If comprehensive customization options are provided, then user needs adaptation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser needs adaptationVSAvoidsoftware structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the customization functionality into a modular parameter setting unit and customization module structure. Each module handles specific aspects of parameter configuration, allowing comprehensive customization options to be organized in a structured, manageable way. This segmentation reduces perceived complexity by presenting users with organized, step-by-step configuration options rather than overwhelming them with all parameters at once.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The parameter setting unit provides users with self-service capabilities to configure system parameters according to their specific needs. The system automatically processes these configurations through the customization module, applying validation and processing without requiring users to understand the underlying complex software architecture. This self-service approach simplifies the user experience while maintaining comprehensive adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3236580B1Method for customizing motor control device, and motor control device
Publication Date: 2023.03.08 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • EP3236580B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3236580B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3236580B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In a customization method of a motor control device, a customization module for executing a modifying operation of a specific function in a customizing element is formed. A customization module group is configured by a set of customization modules. The user can form a user module for executing an operation related to the specific function in the customizing element. A buffer memory accessible from both the customization module and the user module is provided. The customization module is configured to execute the operation related to the specific function based on data received from the user module via the buffer memory.