Motor Controller Power-Loss Recovery Schedule
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor control systems in fluid moving applications require user intervention to restart after a power loss event and lack clear indication of motor operation duration, also increasing costs with graphical user interfaces and external controllers.
Innovation Solution
A motor controller with a computing device that determines power availability after a loss and operates a variable speed motor according to a predetermined schedule, switching between speeds based on predefined time periods without the need for external user intervention or costly displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an external controller or graphical user interface is added to enable motor control and scheduling, then the motor operation automation and scheduling capability are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the scheduling functionality, power monitoring capability, and motor control functions into a single integrated motor controller unit. The controller includes a processor that can store scheduling information and automatically execute motor operation schedules while monitoring power availability, eliminating the need for separate external controllers or complex graphical user interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor controller is designed to autonomously determine when to operate the motor based on stored scheduling information and real-time power availability detection. The system automatically restarts and operates the motor according to the schedule without requiring user intervention or external control devices, enabling the system to serve itself.
2Ease of operation
If a graphical user interface or external controller is added to display motor status and enable scheduling, then the user interaction and operational control are improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential control and scheduling functions from complex graphical user interfaces and external controllers, implementing them directly within the motor controller's processor. This extraction eliminates the need for expensive display hardware, buttons, and external control devices while retaining the core functionality of scheduling and power monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex control interfaces with a simple, cost-effective controller design that uses basic power monitoring circuits and embedded software logic. The solution prioritizes essential functions over fancy interfaces, using economical components to achieve the desired automation and scheduling capabilities.
3Productivity
If the motor controller automatically operates after power loss according to schedule, then the productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but the risk of operation during inappropriate times (when power may not be stable) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controller stores scheduling information in advance in its memory before power loss occurs. When power is restored, the controller retrieves this pre-stored schedule and automatically executes the motor operation without requiring user input. This preliminary preparation enables rapid, reliable restart while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors power availability and uses this feedback to determine the appropriate timing for motor operation. By detecting when power is stable and available, the system can reliably execute the scheduled operation, and by monitoring power loss conditions, it can pause or adjust operation to avoid unreliable conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A motor controller and methods of controlling a variable speed motor using the motor controller after a power-loss event are described. The motor controller is configured to be coupled to a motor. The motor controller includes a computing device configured to determine power is being supplied to the motor controller a power-loss event. The computing device is also configured to operate the motor in accordance with a predetermined operating schedule such that the computing device operates the motor at a first speed for a first time period, and after completion of the first time period, the computing device operates the motor at a second speed for a second time period.