NFC Module Integration in Electrical Panel Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical devices lack efficient and cost-effective methods for establishing proximity communication to expand control and diagnostic capabilities, particularly in electrical panel or flush-mounting box environments.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a processor connected to a proximity communication module, such as NFC, within an electrical device, allowing for short-range wireless communication between devices positioned in electrical panels or boxes, enabling data exchange and control through proximity wireless links.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If wireless proximity communication modules are added to electrical devices, then control and diagnostic capabilities are expanded, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol and diagnostic capabilitiesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex wired communication systems with simple wireless proximity communication (NFC) between electrical devices. Instead of using physical connection cables and complex wiring infrastructure, the invention uses electromagnetic field-based NFC communication to transmit control and diagnostic data between devices mounted in electrical panels, thereby expanding capabilities while minimizing added complexity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces wireless proximity communication as an intermediary mechanism between electrical devices and control systems. Rather than requiring direct physical connections or complex communication infrastructure, NFC acts as a simple mediator that enables data exchange between devices through electromagnetic coupling when placed in close proximity, expanding control capabilities without proportionally increasing system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If wireless communication modules are integrated into electrical devices, then data exchange capabilities are improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata exchange capabilitiesVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs NFC communication technology which uses inexpensive integrated circuits and antennas that can be manufactured at low cost. The NFC modules described in the invention are designed to be cost-effective components that enable wireless data exchange without requiring expensive communication infrastructure, making the technology accessible for integration into standard electrical devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the wireless communication module to serve multiple functions including control signal transmission, diagnostic data exchange, and device identification. By making the NFC module multi-functional, the invention reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs while maintaining enhanced data exchange capabilities

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

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Facilitates simple and inexpensive expansion of control and diagnostic options for electrical devices by enabling proximity communication, enhancing data exchange and control between devices mounted in close proximity.

Implementation Method 1

Near-field communication (or wireless proximity communication) is short-range wireless communication (sometimes defined as a range of less than 15 cm), for example, communication conforming to the ISO 14443 standard

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear-field communication (NFC): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3256983B1Electrical apparatus, system with such an apparatus and process implemented in such a system
Publication Date: 2019.08.21 LEGRAND FRANCE SA
  • EP3256983B1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP3256983B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7
  • EP3256983B1 patent drawingFigure 8~10

AI summary

The invention relates to an electrical appliance (100) comprising: a housing (110) comprisingmeans(122, 123) for positioning in a container for electrical apparatus; and an electronic circuit designed to process information for controlling a load. The electrical appliance (100) comprises at least one antenna (128) and a proximity communication module connected to the antenna (128) and linked to the electronic circuit. The invention also relates to a system comprising such an electrical appliance and to a method implemented in such a system.