PLC Current Display for Accurate Power Supply Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing system construction assistance device does not allow users to easily select a power supply unit appropriate for the current consumed by only the functions that are enabled, as it is based on the maximum rated current consumption when all functions are enabled, leading to inefficiencies in power supply selection.
Innovation Solution
A system construction assistance device that includes a current consumption information storage, a receiver, and a display, which stores and displays the current consumption values of units with functions that can be disabled, allowing users to select a power supply unit based on the actual current consumption of enabled functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the system uses predetermined current consumption values based on all functions being enabled, then the power supply selection is simplified, but the selected power supply unit may have excessive rated current capacity leading to inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically updates current consumption information based on the enabled/disabled state of functions. When a function is disabled, the system automatically recalculates and displays the updated current consumption value, allowing users to see the impact of function disabling on power requirements in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the current consumption parameter based on the configuration of functions. By storing multiple current consumption values corresponding to different function combinations and selecting the appropriate value based on enabled functions, the system provides accurate power requirements rather than using a fixed maximum value.
2Device complexity
If the system displays only maximum current consumption values, then the information storage is simplified, but the user cannot easily determine appropriate power supply for partial function usage
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the current consumption information by function combinations. Instead of storing a single aggregate value, it stores current consumption data for different scenarios (all functions enabled, specific functions disabled), allowing users to select the appropriate value based on their specific configuration needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary information layer between the raw function configuration and power supply selection. It provides calculated current consumption values that serve as a bridge, translating complex function configurations into simple, actionable power supply selection criteria for users.
3Ease of manufacture
If the system assumes all functions are enabled by default, then the initial configuration is simplified, but the power supply selection does not reflect actual usage requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of current consumption for various function combinations during the configuration phase. By pre-calculating and storing these values, the system prepares accurate power supply recommendations before the user makes final selections, ensuring reliability from the outset.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to users about how disabling specific functions affects current consumption and power supply requirements. This feedback loop allows users to understand the relationship between function configuration and power needs, leading to more reliable and appropriate power supply selections.
Data Source
AI summary
An engineering tool includes a current consumption information storage, a receiver, and a display. The current consumption information storage stores a value of a current consumed by a unit included in a programmable logic controller or PLC and having a function that is capable of being disabled. The value of the current is a value of a current consumed by the unit with the function being disabled. The receiver receives an operation for disabling the function. The display acquires, from the current consumption information storage, the value of the current consumed by the unit with the function being disabled and displays the acquired value.