Power Converter Key Interface for Digital Input Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power conversion devices require an external switch and wired connections for digital input terminals, making them cumbersome to use.

Innovation Solution

A power conversion device with a manipulation unit and controller that allows for easy input simulation using a multifunction key, eliminating the need for additional switches and wiring by assigning processes to digital input terminals and output terminals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an external switch is used to operate digital input terminals, then control functions can be implemented, but the device complexity and wiring requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of input operationVSAvoidwiring complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the manipulation unit and digital input terminal functions into a single integrated interface. The manipulation unit includes keys that can directly generate digital input signals without requiring external switches, merging what were previously separate components into one unified control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The manipulation unit is designed with multifunctional keys that can serve both as operational controls and as digital input terminal triggers. A single key press can perform multiple functions including starting operations, changing frequencies, and generating digital input signals, eliminating the need for dedicated external switches for each function.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple external switches are connected to digital input terminals, then various control functions are available, but the installation and maintenance difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol function versatilityVSAvoidinstallation and maintenance ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple control functions that previously required separate external switches are now integrated into a single manipulation unit. The controller reads signals from the manipulation unit and executes corresponding functions, reducing the number of external components from multiple switches to one integrated unit, thereby simplifying installation and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The manipulation unit is self-contained with all necessary control logic and signal generation capabilities built in. It does not require external wiring to multiple switches or complex external circuitry, making it easier to install, troubleshoot, and maintain as a single integrated component rather than multiple separate switches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3989019B1Power conversion device and method for controlling power conversion device
Publication Date: 2023.09.06 FUJI ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • EP3989019B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3989019B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3989019B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A power conversion device includes an input terminal to which an input signal of either ON or OFF can be input; a first manipulation key configured to receive a manipulation activity by an operator; and a controller. The controller is configured to execute a first process selected from among a plurality of input process candidates by a setting according to the input signal input to the input terminal. When the first manipulation key is pressed, the controller is configured to execute either a standard process previously set or a second process selected from among the plurality of input process candidates by the setting.