Programmable Display Unit for Circuit Identification in Distribution Boards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical distribution systems face usability issues due to the risk of circuit markings becoming illegible or lost, making it difficult for users to identify the purpose of circuits, especially in residential areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Innovation Solution
An electrical distribution board equipped with an input device and display device that allows users to program and display the purpose of safety switches or circuits via identifiers, enabling easy association and retrieval of information, even after installation, using a detachable device unit integrated into the distribution cabinet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If circuit markings are injection molded onto plastic parts, then markings cannot be lost, but markings may become blurred or illegible over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses RFID tags as digital copies of circuit identification information. Instead of relying on physical markings that can blur, the system creates a digital replica of the circuit identity that can be read electronically, ensuring information remains legible and accessible throughout the distributor's lifetime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of visual markings with an electromagnetic field-based RFID system. The identification information is no longer conveyed through physical markings that can degrade, but through electromagnetic signals that remain stable and can be read without physical contact.
2Ease of operation
If a display device is integrated into the distributor housing, then information is always accessible, but the device becomes more complex and harder to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the information system into two independent parts: RFID tags embedded in the distributor housing (providing always-accessible identification) and a separate, detachable display device (providing user interaction). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the housing remains simple while the display device can be handled separately for programming.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a detachable display device as an intermediary between the user and the RFID tags. This mediator translates the electromagnetic field data into readable information and allows programming without modifying the distributor housing itself, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Loss of information
If all circuit information is displayed simultaneously, then complete information is available, but the display size becomes too large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through the sequential display of circuit information. The display device cycles through different circuits and their purposes over time, showing complete information across multiple time steps rather than all at once. This allows a small display to convey comprehensive data through time-based presentation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The device has a display for displaying the purpose of a fuse switch (3) of a distributor. The display is freely programmable by inputting the purpose and indication assigned to the purpose. An input device and a display are a part of device unit (4) connected with a distribution box. The device unit is detachable from the distribution box and is operable in the detachable condition. The device unit has a key pad that comprises buttons for numbers from zero to nine and functional buttons.