Three-Pin Pump Control Interface for Sensors and Load Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices for hydronic systems, such as pump units, lack the capability to effectively communicate with and control external components, limiting their functionality and integration with other system components.
Innovation Solution
A control device integrated into a pump unit with a three-pin connector that includes a switching device to selectively apply electric signals to the pins, allowing for communication and control of sensors and electric loads, enabling expanded control functionalities through sequential operation of multiple sensors and loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard three-pin connector is used for sensor connection, then the connection is simple and reliable, but only one sensor can be connected limiting control functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a standard three-pin connector to support multiple sensor types and configurations through software-based pin assignment. The control device can dynamically assign different functions to each pin, allowing the same physical connector to interface with various sensor types (temperature, pressure, flow) without requiring additional hardware or connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the functional parameters of the connector pins through software configuration rather than physical modification. The control device allows dynamic reassignment of pin functions and electrical characteristics (voltage levels, signal types) to adapt to different sensor requirements, transforming a fixed connector into a flexible interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are connected to extend control functionality, then more system parameters can be monitored, but the connector and wiring complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the three-pin connector universal by enabling it to connect to multiple different sensor types through software configuration. The same physical connector can be assigned to connect to temperature sensors, pressure sensors, or flow sensors depending on the operational mode, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functionality of multiple dedicated connectors into a single three-pin connector. By combining sensor signal lines and power connections into this unified interface with dynamic pin assignment, the system reduces the number of physical connectors while maintaining the ability to monitor multiple system parameters.
3Device complexity
If the three-pin connector is used for both sensor input and load control, then component count is reduced, but functional conflict occurs on the same pins
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic pin assignment where the function of each pin is not fixed but can be changed in real-time based on operational requirements. The control device can dynamically switch pins between input mode (for sensors) and output mode (for load control), allowing the same physical pin to serve different functions at different times without hardware conflicts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic switching of pin functions between sensor reading and load control modes. The control device alternates between sampling sensor inputs and actuating loads through the same connector pins, using time-division multiplexing to prevent functional conflicts while maintaining both capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention refers to a control device (12) configured for control of a pump unit (10) or a hydronic system, the control device (12) comprising an electric interface (26) configured for connecting at least one sensor (T1, T2, T3) and at least one electric load (16, 24) with the control device (12), wherein the electric interface (26) is a three-pin connector, and the control device (12) includes a switching device (34) configured to selectively apply electric signals (V1, V2, V3) onto the three pins (28, 30, 32) of the connector allowing to selectively receive sensor signals from the at least one connected sensor (T1, T2, T3) or to supply a voltage (V2) to the at least one electric load (16, 24), and a pump unit and a hydronic system having such a control device.