Refrigeration Controller Parameter Configuration via Secondary Applications

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing refrigeration apparatus controllers require high expertise to set and maintain functional parameters, and current universal controllers are not adaptable to different types of refrigeration systems, limiting their flexibility and usability across various applications.

Innovation Solution

A method for setting functional parameters of refrigeration apparatus controllers using a primary application with secondary applications specific to each type of apparatus, identified by a unique identifier, allowing for simplified setup through a user interface like a touch screen, and remote connection protocols such as NFC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, which limits settings to specific subsets of parameters suitable for each apparatus type.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a universal controller with minimal interface is used, then device complexity is reduced and manufacturing cost is lowered, but adaptability to different refrigeration apparatus types deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontroller structureVSAvoidadaptability to different refrigeration apparatus
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed as a universal device capable of controlling multiple types of refrigeration apparatus (refrigerators, freezers, cooling cabinets, heat exchangers). The controller incorporates a programmable electronic device that can be configured with different functional parameter sets corresponding to different apparatus types, enabling one controller to perform multiple functions across diverse applications

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If all functional parameters are made settable, then adaptability to different applications is improved, but operator expertise requirements and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional parameter configurabilityVSAvoidoperator expertise requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The complete set of functional parameters is segmented into multiple subsets, where each subset corresponds to a specific type of refrigeration apparatus. The controller includes selection means that allow the operator to choose the appropriate subset based on the apparatus type, thereby presenting only the relevant parameters for configuration. This segmentation reduces the cognitive load on operators while maintaining full adaptability across different applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If application-specific controllers are provided for each refrigeration apparatus type, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter setting simplicityVSAvoidcontroller variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of providing separate dedicated controllers for each refrigeration apparatus type, the invention employs a single universal controller design that can be programmed to control different apparatus types. The controller includes an electronic device with programmable functional parameters that can be configured to match the specific requirements of various refrigeration systems, eliminating the need for multiple specialized controller models

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

Data Source

PatentUS10868688B2Method for setting functional parameters of a controller of a refrigeration apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.12.15 CAREL IND SPA
  • US10868688B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for setting functional parameters of a refrigeration apparatus controller is disclosed. A controller is prepared to operate a refrigeration apparatus having a unique identifier. The controller has a set of settable functional parameters having a plurality of subsets, each associated with an identifier. A setting device is provided to set each functional parameter of the set. A step of preparing a plurality of secondary applications is also included wherein each secondary application has a specific identifier and interacts with the primary application to limit the functional parameters which can be set by the primary application to the functional parameters belonging a specific subset. An assignment step for recording an identifier in the controller; a detection step during which the setting device is connected to the controller to receive the identifier; and an adaptation step for downloading the secondary application associated with the identifier received from an archive are also provided.