Methods and systems for initializing a refrigeration system
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of refrigeration systems with remote evaporators is time-consuming due to the need for manual verification of electrical wiring and identification of multiple evaporators, particularly in multi-temperature systems.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a controller that performs an initialization procedure using prompt signals on dedicated channels, monitors a CAN bus for response signals, distinguishes between remote devices based on signal differences, and assigns network addresses to evaporators, thereby automating the identification and wiring verification process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual verification of electrical wiring is performed during installation, then wiring functionality can be confirmed, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-identification where remote devices automatically respond to prompt signals from the controller, enabling automatic wiring verification without manual intervention. The controller sends prompt signals through dedicated channels and automatically detects response signals on the CAN bus to verify wiring functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of wiring verification is replaced with an electronic signal-based system. The controller uses electrical prompt signals and monitors electronic response signals through the CAN bus, substituting manual verification with automated electronic detection.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual identification of multiple evaporators is performed, then each evaporator can be correctly configured, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each remote device automatically identifies itself by responding to prompt signals with its unique response signal. The controller automatically distinguishes between multiple remote devices based on their different response signals, eliminating the need for manual identification and configuration of each evaporator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses different response signals (analogous to different colors) to distinguish between multiple remote devices. Each remote device provides a unique response signal that allows the controller to identify and differentiate between multiple evaporators automatically.
3Productivity
If automated initialization is implemented, then installation time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs multiple functions through a single automated initialization process: it sends prompt signals, monitors response signals, distinguishes between multiple remote devices, assigns network addresses, and verifies wiring functionality. This multi-functional approach achieves automation without requiring separate systems for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The CAN bus acts as an intermediary communication channel between the controller and remote devices during initialization. The dedicated channels serve as intermediaries for transmitting prompt signals, while the CAN bus intermediates the transmission of response signals, enabling automated communication and identification.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method that includes performing, by a controller of a refrigeration system, an initialization procedure including executing an initialization process. The initialization process includes: providing a prompt signal on a dedicated channel; monitoring a CAN bus for a response signal from at least one remote device; and assigning a network address to the at least one remote device if a response signal from the remote device is detected on the CAN bus.