Relay Intermediate Alert Mechanism for Parameter Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users of control relays lack prior information or feedback on monitored parameters, leading to potential faults and erroneous reports, as they only become aware of issues when the relay switches on/off, without intermediate alerts.
Innovation Solution
A relay with an intermediate alert mechanism that transmits trigger signals as visual or audio alerts, using a light emitting diode (LED) display to indicate parameter deviations within set thresholds, allowing for pre-emptive measures and automatic setting of intermediate levels based on user-defined threshold levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the relay only switches on/off to indicate faults, then the device complexity is reduced, but the loss of information increases as users lack prior feedback on parameter status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fault indication into multiple levels: intermediate alert levels (first threshold) and final fault levels (second threshold). This segmentation provides progressive feedback to users about parameter status without requiring a completely complex new system, as it builds upon the existing relay structure with added threshold comparison capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay performs preliminary action by issuing intermediate alerts before the actual fault occurs. When the monitored parameter reaches the first threshold level, the relay generates an intermediate alert signal to warn users in advance, allowing them to take preventive measures before the parameter reaches the second threshold and causes a full fault condition.
2Reliability
If intermediate alert levels are added to provide prior feedback, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the monitored parameter and comparing it against predefined first and second threshold levels. The processing module generates different output signals based on which threshold is exceeded, providing continuous feedback to users about the parameter status and enabling timely preventive actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by introducing threshold levels as critical parameter boundaries. The first threshold level and second threshold level serve as parameter change points that trigger different system responses, transforming the continuous parameter monitoring into discrete alert states that improve reliability without excessive complexity.
3Loss of time
If the relay provides detailed intermediate alerts, then the loss of time for preventive measures is reduced, but the ease of operation decreases due to more complex threshold setting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the threshold levels adjustable and adaptable to different application requirements. Users can configure the first and second threshold levels according to their specific needs, and the system dynamically responds by generating appropriate intermediate alerts or fault signals based on the current parameter value relative to these configurable thresholds.
Solution Approach 2:
The threshold levels are configured in advance during system setup, enabling preliminary action. Once configured, the relay automatically compares the monitored parameter against these pre-set thresholds and generates intermediate alerts without requiring real-time user intervention, thus reducing response time while maintaining ease of operation through one-time configuration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables users to take preventive actions by providing intermediate alerts, reducing erroneous reports and improving user satisfaction by informing them of parameter status before faults occur.
Implementation Method 1
The visual alert may comprise powering a light emitting diode (LED).
Data Source
Figure 1(a)
Figure 1(b)
Figure 2
AI summary
A relay with an intermediate alert mechanism and a method for intermediate alerting in association with a relay are provided. The relay comprises an input sampling module for coupling to a source to be monitored, the input sample module configured to detect a value of a parameter of the source; a processing module configured to monitor a working range, the working range being generated based on applying a threshold level to a set working condition, and the processing module further configured to automatically set at least one intermediate level within the working range based on the threshold level; and wherein the processing module is capable of instructing transmission of an intermediate trigger signal if the detected value of the parameter is at the intermediate level.