Removable Power Supply Module for Movable Barrier Operator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Movable barrier operators require expensive high voltage power installations and on-site diagnostics, leading to increased costs and inconvenience due to the need for permits and complex wiring, as well as time-consuming maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
A movable barrier operator with a removable power supply module that allows for remote power supply and diagnostic capabilities using low voltage wiring, enabling installation and maintenance from a remote location without the need for high voltage cables or permits, featuring a user interface for displaying diagnostic information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high voltage power supply is used to power the movable barrier operator, then the operator can be powered sufficiently, but the installation cost and complexity increases due to requiring permits and underground cable installation
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into a remote power supply unit and a local operator unit, separated by a communication cable. This allows the high-voltage power supply to be located remotely where permits and infrastructure already exist, while the operator receives power through low-voltage communication cables, thus reducing installation complexity at the operator location.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication cable serves as an intermediary between the remote power supply unit and the operator. This cable transmits both power and communication signals, eliminating the need for separate high-voltage cable installation at the operator location and simplifying the overall installation process.
2Power
If high voltage power cables are installed to supply power to the operator, then sufficient power is available, but the installation cost increases due to permits and underground line installation
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery system is divided into two segments: high-voltage power delivery from the remote unit through the ground, and low-voltage signal/power transmission through the communication cable to the operator. This segmentation allows using existing infrastructure for high-voltage power while avoiding expensive new infrastructure installation at the operator location.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication cable acts as a copy carrier, transmitting both data and power signals from the remote unit to the operator. This copying approach allows the operator to function independently of direct high-voltage connection, reducing installation costs by utilizing existing communication infrastructure.
3Reliability
If the technician approaches the operator physically to perform diagnostics, then direct diagnosis is possible, but the maintenance process becomes time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the operator continuously monitors its own status and communicates diagnostic information back to the technician through the communication cable. This allows the technician to receive real-time feedback about operator conditions without needing to physically access the operator, thus maintaining diagnostic accuracy while reducing maintenance time.
Solution Approach 2:
The operator performs self-diagnosis by monitoring its own operational parameters and communicating status information to the technician. This self-service capability eliminates the need for the technician to physically approach the operator for routine diagnostics, saving time while maintaining reliable diagnostic information.
4Ease of operation
If the power supply is integrated into the operator, then power delivery is simple, but the ability to perform remote diagnostics and maintenance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into a remote power supply unit and a local operator unit connected by a communication cable. This segmentation maintains the simplicity of power delivery while enabling remote diagnostics, as the communication cable serves dual purposes: power transmission and data communication for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication cable is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a power transmission medium and a data communication channel. This universal approach allows the same infrastructure to support both simple power delivery and complex remote maintenance operations, enhancing adaptability without complicating the basic power supply function.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a movable barrier operator with a removable power supply module for supplying power to the operator from a remote location. The power supply module may be decoupled from a barrier operator frame or housing, and installed in a remote location; the operator may therefore be observed and diagnosed remotely via a user interface that includes status indicators. In an exemplary embodiment, the user interface comprises one or more LED indicators to provide a user with information pertaining to the power supply of the operator.