Signal Converter Multiplexer Interface for ECM Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronically commutated motors (ECMs) require specific motor controllers for each type of control signal and control system, leading to high development and production costs due to the need for customized solutions for different electrical equipment.
Innovation Solution
A signal converter that includes a power circuit, microprocessor, input and output signal interface circuits, and multiplexer switches, allowing ECMs to adapt to various control signals by selecting the appropriate interface circuits based on instructions from external equipment via Bluetooth, serial communication, or rotary switches, and indicating signal and power status for correct operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a specific motor controller is developed for each type of control signal and control system, then the ECM can be matched to the control system, but the development and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal motor controller that can work with multiple types of control signals (0-10V, PWM, 4-20mA, serial communication, line voltage switching, 24V temperature control) through a standardized interface. The controller uses a microprocessor to recognize and adapt to different signal types, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each control system type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of signal interface types by providing multiple configurable input interfaces that can be selected based on the control signal type. The microprocessor adjusts its operation mode according to the detected signal type, allowing one controller to handle multiple signal parameters rather than requiring separate controllers for each parameter type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple input signal interface circuits are provided for different control signals, then the ECM can adapt to various electrical equipment, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple input signal interface circuits into a single integrated module that can handle different signal types. The microprocessor consolidates the control logic for multiple signal types into one unit, and a single output interface circuit is used to drive the motor regardless of the input signal type, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The microprocessor acts as an intermediary between the multiple input signal interfaces and the single output interface circuit. It receives different types of control signals, processes them according to the detected signal type, and generates the appropriate motor control output, thereby simplifying the interface architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal converter, including: a power circuit, a microprocessor, a plurality of input signal interface circuits, a first multiplexer switch, and an output signal interface circuit. The power circuit supplies power for each circuit of the signal converter. The plurality of input signal interface circuits is disposed side by side, and in operation, one of the plurality of input signal interface circuits is connected to the first multiplexer switch to work. The plurality of input signal interface circuits includes input terminals and output terminals. The input terminals receive corresponding input signals, and the output terminals are connected to the microprocessor. The microprocessor includes an output terminal which is connected to the output signal interface circuit. The microprocessor controls the first multiplexer switch to connect to one of the plurality of input signal interface circuits.