Signal Translation Module for Movable Barrier Operator Noise Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing movable barrier systems face unreliable data transmission due to noise interference, which hampers effective troubleshooting and maintenance, particularly in long distance wired communications between controllers and position sensors.

Innovation Solution

A movable barrier operator equipped with a signal translation module that reduces electromagnetic interference through differential signaling, enabling clear communication between components by generating and transmitting differential signaling transmissions to a remote control board, where data is processed and provided via a user interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If long distance wired communications are used between controllers and position sensors, then communication range is extended, but noise interference from external power lines and adjacent components degrades signal quality

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication distanceVSAvoidsignal quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a translation module as an intermediary device between the position sensor and controller. This module converts single-ended signals to differential signals, acting as a mediator that isolates the communication path from electromagnetic interference while enabling long-distance transmission. The translation module is specifically positioned to translate signals before they traverse the long communication distance, preventing noise from degrading signal quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameter of the signal from single-ended to differential signaling mode through the translation module. This parameter change fundamentally alters how the signal is transmitted, making it inherently more resistant to noise interference. The differential signaling transforms the voltage reference from ground-based to signal-based, allowing the system to reject common-mode noise while maintaining long communication distance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If technicians use wired monitoring devices to access operators in the field, then diagnostic capability is enabled, but noise interference causes unreliable data and improper troubleshooting

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvediagnostic accessVSAvoiddata accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The translation module serves as an intermediary that protects the diagnostic communication path from noise interference. By converting signals to differential mode, it creates a noise-rejecting channel that allows technicians to reliably access operator diagnostics even in environments with electromagnetic interference from power lines and adjacent components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If external power lines run adjacent to communication lines, then power delivery is enabled, but electromagnetic noise leaks interfere with communication signals

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower deliveryVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful effect of electromagnetic interference into a beneficial noise-rejection capability. By using differential signaling through the translation module, the system exploits the fact that both the signal and interference appear as common-mode voltages, allowing the differential receiver to reject this common-mode signal and extract the useful information, effectively turning the interference into a feature that can be eliminated through signal processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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

This solution enhances the reliability and efficiency of long distance wired communications, correcting noise interference and improving diagnostic information exchange, allowing for accurate monitoring and maintenance of movable barrier systems.

Implementation Method 1

the translation module is configured to: receive the one or more signals, and generate a differential signaling transmission concerning the one or more signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDifferential signaling:

Data Source

PatentUS9742504B2Movable barrier operator with signal translation module

Publication Date: 2017.08.22 FAAC INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

The present invention is generally a movable barrier system that employs a movable barrier operator with a signal translation module, which enhances the quality of communications between wired components of a movable barrier system, including long distance wired communications between controllers and position sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, position sensors comprising encoders are coupled to translation module for reducing electromagnetic interference or noise from various components that may otherwise interfere with the communication; error detection and error correction means may be further implemented to facilitate diagnostic monitoring of the system from a monitoring device.