Connectorized Simulator Interface for Simplified Control Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer simulators for physical processes are complex, expensive, and difficult to integrate with control systems, requiring numerous components and time-consuming wiring, which hinders efficient development and testing of control systems for processes like solar hot water systems.
Innovation Solution
A configurable, connectorized module is used to simplify the electrical interconnection between the simulator and the control system, reducing the number of hardware components and facilitating remote configuration and operation, thereby simplifying the simulation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a computer-based simulator is used to simulate physical processes, then the need for physical hardware is reduced, but the complexity and cost of integration with control systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical process system that replicates its behavior and characteristics. This virtual model allows the control system to interact with simulated sensor data and actuator responses without requiring physical hardware, thereby maintaining simulation accuracy while reducing integration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the control system and the simulated process that handles signal translation and protocol conversion. This intermediary enables seamless communication between the control system and virtual sensors/actuators, reducing integration complexity while maintaining faithful representation of physical processes.
2Reliability
If numerous components are used to implement a simulator, then simulation fidelity is improved, but the number of components and wiring requirements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple simulation functions into integrated virtual modules that can be configured through software rather than requiring separate physical components. This consolidation maintains simulation fidelity by preserving the functional relationships between process elements while dramatically reducing the number of discrete components and wiring requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal virtual components that can represent multiple types of physical devices through configuration rather than requiring dedicated hardware for each device type. This multi-functionality approach maintains simulation fidelity across different process scenarios while reducing component count through software-based flexibility.
3Reliability
If complex wiring is required for simulator integration, then connection reliability is improved, but the time and cost of implementation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wiring connections with digital communication protocols and software-based signal routing. This substitution maintains connection reliability through error-checking and protocol validation while eliminating the time-consuming physical wiring process, allowing rapid system integration and modification.
Data Source
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AI summary
A computer-based simulator, separate from a computer process control system, that simplifies the electrical interconnection of the computer-based simulator to the computer control system and reduces the number of hardware components required to effect a computer-based simulator. The invention also facilitates remote configuration and operation of the control and simulator systems.