Smart Grid Interface Bus for Circuit Board Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for managing and upgrading electronic devices on main circuit boards in smart grid systems lack the ability to monitor and control operability, especially in extreme environmental conditions, and do not facilitate easy replacement or integration of new technologies.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent communications device with a programmable processor that monitors and controls secondary circuit boards via standard hardware interfaces, enabling wireless communication, field upgradability, and integration of new protocols, while managing energy consumption and system performance across various networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods are used to manage electronic devices on main circuit boards, then device functionality is maintained, but the ability to monitor and control operability in extreme environmental conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary monitoring system that acts as a mediator between the electronic devices on the main circuit board and the external control environment. This intermediary layer provides comprehensive operability monitoring without requiring direct complex control mechanisms for each individual device, thereby improving reliability while managing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the operability of electronic devices and provide information back to the control system. This feedback loop enables real-time detection of operational issues and allows for adaptive control decisions, improving the system's ability to handle extreme environmental conditions without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual electronic devices are replaced to repair or upgrade functionality, then system functionality can be updated, but the whole apparatus may need to be changed when replacement is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the apparatus into modular components, specifically identifying replaceable circuit boards as distinct segments. This allows individual boards to be replaced or upgraded without affecting the entire apparatus, thereby improving field upgradability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized modular designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configurability to the apparatus, allowing the system to adapt its configuration in the field through board replacement. This dynamic capability enables the system to evolve and upgrade functionality without requiring complete apparatus replacement, balancing adaptability with manufacturing considerations.
3Reliability
If standard hardware interfaces are used for configuring electronic devices, then compatibility is maintained, but the ability to anticipate, detect and respond to system problems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by incorporating monitoring capabilities that proactively detect potential system problems before they manifest as failures. The system continuously monitors device operability and environmental conditions, allowing for early intervention and preventive maintenance, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing interface configuration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a network device having a plurality of hardware interfaces is disclosed. The network device includes a central processing unit and a main circuit board. The main circuit board has expansion slots that receivably connect corresponding secondary circuit boards to the main circuit board. The main circuit board also has sensors for detecting predetermined parameters. A voltage regulator is operative to regulate one or more particular expansion slots, in response to detection of a predetermined parameter associated with respective slots.