Storage System Address Configuration Using Dynamic Self-Service Mode

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automated stock control systems face difficulties in configuring and reconfiguring panels with pre-set addresses, leading to complex assembly processes and errors, especially when panels need to be fitted in different positions or replaced, requiring costly spare parts with pre-set addresses.

Innovation Solution

A method for dynamically setting addresses in electronic systems, allowing any panel to be mounted at any position by sending a command to enter address setting mode, generating a signal for user input, and storing the address in memory, eliminating the need for pre-set jumper arrangements and spare parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If pre-set jumper arrangements are used to address panels, then each panel can be identified by a unique address, but the assembly process becomes difficult and error-prone, and spare parts must be pre-configured for specific positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaddress identification reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-addressing of panels through automatic detection of panel position and serial number, eliminating the need for manual jumper configuration. The controller automatically assigns addresses based on detected panel identifiers, making the system self-configuring and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable address identification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical jumper arrangement system with an electronic identification system using optical scanners or RFID readers to detect panel serial numbers. This substitution eliminates physical jumpers and manual wiring, reducing assembly complexity and error-proneness while maintaining reliable address assignment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If pre-set addresses are assigned to controllers, then each controller can be identified in its intended position, but it becomes expensive and difficult to reconfigure panels to different positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontroller identification reliabilityVSAvoidpanel reconfigurability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic address assignment where panel addresses are not fixed but automatically determined at runtime based on detected panel serial numbers and physical positions. This allows panels to be freely moved and reconfigured without rework, as the system dynamically adapts addresses to current panel locations while maintaining reliable identification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the addressing parameter from fixed pre-configured values to dynamically determined values based on panel serial numbers and position detection. This parameter change enables flexible reconfiguration while maintaining reliable controller identification through automatic address assignment based on current system state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If manual jumper configuration is used for addressing, then unique panel identification is achieved, but the process is time-consuming and requires technical expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel identification accuracyVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automatic self-addressing of panels through optical scanning or RFID detection of panel serial numbers during assembly. This eliminates the need for technicians to manually configure jumpers, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining accurate panel identification through automatic address assignment based on detected serial numbers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical jumper configuration with automated electronic identification using optical scanners or RFID readers. This substitution eliminates time-consuming manual wiring while maintaining identification accuracy through automatic detection and assignment of unique addresses based on panel serial numbers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11502989B2Method of configuring a storage system
Publication Date: 2022.11.15 SUPPLY POINT SYST
  • US11502989B2 patent drawing
  • US11502989B2 patent drawing
  • US11502989B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of configuring a storage system includes the steps of: sending a command to one or more units in the electronic system to enter into an address setting mode; generating a signal for a user to identify units that have entered the address setting mode; and setting up an address for a unit based on an input received from the user.