Universal Receiver for Movable Barrier Operators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing a large number of transmitters and receivers for movable barrier operators becomes complex, especially when different brands or types are used, requiring frequent updates and replacements, which complicates system compatibility and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A universal receiver that can learn and recognize multiple transmitter codes independently, without user intervention, by using a controller with a radio antenna to receive signals at different frequencies and a network interface for remote management, allowing seamless integration into existing systems and reducing the need for transmitter replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple receivers are installed to accommodate different brands of transmitters, then the system can recognize more authorized transmitters, but the device complexity and difficulty of maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal receiver that can recognize and decode multiple code formats from different transmitter brands through a single device. The receiver includes a controller with learning capability that can store and recognize codes from various transmitter types, eliminating the need for multiple brand-specific receivers while maintaining compatibility with all authorized transmitters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent consolidates multiple receiver functions into a single universal receiver unit that combines the capabilities of what would otherwise require separate receivers for different transmitter brands. This merging approach reduces the total number of devices in the system while preserving the ability to recognize codes from all authorized transmitters
2Adaptability or versatility
If receivers are replaced to upgrade the system, then newer receiver versions can be installed, but transmitter compatibility is lost requiring transmitter replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The universal receiver includes an automatic learning capability that allows it to independently recognize and store codes from existing transmitters without requiring manual programming or user intervention. When a new transmitter is introduced, the receiver automatically learns its code through the learning condition (such as receiving a specific signal pattern), ensuring continued compatibility while enabling system upgrades
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is pre-configured with the capability to learn and store multiple code formats before actual use. The learning mode is prepared in advance, allowing the receiver to adapt to new transmitters as they are introduced to the system without requiring system downtime or complex configuration procedures
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of transmitters are distributed to accommodate many users, then more people can access the facility, but tracking and managing authorized transmitters becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a learning mechanism that provides feedback to the universal receiver when new transmitters are introduced. The receiver monitors incoming signals and automatically determines whether to learn and store new codes based on predefined learning conditions, creating a self-managing system that tracks authorized transmitters without requiring manual intervention for each addition
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
Enables easy retrofitting into existing systems, reduces the complexity of managing multiple transmitters, and allows for remote monitoring and management of access, optimizing facility operations and reducing the burden of manual updates.
Implementation Method 1
at least one radio antenna adapted to receive signals transmitted at different frequencies
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a universal receiver is provided for being operably coupled to a movable barrier operator. The universal receiver includes at least one radio antenna adapted to receive signals transmitted at different frequencies and a controller operably coupled to the at least one radio antenna. The controller is adapted to determine a code of a signal received by the at least one radio antenna at any one of the different frequencies. The controller being further adapted to learn the code in response to a user-independent learning condition being met.