Wireless Frequency Converter Control via Inductive Terminal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Frequency converters used in dusty or wet environments face challenges with touchscreen control panels being non-functional due to dirt or water, and enclosures not being fully sealed, which complicates user interaction and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication system between a terminal device and a frequency converter using inductive power transfer and authentication protocols allows for secure and interactive control via a touchscreen display, eliminating the need for physical connections and ensuring protection from dust and water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the frequency converter is enclosed within a sealed enclosure to protect from dust and water, then protection against harmful environmental factors is improved, but user interaction with the touchscreen control panel becomes difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a terminal device (smartphone, tablet, or PC) as an intermediary between the user and the frequency converter. The terminal device displays a graphical user interface that replicates the control panel functions, allowing users to interact with the frequency converter wirelessly without needing to physically touch the enclosed touchscreen. This mediator enables user interaction while maintaining the sealed enclosure's protection against dust and water.
2Ease of operation
If a touchscreen control panel is integrated into the enclosure to facilitate operation, then ease of operation is improved, but the touchscreen becomes non-functional when dirty or wet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the control panel interface on the terminal device's display. Instead of relying on the physical touchscreen that fails when dirty or wet, the system replicates all control functions through a graphical user interface displayed on the terminal device. This virtual copy maintains full functionality regardless of the physical enclosure's condition, eliminating the reliability issue while preserving ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication is implemented between terminal devices and frequency converter, then ease of operation and maintenance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the terminal device's existing universal communication capabilities (WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular) to establish wireless connectivity with the frequency converter. Rather than implementing a proprietary communication system, the solution uses standard multi-functional wireless protocols that terminal devices already possess. This approach enables wireless control and maintenance capabilities without significantly increasing the frequency converter's complexity, as it utilizes already-deployed communication infrastructure.
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 secure and user-friendly control of frequency converters in harsh environments by allowing authorized terminal devices to interact with the frequency converter's touchscreen interface wirelessly, improving maintenance and operation efficiency while maintaining enclosure integrity.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless communication system between a terminal device and a frequency converter using inductive power transfer
Data Source
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AI summary
A frequency converter comprises energy transfer means capable of wireless inductive power transfer to a wireless terminal device placed to an inductive charging position of the frequency converter. In response to recognising that the terminal device is placed to the charging position, an identification procedure is carried out between the frequency converter and the terminal device via a wireless connection established between the frequency converter and the terminal device. If based on the identification procedure it is determined that the terminal device is an authorized terminal device, the method comprises displaying, on a display of the frequency converter, a user interface of the frequency converter, such that the frequency converter is controllable by a user by means of interactive elements displayed on the user interface.