Wireless Motor Controller Programming via Transceiver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for programming, diagnosing, and replacing electric motors, such as those in HVAC systems, require physical connection and specialized tools, leading to increased costs and time due to the need for multiple connectors and access challenges, especially when motors are integrated into larger systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for wirelessly communicating with electric motors using a server computer and portable electronic devices with software applications, allowing for identification, programming, monitoring, and diagnosis without physical connection, utilizing wireless transceivers and sensors to facilitate motor selection, programming, and system tuning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical connection and specialized programming tools are used, then motor programming and diagnosis can be accomplished, but the cost and time requirements increase due to the need for multiple connectors and access challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connection systems (physical connectors and cables) with wireless communication technology. The motor controller includes a wireless transceiver that communicates with portable electronic devices via wireless protocols, eliminating the need for technicians to physically connect specialized programming tools to the motor. This substitution directly reduces the time required for motor programming and diagnosis by removing the need for physical access and connector attachment/detachment steps.
2Ease of operation
If physical connection and specialized programming tools are used, then motor programming and diagnosis can be accomplished, but the cost increases due to the need for multiple connectors and specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by enabling a single wireless communication system to perform multiple motor management functions. The wireless transceiver in the motor controller can handle programming, diagnosis, parameter extraction, and motor selection tasks through a single wireless interface, eliminating the need for multiple specialized physical connectors and programming tools. This multi-functional approach reduces device complexity and eliminates the cost of maintaining multiple specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses wireless communication to create a digital copy of the motor controller's data and programming interface, accessible remotely via portable electronic devices. Instead of requiring physical connection to access motor parameters and programming capabilities, the system transmits data wirelessly, allowing technicians to program and diagnose motors using standard portable devices rather than specialized equipment. This copying approach eliminates the need for expensive specialized programming tools.
3Ease of operation
If physical connection is required, then motor programming can be accomplished, but access challenges arise when motors are integrated into larger systems requiring dismantling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connection requirements with wireless communication capability. The motor controller's wireless transceiver enables programming and diagnosis without any physical connection to the motor, allowing technicians to perform these functions even when the motor is integrated into sealed or difficult-to-access systems. This eliminates the need to dismantle larger systems to gain access to motor programming interfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple physical connectors are carried for different motor types, then compatibility with various motors is achieved, but the cost and burden on technicians increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a wireless communication system that can interface with multiple motor types and brands through a single wireless protocol. The motor controller includes a wireless transceiver that communicates with portable electronic devices regardless of the specific motor model, eliminating the need for technicians to carry multiple specialized connectors for different motor types. This universal wireless interface maintains adaptability while significantly reducing the complexity and cost of the programming tools required.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for wirelessly communicating with an HVAC motor or other motor in order to manage the motor with regard to, e.g., identifying a suitable replacement for, programming, monitoring and/or diagnosing, and/or tuning or otherwise reprogramming the motor without physically connecting to the motor. A technician uses a software application on a smartphone, tablet, or other portable device to communicate with the motor controller via a wireless communication device incorporated into the motor assembly. The smartphone may receive relevant information, such as identification, programming, or diagnostic information, and process the information or wirelessly transmit the information to a server for processing. Based on the information, the smartphone may transmit programming instructions to the motor controller via the wireless communication device. Further, the wireless communication device may transmit sensor data associated with the motor to allow for monitoring the motor's performance.