Wireless Control Module for Relay Socket Energization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing relay module control systems incur high costs and require complex wiring due to centralized programmable logic controllers, and are vulnerable to power surges, necessitating additional protection modules.
Innovation Solution
A control module that couples to a socket, featuring a non-conductive lead, conductive elements, and an actuator switch controlled by a wireless communication module, allowing for remote control of relay module energization without direct wiring and eliminating the need for protection modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centralized programmable logic controller is used to control relay modules, then the control function is achieved, but the cost and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into distributed control modules, each independently controlling a relay module. This segmentation eliminates the need for a centralized controller and reduces wiring complexity by localizing control functions to individual socket locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control module as an intermediary device that bridges the socket and relay module. This control module contains a programmable logic controller and relay coil, serving as a localized mediator that eliminates the need for direct long-distance wiring between centralized controllers and relay modules.
2Ease of operation
If a centralized programmable logic controller is used, then control is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into multiple low-cost control modules distributed at socket locations rather than using one expensive centralized controller. This segmentation reduces overall system cost by using simpler, smaller control units.
Solution Approach 2:
Each control module is self-contained and independently functional, containing its own programmable logic controller and relay coil. This self-service capability eliminates the need for expensive centralized control infrastructure and reduces overall system cost.
3Reliability
If protection modules are added to protect against power surges, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protection module functionality with the control module into a single integrated unit. The control module contains both the programmable logic controller for relay control and the protection module for surge protection, eliminating the need for separate protection modules at each socket location.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed as a multi-functional device that performs both relay control and surge protection functions. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into one module, reducing the total number of components and simplifying the system architecture.
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
This solution reduces costs and complexity by enabling wireless control of relay modules, enhancing reliability by eliminating the need for centralized controllers and protection modules, and simplifying system setup while reducing human error.
Implementation Method 1
the first conductive element and the second conductive element being arranged to provide an electrical path between the socket terminal and the power terminal of the socket via the actuator switch
Data Source
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AI summary
A control module for controlling energization of a relay module is provided, the control module being for coupling to a socket which comprises a socket terminal for energising the relay module, and the socket terminal being capable of electrical connection with a power terminal of the socket. The control module comprises: a non-conductive lead for disposing between the socket terminal and the power terminal of the socket; a first conductive element disposed at a base of the control module; a second conductive element disposed at the base of the control module, the second conductive element being spaced apart from the first conductive element; an actuator switch disposed within the control module, the actuator switch being coupled to the first conductive element and the second conductive element, the first conductive element and the second conductive element being arranged to provide an electrical path between the socket terminal and the power terminal of the socket via the actuator switch; a wireless control module coupled to the actuator switch, the wireless control module comprising a wireless communication module to perform wireless communication with an external device; and wherein the actuator switch is controllable by the wireless control module.