Fan control method and system and computer program product

Abstract

The invention discloses a fan control method and system and a computer program product, and relates to the technical field of fan control, and the fan control method comprises the following steps: converting fan control information of a control command for N fans into a control command in a preset format, and converting the control command into a protocol signal conforming to a preset communication protocol, therefore, the fans can understand and respond to the control command, protocol signals are sent to the N fans through the clock signal line and the N data signal lines, return data of the N fans are obtained, the multiple fans are controlled at the same time through one control command and one communication module, and therefore the control efficiency is improved. The technical problems that when data transmission is carried out between the fan controller and the multiple fans in the air cooling radiator, the resource consumption of the fan controller is large, and the overall performance of the heat dissipation system is affected can be solved, and the technical effects that the hardware cost is reduced, resource configuration is optimized, and the overall performance of the heat dissipation control system is improved are achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of fan control technology, and in particular to a fan control method, system, and computer program product. Background Art

[0002] The efficient and stable operation of the server's cooling system is crucial to the server. The cooling system can be an air-cooled cooling system, which is composed of cooling fans. In order to meet the regulation requirements of the server's air-cooled cooling system, it is necessary to obtain the operating status data of the cooling fans.

[0003] Conventional cooling fan control methods rely on PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and TACH (Tachometer) signal lines to achieve fan speed regulation and feedback. However, as server cooling requirements increase, multiple cooling fans are required to meet more precise temperature control requirements. This requires that the fan control interface be able to transmit more information than just a simple speed control signal.

[0004] To meet the need to transmit more information and enable independent communication between the fan controller and multiple fans, a standard communication module needs to be set up for each fan. As the number of fans increases, a large amount of the fan controller's logic resources will be consumed, resulting in increased costs and design complexity, affecting the overall performance and maintenance efficiency of the cooling system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present application provides a fan control method, system and computer program product to at least solve the technical problem in the related art that when the fan controller transmits data with multiple fans in an air-cooled radiator, the fan controller consumes a lot of resources, affecting the overall performance of the cooling system.

[0006] The present application provides a fan control method, which is applied to a fan controller, including: upon receiving fan control information, converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, and N is a positive integer; converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol, sending the protocol signal to the N fans via one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtaining return data from the N fans.

[0007] The present application also provides a fan control system, including: a fan controller; a clock signal line, the front end of which is connected to the fan controller, and the rear end is used to connect N fans respectively; N data signal lines, the front ends of which are connected to the fan controller, and the rear ends are connected to N fans respectively; wherein, the fan controller includes a control chip, which is used to convert the fan control information into a control command in a preset format when receiving the fan control information, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, and N is a positive integer; wherein, the fan controller includes a communication module of a preset communication protocol, which is used to convert the control command into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol, send the protocol signal to the N fans through the clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtain return data from the N fans.

[0008] The present application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program, which implements the steps of any of the above-mentioned fan control methods when executed by a processor.

[0009] Through this application, the fan control information of the control commands for N fans is converted into a control command in a preset format, and the control command is converted into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol, ensuring that the fans can understand and respond to the control command. The protocol signal is sent to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and the return data of the N fans is obtained, thereby realizing the simultaneous control of multiple fans through one control command and one communication module. Therefore, it can solve the technical problem that when the fan controller transmits data with multiple fans in the air-cooled radiator, the fan controller consumes a lot of resources, affecting the overall performance of the cooling system. Due to the use of a unified control command format and communication protocol, the fan controller does not need to establish a separate communication module for each fan to realize parallel and synchronous data transmission for multiple fans, thereby achieving the technical effect of reducing hardware costs, reducing the consumption of logical resources of the fan controller, and improving the overall performance of the cooling control system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0011] Figure 1 1 is a hardware structure block diagram of the fan control method according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0012] Figure 2 is a flow chart of a fan control method according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0013] Figure 3is a schematic diagram of a control command format according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another control command format according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0015] Figure 5 is a timing diagram of the start signal and the stop signal of an embodiment of the present application;

[0016] Figure 6 is a timing diagram of a response signal according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0017] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a fan control system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0018] Figure 8 is a working schematic diagram of a fan control system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0019] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of a fan control device according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of them. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0021] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, the terms "comprises," "includes," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or device comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or device. The terms "first," "second," etc., in this application are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not used to describe a particular order or sequence.

[0022] In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the present application is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.

[0023] In conjunction with the specific application environment architecture or specific hardware architecture on which the execution of the fan control method depends, the specific application environment architecture or specific hardware architecture is described herein.

[0024] The method embodiments provided in the embodiments of the present application can be executed in a server device or a similar computing device. Taking running on a server device as an example, Figure 1FIG. 1 is a hardware structure diagram of the fan control method according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1 As shown, the server device may include one or more ( Figure 1 Only one is shown) a processor 102 (the processor 102 may include but is not limited to a microprocessor MCU or a programmable logic device FPGA) and a memory 104 for storing data. The server device may also include a transmission device 106 and an input / output device 108 for communication functions. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that Figure 1 The structure shown is only for illustration and does not limit the structure of the above server device. Figure 1 More or fewer components than shown, or with Figure 1 Different configurations shown.

[0025] The memory 104 can be used to store computer programs, for example, software programs and modules of application software, such as the computer program corresponding to the fan control method in the embodiment of the present application. The processor 102 executes various functional applications and data processing by running the computer program stored in the memory 104, that is, implementing the above-mentioned method. The memory 104 may include a high-speed random access memory, and may also include a non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or other non-volatile solid-state memory. In some instances, the memory 104 may further include a memory remotely located relative to the processor 102, and these remote memories may be connected to a server device via a network. Examples of the above-mentioned network include, but are not limited to, the Internet, an intranet, a local area network, a mobile communication network, and combinations thereof.

[0026] Transmission device 106 is used to receive or transmit data via a network. A specific example of the aforementioned network may include a wireless network provided by a communication provider of the server device. In one embodiment, transmission device 106 includes a network interface controller (NIC), which can be connected to other network devices via a base station to enable communication with the Internet. In another embodiment, transmission device 106 may be a radio frequency (RF) module, which is used to communicate with the Internet wirelessly.

[0027] In this embodiment, a fan control method is provided, which is applied to a fan controller. Figure 2 is a flow chart of the fan control method according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0028] Step S202 : When fan control information is received, convert the fan control information into a control command in a preset format, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, where N is a positive integer.

[0029] The executor of this embodiment is a fan controller, which may be a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device). As the main control unit of the fan control system, the fan controller is responsible for receiving and processing fan control information from a higher-level control system or user interface.

[0030] Fan control information is used by the fan controller to adjust and monitor the fan. It can instruct the fan to operate, including setting the fan speed and temperature threshold. It can also instruct the fan to read operating information, including reading the fan speed and temperature.

[0031] The pre-set control command format is a sequence of instructions consisting of fields in a specific order to ensure effective communication between the fan controller and the N fans. It includes fields such as command, data, and checksum to ensure data accuracy and integrity. If the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of a fan, the pre-set control command format includes at least a start field, a write field, a command field, a write content field, and an end field in that order. If the fan control information indicates reading fan information, the pre-set control command format includes at least a start field, a read field, a response field, and an end field in that order.

[0032] The fan controller is responsible for converting fan control information into control commands in a preset format, ensuring that no matter how diverse the control information is, it can be standardized into a control instruction that is understood and executed by N fans. It can be sent to all fans in parallel and achieve real-time and synchronous control, which not only improves the efficiency of fan control, but also ensures the consistency and reliability of communication with the fans.

[0033] Step S204 : converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol, sending the protocol signal to N fans via one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtaining return data from the N fans.

[0034] The preset communication protocol may be an I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) protocol, and the protocol signal conforming to the preset communication protocol may be a protocol signal conforming to the I2C protocol.

[0035] In this embodiment, the fans in the air-cooling system can be of the same model, and the data transmission format between each fan and the fan controller can be the same. A communication module, such as an I2C communication module, can be installed in the fan controller. This I2C communication module uses a single clock signal line to connect to all fans, synchronizing data transmission and reception. Each fan has its own independent data signal line, and N fans have N data signal lines. This allows data from multiple fans to be processed simultaneously, enabling parallel communication and improving data transmission efficiency.

[0036] The fan controller transmits protocol signals corresponding to control commands to N fans via one clock signal line and N data signal lines. When the control command instructs the fans to operate, the protocol signals conforming to the preset communication protocol include at least a start signal, a write signal, a command signal, a write content signal, and a stop signal, in the order in which they are used to initiate communication, write data, and terminate communication. When the control command instructs the fans to read information, the control command in the preset format includes at least a start signal, a read signal, a response signal, and a stop signal, in the order in which they are used to initiate communication, read data, confirm the status of data transmission, and terminate communication.

[0037] After N fans receive the protocol signals corresponding to the control commands sent by the fan controller via one clock signal line and N data signal lines, each fan will generate corresponding return data based on its own status and feed it back to the fan controller via its own data signal line. For example, when the control command instructs to control the operation of the fan, such as writing a temperature threshold, the fan's return data can be a response signal. When the control command instructs to read the fan's information, such as reading the current speed and temperature status, the fan's return data can be fan speed and fan temperature. After the fan controller receives the return data from N fans, it can aggregate the fan data information desired by the higher-level control system.

[0038] It should be noted that in the control program of a fan controller in the related art, a universal communication module is required for each fan. The interface of each communication module includes one clock signal line and one data signal line. Each communication module contains control programs for protocol-layer signals such as key fields required for communication. Data transmission with N fans requires N communication modules, and the control programs for protocol-layer signals must be implemented N times in the fan controller, resulting in a waste of the fan controller's logical resources. Furthermore, when the fan controller transmits data to the fans, it needs to control each communication module separately to communicate with the corresponding fan, which can lead to asynchronous data updates. This embodiment, however, further converts the control commands generated by the fan controller into signals that conform to a preset communication protocol. By controlling the level changes of one clock signal line (clock signal) and N data signal lines (data signal), the protocol signals are sent to the N fans and return data is received from each fan. This reduces the demand on the fan controller's logical resources, as key signals such as start and end need only be implemented once. Furthermore, the use of parallel data transmission improves the speed and efficiency of communication with multiple fans, avoids asynchronous data updates, and enhances system stability and performance.

[0039] Through the above steps, the fan control information of the control commands for N fans is converted into a control command in a preset format, and the control command is converted into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol, ensuring that the fans can understand and respond to the control command. The protocol signal is sent to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and the return data of the N fans is obtained, thereby realizing the simultaneous control of multiple fans through one control command and one communication module. Therefore, it can solve the technical problem that when the fan controller transmits data with multiple fans in the air-cooled radiator, the fan controller consumes a lot of resources, thereby affecting the overall performance of the cooling system. Due to the use of a unified control command format and communication protocol, the fan controller does not need to establish a separate communication module for each fan to realize parallel and synchronous data transmission for multiple fans, thereby achieving the technical effect of reducing hardware costs, reducing the consumption of logical resources of the fan controller, and improving the overall performance of the cooling control system.

[0040] As an optional implementation, converting a control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol includes: determining a clock signal to be transmitted on one clock signal line; converting the fields of the control command into N level-changing signals to be transmitted on N data signals based on the preset communication protocol; and determining a protocol signal based on the clock signal and the N level-changing signals.

[0041] It should be noted that the process of converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol is essentially to deconstruct and encode the control command generated by the fan controller into signal changes on the clock line and data line to adapt to the preset communication protocol.

[0042] The preset communication protocol may be the I2C communication protocol, which defines the format and rules for data transmission between the fan controller and the fan, including the use of signal lines, the timing of data transmission, and signal identification methods. The fan controller's communication interface consists of one clock signal line and N data signal lines.

[0043] One clock signal line is used to transmit a clock signal. The timing of the transmitted clock signal determines the validity and timing of level changes on the data line, providing a time reference and synchronization signal for the entire data transmission process. Each of the N data signal lines corresponds to a fan and is used to transmit data and commands. Its level changes are controlled by the clock signal to ensure accurate data transmission. The N level change signals are converted from various fields of the control command. According to the preset communication protocol, the level on the data line changes accordingly with the rising or falling edge of the clock signal, thereby representing specific binary information.

[0044] As an optional implementation, the head end of a clock signal line is connected to a fan controller, the tail end of a clock signal line is connected to N fans respectively, the head ends of N data signal lines are connected to the fan controller, and the tail ends of the N data signal lines are connected to N fans respectively. Sending the protocol signal to N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines includes: sending the clock signal to N fans through one clock signal line; sending N level change signals in parallel to N fans through N data signal lines.

[0045] A dedicated communication module is provided in the fan controller, which may be an I2C communication module. The communication interface of the communication module is the communication interface of the fan controller, and the communication interface consists of one clock signal line and N data signal lines.

[0046] One clock signal line can be an SCL (Serial Clock Line) line. A clock signal generator is provided in the fan controller. The generated clock signal serves as the synchronization signal for data transmission among all fans. The SCL line is used to transmit the clock signal simultaneously. Sending the clock signal to N fans via one clock signal line means that the communication module transmits the signal to all fans via the clock signal line, initiating the transmission cycle of control commands and status feedback. Since multiple fans share the same clock signal line, data transmission synchronization is ensured, avoiding data errors caused by asynchrony.

[0047] The N data signal lines can be SDA (Serial Date Line) lines. N level-changing signals are sent in parallel to N fans via the N data signal lines. This means that the fan controller generates N level-changing signals based on control commands, and the communication module sends each signal to each fan via the corresponding data signal line. This implements parallel transmission of control information and status feedback for the N fans, improving communication speed and system response time. The clock signal also synchronizes to ensure that all signals are correctly interpreted by the fans at the same time.

[0048] This embodiment incorporates a dedicated communication module within the fan controller. The module's communication interface consists of one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and the protocol signal is formed by level changes between the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines. This enables efficient data transmission between the fan controller and multiple fans. Because the protocol signal only needs to be implemented once, rather than individually for each fan, the fan controller's logic resource consumption is significantly reduced compared to related art. Furthermore, through synchronous control of the clock signal and parallel transmission of the data signal, data updates and status monitoring for N fans can be synchronized, avoiding the issue of asynchronous data updates that can occur in related art.

[0049] As an optional implementation, when the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of N fans, converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format includes: converting the fan control information into a first field sequence, wherein the first field sequence includes at least the following fields in sequence: a start field, a write field, a command field, multiple write content fields, and an end field; and determining the control command based on the first field sequence.

[0050] In this embodiment, the preset communication protocol may be an I2C protocol, and a dedicated I2C communication module is provided in the fan controller. Converting the fan control information into a first field sequence means that, when the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of N fans, the fan controller first decomposes the fan control information into several key parts, such as control instructions, speed setting values, etc., and then reorganizes these parts into a field sequence as required by the I2C protocol to ensure the integrity and identifiability of the information during transmission.

[0051] The fan controller uses a dedicated I2C communication module to transmit data to the fan via the control command format as follows: Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a control command format according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 The figure shows both the fan controller's to-be-sent field and the fan's to-be-feedback field. The white bottom is the fan controller's to-be-sent field, and the gray bottom is the fan's to-be-feedback field.

[0052] Among them, in the fan controller's to-be-sent fields, the start field is recorded as S (also known as the Start field, which is fixed), the write field is recorded as W (also known as the Write flag, which is fixed), the command field is recorded as Command (which varies with the control information), multiple write content fields are recorded as Data (which vary with the control information), and the end field is recorded as P (also known as the Stop field, the content is fixed). The start field (Start) and the end field (Stop) respectively mark the beginning and end of data transmission, and the write field (Write) and the command field (Command) are used to indicate the specific operations that the fan controller will perform, such as setting the fan speed. Multiple write content fields (Data <1> To data <4> Etc., recorded as Data <1> To Data <4> etc.) include specific control parameters, such as fan speed settings, fault detection instructions, etc.

[0053] In addition, the fan controller's to-be-sent field may also include an address field, denoted as Address, which is set between the start field S and the write field W, and a check field, denoted as Check, which is set between the last data write content field Data and the end field P. The fan controller's to-be-sent field includes a command sending part. Figure 3 The data length of the command sending part is 6 bytes, including: 1 byte command (Command), 4 bytes data (Data <1> To data <4> , recorded as Data <1> To Data <4> ), 1 byte check (Check).

[0054] The fan's feedback field includes a positive response field, denoted as A (ie, ACK field, Acknowledgement), and may also include a negative response field, denoted as N (ie, NACK field, Acknowledgement Negative Acknowledgement).

[0055] After determining the first field sequence, the fan controller converts the first field sequence into actual binary signals. These signals contain all the details of the control information. Through the I2C communication module's communication interface's one clock signal line and N data signal lines, the fan controller sends these signals in parallel to N fans, ensuring that each fan can receive accurate control instructions at the same time.

[0056] This embodiment defines the order and content of each field in the first field sequence to ensure accurate identification of the start, content, instructions, and end of data transmission, thereby achieving precise control of N fans. By integrating the first field sequence into a complete control command, the command can be sent to the N fans via the I2C interface, enabling parallel, synchronous data transmission. This allows the received fan control information to be decomposed and reassembled into control commands that comply with the requirements of the preset communication protocol, ensuring accurate transmission of control information and achieving precise control of the operating status of the N fans. This shortens fan control time and improves system response speed. Furthermore, through parallel, synchronous transmission, the real-time and consistency of all fan information is ensured, avoiding the problem of asynchronous data writing.

[0057] As an optional implementation, when the fan control information indicates reading the operating information of N fans, converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format includes: converting the fan control information into a second field sequence, wherein the second field sequence includes at least the following fields in sequence: a start field, a read field, a response field for responding to the read data length field, a response field for responding to the read content field, and an end field; and determining the control command based on the second field sequence.

[0058] In this embodiment, the preset communication protocol may be an I2C protocol, and a dedicated I2C communication module is provided in the fan controller. Converting the fan control information into the second field sequence means that, when the fan control information indicates reading operating information of N fans (for example, current speed, temperature status), the fan controller first decomposes the fan control information into several key parts, and then reorganizes these parts into a field sequence as required by the I2C protocol, to ensure the integrity and identifiability of the information during transmission.

[0059] The fan controller uses a dedicated I2C communication module to transmit data to the fan via the control command format as follows: Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another control command format according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 The figure shows both the fan controller's to-be-sent field and the fan's to-be-feedback field. The white bottom is the fan controller's to-be-sent field, and the gray bottom is the fan's to-be-feedback field.

[0060] The fan controller's to-be-sent fields include the start field, designated S (also known as the Start field, which is fixed), the read field, designated R (also known as the Read flag, which is fixed), the positive response field, designated A (also known as the ACK field, which is fixed), the negative response field, designated N (also known as the NACK field, which is fixed), and the end field, designated P (also known as the Stop field, whose content is fixed). Furthermore, the fan controller's to-be-sent fields may include an address field, designated Address, placed between the start field, S, and the read field, R.

[0061] Among them, the fan's feedback field includes a response field, which is set after the read field R, a read data length field, recorded as Length (which varies with the feedback data), a read data content field, recorded as Data (which varies with the feedback data), and a check field, recorded as Check, which is set after the last data write content field Data. The fan's feedback field includes the return data part, which is in Figure 4 The returned data contains: 1 byte length identifier (Length), Length bytes of data (Data <1> To data <byte length>, recorded as Data <1> - Data <length>), 1 byte check (Check).

[0062] After determining the second field sequence, the fan controller converts the second field sequence into actual binary signals. These signals contain all the details of the control information. Through the I2C communication module's communication interface's one clock signal line and N data signal lines, the fan controller sends these signals in parallel to N fans, ensuring that each fan can receive accurate control commands at the same time. The fan returns its operating information based on the command. The fan controller processes this information through the corresponding receive fields to monitor the fan status.

[0063] This embodiment defines the order and content of each field in the second field sequence to indicate that a data read operation is about to be performed. Upon receiving this field, the fan enters a data preparation state. By integrating the second field sequence into a complete control command, operating information can be read from N fans via the I2C interface. Consequently, when fan control information indicates that the operating information of N fans must be read, the required operating status data can be efficiently and synchronously collected from the N fans via the I2C interface. This shortens data read time and improves system response speed. Furthermore, through parallel synchronous transmission, the real-time and consistency of information from all fans is ensured, avoiding the problem of asynchronous data reading.

[0064] As an optional implementation, the first field and the last field of the control command are the start field and the end field to be sent by the fan controller, respectively, the first signal and the last signal of the protocol signal are the start signal and the stop signal, respectively, and converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol includes: determining the signal to be sent by one clock signal line as a high-level signal, and determining the signals to be sent by N data signal lines as falling edge signals to obtain a start signal; determining the signal to be sent by one clock signal line as a high-level signal, and determining the signals to be sent by N data signal lines as rising edge signals to obtain a stop signal.

[0065] The start field and the end field are the Start field and the Stop field, the start signal and the stop signal are the Start signal and the Stop signal, and the Start signal and the Stop signal are controlled by the fan controller as the host. The fan controller adopts parallel synchronous control for each fan, that is, the fan controller will send the Start signal and the Stop signal to each fan at the same time.

[0066] Figure 5 is a timing diagram of the start signal and the stop signal of the embodiment of the present application, such as Figure 5 As shown, when generating a start signal, the signal to be transmitted on one clock signal line (which can be the SCL line) is set to a high level. This provides a stable clock basis for generating the start signal and ensures that the fan can recognize the impending data transmission. The signals to be transmitted on N data signal lines (which can be the SDA lines) are all set to falling edge signals. This falling edge on the data signal line triggers the Start condition in the I2C protocol, marking the official start of data transmission. Specifically, the SCL line remains high, and the N SDA lines transition from high to low, notifying each fan of the start of communication.

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, when generating a stop signal, the signal to be sent on one clock signal line is set to a high level. This provides a clock reference for generating the stop signal and ensures that all fans can recognize the end of data transmission. The signals to be sent on all N data signal lines are set to rising edge signals. This rising edge of the data signal line simulates the Stop condition in the I2C protocol, indicating the end of data transmission. Specifically, the SCL line remains high, and the N SDA lines transition from low to high, signaling the fans to stop communication.

[0068] Through this embodiment, the fan controller can accurately generate start and stop signals compatible with a preset communication protocol, ensuring the synchronization and integrity of data transmission between N fans and effectively reducing the processing time of control signals within the fan controller. This is because the generation of the start and stop signals is simplified to the level changes of one clock signal line and N data signal lines, eliminating the need to generate these signals separately for each fan, thereby conserving the fan controller's logic resources. Furthermore, because all fans are controlled by the same clock signal, data transmission starts and ends based on the falling / rising edges of one clock signal line and N data signal lines. This avoids the data asynchrony issue that can occur in related technologies, improving the efficiency and stability of data transmission.

[0069] As an optional implementation, if signals other than the start signal and the stop signal are generated, while controlling N data signal lines to transmit rising edge signals or falling edge signals, one clock signal line is controlled to transmit a low level signal.

[0070] When generating signals other than the start and stop signals, controlling a clock signal line to transmit a low-level signal means that when the fan controller needs to send data or receive a response from the fan, it first sets the clock signal line to a low level. This means that any level changes transmitted on the data signal line (whether rising or falling) will be considered invalid until the clock line returns to a high level and synchronizes these changes. The purpose is to ensure that the clock signal line is in a waiting or invalid state while the fan controller is sending or receiving data, avoiding interference with normal signal transmission.

[0071] When controlling N data signal lines to transmit rising or falling edge signals, the clock signal line remains low. This means that in the preparation phase for data transmission—that is, before sending a rising or falling edge signal—the fan controller first switches the clock signal line to a low level. Only after the data signal lines complete their level transition does the clock signal line return to a high level, allowing synchronous data transmission to begin. This is done to control level changes on the data signal lines. During this time, the clock signal line remains low, ensuring that signal changes are not misinterpreted as part of data transmission, thus avoiding confusion during the data transmission process.

[0072] Through this embodiment, the fan controller can ensure accurate and synchronized data transmission with N fans through a sophisticated signal control mechanism. In addition to the start and stop signals, the fan controller sets the clock signal line to low when preparing for data transmission or receiving fan data. This prevents misinterpretation of level changes on the signal line, thereby avoiding data transmission errors and data packet corruption.

[0073] As an optional implementation, when the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of N fans, the control command includes a write field, a command field, and a write content field to be sent by the fan controller, and the protocol signal includes a write signal, a command signal, and a write content signal. Converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol includes: converting the write field into a first high-low level signal corresponding to the write identifier, and determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the first high-low level signal to obtain a write signal; converting the command field into a second high-low level signal corresponding to the command, and determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the second high-low level signal to obtain a command signal; converting the write content field into a third high-low level signal corresponding to the write content, and determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the third high-low level signal to obtain a write content signal.

[0074] Among them, the write field is the part of the control command that indicates that a write operation will be performed, which is used to inform the fan that it will receive new control parameters or instructions. The command field contains the fields of the control command, such as setting the speed, operating mode, turning the fan on or off, etc. The write content field is the specific write data carried in the control command. According to the requirements of the command field, it can contain specific information such as speed and operating mode. The write signal, command signal, and write content signal are the signal forms corresponding to the above-mentioned write field, command field, and write content field in the protocol signal, and are expressed through the level changes of the clock signal line and the data signal line.

[0075] The write field is converted into a first high-low level signal corresponding to the write flag, which notifies the fan that a write operation is about to be performed and that it is ready to receive new control information. Specifically, when the fan controller receives the write field in the control information, it converts it into a specific high-low level combination signal according to the preset encoding rules. This signal is sent via N data signal lines, notifying all fans of the impending write operation. The fan controller also controls the clock signal line to maintain normal operation, ensuring that all fans can synchronously receive and process this signal within the subsequent time window.

[0076] The command field is converted into a corresponding high- and low-level signal, which is used to send control instructions to N fans, such as adjusting the fan speed or operating mode. Specifically, the fan controller converts the contents of the command field into a set of specific level change signals based on the encoding rules of the preset communication protocol. This signal is then sent in parallel to all fans via N data signal lines. Simultaneously, the fan controller maintains the normal operation of the clock signal line to ensure that level changes on the data signal line are correctly interpreted.

[0077] The write-content field is converted into a third high-low level signal corresponding to the written content, which is used to transmit specific control parameters (such as the speed setting) to each fan, guiding the fan's state adjustment. Specifically, the information in the write-content field is converted by the fan controller into a series of high-low level changes, which serve as the write-content signal and are sent to N fans via N data signal lines. Similarly, the fan controller controls the clock signal line to maintain normal operation, ensuring that the N fans can synchronously receive and understand these signals.

[0078] This embodiment decomposes and converts fan control information to form corresponding protocol signals, and transmits the protocol signals in parallel via a shared clock signal line and N data signal lines. This enables the fan controller to communicate efficiently and accurately with N cooling fans, achieving unified control and status adjustment of the fan operating status, avoiding unnecessary resource waste and performance differences or system instability caused by asynchrony.

[0079] As an optional implementation, when the fan control information indicates to control the operation of N fans, the protocol signal is sent to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and the return data of the N fans is obtained, including: after controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a start signal, controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a write signal; after sending the write signal, if a positive response signal is received from the N fans, then controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a command signal; after sending the command signal, controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a write content signal, if a positive response signal is received from the N fans, then controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send the next write content signal, until a positive response signal is received from the N fans for the last write content signal, and then controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a stop signal.

[0080] First, the fan controller sends a start signal. Specifically, before the fan controller is ready to control the operation of N fans, it first sends the start signal via the clock signal and data signal lines. The generation of the start signal follows the protocol signal implementation method of the preset communication protocol. That is, while the clock signal remains at a high level, all data signal lines transition from a high level to a low level, informing the N fans to prepare to receive subsequent control commands. It should be noted that after sending the start signal, the fan controller also sends an address signal to identify each fan device, which may include the unique address of each fan device.

[0081] Then, the fan controller sends a write signal. Specifically, after the start signal is sent, the fan controller then sends a write signal, which is a series of high and low level changes converted from the write field of the control command. It is transmitted in parallel to all fans through the data signal line. At the same time, the clock signal line sends the clock signal synchronously to ensure that the signal is correctly received by all fans.

[0082] The fan controller then waits for a response signal and, upon confirming that the fans are ready to receive the command signal, sends the command signal. Specifically, after sending the write signal, the fan controller monitors the N data signal lines for response signals. If all fans respond with a positive response signal, indicating they are ready to receive the command signal, the fan controller then sends a command signal, a signal converted from the command field of the control command, indicating a specific control operation for the N fans, such as changing the speed.

[0083] The fan controller then continuously sends specific write content signals and ensures that the fans receive them correctly. Specifically, after successfully sending the command signal, the fan controller begins sending write content signals, which are signals converted based on the write content field in the control command. After sending each write content signal, the fan controller waits for response signals from N fans. After receiving positive response signals from all fans, the fan controller sends the next write content signal, and this process repeats until all write contents have been transmitted and confirmed.

[0084] Finally, the fan controller sends a stop signal to notify the N fans that the control process has been completed and the data transmission has ended. Specifically, after the last write content signal is sent and the positive response signals representing all fans are received, the fan controller sends a stop signal via the clock signal and data signal lines to stop data transmission. The stop signal also follows the protocol signal implementation method of the I2C communication protocol, that is, when the clock signal remains at a high level, all data signal lines change from a low level to a high level, notifying the N fans that the transmission of the control commands has ended. It should be noted that before sending the stop signal, the fan controller also sends a check signal to verify the integrity of the data.

[0085] In this implementation, the fan controller communicates with M fans through one clock signal line and M data signal lines, sending protocol signals and obtaining confirmation feedback and return data from the fans, ensuring that each fan can receive control commands in a timely and accurate manner. At the same time, through the response signal cycle, the integrity and accuracy of data transmission are checked and guaranteed, thereby improving the efficiency of data transmission and optimizing resource utilization.

[0086] It should be noted that, regardless of whether the fan controller sends data and the fan receives it, or vice versa, after the data transmitter completes a byte of data or address, if the data receiver wants the data transmitter to continue sending data, it must send a positive response signal on the data signal line, and the data transmitter will continue to send the next byte of data. If the data receiver wants to end the data transmission, it must send a negative response signal on the data signal line, and the data transmitter will send a stop signal to end the data transmission.

[0087] As an optional embodiment, the method also includes: when the write signal is sent, or when the command signal is sent, or when any write content signal is sent, if a response signal indicating a negative feedback from the fan is received, the communication between the fan controller and the corresponding fan ends.

[0088] The write signal indicates that the fan controller is about to send new control parameters or instructions to the fans. The command signal contains specific control commands, instructing the fans to perform specific operations. The write content signal is the actual control parameter being transmitted, such as the fan speed setpoint or temperature threshold. After the fan controller sends the write signal, command signal, or any of the write content signals, it enters listening mode, waiting for response signals from the N fans.

[0089] If any of the fans feeds back a negative response signal, the fan controller will immediately recognize that there is a reception error in this communication or the fan cannot respond, interrupt communication with the fan, and no longer attempt to send subsequent write content signals or command signals. It will also send a stop signal to clearly inform the fan that the communication has ended. At the same time, it will also stop the clock signal of the clock signal line to avoid sending more control commands to the faulty or unresponsive fan, preventing potential system errors or waste of resources.

[0090] During the data transmission process, the fan controller of this embodiment continuously monitors the feedback signals of all fans to promptly detect communication anomalies. If any fan feedbacks a negative response signal, communication with the fan will be immediately terminated, thereby ensuring the reliability of communication, avoiding control failures caused by communication errors or anomalies, and ensuring the stable operation of the server cooling system.

[0091] As an optional implementation, N fans respectively feedback a positive response signal in the following manner: if one fan feedbacks a positive response information, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a clock signal, and the data signal line corresponding to the fan is controlled to feedback a low-level signal at the Mth clock after one byte is transmitted; N fans respectively feedback a negative response signal in the following manner: if one fan feedbacks a negative response information, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a clock signal, and the data signal line corresponding to the fan is controlled to feedback a high-level signal at the Mth clock after one byte is transmitted.

[0092] The fan sends an ACK signal, which indicates a positive response signal. The fan sends an ACK signal, indicating that it has successfully received a byte of data or a control command sent by the fan controller. The fan sends a NACK signal, which indicates a negative response signal. The fan fails to successfully receive or process the data or control command from the fan controller, possibly due to a communication error, data packet distortion, or other reasons.

[0093] After the fan controller sends a byte of data or a command, it controls the clock signal line to continue transmitting the clock signal, providing a time reference for the fan's response signal feedback. After a byte of data transmission is completed, at the Mth clock transmitted on the clock signal line, if the fan controller detects that the level on the data signal line corresponding to a fan has dropped to a low level, it recognizes this as an ACK signal, indicating that the fan has successfully received the information and is ready for further communication or command execution.

[0094] After a byte of data is transmitted, at the Mth clock transmitted on the clock signal line, if the fan controller detects that the level on the data signal line corresponding to a certain fan has risen to a high level, it recognizes that this is a NACK signal, indicating that the fan has failed to successfully receive the information. The fan controller will interrupt further communication with the fan according to the preset communication rules to avoid invalid control.

[0095] Figure 6 is a timing diagram of the response signal of the embodiment of the present application, such as Figure 6 As shown, in an optional embodiment, M is 9. The ACK signal is generated by pulling the data signal line to a low level at the ninth clock after a byte is transmitted. The NACK signal is generated by pulling the data signal line to a high level at the ninth clock after a byte is transmitted. Data transmission between the fan controller and each fan and the response to the ACK / NACK signals are also synchronized in parallel.

[0096] This embodiment provides instant communication status feedback to the fan controller through low-level feedback of the ACK signal and high-level feedback of the NACK signal. By efficiently identifying and processing the NACK signal, it can detect and respond to communication errors in the first place, avoiding unnecessary data transmission to unresponsive fans, reducing the waste of fan controller logic resources, and optimizing the overall performance and energy efficiency of the server cooling system.

[0097] As an optional implementation, when the fan control information indicates reading the operating information of N fans, the control command includes a read field and a confirmation field to be sent by the fan controller, and the protocol signal includes a read signal and a response signal. Converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol includes: converting the read field to be sent by the fan controller in the control command into a fourth high-low level signal corresponding to the read identifier, determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the fourth high-low level signal, and obtaining a read signal; determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines at the Nth clock after a byte is transmitted as a low-level signal, and obtaining a response signal representing an affirmative response; determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines at the Nth clock after a byte is transmitted as a high-level signal, and obtaining a response signal representing a negative response.

[0098] The read field is the portion of the control command that indicates the read operation of the fan. It is used to provide feedback on operating information such as the fan speed and temperature. The response field includes an acknowledgement field (ACK) and a negation field (NACK). The read signal and response signal are the signal forms corresponding to the read and response fields in the protocol signal, expressed through level changes on the clock and data signal lines.

[0099] When the fan controller receives an instruction to read the operating information of N fans, it converts the read field into the fourth high-low level signal corresponding to the read identifier according to the preset signal encoding rules, and sends this signal to all fans through N data signal lines. At the same time, it controls the clock signal line synchronization to ensure that all fans receive the same read signal at the same time.

[0100] After receiving the read signal, the fan will feedback the read data length and read data content to the fan controller. After each piece of read data content is fed back by the fan, the fan controller needs to use the feedback mechanism to inform the fan whether the read data content has been received. The fan controller will feedback a response signal through the data signal line at the Mth clock after a byte is transmitted. Specifically, the response signal is generated by changing the level of the data signal line at the Nth clock instant. If the level changes to low, it is a positive response signal; if the level changes to high, it is a negative response signal.

[0101] In the process of the fan controller reading the operating status information of N fans, this embodiment optimizes the communication process of the fan controller reading the operating status information of N fans through signal conversion and feedback mechanism, thereby ensuring the accuracy of data reading and the reliability of communication.

[0102] As an optional implementation, when the fan control information indicates to read the operating information of N fans, the protocol signal is sent to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and the return data of the N fans is obtained, including: after controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a start signal, controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a read signal; after sending the read signal, if the read data length signal fed back by the N fans is received, controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a response signal indicating an affirmative response; if the first read content signal fed back by the N fans is received, controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a response signal indicating an affirmative response again, until the last read content signal fed back by the N fans is received, and controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a stop signal.

[0103] First, the fan controller sends a start signal. Specifically, before the fan controller reads the operating information of the N fans, it sends the start signal via the clock signal and data signal lines. The start signal is generated according to the protocol signal implementation method of the preset communication protocol. That is, while the clock signal remains high, all data signal lines transition from high to low, informing the N fans to prepare to feedback data. It should be noted that after sending the start signal, the fan controller also sends an address signal to identify each fan device. This address signal may include the unique address of each fan device.

[0104] Then, the fan controller sends a read signal. Specifically, after the start signal is sent, the fan controller converts the read command into a read signal and sends it to each fan through one clock signal line and N data signal lines to inform the fan of the upcoming data reading operation.

[0105] Furthermore, the fan controller waits for the read data length feedback from the fan. When the fan controller receives the read data length signal from N fans, it sends a positive response signal through the data signal line to inform the fan that the scale of data transmission has been determined and it is ready to receive data and can start sending the read content signal.

[0106] The fan controller then receives the actual operating status data returned by the fans and repeatedly sends response signals to ensure the continuity and integrity of data transmission. Specifically, after each fan sends its first read signal, the fan controller continues to send ACK signals over the DAT line to encourage the fan to continue sending data. This process repeats until the fan controller receives the final read signal from all N fans.

[0107] Finally, the fan controller sends a stop signal to notify the N fans that the control process has been completed and the data transmission has ended. Specifically, after receiving the last read content signal and sending a representative positive response signal to the fan, the fan controller sends a stop signal through the clock signal and data signal line to stop data transmission. The stop signal also follows the protocol signal implementation method of the I2C communication protocol, that is, when the clock signal remains at a high level, all data signal lines are changed from a low level to a high level, informing that the transmission of the N fan control commands has ended. It should be noted that before sending the stop signal, the fan controller will receive a check signal fed back by the fan to verify the integrity of the data. After sending a response signal to the check signal, it will send the stop signal.

[0108] This embodiment enables the fan controller to synchronize the start and end of data reading operations with multiple fans, preventing data loss or misreading due to signal asynchrony and improving the accuracy and efficiency of reading operations. By repeatedly sending response signals, the fan controller ensures the integrity of data transmission for each fan. The use of unified read and response signals avoids the need for separate signal control logic for each fan, significantly reducing the fan controller's logical resource consumption and improving resource utilization efficiency.

[0109] As an optional implementation, N fans feed back read data length signals in the following manner: converting the length information of the return data of the N fans into corresponding high and low level signals, controlling the clock signal line to transmit the clock signal, and controlling the N data signal lines to feed back high and low level signals corresponding to the length information in parallel; N fans feed back read content signals in the following manner: converting the content of the return data of the N fans into corresponding high and low level signals, controlling the clock signal line to transmit the clock signal, and controlling the N data signal lines to feed back high and low level signals corresponding to the content of the return data in parallel.

[0110] The read data length signal is a signal fed back by the fan, used to inform the fan controller of the exact length of the data returned, so that the fan controller can prepare to receive the corresponding amount of data. The read content signal is the actual data returned by the fan, which may include operating status information such as fan speed and temperature.

[0111] When the fan controller sends a read command, each fan converts the length of the returned data into a specific sequence of high and low level signals and feeds it back to the fan controller via the corresponding data signal line. This allows the fan controller to predict the size of each fan's return data, prepare an adequate buffer, avoid data overflow, and ensure the accuracy and completeness of data reading. Simultaneously, the fan controller controls the clock signal line to transmit a clock signal, ensuring that all fans' feedback operations are synchronized.

[0112] After confirming the length information is correct, the fan controller sends a positive response signal to the fan, indicating that the fan can begin transmitting actual operating status data. Each fan converts the returned data into a sequence of high and low level signals and feeds this information back to the fan controller in parallel via the corresponding data signal line. This ensures that each fan's operating status information can be accurately and timely read for subsequent cooling system management and optimization. The clock signal line also provides a synchronous clock signal.

[0113] In this embodiment, when the fan controller performs the operation of reading the operating information of N fans, efficient communication with the N fans is achieved through the conversion and parallel feedback of high and low level signals, ensuring accurate feedback of data length and content, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of server cooling system monitoring.

[0114] As an optional embodiment, the fan controller includes a communication module and a signal modulation module of a preset communication protocol. Before converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format, the method also includes: controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from a first communication mode to a second communication mode, wherein the first communication mode indicates that N fans communicate with the signal modulation module, and the second communication mode indicates that N fans communicate with the communication module.

[0115] The preset communication protocol may be an I2C protocol, and the communication module of the preset communication protocol may be an I2C communication module, which is a functional module implemented in the fan controller's program. Based on the I2C communication module, data can be transmitted synchronously and in parallel between the fan controller and N fans. The fan controller is the master and the fans are slaves. The fan controller is connected to the N fans via one clock signal and N data signals. The one clock signal generated by the I2C communication module is connected to each fan, and the N data signals generated are connected to each fan separately. The signal modulation module may be a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) module, which is used to adjust the duty cycle of the PWM signal and dynamically adjust the fan speed to respond to changes in the internal temperature of the server.

[0116] The first communication mode is used by the fan controller to perform preliminary data exchange with N fans through the signal modulation module, primarily for fan speed regulation and speed feedback. The second communication mode is used by the fan controller to perform complex data transmission with N fans through the communication module, suitable for executing more complex control instructions and reading detailed operating information.

[0117] To enable the fan controller to conduct in-depth data exchange with the fans through its more flexible communication module, including sending complex commands and reading detailed operating information, without being restricted by the signal modulation module, the communication module can be used to interact with N fans. Before the fan controller is ready to send control commands to the fans, it first needs to ensure that the fans are ready to communicate with the communication module. To do this, the fan controller controls the clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from the first communication mode to the second communication mode. This can be achieved by adjusting the signal control logic of the clock signal line and data signal line by sending and receiving signals between the fan controller and the fans.

[0118] After switching to the second communication mode, the fan controller's communication module is activated, ready to receive and process fan control information, converting it into pre-formatted control commands. This ensures that all instructions and data are transmitted in the standard format of the pre-set communication protocol. After switching to the second communication mode, the signal modulation module remains in standby mode until it is needed to return to the first communication mode to perform basic tasks. This frees up resources in the signal modulation module, reduces unnecessary logic operations, and improves overall system efficiency, especially when performing complex communication tasks.

[0119] By distinguishing between two communication modes, this embodiment allows the fan controller to allocate internal resources more reasonably. Through mode switching, the fan controller can flexibly select a communication module according to different communication requirements. It can not only handle simple status queries but also efficiently transmit complex control information, thereby enhancing the flexibility and adaptability of the communication system. After switching to the second communication mode, the data transmission between the fan controller and the fan adopts a preset high-efficiency protocol, which significantly speeds up the execution speed of complex instructions and the efficiency of reading operation information.

[0120] As an optional embodiment, the method further includes: upon receiving a signal modulation request message, controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from the second communication mode to the first communication mode. The signal modulation request message is a message sent by a higher-level control system or user interface to the fan controller, instructing the fan controller to return to the first communication mode to perform simple fan speed regulation and speed feedback.

[0121] When the fan controller is in the second communication mode and performing a high-level data transmission task, if it receives a signal modulation request, it switches to the first communication mode. Specifically, the fan controller immediately controls the clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from the current second communication mode to the first communication mode. This can be achieved by adjusting the signal control logic of the clock signal line and data signal line by sending and receiving signals between the fan controller and the fan.

[0122] After switching to the first communication mode, the signal modulation module in the fan controller is activated and ready to perform simple fan speed regulation and speed feedback. At this time, the communication module enters a standby state, waiting for the next high-level communication demand.

[0123] This embodiment quickly and accurately switches one clock signal line and N data signal lines from the second communication mode back to the first communication mode upon receiving signal modulation request information, thereby ensuring that the communication between the fan controller and the fan can be flexibly switched under different functional requirements, thereby enhancing the system's responsiveness and communication efficiency.

[0124] As an optional implementation, the present application also provides a fan control system. Figure 7 Schematic diagram of a fan control system according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 As shown, the system includes:

[0125] Fan controller. The fan controller can be a CPLD. As the main control unit of the fan control system, the fan controller is responsible for receiving and processing fan control information from a higher-level control system or user interface.

[0126] A clock signal line is connected to the fan controller at its head end and is used to connect N fans at its tail end. If the preset communication protocol is I2C, the clock signal line can be an SCL (Serial Clock Line). A clock signal generator is provided in the fan controller. The generated clock signal serves as the synchronization signal for data transmission across all fans. The SCL line is used to send the clock signal to the N fans via the clock signal line.

[0127] N data signal lines are connected to the fan controller at their first ends and to N fans at their tail ends. If the preset communication protocol is I2C, the N data signal lines can be SDA (Serial Date Line) lines, and N level change signals are sent in parallel to the N fans via the N SDA lines.

[0128] The fan controller includes a control chip for converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format upon receiving the fan control information, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, where N is a positive integer.

[0129] Fan control information is used by the fan controller to adjust and monitor the fan. It can instruct the fan to operate, including setting the fan speed and temperature threshold. It can also instruct the fan to read operating information, including reading the fan speed and temperature.

[0130] The pre-set control command format is a sequence of instructions consisting of fields in a specific order to ensure effective communication between the fan controller and the N fans. It includes fields such as command, data, and checksum to ensure data accuracy and integrity. If the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of a fan, the pre-set control command format includes at least a start field, a write field, a command field, a write content field, and an end field in that order. If the fan control information indicates reading fan information, the pre-set control command format includes at least a start field, a read field, a response field, and an end field in that order.

[0131] Among them, the fan controller includes a communication module with a preset communication protocol, which is used to convert control commands into protocol signals that comply with the preset communication protocol, send the protocol signals to N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtain return data from N fans.

[0132] The fans in the air-cooled heat dissipation system can be set to the same model, the format of data transmission between each fan and the fan controller can be the same, the preset communication protocol can be the I2C protocol, and a communication module can be set in the fan controller, for example, an I2C communication module. The I2C communication module only uses one clock signal line to connect to all fans for synchronizing data sending and receiving. Each fan has its own independent data signal line. N fans have N data signal lines, and can process data from multiple fans at the same time.

[0133] The protocol signal conforming to the preset communication protocol may be a protocol signal conforming to the I2C protocol. When the control command instructs controlling the operation of a fan, the protocol signal conforming to the preset communication protocol includes at least a start signal, a write signal, a command signal, a write content signal, and a stop signal in sequence, for initiating communication, writing data, and terminating communication. When the control command instructs reading information from the fan, the control command in the preset format includes at least a start signal, a read signal, a response signal, and a stop signal in sequence, for initiating communication, reading data, confirming the status of data transmission, and terminating communication.

[0134] After N fans receive the protocol signals corresponding to the control commands sent by the fan controller via one clock signal line and N data signal lines, each fan will generate corresponding return data based on its own status and feed it back to the fan controller via its own data signal line. For example, when the control command instructs to control the operation of the fan, such as writing a temperature threshold, the fan's return data can be a response signal. When the control command instructs to read the fan's information, such as reading the current speed and temperature status, the fan's return data can be fan speed and fan temperature. After the fan controller receives the return data from N fans, it can aggregate the fan data information desired by the higher-level control system.

[0135] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the working of the fan control system according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 As shown, after the fan controller receives the fan control information sent by the upper-level control system, it first converts the control information into the corresponding control command, and then converts the control command into a protocol signal through the I2C communication module, and then sends it to each fan in parallel. The I2C communication module obtains the fan's return data according to the protocol signal, and then the fan controller summarizes it into a data packet and sends it out, and the upper-level control system obtains the desired fan data information.

[0136] Through the above system, since the fan control information of the control commands for N fans is converted into a control command in a preset format, and the control command is converted into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol, it is ensured that the fans can understand and respond to the control command, and the protocol signal is sent to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and the return data of the N fans is obtained, thereby realizing the simultaneous control of multiple fans through one control command and one communication module. Therefore, it can solve the technical problem that when the fan controller transmits data with multiple fans in the air-cooled radiator, the fan controller consumes a lot of resources, thereby affecting the overall performance of the cooling system. Since a unified control command format and communication protocol are adopted, the fan controller does not need to establish a separate communication module for each fan to realize parallel and synchronous data transmission for multiple fans, thereby achieving the technical effect of reducing hardware costs, reducing the consumption of logical resources of the fan controller, and improving the overall performance of the cooling control system.

[0137] As an optional embodiment, the fan controller also includes a signal modulation module, and the control chip is used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from a first communication mode to a second communication mode when receiving fan control information, wherein the first communication mode indicates that N fans communicate with the signal modulation module, and the second communication mode indicates that N fans communicate with the communication module.

[0138] The first communication mode is used by the fan controller to perform preliminary data exchange with N fans through the signal modulation module, primarily for fan speed regulation and speed feedback. The second communication mode is used by the fan controller to perform complex data transmission with N fans through the communication module, suitable for executing more complex control instructions and reading detailed operating information.

[0139] To enable the fan controller to conduct in-depth data exchange with the fans through its more flexible communication module, including sending complex commands and reading detailed operating information, without being restricted by the signal modulation module, the communication module can be used to interact with N fans. Before the fan controller is ready to send control commands to the fans, it first needs to ensure that the fans are ready to communicate with the communication module. To do this, the fan controller controls the clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from the first communication mode to the second communication mode. This can be achieved by adjusting the signal control logic of the clock signal line and data signal line by sending and receiving signals between the fan controller and the fans.

[0140] After switching to the second communication mode, the fan controller's communication module is activated, ready to receive and process fan control information, converting it into pre-formatted control commands. This ensures that all instructions and data are transmitted in the standard format of the pre-set communication protocol. After switching to the second communication mode, the signal modulation module remains in standby mode until it is needed to return to the first communication mode to perform basic tasks. This frees up resources in the signal modulation module, reduces unnecessary logic operations, and improves overall system efficiency, especially when performing complex communication tasks.

[0141] As an optional implementation, when signal modulation request information is received, one clock signal line and N data signal lines are controlled to switch from the second communication mode to the first communication mode.

[0142] The signal modulation request information is a message sent by a higher-level control system or user interface to the fan controller, indicating that the fan controller needs to return to the first communication mode to perform simple fan speed regulation and speed feedback.

[0143] When the fan controller is in the second communication mode and performing a high-level data transmission task, if it receives a signal modulation request, it switches to the first communication mode. Specifically, the fan controller immediately controls the clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from the current second communication mode to the first communication mode. This can be achieved by adjusting the signal control logic of the clock signal line and data signal line by sending and receiving signals between the fan controller and the fan. After switching to the first communication mode, the signal modulation module in the fan controller is activated and prepares to perform simple fan speed control and speed feedback. At this point, the communication module enters a standby state, awaiting the next high-level communication request.

[0144] Through the description of the above implementation methods, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the method according to the above embodiment can be implemented by means of software plus the necessary general hardware platform, and of course it can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method.

[0145] The embodiment of the present application further provides a fan control device, which is applied to a fan controller. Figure 9 is a structural block diagram of a fan control device according to an embodiment of the present application, such as Figure 9 As shown, the device includes:

[0146] The first conversion unit 902 is configured to convert the fan control information into a control command in a preset format when the fan control information is received, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, where N is a positive integer.

[0147] The second conversion unit 904 is configured to convert the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol, send the protocol signal to N fans via one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtain return data from the N fans.

[0148] Optionally, the second conversion unit 904 includes: a first determination module, used to determine the clock signal to be transmitted on one clock signal line; a first conversion module, used to convert the fields of the control command into N level change signals to be transmitted on N data signals based on a preset communication protocol; and a second determination module, used to determine the protocol signal based on the clock signal and the N level change signals.

[0149] Optionally, the head end of a clock signal line is connected to the fan controller, the tail end of a clock signal line is connected to N fans respectively, the head ends of N data signal lines are connected to the fan controller, and the tail ends of N data signal lines are connected to N fans respectively. The second conversion unit 904 includes a sending module, which is used to send the protocol signal to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, including: a first sending sub-module, used to send the clock signal to the N fans through one clock signal line; a second sending sub-module, used to send N level change signals in parallel to the N fans through the N data signal lines.

[0150] Optionally, when the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of N fans, the first conversion unit 902 includes: a second conversion module, used to convert the fan control information into a first field sequence, wherein the first field sequence includes at least the following fields in sequence: a start field, a write field, a command field, multiple write content fields, and an end field; and a third determination module, used to determine the control command based on the first field sequence.

[0151] Optionally, when the fan control information indicates reading the operating information of N fans, the first conversion unit 902 includes: a third conversion module, used to convert the fan control information into a second field sequence, wherein the second field sequence includes at least the following fields in sequence: a start field, a read field, a response field for responding to the read data length field, a response field for responding to the read content field, and an end field; and a fourth determination module, used to determine the control command according to the second field sequence.

[0152] Optionally, the first field and the last field of the control command are the start field and the end field to be sent by the fan controller, respectively, and the first signal and the last signal of the protocol signal are the start signal and the stop signal, respectively. The second conversion unit 904 includes: a fifth determination module, used to determine the signal to be sent by one clock signal line as a high-level signal, and determine the signals to be sent by N data signal lines as falling edge signals, to obtain a start signal; a sixth determination module, used to determine the signal to be sent by one clock signal line as a high-level signal, and determine the signals to be sent by N data signal lines as rising edge signals, to obtain a stop signal.

[0153] Optionally, if a signal other than the start signal and the stop signal is generated, while controlling the N data signal lines to transmit rising edge signals or falling edge signals, one clock signal line is controlled to transmit a low level signal.

[0154] Optionally, when the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of N fans, the control command includes a write field, a command field, and a write content field to be sent by the fan controller, and the protocol signal includes a write signal, a command signal, and a write content signal. The second conversion unit 904 includes: a fourth conversion module, used to convert the write field into a first high-low level signal corresponding to the write identifier, and determine the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the first high-low level signal to obtain the write signal; a fifth conversion module, used to convert the command field into a second high-low level signal corresponding to the command, and determine the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the second high-low level signal to obtain the command signal; and a sixth conversion module, used to convert the write content field into a third high-low level signal corresponding to the write content, and determine the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the third high-low level signal to obtain the write content signal.

[0155] Optionally, when the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of N fans, the second conversion unit 904 includes a sending module, which includes: a first control submodule, used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a write signal after controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a start signal; a second control submodule, used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a command signal if a positive response signal is received from N fans after the write signal is sent; and a third control submodule, used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a write content signal after the command signal is sent, and if a positive response signal is received from N fans, control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a next write content signal, until a positive response signal is received from N fans for the last write content signal, and control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a stop signal.

[0156] Optionally, the device also includes: a communication end determination unit, which is used to terminate the communication between the fan controller and the corresponding fan if a response signal indicating a negative feedback from the fan is received when the write signal is sent, or when the command signal is sent, or when any write content signal is sent.

[0157] Optionally, the N fans respectively feedback a positive response signal in the following manner: if one fan feedbacks a positive response information, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a clock signal, and the data signal line corresponding to the fan is controlled to feedback a low-level signal at the Mth clock after one byte is transmitted; the N fans respectively feedback a negative response signal in the following manner: if one fan feedbacks a negative response information, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a clock signal, and the data signal line corresponding to the fan is controlled to feedback a high-level signal at the Mth clock after one byte is transmitted.

[0158] Optionally, when the fan control information indicates to read the operating information of N fans, the control command includes a read field and a confirmation field to be sent by the fan controller, and the protocol signal includes a read signal and a response signal. The second conversion unit 904 includes: a seventh conversion module, used to convert the read field to be sent by the fan controller in the control command into a fourth high-low level signal corresponding to the read identifier, and determine the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the fourth high-low level signal to obtain a read signal; a seventh determination module, used to determine the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines at the Nth clock after a byte is transmitted as a low-level signal, and obtain a response signal representing an affirmative response; an eighth determination module, used to determine the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines at the Nth clock after a byte is transmitted as a high-level signal, and obtain a response signal representing a negative response.

[0159] Optionally, when the fan control information indicates reading the operating information of N fans, the second conversion unit 904 includes a sending module, and the sending module includes: a fourth control submodule, which is used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a read signal after controlling one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a start signal, and after sending the read signal, if a read data length signal fed back by N fans is received, then control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a response signal indicating an affirmative response; a fifth control submodule, which is used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a response signal indicating an affirmative response again if the first read content signal fed back by N fans is received, until the last read content signal fed back by N fans is received, and then control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to send a stop signal.

[0160] Optionally, the N fans feed back read data length signals in the following manner: converting the length information of the return data of the N fans into corresponding high and low level signals, controlling the clock signal line to transmit the clock signal, and controlling the N data signal lines to feed back high and low level signals corresponding to the length information in parallel; the N fans feed back read content signals in the following manner: converting the content of the return data of the N fans into corresponding high and low level signals, controlling the clock signal line to transmit the clock signal, and controlling the N data signal lines to feed back high and low level signals corresponding to the content of the return data in parallel.

[0161] Optionally, the fan controller includes a communication module and a signal modulation module of a preset communication protocol, and the device also includes: a first communication mode switching unit, which is used to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from a first communication mode to a second communication mode before converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format, wherein the first communication mode indicates that N fans communicate with the signal modulation module, and the second communication mode indicates that N fans communicate with the communication module.

[0162] Optionally, the device further includes: a second communication mode switching unit, configured to control one clock signal line and N data signal lines to switch from the second communication mode to the first communication mode when signal modulation request information is received.

[0163] For the description of the features in the embodiment corresponding to the fan control device, reference can be made to the relevant description of the embodiment corresponding to the fan control method, which will not be repeated here.

[0164] An embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic device, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor is configured to run the computer program to execute the steps of any of the above-mentioned fan control method embodiments.

[0165] An embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium, in which a computer program is stored. The computer program is configured to execute the steps of any of the above-mentioned fan control method embodiments when running.

[0166] In an exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, various media that can store computer programs, such as a USB flash drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a mobile hard disk, a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0167] An embodiment of the present application further provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of any of the above-mentioned fan control method embodiments are implemented.

[0168] An embodiment of the present application further provides another computer program product, including a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, wherein the non-volatile computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program, and when the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of any of the above-mentioned fan control method embodiments are implemented.

[0169] Professionals may further appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of the two. In order to clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the above description has generally described the components and steps of each example according to their functions. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professionals and technicians may use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.< / length>

Claims

1. A fan control method, characterized in that: Applied to fan controllers, including: Upon receiving fan control information, convert the fan control information into a control command in a preset format, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, where M is a positive integer; The control command is converted into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol, the protocol signal is sent to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and return data from the N fans is obtained.

2. The fan control method according to claim 1, wherein: Converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol includes: Determining a clock signal to be transmitted on the clock signal line; Converting the fields of the control command into N level-changing signals for transmitting N data signals based on the preset communication protocol; The protocol signal is determined according to the clock signal and the N level change signals.

3. The fan control method according to claim 2, wherein: The first end of the clock signal line is connected to the fan controller, the tail ends of the clock signal line are respectively connected to the N fans, the first ends of the N data signal lines are all connected to the fan controller, and the tail ends of the N data signal lines are respectively connected to the N fans, and the protocol signal is sent to the N fans through the clock signal line and the N data signal lines. The method includes: Sending the clock signal to the N fans through the clock signal line; The N level change signals are sent in parallel to the N fans through the N data signal lines.

4. The fan control method according to claim 1, wherein: In a case where the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of the N fans, converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format includes: Converting the fan control information into a first field sequence, wherein the first field sequence includes at least the following fields in sequence: a start field, a write field, a command field, a plurality of write content fields, and an end field; The control command is determined according to the first field sequence.

5. The fan control method according to claim 1, wherein: When the fan control information indicates reading the operation information of the N fans, converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format includes: Converting the fan control information into a second field sequence, wherein the second field sequence includes at least the following fields in sequence: a start field, a read field, a response field for responding to a read data length field, a response field for responding to a read content field, and an end field; The control command is determined according to the second field sequence.

6. The fan control method according to claim 1, wherein: The first field and the last field of the control command are the start field and the end field to be sent by the fan controller, respectively. The first signal and the last signal of the protocol signal are the start signal and the stop signal, respectively. Converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol includes: Determine the signal to be sent on the clock signal line as a high level signal, and determine the signals to be sent on the N data signal lines as falling edge signals, to obtain the start signal; The signal to be sent by the clock signal line is determined to be a high level signal, and the signals to be sent by the N data signal lines are all determined to be rising edge signals, so as to obtain the stop signal.

7. The fan control method according to claim 6, characterized in that: If a signal other than the start signal and the stop signal is generated, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a low level signal while the N data signal lines are controlled to transmit rising edge signals or falling edge signals.

8. The fan control method according to claim 1, wherein: When the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of the N fans, the control command includes a write field, a command field, and a write content field to be sent by the fan controller, the protocol signal includes a write signal, a command signal, and a write content signal, and converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol includes: Converting the write field into a first high-low level signal corresponding to a write identifier, and determining the signal to be sent on the N data signal lines as the first high-low level signal to obtain the write signal; Converting the command field into a second high-low level signal corresponding to the command, and determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the second high-low level signal to obtain the command signal; The written content field is converted into a third high-low level signal corresponding to the written content, and the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines is determined to be the third high-low level signal to obtain the written content signal.

9. The fan control method according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the fan control information indicates controlling the operation of the N fans, sending the protocol signal to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtaining return data from the N fans includes: After controlling the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines to send the start signal, controlling the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines to send the write signal; After the write signal is sent, if a positive response signal is received from the N fans, the clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to send the command signal; After the command signal is sent, the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to send a write content signal. If a positive response signal is received from the N fans, the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to send the next write content signal. Until a positive response signal is received from the N fans for the last write content signal, the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to send a stop signal.

10. The fan control method according to claim 9, characterized in that: The method further comprises: When the write signal is sent, or when the command signal is sent, or when any write content signal is sent, if a negative response signal is received from a fan, the communication between the fan controller and the corresponding fan ends.

11. The fan control method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The N fans respectively feed back the positive response signal in the following manner: If a fan feeds back a positive response, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a clock signal, and a data signal line corresponding to the fan is controlled to feed back a low-level signal at the Mth clock after one byte is transmitted; The N fans respectively feed back the response signal indicating negation in the following manner: If a fan feeds back a negative response, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit a clock signal, and a data signal line corresponding to the fan is controlled to feed back a high level signal at the Mth clock after one byte is transmitted.

12. The fan control method according to claim 1, wherein: When the fan control information indicates reading the operating information of the N fans, the control command includes a read field and a confirmation field to be sent by the fan controller, the protocol signal includes a read signal and a response signal, and converting the control command into a protocol signal that complies with a preset communication protocol includes: Converting the read field to be sent by the fan controller in the control command into a fourth high-low level signal corresponding to the read identifier, and determining the signal to be sent by the N data signal lines as the fourth high-low level signal to obtain a read signal; Determine the signal to be sent on the N-th clock after one byte is transmitted on the N-way data signal line as a low-level signal, and obtain a response signal indicating an affirmative response; The signal to be sent at the Nth clock after one byte is transmitted on the N data signal lines is determined to be a high level signal, and a response signal representing a negative response is obtained.

13. The fan control method according to claim 12, wherein: When the fan control information indicates reading the operation information of the N fans, sending the protocol signal to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtaining return data from the N fans includes: After controlling the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines to send a start signal, controlling the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines to send the read signal; after sending the read signal, if read data length signals fed back by the N fans are received, controlling the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines to send a response signal indicating an affirmative response; If the first read content signal fed back by the N fans is received, the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled again to send a response signal indicating an affirmative response, until the last read content signal fed back by the N fans is received, and the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to send a completion stop signal.

14. The fan control method according to claim 13, wherein: The N fans feed back the read data length signal in the following manner: Convert the length information of the return data of the N fans into corresponding high and low level signals respectively, control the clock signal line to transmit the clock signal, and control the N data signal lines to feed back the high and low level signals corresponding to the length information in parallel; The N fans feed back the read content signal in the following manner: The contents of the return data of the N fans are respectively converted into corresponding high and low level signals, the clock signal line is controlled to transmit the clock signal, and the N data signal lines are controlled to parallelly feed back the high and low level signals corresponding to the contents of the return data.

15. The fan control method according to claim 3, characterized in that: The fan controller includes a communication module and a signal modulation module of the preset communication protocol. Before converting the fan control information into a control command in a preset format, the method further includes: Control the clock signal line and the N data signal lines to switch from a first communication mode to a second communication mode, wherein the first communication mode instructs the N fans to communicate with the signal modulation module, and the second communication mode instructs the N fans to communicate with the communication module.

16. The fan control method according to claim 15, characterized in that: The method further comprises: When the signal modulation request information is received, the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to switch from the second communication mode to the first communication mode.

17. A fan control system, characterized in that: include: Fan controller; A clock signal line, the first end of which is connected to the fan controller, and the tail end of which is respectively used to connect to N fans; N data signal lines, each connected to the fan controller at its head end and to the N fans at its tail end; The fan controller includes a control chip configured to convert the fan control information into a control command in a preset format upon receiving the fan control information, wherein the control command is a control command for N fans, where M is a positive integer; Among them, the fan controller includes a communication module with a preset communication protocol, which is used to convert the control command into a protocol signal that complies with the preset communication protocol, send the protocol signal to the N fans through one clock signal line and N data signal lines, and obtain the return data of the N fans.

18. The fan control system according to claim 17, characterized in that: The fan controller also includes a signal modulation module, and the control chip is used to control the clock signal line and the N data signal lines to switch from a first communication mode to a second communication mode when receiving fan control information, wherein the first communication mode indicates that the N fans communicate with the signal modulation module, and the second communication mode indicates that the N fans communicate with the communication module.

19. The fan control system according to claim 18, characterized in that: When the signal modulation request information is received, the one clock signal line and the N data signal lines are controlled to switch from the second communication mode to the first communication mode.

20. A computer program product comprising a computer program, characterized in that When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the fan control method according to any one of claims 1 to 16 are implemented.

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