Simulation system and method of multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication

Abstract

The application discloses a simulation system and method of a multimode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication, and belongs to the technical field of communication. The simulation system adopts modular design and comprises a plurality of input ports, a plurality of output ports, a multiplexer matrix, a service distribution module, a forwarding service module and a command service module. Network control and data forwarding are realized through virtual physical layer technology, physical layer functions such as signal attenuation, channel occupation and data forwarding are reproduced, simulation of an information acquisition module cluster is realized, a low-cost and high-flexibility simulation environment is provided for network protocol development, system testing and architecture optimization, and the verification and testing process of the system is accelerated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of communication technology, and in particular relates to a simulation system and method for a multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication. Background Technology

[0002] In power line communication systems, devices such as meters and concentrators form a tree-like network topology. The meters collect and transmit electricity data via their integrated power line communication modules. Because the tree-like network topology involves a large number of PCO (Persistent Contention Opportunity) devices and STA (Station) devices, various network tests involving such systems require the deployment of extensive practical hardware environments for verification and testing.

[0003] In actual deployment, due to the reliance on physical connections and the limited number of test nodes, it is impossible to change network topology, channel quality, and other parameters in real time when testing a large number of devices concurrently. Testing items requiring changes to the network environment, such as network repair or route updates, are also very difficult. Furthermore, for those who wish to perform only high-level (Upper Layers, referring to all layers above the physical layer, primarily responsible for logical data processing and communication control, including data encapsulation, routing, end-to-end transmission, session management, data format conversion, and user service provision) testing, this not only increases testing overhead but also extends the development cycle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a simulation system and method for a multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication, which implements physical layer functions such as signal attenuation, channel occupancy, and data forwarding through virtual physical layer technology. This accelerates the system verification and testing process.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a simulation system for a multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication. The simulation system includes: Multiple input ports, each configured to receive data signals; Multiple output ports, each configured to output data; A multiplexer matrix has multiple inputs and multiple outputs, with each input coupled to an input port. The multiplexer matrix is ​​configured to select the corresponding input for each output according to a first mapping table, so as to select the data source corresponding to each output from each data signal. The service distribution module has multiple first-type outputs and multiple second-type outputs. The service distribution module is coupled with each output of the multiplexer matrix and is configured to provide the data source to the corresponding first-type output or second-type output according to its own service type. The forwarding service module is coupled to each of the first type outputs of the service distribution module, and is configured to determine the target output port corresponding to each first type output according to the second mapping table, and to perform attenuation processing on the first target data of each first type output based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before forwarding it to the corresponding target output port. The channel represents the mapping path defined by the first mapping table and the second mapping table. The command service module is coupled with each of the second type outputs of the service distribution module, and is configured to perform corresponding operations based on the command content of the second target data of each second type output, generate operation feedback data, and forward the operation feedback data to the target output port. The operation includes querying or modifying at least one of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the channel state, and the signal attenuation model.

[0006] According to one embodiment of this application, the simulation system further includes: The arbitration module is configured to determine the output order of each data item according to priority rules when there are multiple data items waiting to be output from the output port, so that each data item is output from the output port in sequence.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this application, the priority rule includes at least one of the following: When the output data includes both the first target data and the operation feedback data, the operation feedback data is sent before the first target data. When the data to be output includes operation feedback data, and the current first target data occupies the output port, the operation feedback data occupies the output port after the first target data is output. The data to be output includes multiple first target data. Based on the interference rules, the degree of interference of the current first target data with other first target data is determined and output.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this application, the attenuated intensity of the currently output first target data is set to x, and the attenuated intensity of the next first target data to be output is set to y. The output port outputs random value data when the following conditions are met: x < y + a Where a is the signal strength threshold.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this application, the simulation system further includes: The cross-clock domain synchronization module is coupled between each input port and each input of the multiplexer matrix, and is configured to clock synchronize the data signals received at each input port.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, the simulation system further includes: The event detection module is coupled between the cross-clock domain synchronization module and each input of the multiplexer matrix, and is configured to generate an event signal when data input is detected at each input port; The event processing module is coupled between the event detection module and the drive port of the multiplexer matrix, and is configured to drive the multiplexer matrix to select the input corresponding to each output according to the first mapping table when an event signal is received.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this application, the forwarding service module is further configured to determine the broadcast output port corresponding to the data type of the data source based on the broadcast table, and to perform attenuation processing on each first target data based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before forwarding it to the corresponding broadcast output port. The broadcast table defines the data type of the data source and the corresponding output port.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this application, the signal attenuation model employs at least one of the path loss model, shadowing effect model, and multipath effect model to simulate signal strength changes during signal transmission.

[0013] Secondly, this application provides a simulation method for a multi-mode communication architecture of power line carrier communication, applied to the aforementioned simulation system. The simulation method includes: Data signals are received through multiple input ports; A multiplexer matrix is ​​used to receive data signals, and the data source corresponding to each output of the multiplexer matrix is ​​determined from each data signal based on a first mapping table; Determine the service type of the data source; When the service type is forwarding service, the target output port corresponding to the data source is determined according to the second mapping table, and the data source is attenuated based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before being forwarded to the corresponding target output port. The channel represents the mapping path defined by the first mapping table and the second mapping table. When the service type is command service, execute the operation corresponding to the command content of the data source, generate operation feedback data, and forward the operation feedback data to the target output port; The operation includes querying or modifying at least one of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the channel state, and the signal attenuation model.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this application, the simulation system further includes a cross-clock domain synchronization module and an event detection module. The input of the cross-clock domain synchronization module is coupled to each input port, the output of the cross-clock domain synchronization module is coupled to the input of the event detection module, and the output of the event detection module is coupled to each input of the multiplexer matrix. Before receiving data signals through multiple input ports, the following steps are also included: Read the system parameters of the simulation system; Initialize the components in the simulation system; Configure the communication parameters for each input port; Configure the detection threshold for the event detection module; Start the cross-clock domain synchronization module.

[0015] The simulation system and method for a multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication according to this application realizes network control and data forwarding through virtual physical layer technology, reproduces physical layer functions such as signal attenuation, channel occupancy, and data forwarding, realizes the simulation of information acquisition module clusters, and provides a low-cost and highly flexible simulation environment for network protocol development, system testing and architecture optimization, thereby accelerating the system verification and testing process.

[0016] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is one of the architectural diagrams of the simulation system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is the second schematic diagram of the architecture of the simulation system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the arbitration priority rules provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the simulation method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0018] Figure label: Multiplexer matrix 100, service distribution module 200, forwarding service module 300, command service module 400, arbitration module 500, cross-clock domain synchronization module 600, event detection module 700, event processing module 800, input port IN, multiple output ports OUT. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0021] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 1This application presents an architecture for a simulation system, and one embodiment of which proposes a simulation system based on a multi-mode communication architecture using power line carrier communication. In this embodiment, the simulation system includes multiple input ports IN, multiple output ports OUT, a multiplexer matrix 100, a service distribution module 200, a forwarding service module 300, and a command service module 400. Each input port IN is configured to receive data signals; each output port OUT is configured to output data. The multiplexer matrix 100 has multiple inputs and multiple outputs, with each input coupled to its respective input port. The multiplexer matrix 100 is configured to select the corresponding input for each output according to a first mapping table, thereby selecting the data source corresponding to each output from the data signals. The service distribution module 200 has multiple first-type outputs and multiple second-type outputs, coupled to each output of the multiplexer matrix 100, and is configured to provide the data source to the corresponding first-type output according to its own service type. The output is either a first-type output or a second-type output; the forwarding service module 300 is coupled with each first-type output of the service distribution module 200, and is configured to determine the target output port corresponding to each first-type output according to the second mapping table, and to perform attenuation processing on the first target data of each first-type output based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before forwarding it to the corresponding target output port, wherein the channel represents the mapping path defined by the first mapping table and the second mapping table; the command service module 400 is coupled with each second-type output of the service distribution module 200, and is configured to execute the corresponding operation according to the command content of the second target data of each second-type output, generate operation feedback data, and forward the operation feedback data to the target output port; wherein, the operation includes querying or modifying at least one of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the channel status, and the signal attenuation model.

[0022] Input ports (IN) and output ports (OUT) are used for communication with the device to receive or output data. They can use asynchronous serial communication, such as UART, RS-232, or RS-485. Multiple input ports (IN) can include various types of serial ports, such as at least two of UART, RS-232, and RS-485. Similarly, multiple output ports (OUT) can also include at least two of UART, RS-232, and RS-485.

[0023] The multiplexer matrix 100 consists of multiple multiplexers to achieve channel convergence. The number of output channels in the multiplexer matrix 100 is less than the number of input channels, reducing the number of backend service channels. For example, the multiplexer matrix 100 includes multiple 2^n:1 multiplexers, with the output of each 2^n:1 multiplexer directly corresponding to one backend service channel. Of course, multiplexers can also be cascaded to allow more inputs to share a single output. The data source refers to the data signal connected to a specific input channel corresponding to the output of the multiplexer.

[0024] As an example, the multiplexer matrix 100 includes X Y:1 multiplexers, each multiplexer having its input coupled to an input port IN. The multiplexer matrix 100 has XY inputs and Y outputs, which can be coupled to the XY input ports IN.

[0025] The first mapping table defines the mapping relationship between input ports IN and the outputs of multiplexer matrix 100. When input port IN is detected, the corresponding multiplexer matrix 100 controls the corresponding input to output. For example, the first multiplexer A is coupled to the 1st to the Yth input ports IN, and the second multiplexer B is coupled to the (Y+1)th to the 2Yth input ports IN. When a data signal is received at the mth (1 < m < Y)th input port IN, according to the first mapping table, the mth input of the first multiplexer A is controlled to connect to the output.

[0026] The first mapping table can also define the output order of each input of a multiplexer. That is, when all inputs of the multiplexer are connected to data signals, the multiplexer determines the connection order between the output and the corresponding inputs according to the first mapping table.

[0027] Furthermore, in a cascaded multiplexer structure of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) type, each input port IN can selectively output from any of the multiple outputs. The first mapping table can also define the correspondence between a given input port IN and a specific output. For example, the first mapping table can define that a given input port IN outputs from the first output of multiplexer A, or from the second output of multiplexer A, or from a certain output of multiplexer B.

[0028] In this embodiment, the multiplexer matrix 100 can also modulate channel selection according to the system load to solve the problem of multiple data streams competing for the same resource, achieve optimal resource utilization, reduce hardware costs, and enhance the system's flexibility and scalability.

[0029] The service distribution module 200 is used to identify data signals to determine their type and distribute them. Data signal types include forwarding services and command services. If the data signal is a forwarding service, the service distribution module 200 sends it to the forwarding service module 300 via a first type of output; if the data signal is a command service, the service distribution module 200 sends it to the command service module 400 via a second type of output.

[0030] As an example, the two types of data signals, forwarding service and command service, can have different data formats or data identifiers. The service distribution module 200 distinguishes the type of data signal by recognizing the data format or data identifier.

[0031] The service distribution module 200 can be configured based on an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and includes multiple service distributors. Each service distributor is coupled to each output of the multiplexer matrix 100, and each service distributor is used to distribute data to the forwarding service module 300 or the command service module 400. The number of service distributors can be less than the number of input ports IN.

[0032] The forwarding service module 300 is used to forward data signals to the corresponding output port OUT. The second mapping table defines the mapping relationship between each output of the multiplexer matrix 100 and each output port OUT. The number of output ports OUT can be greater than or equal to the number of outputs of the multiplexer matrix 100. A certain output of the multiplexer matrix 100 can correspond to one or more output ports OUT.

[0033] By combining the first and second mapping tables, a mapping relationship exists between each input port IN and each output port OUT. The path from a certain input port IN to a certain output port OUT can be defined as a channel. This implementation constructs the basis for simulating signal attenuation in the virtual physical layer through a signal attenuation model, which can accurately reproduce signal strength changes under different environments.

[0034] As an example, the signal attenuation model employs at least one of the path loss model, shadowing effect model, and multipath effect model to simulate signal strength changes during signal transmission.

[0035] The path loss model can be based on a power-law relationship, in the form L(d) = L(d0) + 10n·log 10 (d / d0), where n is the path loss exponent, which depends on the environment and frequency. The shadowing effect can be simulated using a log-normal distribution, representing the obstruction of signals by obstacles such as buildings and trees. Multipath effects can be simulated using algorithms such as the Jakes model to model the constructive or destructive interference that occurs when a signal propagates along different paths to the receiver.

[0036] In some embodiments, the forwarding service module 300 may further include a network latency simulation unit. This network latency simulation unit is used to implement functions such as transmission latency (data block length / channel bandwidth), propagation latency (channel length / electromagnetic wave propagation speed), processing latency (time for the device to check data and select a route), and queuing latency (time for data to queue and wait in the device).

[0037] The command service module 400 includes a protocol processing unit, which processes command services by parsing data signals to determine the corresponding operations and their contents. Operations can be categorized into at least two types: query and modification, thus enabling the configuration and monitoring of the simulation system.

[0038] The channel status can include parameters such as whether it is occupied and channel quality, which are used for channel analysis. The specific parameter types can also be set according to requirements. The explanations of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, and the signal attenuation model are as described above.

[0039] The feedback data for query operations includes the content to be queried, namely the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the channel status, and the parameters of the signal attenuation model. The feedback data for modification operations may include whether the modification was successful, or the data before and after the modification. The feedback data for each operation can also be configured according to requirements.

[0040] The simulation system also includes a memory used to store various software applications and system operating parameters. These operating parameters may include a first mapping table, a second mapping table, a signal attenuation model, and various data signals. The command service module 400 reads and writes to the memory to perform queries or modifications.

[0041] The memory may include at least one of volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory may be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory may be random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRSDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct memory bus RAM (DRRAM). The memory in this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0042] It should be noted that the multiplexer matrix 100, service distribution module 200, forwarding service module 300, command service module 400 and memory can be connected by a high-speed internal bus such as AXI (Advanced eXtensible Interface) bus.

[0043] In some embodiments, the simulation system further includes a configuration interface for calling memory to directly modify the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the signal attenuation model, and various data signals, thereby performing system initialization before the simulation system runs.

[0044] The simulation system based on the multi-mode communication architecture of power line carrier communication according to this application realizes network control and data forwarding through virtual physical layer technology, reproduces physical layer functions such as signal attenuation, channel occupancy, and data forwarding, realizes the simulation of information acquisition module cluster, provides a low-cost and highly flexible simulation environment for network protocol development, system testing and architecture optimization, accelerates the system verification and testing process, accelerates the development of new functions at the upper layer of the network, reduces energy consumption and lowers labor costs.

[0045] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 2An architecture of a simulation system is shown. In some embodiments, the simulation system further includes an arbitration module 500, which is configured to determine the output order of each data item according to a priority rule when multiple data items are detected to be output at the output port OUT, so that the data items are output from the output port OUT in sequence.

[0046] The arbitration module 500 can detect the output status of each output port OUT by detecting the number of services accepted by each output port OUT. When an output port OUT accepts multiple services, it controls the sequential output of each data signal. The priority rules can be set according to requirements.

[0047] As an example, the arbitration module 500 can simulate channel access models such as Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) and Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA). Alternatively, it can simulate the working mechanism of the CSMA / CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access / Collision Avoidance) protocol, using channel idle detection methods including Energy Detection (ED), Carrier Detection (CS), and hybrid energy-carrier detection to detect each channel.

[0048] In some embodiments, the priority rule includes at least one of the following: When the output data includes both the first target data and the operation feedback data, the operation feedback data is sent before the first target data. When the data to be output includes operation feedback data, and the current first target data occupies the output port, the operation feedback data occupies the output port after the first target data is output. The data to be output includes multiple first target data. Based on the interference rules, the degree of interference of the current first target data with other first target data is determined and output.

[0049] In this embodiment, data signals belonging to the command service are processed first. When the forwarding service module 300 and the command service module 400 simultaneously send data to an output port OUT, the arbitration module 500 controls the output port OUT to prioritize processing the operation feedback data sent by the command service module 400. That is, if the output port OUT has not yet output, the operation feedback data is selected for output; or if the output port OUT is outputting, the operation feedback data is output immediately after the initial output ends.

[0050] When multiple first target data streams are simultaneously sent to an output port OUT, the required output first target data is corrected and output using simulated interference to simulate real-world signal interference. The interference rules define how other first target data streams interfere with the currently output first target data, such as determining different levels of interference based on the signal strength and / or quantity of the first target data. These rules can be specifically set according to requirements.

[0051] As an example, let the attenuated intensity of the first target data being output be x, and the attenuated intensity of the next first target data to be output be y. The output port will output random value data when the following conditions are met: x < y + a Where a is the signal strength threshold.

[0052] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an arbitration priority rule is shown. As an example, setting a = 40dB, if x < y + 40dB, it can be determined that the channel is completely interfered with, and the output port outputs random data. Forwarding service 1 has an attenuated strength of 20dB, and forwarding service 2 has an attenuated strength of 10dB. Since 20dB < 10dB + 40dB, forwarding service 1 is completely interfered with by forwarding service 2, and the output port OUT outputs garbled data. Forwarding service 3 has an attenuated strength of -50dB. Since 10dB > -50dB + 40dB, forwarding service 2 is not interfered with, and the output port OUT outputs normally. Furthermore, when the output port outputs to forwarding service 1, if a query / setup service accesses the same output port, after the output port OUT outputs garbled data, forwarding services 2 and 3 are skipped, and the query / setup service outputs normally.

[0053] Of course, multiple signal strength thresholds can be set to simulate different levels of interference and to set the output content under different levels of interference.

[0054] In some embodiments, the actual output content of the output port for each first target data can also be used to evaluate the channel quality of the corresponding channel. For example, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or link quality index (LQI) of the channel can be calculated based on the actual output content.

[0055] In some embodiments, the simulation system further includes a cross-clock domain synchronization module 600, which is coupled between each input port and each input of the multiplexer matrix 100 and is configured to clock synchronize the data signals received at each input port.

[0056] As an example, the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 can adopt a two-stage register synchronization method. The input port IN is connected to two-stage registers (such as D flip-flops). The first-stage register samples the input data signal first, and the second-stage register samples and latches it.

[0057] Therefore, when data signals from different clock domains are connected to the input port IN, the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 synchronizes the input data signals, which can prevent metastability, ensure the stability of signal transmission between different clock domains, and avoid data errors or loss caused by clock asynchrony.

[0058] In some embodiments, the simulation system further includes an event detection module 700 and an event processing module 800. The event detection module 700 is coupled between the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 and each input of the multiplexer matrix 100, and is configured to generate an event signal when data input is detected at each input port. The event processing module 800 is coupled between the event detection module 700 and the drive port of the multiplexer matrix 100, and is configured to drive the multiplexer matrix 100 to select the input corresponding to each output according to a first mapping table when an event signal is received.

[0059] The event detection module 700 monitors each input port IN to determine whether a data signal is input. For example, the event detection module 700 can detect the level of each input port IN. If the level of input port IN is high when there is no signal input, the event detection module 700 generates an event signal when it detects that the level of input port IN is low.

[0060] The event processing module 800 is used to drive each multiplexer in the multiplexer matrix 100. The event processing module 800 receives an event signal to determine that there is an input port IN with an access data signal, and then drives the multiplexer coupled to the input port IN, so that the multiplexer controls the connection between the input and output coupled to the input port IN.

[0061] The FPGA-based hardware implementation provides high-performance, low-latency processing capabilities, while the event-driven architecture activates relevant modules and data paths only when data needs to be processed, reducing the waste of hardware resources.

[0062] In some embodiments, the forwarding service module 300 is further configured to determine the broadcast output port corresponding to the data type of the data source based on the broadcast table, and to perform attenuation processing on each first target data based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before forwarding it to the corresponding broadcast output port. The broadcast table defines the data type of the data source and the corresponding output port.

[0063] The broadcast table is configured with the data types to be broadcast and their corresponding output ports (OUT). For some special data types, additional output ports (OUT) can be broadcast in addition to the existing forwarding output ports. The broadcast table can also be queried or modified by calling the command service module 400.

[0064] As an example, data type A corresponds to output ports OUT1, OUT2, OUT3, and OUT4; data type B corresponds to output ports OUT3, OUT4, OUT5, and OUT6. When the forwarding service module 300 determines that data signal contains data type A, it can forward the data signal to the corresponding output port OUT according to the second mapping table, and also to output ports OUT1, OUT2, OUT3, and OUT4; if it is data type B, it can also forward it to output ports OUT3, OUT4, OUT5, and OUT6.

[0065] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 4 A flowchart of a simulation method for a multi-mode communication architecture of power line carrier communication is shown. One embodiment of this application also proposes a simulation method applied to the aforementioned simulation system, the specific architecture of which can be referred to the foregoing embodiments. In this embodiment, the simulation method includes steps 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50.

[0066] Step 10: Receive data signals through multiple input ports IN; Step 20: Receive data signals using a multiplexer matrix 100, and determine the data source corresponding to each output of the multiplexer matrix 100 from each data signal based on the first mapping table; Step 30: Determine the service type of the data source; Step 40: When the service type is forwarding service, determine the target output port OUT corresponding to the data source according to the second mapping table, and forward the data source to the corresponding target output port after attenuation processing based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel. The channel represents the mapping path defined by the first mapping table and the second mapping table. Step 50: When the service type is command service, execute the operation corresponding to the command content of the data source, generate operation feedback data, and forward the operation feedback data to the target output port. The operation includes querying or modifying at least one of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the channel state, and the signal attenuation model.

[0067] Input ports IN can connect to transmitting devices via asynchronous serial communication, such as UART, RS-232, and RS-485. Multiple input ports IN can include various types of serial ports, such as at least two of UART, RS-232, and RS-485. Similarly, multiple output ports OUT can also include at least two of UART, RS-232, and RS-485. The transmitting device outputs data signals according to the settings, and input ports IN receive the data signals.

[0068] The multiplexer matrix 100 consists of multiple multiplexers to achieve channel convergence. The number of output channels of the multiplexer matrix 100 is less than the number of input channels, reducing the number of channels required for backend services. Of course, multiplexers can also be cascaded to allow more inputs to share a single output. The data source refers to the data signal received by a specific input channel when the multiplexer outputs.

[0069] The first mapping table defines the mapping relationship between input ports IN and the outputs of multiplexer matrix 100. When input port IN is detected, the corresponding multiplexer matrix 100 controls the corresponding input to output. For example, the first multiplexer A is coupled to the 1st to the Yth input ports IN, and the second multiplexer B is coupled to the (Y+1)th to the 2Yth input ports IN. When a data signal is received at the mth (1 < m < Y)th input port IN, according to the first mapping table, the mth input of the first multiplexer A is controlled to connect to the output.

[0070] The first mapping table can also define the output order of each input of a multiplexer. That is, when all inputs of the multiplexer are connected to data signals, the multiplexer determines the connection order between the output and the corresponding inputs according to the first mapping table.

[0071] The service types of data signals include forwarding service and command service. If the data signal is a forwarding service, proceed to step 40; if the data signal is a command service, proceed to step 50. Forwarding service and command service data signals can have different data formats or data identifiers. The service type of the data signal is distinguished by identifying its data format or data identifier.

[0072] The second mapping table defines the mapping relationship between each output of the multiplexer matrix 100 and each output port OUT. The number of output ports OUT can be greater than or equal to the number of outputs of the multiplexer matrix 100. A certain output of the multiplexer matrix 100 can correspond to one or more output ports OUT.

[0073] By combining the first and second mapping tables, a mapping relationship exists between each input port IN and each output port OUT. The path from a certain input port IN to a certain output port OUT can be defined as a channel. This implementation constructs the basis for simulating signal attenuation in the virtual physical layer through a signal attenuation model, which can accurately reproduce signal strength changes under different environments.

[0074] The signal attenuation model can use at least one of the path loss model, shadowing effect model and multipath effect model to simulate the signal strength change during signal transmission. For a detailed explanation of each model, please refer to the foregoing.

[0075] The command service determines the corresponding operations and their content by parsing data signals. Operations can be categorized into at least two types: query and modification, enabling the configuration and monitoring of the simulation system. Channel status can include parameters such as occupancy and channel quality, used for channel analysis; specific parameter types can be set according to requirements. The explanations of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, and the signal attenuation model are as described above.

[0076] The feedback data for query operations includes the content to be queried, namely the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the channel status, and the parameters of the signal attenuation model. The feedback data for modification operations may include whether the modification was successful, or the data before and after the modification. The feedback data for each operation can also be configured according to requirements.

[0077] The simulation method for a multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication proposed in this application realizes network control and data forwarding through virtual physical layer technology, reproduces physical layer functions such as signal attenuation, channel occupancy, and data forwarding, and realizes the simulation of information acquisition module clusters. It provides a low-cost and highly flexible simulation environment for network protocol development, system testing, and architecture optimization, accelerates the system verification and testing process, accelerates the development of new upper-layer functions of the network, reduces energy consumption, and lowers labor costs.

[0078] In some embodiments, the simulation method may further include: when multiple data items are detected to be output at output port OUT, determining the output order of each data item according to a priority rule, so that each data item is output from output port OUT in sequence. The output status of each output port OUT is detected by detecting the number of services received by each output port OUT. When multiple services are received by output port OUT, the data signals are controlled to be output sequentially.

[0079] In some embodiments, the priority rule includes at least one of the following: When the output data includes both the first target data and the operation feedback data, the operation feedback data is sent before the first target data. When the data to be output includes operation feedback data, and the current first target data occupies the output port, the operation feedback data occupies the output port after the first target data is output. The data to be output includes multiple first target data. Based on the interference rules, the degree of interference of the current first target data with other first target data is determined and output.

[0080] In this embodiment, data signals belonging to the command service are processed first. When the forwarding service module 300 and the command service module 400 simultaneously send data to an output port OUT, the arbitration module 500 controls the output port OUT to prioritize processing the operation feedback data sent by the command service module 400. That is, if the output port OUT has not yet output, the operation feedback data is selected for output; or if the output port OUT is outputting, the operation feedback data is output immediately after the initial output ends.

[0081] When multiple first target data streams are simultaneously sent to an output port OUT, the required output first target data is corrected and output using simulated interference to simulate real-world signal interference. The interference rules define how other first target data streams interfere with the currently output first target data, such as determining different levels of interference based on the signal strength and / or quantity of the first target data. These rules can be specifically set according to requirements.

[0082] In some embodiments, the simulation system further includes a cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 and an event detection module 700. The input of the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 is coupled to each input port, the output of the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 is coupled to the input of the event detection module 700, and the output of the event detection module 700 is coupled to each input of the multiplexer matrix 100. The architecture of this simulation system can refer to the foregoing embodiments and... Figure 2 .

[0083] In this embodiment, before receiving data signals through multiple input ports, the method further includes: reading system parameters of the simulation system; initializing each component in the simulation system; configuring communication parameters of each input port; configuring the detection threshold of the event detection module 700; and starting the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600.

[0084] The system parameters of the simulation system may include a first mapping table, a second mapping table, a signal attenuation model, and various data signals. The specific values ​​of these system parameters are read and queried to determine if modifications are needed. If modifications are required, they are made directly through the configuration interface.

[0085] The simulation system comprises several components, including a multiplexer matrix 100, a service distribution module 200, a forwarding service module 300, a command service module 400, an arbitration module 500, a cross-clock domain synchronization module 600, an event detection module 700, and an event processing module 800. Initialization includes setting the outputs of the multiplexer matrix 100 to their default states, setting the initial state of the event processing module 800 to idle, and setting the priority rules for the arbitration module 500.

[0086] The communication parameters of each input port can include baud rate, data bits, and stop bits. The port can be initialized by configuring the communication parameters of each port.

[0087] The detection threshold of the event detection module 700 can be a voltage threshold, used to adjust the sensitivity of the event detection module 700. Finally, the cross-clock domain synchronization module 600 is started to complete the initialization of the simulation system, and data signals are connected to each input port. Subsequent processing can be referred to the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0088] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element. Furthermore, it should be noted that the scope of the methods and apparatuses in the embodiments of this application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, but may also include performing functions substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order, depending on the functions involved. For example, the described methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Additionally, features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.

[0089] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a computer software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk) and includes several instructions to cause a terminal (which may be a mobile phone, computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of this application.

[0090] The embodiments of this application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make many other forms under the guidance of this application without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and all of these forms are within the protection scope of this application.

[0091] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0092] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A simulation system for a multi-mode communication architecture based on power line carrier communication, characterized in that, include: Multiple input ports, each of which is configured to receive data signals; Multiple output ports, each configured to output data; A multiplexer matrix having multiple inputs and multiple outputs, each of the inputs being coupled to an input port, the multiplexer matrix being configured to select a corresponding input for each of the outputs according to a first mapping table, so as to select a data source corresponding to each of the outputs from each of the data signals; The service distribution module has multiple first-type outputs and multiple second-type outputs. The service distribution module is coupled to each of the outputs of the multiplexer matrix and is configured to provide the data source to the corresponding first-type output or second-type output according to its own service type. The forwarding service module is coupled to each of the first type outputs of the service distribution module, and is configured to determine the target output port corresponding to each of the first type outputs according to the second mapping table, and to perform attenuation processing on the first target data of each of the first type outputs based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before forwarding it to the corresponding target output port. The channel represents the mapping path defined by the first mapping table and the second mapping table. The command service module is coupled to each of the second type of outputs of the service distribution module, and is configured to perform corresponding operations based on the command content of the second target data of each second type of output, generate operation feedback data, and forward the operation feedback data to the target output port. The operation includes querying or modifying at least one of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the state of the channel, and the signal attenuation model.

2. The simulation system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The simulation system also includes: The arbitration module is configured to determine the output order of each data item according to a priority rule when multiple data items are detected to be output from the output port, so that each data item is output from the output port in sequence.

3. The simulation system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The priority rule includes at least one of the following: When the data to be output includes the first target data and the operation feedback data, the operation feedback data is sent before the first target data. The data to be output includes the operation feedback data, and when the first target data is currently occupying the output port, the operation feedback data occupies the output port after the first target data is output; The data to be output includes multiple pieces of the first target data. The degree of interference of the currently output first target data with other first target data is determined based on the interference rules and then output.

4. The simulation system according to claim 3, characterized in that, Let the attenuated intensity of the currently output first target data be x, and the attenuated intensity of the next first target data to be output be y. The output port outputs random value data when the following conditions are met: x < y + a Where a is the signal strength threshold.

5. The simulation system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The simulation system also includes: A cross-clock domain synchronization module is coupled between each of the input ports and each of the inputs of the multiplexer matrix, and is configured to clock synchronize the data signals received at each of the input ports.

6. The simulation system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The simulation system also includes: An event detection module is coupled between the cross-clock domain synchronization module and each of the inputs of the multiplexer matrix, and is configured to generate an event signal when data input is detected at each input port; An event processing module is coupled between the event detection module and the drive port of the multiplexer matrix, and is configured to drive the multiplexer matrix to select the inputs corresponding to each output according to the first mapping table when the event signal is received.

7. The simulation system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The forwarding service module is further configured to determine the broadcast output port corresponding to the data type of the data source based on the broadcast table, and to perform attenuation processing on each of the first target data based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before forwarding it to the corresponding broadcast output port. The broadcast table defines the data type of the data source and the corresponding output port.

8. The simulation system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The signal attenuation model employs at least one of the path loss model, shadowing effect model, and multipath effect model to simulate signal strength changes during signal transmission.

9. A simulation method for a multi-mode communication architecture of power line carrier communication, characterized in that, The simulation method, applied to the simulation system according to any one of claims 1-8, comprises: Receive data signals through multiple input ports; The data signals are received using a multiplexer matrix, and the data source corresponding to each output of the multiplexer matrix is ​​determined from each of the data signals based on a first mapping table; Determine the service type of the data source; When the service type is forwarding service, the target output port corresponding to the data source is determined according to the second mapping table, and the data source is attenuated based on the signal attenuation model of the corresponding channel before being forwarded to the corresponding target output port. The channel represents the mapping path defined by the first mapping table and the second mapping table. When the service type is command service, the operation corresponding to the command content of the data source is executed, operation feedback data is generated, and the operation feedback data is forwarded to the target output port; The operation includes querying or modifying at least one of the first mapping table, the second mapping table, the state of the channel, and the signal attenuation model.

10. The simulation method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The simulation system further includes a cross-clock domain synchronization module and an event detection module. The input of the cross-clock domain synchronization module is coupled to each of the input ports, the output of the cross-clock domain synchronization module is coupled to the input of the event detection module, and the output of the event detection module is coupled to each input of the multiplexer matrix. Before receiving data signals through multiple input ports, the following is also included: Read the system parameters of the simulation system; Initialize the components in the simulation system; Configure the communication parameters for each of the input ports; Configure the detection threshold of the event detection module; Start the cross-clock domain synchronization module.

Images