Management method and device for Ethernet protocol category of APL equipment and weighing sensor

Abstract

The invention provides a management method and device for Ethernet protocol categories of APL equipment and a weighing sensor. The management method comprises the steps that the APL equipment is connected to an APL switch; detecting a connection state of a first APL communication interface and a second APL communication interface of the APL equipment; when it is detected that both the first APL communication interface and the second APL communication interface are connected with the APL switch, one of the communication interfaces is selected as a target interface, connection between the target interface and the APL switch is cut off, after the cut-off state is maintained for a first duration, connection is recovered for a second duration, and after the second duration, connection between the target interface and the APL switch is finished. The APL switch gives an indication according to the stored Ethernet protocol category; and identifying the current Ethernet protocol category of the APL equipment according to the indication. The management method is simple to operate and high in independence, and the environmental adaptability of the APL equipment is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates primarily to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus, and weighing sensor for managing Ethernet protocol categories of an APL device. Background Technology

[0002] Ethernet protocols encompass various categories, such as PROFINET (Process Field Network), Ethernet / IP (Ethernet Industrial Protocol), and HART-IP (HART over IP). APL (Advanced Physical Layer) field devices are field devices with Ethernet-APL interfaces, supporting various Ethernet types. To adapt to different customer environments, APL devices need to specify their Ethernet protocol type and switch between protocols as needed.

[0003] In existing technologies, additional interactive interfaces are typically designed into APL devices, such as graphical user interfaces, buttons, and DIP switches. Through these interfaces, operators can determine the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device and switch to the required Ethernet protocol. Another common design for determining and switching the required Ethernet protocol type involves looking up the APL device's IP address and then using a specialized device with a network interface (such as a personal computer) to query and switch the Ethernet protocol type.

[0004] However, in certain harsh or special environments (such as oil, chemical, and coal mining environments), the installation and wiring of electrical equipment must strictly adhere to explosion-proof standards. Adding external interfaces may compromise the explosion-proof structure of the equipment, increasing the risk of explosion. Therefore, in such environments, reliance on external interfaces should be minimized. In another conventional design, operators can only obtain and switch the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device by carrying specialized equipment and knowing the APL's IP address. Sometimes, specific software is also required. If the specialized equipment is forgotten or the APL device's IP address is unknown, it is impossible to query and switch the Ethernet protocol type. The additional software operation also increases the complexity of operation for operators and the risk of errors due to improper or mishandling.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a management method and device for switching Ethernet protocol categories in APL devices that requires no interactive interface, is easy to operate, and has strong independence. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application addresses the technical problems of existing methods for switching Ethernet protocol categories in APL devices, such as limited environmental adaptability, high operational complexity, and reliance on specialized equipment. It provides a method, apparatus, and weighing sensor for managing the Ethernet protocol category of APL devices.

[0007] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a method, apparatus, and sensor for managing the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device.

[0008] In a first aspect, this application provides a method for managing the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device. The method includes the following steps: connecting the APL device to an APL switch, wherein the APL device includes a communication interface, which includes a first APL communication interface and a second APL communication interface; detecting the connection status of the first APL communication interface and the second APL communication interface; when it is detected that both the first APL communication interface and the second APL communication interface are connected to the APL switch, selecting one of the communication interfaces as the target interface, disconnecting the target interface from the APL switch, maintaining the disconnected state for a first duration, and then reconnecting for a second duration; after the second duration, the APL switch provides an indication based on the stored Ethernet protocol category; and identifying the current Ethernet protocol category of the APL device based on the indication.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the APL switch includes an indicator device. The step of the APL switch giving an indication includes: the indicator device giving an indication according to a first rule, wherein different first rules are used to characterize different Ethernet protocol categories.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, the operating state of the indicator device includes a first state and a second state. The first rule includes repeatedly executing the following process: the indicator device alternately switches between the first state and the second state, and after the number of switching reaches a first preset number, the indicator device remains in the second state for a second preset duration.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the first rule further includes: after the number of repetitions of the first rule reaches a preset threshold, the indicator device remains in the first state.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, a method for managing the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device further includes: after the indicating device remains in a first state, switching the current Ethernet protocol category to a target category; the step of switching the current Ethernet protocol category to the target category includes: selecting a target interface from a first APL communication interface and a second APL communication interface; repeatedly disconnecting and connecting the target interface to the APL switch according to a second rule, wherein different second rules are used to characterize different Ethernet protocol categories to be switched to; keeping the target interface connected to the APL switch, and storing the Ethernet protocol category corresponding to the second rule in the memory of the APL device.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the second rule includes performing the following process: alternating between a disconnected state and a connected state between the target interface and the APL switch, and maintaining the target interface and the APL switch in a connected state for a second preset time after the number of switching reaches a second preset number.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the connection state is either a power connection state or a communication connection state.

[0015] Secondly, this application provides a management device for the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device, including a status detection circuit disposed in the APL device, wherein the APL device includes a communication interface, and the communication interface includes a first APL communication interface and a second APL communication interface;

[0016] The status detection circuit includes a processor, a first current detection circuit, and a second current detection circuit. The first current detection circuit is connected between the first APL communication interface and the processor to detect the connection status between the first APL communication interface and the APL switch. The second current detection circuit is connected between the second APL communication interface and the processor to detect the connection status between the second APL communication interface and the APL switch. The processor is configured to execute the management method as described in the first aspect.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the state detection circuit further includes a first switch control circuit and a second switch control circuit. The first switch control circuit is connected to the first current detection circuit and the processor, respectively. The second switch control circuit is connected to the second current detection circuit and the processor, respectively. The processor is configured to: control the power connection state of the first APL communication interface through the first switch control circuit, and control the power connection state of the second APL communication interface through the second switch control circuit.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the management device further includes a first PHY module and a second PHY module. The first PHY module is connected to a first APL communication interface, and the second PHY module is connected to a second APL communication interface. The processor is further configured to control the communication connection status of the first APL communication interface through the first PHY module and to control the communication connection status of the second APL communication interface through the second PHY module.

[0019] Thirdly, this application provides an APL weighing sensor, including a management device for the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device as described in the second aspect.

[0020] The management method proposed in this application automatically indicates the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device by detecting the connection between the communication interface of the APL device and the APL switch. This eliminates the need for an additional human-machine interface or specialized equipment for Ethernet protocol indication. Furthermore, switching the Ethernet protocol type requires no dedicated operating instruments; the APL device's Ethernet protocol type can be flexibly set simply by plugging and unplugging the communication interface. Therefore, this management method offers advantages such as ease of operation and high independence, improving the environmental adaptability of the APL device and making it suitable for explosion-proof environments such as coal mining and petrochemical industries. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this application; they are incorporated into and constitute a part of this application. The drawings illustrate embodiments of this application and, together with this specification, serve to explain the principles of this application. In the drawings:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a management device for the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a management device for the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram including a management device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 4 This is an exemplary flowchart of a method for managing the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some examples or embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, these drawings can be applied to other similar scenarios without creative effort. Unless obvious from the context or otherwise specified, the same reference numerals in the drawings represent the same structures or operations.

[0027] As indicated in this application, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," "an," and / or "the" do not specifically refer to the singular and may also include the plural. Generally speaking, the terms "comprising" and "including" only indicate the inclusion of explicitly identified steps and elements, which do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.

[0028] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0029] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, these terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application. In addition, although the terminology used in this application is selected from commonly known and used terms, some terms mentioned in this application's specification may have been chosen by the applicant according to his or her judgment, and their detailed meanings are explained in the relevant sections of this description. Moreover, this application should be understood not only through the actual terms used, but also through the meaning implied by each term.

[0030] Flowcharts are used in this application to illustrate the operations performed by the system according to embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the preceding or following operations are not necessarily performed in exact order. Instead, various steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations may be added to these processes, or one or more steps may be removed from these processes.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an Ethernet protocol category management device for an APL device according to an embodiment of this application, which also shows an APL device 100 and an APL switch 200. (Reference) Figure 1 As shown, the management device in this embodiment includes a status detection circuit 300, which is disposed in the APL device 100. The APL device 100 includes a communication interface, comprising a first APL communication interface 101 and a second APL communication interface 102. (See reference...) Figure 1 As shown, the status detection circuit 300 includes a first current detection circuit 301, a second current detection circuit 302, and a processor 303. The first current detection circuit 301 is connected between the first APL communication interface 101 and the processor 303, and is used to detect the connection status between the first APL communication interface 101 and the APL switch 200. The second current detection circuit 302 is connected between the second APL communication interface 102 and the processor 303, and is used to detect the connection status between the second APL communication interface 102 and the APL switch 200.

[0032] In one embodiment of this application, the first APL communication interface 101 of the APL device 100 is connected to the first communication interface 201 of the APL switch 200, and the second APL communication interface 102 is connected to the second communication interface 202 of the APL switch 200. The connection method can be a twisted-pair cable connection, an RJ45 connector, or a three-wire connection. The three wires in the three-wire connection include, for example, a power wire, a ground wire, and a data wire. The APL switch 200 can connect multiple APL devices to form a communication network and is responsible for forwarding data packets between devices in the network. In addition, it can provide power to the APL device 100. Specifically, in this embodiment, the APL device 100 generally refers to an electronic device using advanced physical layer technology, which can communicate with the APL switch 200 and other APL devices 100 via the Ethernet protocol. Figure 1 The management device shown does not include an additional human-machine interface, reducing its complexity and improving the environmental adaptability of the APL equipment. Figure 1In the management device shown, the processor 303 is configured to execute the management method for the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device of this application, thereby automatically identifying the current Ethernet protocol category of the APL device 100 and switching the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device 100 through simple operation, without much human intervention or additional equipment. It is simple to operate and highly adaptable to different environments. A detailed description of this management method will be provided later.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a management device for the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device provided in another embodiment of this application. (See reference...) Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, the state detection circuit 300 further includes a first switch control circuit 304 and a second switch control circuit 305. The first switch control circuit 304 is connected to both the first current detection circuit 301 and the processor 303, and the second switch control circuit 305 is connected to both the second current detection circuit 302 and the processor 303. The processor 303 is further configured to control the power connection state of the first APL communication interface 101 via the first switch control circuit 304, and to control the power connection state of the second APL communication interface 102 via the second switch control circuit 305.

[0034] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In another embodiment of this application, the management device further includes a first PHY (Physical) module 103 and a second PHY module 104. The first PHY module 103 is connected to the first APL communication interface 101, and the second PHY module 104 is connected to the second APL communication interface 102. According to these embodiments, the processor 303 is further configured to control the communication connection state of the first APL communication interface 101 through the first PHY module 103, and control the communication connection state of the second APL communication interface 102 through the second PHY module 104.

[0035] It should be noted that the connection status of the communication interface of the APL device 100 can be characterized from two aspects: firstly, the connection status between the communication interface and the power supply; and secondly, the communication connection status of the communication interface. Therefore, in the two embodiments described above, one approach is to control the power connection status of the communication interface through a switch control circuit between the communication interface and the power supply, while the other approach is to control the communication connection status of the communication interface through a PHY module. In the third embodiment, both the power connection status and the communication connection status of the communication interface can be controlled simultaneously through a switch control circuit and a PHY module.

[0036] Figure 3 A circuit diagram including a management device according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 3 exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 Based on this, the circuits in each module are illustrated in detail; therefore, the same modules use the same labels. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the first current detection circuit 301 includes a resistor 3011, a comparator 3012, and an analog-to-digital converter 3013. The two input terminals of the comparator 3012 are connected in parallel across the two ends of the resistor 3011. The output terminal of the comparator 3012 is connected to one end of the analog-to-digital converter 3013, and the other end of the analog-to-digital converter 3013 is connected to the processor 303. Taking the first current detection circuit 301 as an example, assuming that current flows through the first APL communication interface 101, this current flowing through the resistor 3011 of the first current detection circuit 301 forms a voltage difference. Due to the existence of the voltage difference, the comparator 3012 will output an electrical signal, such as a high level. The electrical signal of the comparator 3012 is transmitted through the circuit to the analog-to-digital converter 3013, and further to the processor 303. When the processor 303 receives the electrical signal output by the analog-to-digital converter 3013, it detects that the first APL communication interface 101 is connected to the APL switch 200. The second current detection circuit 302 and the first current detection circuit 301 have the same structure and similar functions. The difference is that the second current detection circuit 302 is connected to the second APL communication interface 102. Therefore, the structure and working principle of the second current detection circuit 302 will not be described in detail here.

[0037] like Figure 3 As shown, the first switch control circuit 304 includes two transistors. This application does not limit the specific type or model of these transistors. Figure 3 As shown, transistor 3042 is an NPN type, and another transistor 3041 is a PNP type. Taking the transistors as an example, the base of transistor 3041 is connected to the collector of transistor 3042. A resistor 3043 is connected between the base and emitter of transistor 3041, and a resistor 3044 is connected between the base and emitter of transistor 3042. The first switch control circuit 304 forms four terminals externally. The emitter terminal of transistor 3041 is connected to the first current detection circuit 301, the collector terminal of transistor 3041 is connected to the dual power switch 306, the base terminal of transistor 3042 is connected to the processor 303, and the emitter terminal of transistor 3042 is connected to the device ground (potential is zero). The first switch control circuit 304 and the second switch control circuit 305 have the same circuit structure and the same working principle, and will not be described in detail here. It should be noted that a dual power switch 306 can also be set in the APL device 100 to selectively connect the APL device 100 to the power-consuming equipment. The dual power switch 306 is used to select whether to connect the first switch control circuit 304 or the second switch control circuit 305 to the electrical equipment. When the dual power switch 306 is connected to the first switch control circuit 304, the first APL communication interface 101 supplies power to the subsequent electrical equipment.

[0038] The following examples illustrate the circuit principle. For example... Figure 3 As shown, assuming the two communication interfaces of APL device 100 are connected to the two communication interfaces of APL switch 200 respectively, processor 303 selects to turn on the first switch control circuit 304, for example, by outputting a high level to the first switch control circuit 304. Then, the voltage difference between the base and emitter of transistor 3042 is greater than the critical voltage, and transistor 3042 is in the working state. After transistor 3042 is in the working state, transistor 3041 can form a circuit loop with transistor 3042 and can work normally. At this time, processor 303 does not turn on the second control circuit 305, for example, by outputting a low level to the second switch control circuit 305. Then, the voltage difference between the base and emitter of transistor 3051 is less than the critical voltage, and transistor 3051 is in the off state. Transistor 3052 cannot form a circuit loop with transistor 3051, so transistor 3052 is also in the off state. If processor 303 turns on the second switch control circuit 305, for example, by outputting a high level to the second switch control circuit 305, then transistor 3051 is in the working state, and transistor 3052 is also in the working state. Therefore, the connection status between the first APL communication interface 101 or the second APL communication interface 102 and the APL switch 200 can be controlled by the first switch control circuit 304 or the second switch control circuit 305.

[0039] In some embodiments, if it is not necessary to detect the connection status of the communication interface, the processor 303 does not send an electrical signal to the second switch control circuit 305, such as a low level. In this case, the second switch control circuit 305 does not operate, the communication interface cannot form a path, and there is no potential difference on the second current detection circuit 302. Therefore, the comparator 3022 cannot output an electrical signal. When it is necessary to detect the connection status of the communication interface in real time, the processor 303 can continuously output a high level to the second switch control circuit 305, keeping the communication interface in a connected state.

[0040] The APL switch 200 of this application is equipped with an indicator device (not shown) for indicating whether the communication interface of the APL device 100 is connected to the communication interface of the APL switch 200. In this embodiment, the connection status of the communication interface of the APL device 100 can be controlled by the first switch control circuit 304 and the second switch control circuit 305, or by the first PHY module 103 and the second PHY module 104. The first PHY module 103 and the second PHY module 104 can be PHY chips.

[0041] The Ethernet protocol category management device for APL devices provided in this embodiment does not require an additional human-machine interface, and has the advantages of simple operation and strong independence, which improves the environmental adaptability of APL devices and can be used in explosion-proof scenarios such as coal mining and petrochemical industries.

[0042] Figure 4 This is an exemplary flowchart of a management method for the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device provided in an embodiment of this application. This management method can be specifically implemented by the management device described above, but is not limited thereto. The management method will be described below in conjunction with the management device described above. Figure 4 As shown, this management method includes the following steps:

[0043] Step S410: Connect the APL device 100 to the APL switch 200, wherein the APL device 100 includes a communication interface, which includes a first APL communication interface 101 and a second APL communication interface 102.

[0044] Step S420: Detect the connection status of the first APL communication interface 101 and the second APL communication interface 102;

[0045] Step S430: When it is detected that both the first APL communication interface 101 and the second APL communication interface 102 are connected to the APL switch 200, select one of the communication interfaces as the target interface, disconnect the target interface from the APL switch 200, and maintain the disconnected state for a first duration before reconnecting for a second duration. After the second duration, the APL switch 200 gives an indication according to the stored Ethernet protocol category.

[0046] Step S440: Identify the current Ethernet protocol category of APL device 100 according to the instructions.

[0047] The following combination Figures 1-4 The steps S410 to S440 described above will be explained in detail.

[0048] In step S410, the connection between the APL device 100 and the APL switch 200 can be via twisted pair cable connection, RJ45 connector, or three-wire connection. The three wires in the three-wire connection include, for example, a power wire, a ground wire, and a data wire.

[0049] In step S420, the connection status of the communication interface of the APL device 100 can be characterized from two aspects: the first aspect is the connection status between the communication interface and the power supply, and the second aspect is the communication connection status of the communication interface. Therefore, in the two embodiments described above, one method controls the power connection status of the communication interface through a switch control circuit between the communication interface and the power supply, while the other method controls the communication connection status through a PHY module. In the third embodiment, both the power connection status and the communication connection status of the communication interface can be controlled simultaneously through a switch control circuit and a PHY module. Specifically, the communication status of the first APL communication interface 101 and the second APL communication interface 102 can be detected by means of... Figure 2 The first current detection circuit 301 and the second current detection circuit 302 shown are implemented, and the working principle of the current detection circuit is as described above.

[0050] In step S430, assuming the first switch control circuit 304 and the second switch control circuit 305 are turned on, the processor 303 can detect, through the first current detection circuit 301 and the second current detection circuit 302, that both the first APL communication interface 101 and the second communication interface are connected to the APL switch 200. Assuming the processor 303 selects the second APL communication interface 102 as the target interface (in the following examples, the second APL communication interface 102 is used as the target interface), the processor 303 can control the connection state between the second APL communication interface 102 and the second communication interface 202 of the APL switch through the second switch control circuit 305. When the processor 303 turns off the second switch control circuit 305, the connection between the second APL communication interface and the APL switch is disconnected; when the second switch control circuit 305 is turned on, the connection between the second APL communication interface and the APL switch is restored. The working principle of the switch control circuit is as described above. Specifically, during the first duration of maintaining the disconnected state and the second duration of restoring the connection, time control can be implemented through the timer of the processor 303. In other embodiments, the first APL communication interface 101 may also be selected as the target interface.

[0051] In some embodiments, the APL switch 200 includes an indicator device. When the first APL communication interface 101 or the second APL communication interface is connected to the communication interface of the APL switch 200, the indicator device is in a first state; when the first APL communication interface 101 or the second APL communication interface is disconnected from the communication interface of the APL switch 200, the indicator device is in a second state. Step S430 further includes: the indicator device providing an indication according to a first rule, where different first rules are used to characterize different Ethernet protocol categories.

[0052] Specifically, the operating states of the indicator device include a first state and a second state. The first rule includes repeatedly executing the following process: the indicator device alternately switches between the first state and the second state, and after the number of switching reaches a first preset number, the indicator device maintains the second state for a first preset duration.

[0053] This application does not limit the specific implementation of the indicating device. For example, the indicating device is a lamp that can be controlled to turn on and off. The indicating device can also provide other common physical quantities to indicate different states, such as sound, vibration, etc.

[0054] In some embodiments, the indicator device of the APL switch 200 is an LED light. The first state of the LED light is always on, and the second state is off. The LED light switches its state through a switching circuit. When the second switch control circuit 305 is closed, the LED light is off; when the second switch control circuit 305 is open, the LED light is always on. Therefore, the processor 303 can control the second switch control circuit 305 to alternately switch the current connection of the second APL communication interface 102, causing the LED light to alternate between on and off states. After reaching a first preset number of times, the LED light is kept off for a first preset duration. The number of times the LED light alternates between on and off varies depending on the first preset number of times, thus exhibiting different first rules. For example, when the first preset number of times is 1, the alternation of the LED light between on and off is executed only once; when the second preset number of times is 2, the alternation of the LED light between on and off is executed twice. In the first rule, the time the LED light is off is controlled by the first duration, and the time the LED light is on is controlled by the second duration. The preset number of times controls the LED lights to alternate between on and off, and the number of LED light alternations indicates the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device.

[0055] In some embodiments, specifically, to effectively indicate the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device, the LED repeatedly executes a first rule, operating according to the first rule until the number of times the first rule is repeated reaches a preset threshold. For example, when the preset threshold is 2, the first rule is repeated twice. Simultaneously, to distinguish the number of times the LED displays the preset threshold of the first rule, the LED is kept off after each execution of the first rule. That is, after the LED executes the first preset number of times, it remains off until a second preset duration. For example, when the first preset number is 1, the LED alternates between on and off once, and then remains off until the second preset duration. After the second preset duration ends, the LED again executes the first rule according to the first preset number of times until the number of times the first rule is repeated reaches the preset threshold. Once the number of times the first rule is repeated reaches the preset threshold, the LED remains on, indicating that the process of indicating the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device 100 has ended, and the operator can proceed with other steps.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first preset number of times is set to 1, 2, and 3 times; in other embodiments, it can be set to other values. In some embodiments, the first preset duration is set to 4 seconds; in other embodiments, it can be set to other values. In some embodiments, the preset threshold is set to 3. In some embodiments, the first duration is set to 1 second and the second duration is set to 2 seconds; in other embodiments, it can be set to other values.

[0057] Based on the values ​​set above, the following three different first rules can be obtained:

[0058] 1. The LED light is on for 1 second, off for 2 seconds, and this process is repeated once. Then it is off for 4 seconds. After this process is repeated three times, the LED light stays on. This indicates that the current Ethernet protocol type is Ethernet Protocol 1.

[0059] 2. The LED light is on for 1 second, off for 2 seconds, and this process is repeated twice. Then it is off for 4 seconds. After this process is repeated three times, the LED light stays on. This indicates that the current Ethernet protocol type is Ethernet Protocol 2.

[0060] 3. The LED light is on for 1 second, off for 2 seconds, and this process is repeated 3 times. Then it is off for 4 seconds. After this process is repeated 3 times, the LED light stays on. Then the current Ethernet protocol type is Ethernet Protocol 3.

[0061] Ethernet protocols 1, 2, and 3 can correspond to any one of the PROFINET, Ethernet / IP, and HART-IP protocols, respectively, and this application does not impose any limitation on this. In other embodiments, a first preset number of iterations and the Ethernet protocol type can be set according to the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device 100. This management method automatically indicates the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device by detecting the connection between the communication interface of the APL device 100 and the APL switch 200, without introducing an additional human-machine interface or relying on specialized equipment for Ethernet protocol indication.

[0062] In another embodiment, the connection state represents the communication connection status. The APL device 100 can control the communication connection via the first PHY module 103 and the second PHY module 104, such as disconnecting and connecting the communication connection. When the communication connection is disconnected, the indicator of the APL switch 200 is in a second state; when the communication connection is normal, the indicator of the APL switch 200 is in a first state. The APL device 100 can control the indicator of the APL switch 200 by controlling the communication connection, thereby providing an indication of the Ethernet protocol type.

[0063] In another embodiment, a method for managing the Ethernet protocol category of an APL device 100 further includes: after the indicative device remains in a first state, switching the current Ethernet protocol category to the target category; the step of switching the current Ethernet protocol category to the target category includes:

[0064] Step S451: Select the target interface from the first APL communication interface 101 and the second APL communication interface 102;

[0065] Step S452: Repeatedly disconnect and connect the target interface to the APL switch 200 according to the second rule. Different second rules are used to characterize the different Ethernet protocol categories to be switched to.

[0066] Step S453: Keep the target interface connected to the APL switch 200 and store the Ethernet protocol category corresponding to the second rule in the memory of the APL device 100.

[0067] It should be noted that the APL device 100 is typically compatible with multiple Ethernet protocols, and the appropriate Ethernet protocol is selected based on different usage scenarios. Switching the Ethernet protocol category generally occurs after the APL device 100 identifies its current Ethernet protocol category according to the indication, that is, after the indicator device remains in the first state. In some embodiments, that is, after the LED light displays a preset threshold number of times, the LED remains in a constantly lit state.

[0068] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, elaborates on steps S451 to S453.

[0069] It should be noted that before step S452, both the first APL communication interface 101 and the second APL communication interface 102 should be connected to the APL switch 200. Then, in step S451, a target interface is selected, which is the same as the target interface selected in step S430. If the target interface indicating the Ethernet protocol is the second APL communication interface 102, then the target interface for switching the Ethernet protocol category is also the second APL communication interface 102. If the target interface indicating the Ethernet protocol is the first APL communication interface 101, then the target interface for switching the Ethernet protocol category is also the first APL communication interface 101. In step S452, disconnecting and connecting refer to disconnecting or connecting the communication interface by inserting and removing it. For example, if the APL device 100 and the APL switch 200 are connected via a twisted-pair cable, disconnecting and connecting the communication interface refers to removing and connecting the twisted-pair cable. Finally, in step S453, the target interface is kept connected to the APL switch 200, and the Ethernet protocol category corresponding to the second rule is stored in the memory of the APL device 100.

[0070] Specifically, during the insertion and removal process, the current detection circuit, as described above, detects whether the communication interface is connected, thereby determining the number of insertions and removals. Taking the target interface as the second APL communication interface 102 as an example, assuming the processor 303 turns on the second switch control circuit, the second current detection circuit 302 can work normally. The working principle of the switch control circuit and the current detection circuit is as described above. When the twisted pair is unplugged, the second current detection circuit 302 cannot detect current, so the processor 303 records that the twisted pair was unplugged once. When the twisted pair is plugged in, the second current detection circuit 302 can detect current, and the processor 303 records that the twisted pair was plugged in once. By accumulating the number of times current cannot be detected or can be detected, the number of insertions and removals can be determined. In other embodiments, the target interface can also be the first APL communication interface 101.

[0071] In some embodiments, the second rule includes performing the following process: alternating between a disconnected state and a connected state between the target interface and the APL switch 200; and maintaining the target interface and the APL switch in a connected state for a second preset duration after the number of switching operations reaches a second preset number. In this embodiment, the second preset number is set to 1, 2, and 3, and the second preset duration is set to 20 seconds. In some embodiments, the disconnected state is defined as unplugging the twisted-pair cable of the target interface, and the connected state is defined as plugging in the twisted-pair cable of the target interface. The Ethernet protocol type switching method in the management method does not require specialized instruments or equipment; it only requires a simple plug-and-play procedure to switch the Ethernet protocol type, resulting in low cost, ease of operation, and reduced likelihood of errors.

[0072] In some embodiments, there is a certain time interval between the switching between the disconnected and connected states due to the plugging and unplugging operation. In some embodiments, the disconnected and connected states can be maintained for a certain period of time during the switching process, for example, for five seconds.

[0073] Based on the above numerical settings, the following three different second rules can be obtained:

[0074] 1. If the connection is interrupted for 5 seconds and then connected for 5 seconds, execute once. After that, if the connection is maintained for 20 seconds, the Ethernet protocol type will be switched to Ethernet Protocol 1.

[0075] 2. After disconnecting for 5 seconds and connecting for 5 seconds, repeat this process twice. Then, maintain the connection state for 20 seconds to switch the Ethernet protocol type to Ethernet Protocol 2.

[0076] 3. After disconnecting for 5 seconds and connecting for 5 seconds, repeat this process 3 times. Then, maintain the connection state for 20 seconds to switch the Ethernet protocol type to Ethernet Protocol 3.

[0077] After successful setup, the Ethernet protocol category corresponding to the second rule is stored in the memory of APL device 100. During the next connection, APL switch 200 will automatically match the switched Ethernet protocol category. In other embodiments, the second preset number of connections and the Ethernet protocol category can be set according to the Ethernet protocol types of APL device 100.

[0078] In some embodiments, if it is not necessary to obtain the Ethernet protocol type of the APL device 100 during use, it is only necessary to connect one of the communication interfaces of the APL device 100 (the first APL communication interface 101 or the second APL communication interface 102) to one of the communication interfaces of the APL switch 200. At this time, the APL device 100 and the APL switch 200 are connected to only one interface, and the indicator device of the APL switch will remain lit, indicating that the communication interface has been successfully established.

[0079] In some embodiments, multiple APL devices can be connected in a daisy chain configuration, where the communication interface of one APL device is connected to the communication interface of the next device, forming a serial connection. The other communication interface of the first or last APL device can be connected to a communication interface of the APL switch 200. Therefore, the design of two communication interfaces in the APL device can also accommodate different usage scenarios.

[0080] The method for managing the Ethernet protocol category of APL devices provided in this application does not introduce an additional human-machine interface. It automatically indicates the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device by detecting the connection between the APL device's communication interface and the APL switch, without relying on specialized equipment for Ethernet protocol indication. During the switching of the Ethernet protocol category, no special operating instruments are needed; the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device can be flexibly set simply by plugging and unplugging the communication interface. Therefore, this management method has the advantages of simple operation and strong independence, improving the environmental adaptability of APL devices and making it suitable for explosion-proof scenarios such as coal mining and petrochemical industries.

[0081] This application also provides an APL load cell, which includes a management device for the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device as described above. Using this management device, the APL load cell can be used without an additional human-machine interface. By detecting the connection between the APL load cell's communication interface and the APL switch, the Ethernet protocol category of the APL load cell is automatically indicated, eliminating the need for specialized equipment for Ethernet protocol indication. Furthermore, during Ethernet protocol category switching, no special operating instruments are required; the Ethernet protocol category of the APL load cell can be flexibly set simply by plugging and unplugging the communication interface. Therefore, this APL load cell has the advantages of simple operation and high independence, improving its environmental adaptability and making it suitable for use in explosion-proof environments such as coal mining and petrochemical industries.

[0082] The basic concepts have been described above. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, the above disclosure is merely illustrative and does not constitute a limitation of this application. Although not explicitly stated herein, those skilled in the art may make various modifications, improvements, and corrections to this application. Such modifications, improvements, and corrections are suggested in this application, and therefore remain within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this application.

[0083] Furthermore, this application uses specific terms to describe embodiments of the application. For example, "an embodiment," "one embodiment," and / or "some embodiments" refer to a particular feature, structure, or characteristic related to at least one embodiment of the application. Therefore, it should be emphasized and noted that "an embodiment," "one embodiment," or "an alternative embodiment" mentioned twice or more in different locations in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, certain features, structures, or characteristics in one or more embodiments of the application can be appropriately combined.

[0084] Similarly, it should be noted that, in order to simplify the description of the present application and thus aid in the understanding of one or more embodiments, the foregoing description of the embodiments of the present application sometimes combines multiple features into a single embodiment, drawing, or description thereof. However, this disclosure method does not imply that the subject matter of the present application requires more features than those mentioned. In fact, the embodiments have fewer features than all the features of the single embodiments disclosed above.

[0085] In some embodiments, numbers describing the quantity of components and attributes are used. It should be understood that such numbers used in the description of embodiments are modified in some examples with the terms "approximately," "approximately," or "generally." Unless otherwise stated, "approximately," "approximately," or "generally" indicates that the numbers are allowed to vary by ±20%. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters used in this application are approximate values, which may be changed according to the characteristics required by individual embodiments. In some embodiments, numerical parameters should take into account specified significant digits and employ a general method of digit preservation. Although the numerical ranges and parameters used to confirm their breadth of range in some embodiments of this application are approximate values, in specific embodiments, such numerical values ​​are set as precisely as feasible.

Claims

1. A method of managing the Ethernet protocol class of an APL device, characterized in that, include: Connect the APL device to the APL switch, wherein the APL device includes a communication interface, the communication interface including a first APL communication interface and a second APL communication interface; Detect the connection status of the first APL communication interface and the second APL communication interface; When it is detected that both the first APL communication interface and the second APL communication interface are connected to the APL switch, one of the communication interfaces is selected as the target interface, the connection between the target interface and the APL switch is cut off, and the disconnection state is maintained for a first duration before the connection is restored for a second duration. After the second duration, the APL switch gives an indication based on the stored Ethernet protocol category. The current Ethernet protocol category of the APL device is identified based on the indicated information.

2. The management method of claim 1, wherein, The APL switch includes an indicator device, and the steps for the APL switch to provide an indication include: The indicating device provides the indication according to a first rule, and different first rules are used to characterize different Ethernet protocol categories.

3. The management method of claim 2, wherein, The operating states of the indicator device include a first state and a second state. The first rule includes repeatedly executing the following process: the indicator device alternately switches between the first state and the second state. After the number of switching reaches a first preset number, the indicator device maintains the second state for a first preset duration.

4. The management method of claim 3, wherein, The first rule also includes: after the number of repetitions of the first rule reaches a preset threshold, the indicator device remains in the first state.

5. The management method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: after the indicating device remains in the first state, switching the current Ethernet protocol category to the target category; The step of switching the current Ethernet protocol category to the target category includes: Select the target interface from the first APL communication interface and the second APL communication interface; The target interface is repeatedly disconnected and connected to the APL switch according to a second rule, where different second rules are used to characterize different Ethernet protocol categories to be switched to; The target interface is kept connected to the APL switch, and the Ethernet protocol category corresponding to the second rule is stored in the memory of the APL device.

6. The management method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The second rule includes performing the following process: alternating between a disconnected state and a connected state between the target interface and the APL switch; and maintaining the target interface and the APL switch in a connected state for a second preset duration after the number of switching operations reaches a second preset number.

7. The management method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The connection status is either a power connection status or a communication connection status.

8. A management device for Ethernet protocol categories of an APL device, characterized in that, Includes a status detection circuit, disposed in the APL device, wherein the APL device includes a communication interface, the communication interface including a first APL communication interface and a second APL communication interface; The status detection circuit includes a processor, a first current detection circuit, and a second current detection circuit. The first current detection circuit is connected between the first APL communication interface and the processor, and is used to detect the connection status between the first APL communication interface and the APL switch. The second current detection circuit is connected between the second APL communication interface and the processor, and is used to detect the connection status between the second APL communication interface and the APL switch. The processor is configured to execute the management method as described in any one of claims 1-7.

9. The management device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The status detection circuit further includes a first switch control circuit and a second switch control circuit. The first switch control circuit is connected to the first current detection circuit and the processor, respectively. The second switch control circuit is connected to the second current detection circuit and the processor, respectively. The processor is further configured to: control the power connection status of the first APL communication interface through the first switch control circuit, and control the power connection status of the second APL communication interface through the second switch control circuit.

10. The management device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The management device further includes a first PHY module and a second PHY module. The first PHY module is connected to the first APL communication interface, and the second PHY module is connected to the second APL communication interface. The processor is further configured to control the communication connection status of the first APL communication interface through the first PHY module and to control the communication connection status of the second APL communication interface through the second PHY module.

11. An APL weighing sensor, characterized in that, Management device for the Ethernet protocol category of the APL device as described in any one of claims 8-10.

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