Multi-channel CAN communication channel rapid switching system and method

Abstract

The invention discloses a multichannel CAN communication channel fast switching system and method. The multichannel CAN communication channel fast switching system comprises a single-channel CAN communication tool, a wireless control module and at least two lower computer CAN ports. The input end of the single-channel CAN communication tool is connected with an upper computer, and the output end CAN-H and CAN-L terminals are connected in parallel to lead out a plurality of cables; the wireless control module comprises a corresponding number of relay units and a wireless remote control unit; each relay unit is provided with a control coil and two contacts which are synchronously switched on and off; the multipath cable is connected with the static contact side of each relay unit, and the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals of the CAN port of the lower computer are correspondingly connected with the movable contact side of each relay unit. According to the invention, the single-channel tool is matched with the wireless control relay for switching, a multi-channel tool or a plurality of single-channel tools are not needed, the interface and development limitation of the upper computer is broken through, rapid wireless switching of channels is realized, the cost is reduced, the operation is simplified, and the method is suitable for various multi-channel CAN communication scenes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the fields of automotive electronics and industrial control, specifically to a multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system and method. Background Technology

[0002] In the development and production of complex electronic control systems for new energy vehicles and automatic manual transmission (AMT) vehicles, tasks such as programming, offline testing, fault diagnosis, and parameter calibration of transmission control units (TCUs), motor controllers (MCUs), and vehicle controllers (VCUs) often require frequent communication switching between multiple CAN nodes (lower-level machines). Currently, common technical solutions for such multi-channel CAN communication scenarios have the following main shortcomings: The first approach involves using a dedicated multi-channel CAN communication tool that integrates multiple physical channels. These tools are typically expensive, costing over 40% more than single-channel tools, and a failure in even one channel can render the entire tool unusable, resulting in unsatisfactory lifespan and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, this approach requires the development of complex channel selection and configuration functions in the accompanying host computer software, increasing software development difficulty and the user's learning curve. In practice, channel switching must be performed through the software interface, a cumbersome process that often takes more than 10 seconds per switch, severely impacting overall testing or production cycle time.

[0003] The second approach involves using multiple independent single-channel CAN communication tools, each connected to a different communication port on the host computer (such as multiple USB-CAN adapters). While this approach avoids the single point of failure risk associated with multi-channel tools, the hardware cost increases linearly with the number of channels, and it also consumes a significant amount of valuable interface resources on the host computer. Similarly, the host computer software needs to manage multiple ports and perform complex configurations, making its development and application still quite challenging.

[0004] In particular, when devices such as industrial touchscreens, embedded microcontrollers, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) act as host computers, their software systems are often closed or have limited secondary development capabilities, making it difficult to embed the channel management plugins required by the aforementioned solutions. Furthermore, these devices typically only have one CAN communication port, making it impossible to connect multiple single-channel tools. Therefore, when faced with multi-channel CAN communication requirements, operators are often forced to use the most primitive mechanical plug-and-play method to replace communication harness connectors. This method not only has extremely low switching efficiency and easily causes physical damage to the connectors, but also fails to achieve remote or automated operation, severely restricting production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system and method. Through an innovative hardware architecture, it realizes wireless, fast, and remote switching of CAN channels, significantly reducing the hardware cost and software complexity of multi-channel communication, and improving operational efficiency to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solutions: On one hand, the present invention provides a multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system, comprising: A single-channel CAN communication tool, a wireless control module, a control unit, and at least two lower-level CAN ports; The input end of the single-channel CAN communication tool is used to connect to the host computer, and the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals of the output end of the single-channel CAN communication tool are connected in parallel to lead out multiple cables. The wireless control module includes the same number of relay units as the multiple cables, and a wireless remote control unit; each relay unit includes a control coil and two contacts that are synchronously controlled by the control coil to open and close. The wireless remote control unit is used to centrally control the control coil of any relay unit, and each control coil can connect to a corresponding relay unit, thereby switching the output of the single-channel CAN communication tool to the corresponding lower-level CAN port. The multiple cables are respectively connected to the stationary contact side of the two contacts of each relay unit; The CAN-H and CAN-L terminals corresponding to the CAN ports of each lower-level machine are respectively connected to the moving contact side of the two contacts of the corresponding relay unit.

[0007] Furthermore, the wireless remote control unit includes a remote controller and a wireless receiver. The wireless receiver is electrically connected to the control coil of each relay unit and is used to receive the wireless signals emitted by the remote controller and control the on / off state of the corresponding control coil.

[0008] Furthermore, the remote control is equipped with multiple control buttons, the number of which is the same as the number of relay units and corresponds one-to-one. The control buttons have a self-locking function, and when a button is pressed, the relay unit is continuously connected.

[0009] Furthermore, the wireless control module is an independent unit with a modular design, and the number of relay units can be expanded or reduced to adapt to different CAN channel requirements.

[0010] Furthermore, the input terminal of the single-channel CAN communication tool is connected to the USB port or DB9 port of the host computer.

[0011] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels based on the system, comprising the following steps: Connect the input of the single-channel CAN communication tool to the host computer; Connect the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals of the single-channel CAN communication tool in parallel to lead out multiple cables, and connect the multiple cables to the stationary contact side of each relay unit in the wireless control module respectively. Power on the system: By operating the remote control of the wireless control module, the on / off state of the control coil of the corresponding relay unit is controlled to connect the CAN channel of the target lower-level machine and realize channel switching.

[0012] Furthermore, the step of powering on the system includes independently powering and starting the host computer, single-channel CAN communication tool, wireless control module, and slave computer.

[0013] Furthermore, the two contacts of the relay unit are used to synchronously switch between the CAN-H and CAN-L lines.

[0014] Furthermore, the control button of the remote control has a self-locking function, which keeps the relay unit continuously connected when the button is pressed.

[0015] Furthermore, the channel switching operation is completed by a remote control that operates the wireless control module, and the host computer does not need to execute any specific configuration or control commands during the entire switching process.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial technical effects: This invention provides a rapid switching system for multi-channel CAN communication. The output of a single-channel CAN communication tool is connected in parallel to lead out multiple cables. Combined with a flexibly configurable number of relay units, only one single-channel CAN communication tool is needed to meet the requirements. There is no need to purchase additional multi-channel tools or increase the number of single-channel tools based on the number of channels. It achieves N-channel CAN channel expansion support without relying on multi-channel CAN communication tools or combinations of multiple single-channel tools, avoiding the need for multiple single-channel tools with N times the investment required for a single-channel scenario. Furthermore, because the single-channel tool and relay unit are independently connected, even if the relay corresponding to a certain channel fails, only the individual relay unit needs to be maintained or replaced, without replacing the entire communication tool, significantly extending the service life of the core communication equipment.

[0017] Specifically, the core control logic for channel switching is handled by the wireless control module. It directly controls the relay unit's on / off state via wireless signals emitted by the remote control. The entire switching process requires no configuration or control command output from the host computer; it only needs to maintain a basic communication-ready state. For host computers equipped with only a single CAN interface, the system utilizes a design that connects a single-channel communication tool in parallel with multiple cables, eliminating the need for the host computer to provide multiple interfaces to expand multi-channel communication capabilities. For host computers such as touchscreens, microcontrollers, and PLCs that lack secondary development capabilities for CAN functionality, the limitations of secondary software development are completely avoided because there is no need to embed channel switching plugins or develop port selection functions. This allows these devices to stably achieve multi-channel CAN communication, significantly reducing the limitations of host computer selection and software development costs. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a fast switching process for multi-channel CAN communication channels in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0020] In the following description, only certain exemplary embodiments are briefly described. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the drawings and description are considered to be exemplary in nature and not restrictive.

[0021] It should be understood that, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or collections thereof.

[0022] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0023] It should also be further understood that the term "and / or" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0024] The accompanying drawings illustrate various structural schematic diagrams according to embodiments disclosed in this invention. These drawings are not to scale, and some details have been enlarged for clarity, and some details may have been omitted. The shapes of the various regions and layers shown in the drawings, as well as their relative sizes and positional relationships, are merely exemplary and may deviate from reality due to manufacturing tolerances or technical limitations. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can design regions / layers with different shapes, sizes, and relative positions as needed.

[0025] See Figure 1 This invention provides a multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system, comprising: A single-channel CAN communication tool, a wireless control module, a control unit, and at least two lower-level CAN ports; The single-channel CAN communication tool serves as a relay for CAN signals between the host computer and the slave computer. Its input is configured to stably connect to the host computer's CAN communication port (including USB or DB9 ports), adapting to the interface requirements of different types of host computers. The output of the single-channel CAN communication tool features parallel connection of the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals, leading to multiple cables. The number of cables matches the number of CAN channels required by the system, providing the hardware foundation for multi-channel signal transmission. The single-channel CAN communication tool can be implemented using a conventional single-channel CAN communication tool, effectively reducing system hardware investment costs and avoiding the problem of overall failure due to a single-channel failure, common in multi-channel tools.

[0026] The wireless control module includes relay units of the same number as the multiple cables, and a wireless remote control unit. Each relay unit includes a control coil and two contacts that are synchronously controlled by the control coil to open and close. The number of relay units corresponds one-to-one with the number of cables leading out from the output end of the single-channel CAN communication tool. Each relay unit integrates a control coil and two contacts. The control coil is electrically connected to the wireless remote control unit, and the two contacts correspond to the on / off control of the CAN-H and CAN-L lines, respectively. When the control coil is energized, it can synchronously drive the two contacts to close, realizing the simultaneous conduction of the corresponding channel's CAN-H and CAN-L lines. When the control coil is de-energized, the two contacts synchronously open, and the corresponding channel stops signal transmission, ensuring the integrity and synchronization of CAN signal transmission. In addition, the number of relay units can be flexibly expanded or reduced according to the needs of the CAN channels in the actual application scenario to adapt to different usage scenarios with different numbers of channels.

[0027] The wireless remote control unit is used to centrally control the control coil of any relay unit, and each control coil can connect a corresponding relay unit, thereby switching the output of the single-channel CAN communication tool to the corresponding lower-level machine CAN port. In one embodiment of the present invention, the wireless remote control unit includes a remote controller and a wireless receiver. The remote controller serves as the operating terminal and is equipped with control buttons that correspond one-to-one with the number of relay units. The control buttons have a self-locking function, which ensures that the button remains in the on state after being pressed, without the need for continuous pressing. The wireless receiver is electrically connected to the control coil of each relay unit and is used to receive the wireless control signals emitted by the remote controller and convert the signals into electrical signals to control the on / off state of the corresponding control coil, thereby realizing wireless remote control of channel switching.

[0028] The multiple cables are respectively connected to the stationary contact side of the two contacts of each relay unit; the use of relays to realize the fast switching of CAN channels completely replaces the traditional mechanical plug-in switching method, greatly improves the channel switching efficiency, and the time for a single switch is significantly shortened compared with the traditional solution. The CAN-H and CAN-L terminals corresponding to the CAN ports of each lower-level machine are respectively connected to the moving contact side of the two contacts of the corresponding relay unit.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the lower-level CAN ports corresponds to an independent CAN communication channel, adapting to different lower-level devices (such as transmissions, MCUs, VCUs, etc. in new energy vehicles). Each lower-level CAN port is equipped with corresponding CAN-H and CAN-L terminals, which are respectively connected to the moving contact side of the two contacts of the corresponding relay unit in the wireless control module. When the corresponding relay unit is turned on, it can receive CAN signals transmitted from the single-channel CAN communication tool, realizing communication connection with the upper-level computer.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, the wireless control module is an independent unit with a modular design. The number of relay units can be expanded or reduced to adapt to different CAN channel requirements. The wireless control module enables remote control of CAN channel switching, effectively overcoming spatial limitations and making operation more convenient, suitable for scenarios requiring long-distance operation. The modular design of the wireless control module gives the system strong versatility, applicable not only to all multi-channel CAN communication scenarios but also unrestricted by the number of CAN channels. More importantly, the channel switching process requires no additional development or configuration of host computer software, greatly reducing the barrier to entry.

[0031] Connection relationships of a multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system: The input of the single-channel CAN communication tool is connected to the host computer, and the output of the single-channel CAN communication tool is connected one-to-one with the stationary contact side of the relay unit in the wireless control module through multiple cables. The moving contact side of the relay unit in the wireless control module is connected to the corresponding terminal of the CAN port of the lower-level machine. The wireless remote control unit of the wireless control module controls the relay unit through wireless signals, thus forming a complete communication link of "host computer → single-channel CAN communication tool → wireless control module → lower-level machine CAN port → lower-level machine". Through the switching control of the wireless control module, the communication switching between the host computer and the devices corresponding to different lower-level machine CAN ports is realized.

[0032] See Figure 2 The present invention also provides a method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels based on the above system, comprising the following steps: Step 1: Establish a connection between the host computer and the single-channel CAN communication tool. Connect the input terminal of the single-channel CAN communication tool to the CAN communication port (USB port or DB9 port) of the host computer to ensure that the signal transmission link between the two is unobstructed. Step 2: Connect the single-channel CAN communication tool to the relay unit. Connect the CAN-H terminal and CAN-L terminal of the output end of the single-channel CAN communication tool in parallel to lead out multiple cables. Connect the multiple cables to the stationary contact side of each relay unit in the wireless control module to ensure that each cable is firmly connected and to avoid signal transmission interference. Step 3: Power up each component of the system, providing independent power to the host computer, single-channel CAN communication tool, wireless control module and slave computer to avoid communication abnormalities caused by unstable power supply; after power supply is completed, turn on the host computer and slave computer in sequence, and start the corresponding application software of each device to put each device into the communication ready state. Step 4: Perform channel switching. Depending on actual communication needs, select manual or adaptive switching mode using a knob. In manual mode, operate the remote control of the wireless control module by pressing the control button corresponding to the target channel. The remote control emits a wireless control signal, which is received by the wireless receiver. This signal energizes the control coil of the corresponding relay unit, causing two contacts to close synchronously, connecting the target lower-level machine's CAN channel and enabling rapid switching of CAN communication channels. Simultaneously, the indicator lights corresponding to the remote control and wireless receiver remain lit to indicate channel connectivity. To switch to another channel, press the control button for the original channel to close it, then press the control button for the new channel to complete the channel switch. If multiple channels need to communicate simultaneously, simply press the remote control buttons for each channel simultaneously to connect all channels requiring communication. In adaptive mode, the control unit automatically checks the voltage change of the voltmeter at each lower-level machine's CAN communication port to determine if the lower-level machine is sending messages on that route, thus determining if communication is required. If the voltage count value corresponding to the route fluctuates continuously, it indicates that a message has been sent along that route, and the corresponding relay will automatically close, enabling communication between the host computer and the channel. If the voltage count value corresponding to the route does not fluctuate, it indicates that no message has been sent along that route, and the relay will remain open.

[0033] The specific operation steps of the multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching method of the present invention are as follows: Connect the host computer and the communication tool by connecting the input terminal of the single-channel CAN communication tool to any CAN communication port (USB port or DB9 port) of the host computer to ensure stable data transmission between the single-channel CAN communication tool and the host computer. Complete the distribution of the communication tool output to the stationary contact of the relay. Connect the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals of the single-channel CAN communication tool output terminal in parallel to lead out multiple cables. The number of cables is equal to the number of CAN channels required. Then connect these cables to the stationary contact side of the corresponding relay unit in the wireless control module. It should be noted that the selected relay unit must be able to control the on and off of two contacts simultaneously with each control coil to ensure that the CAN-H line and CAN-L line can switch synchronously. To achieve the connection between the lower-level machine and the moving contact of the relay, the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals corresponding to each CAN communication port of the lower-level machine are connected to the moving contact side of the corresponding channel relay unit in the wireless control module, respectively, to ensure that each CAN port of the lower-level machine can establish an effective connection with the corresponding relay unit, and to avoid signal transmission interruption caused by poor contact. Perform system power supply and startup operations, providing independent power supplies for the host computer, single-channel CAN communication tool, wireless control module, and slave device. Power can be supplied by DC power supply or AC power supply with adapter, ensuring that the power supply voltage is stable within the rated operating voltage range of each device. After power supply is completed, turn on the host computer and slave device in sequence, and start the corresponding application software for each device, such as the CAN communication monitoring software of the host computer and the device control software of the slave device, so that each device enters the communication ready state. The wireless channel switching operation allows users to select between manual and adaptive modes via a knob, depending on actual communication needs. In manual mode, the remote control of the wireless control module presses the control button corresponding to the target channel (distinguished by labels). The remote control emits a wireless control signal, which is received by the wireless receiver. This signal energizes the control coil of the corresponding relay unit, causing two contacts to close synchronously, connecting the target lower-level machine's CAN channel and enabling rapid CAN communication channel switching. Simultaneously, indicator lights on the remote control and wireless receiver remain illuminated to indicate channel connectivity. To switch to another channel, press the control button for the original channel to close it, then press the control button for the new channel to complete the switch. If multiple channels require simultaneous communication, simply press the remote control buttons for each channel simultaneously to connect all necessary channels. In adaptive mode, the control unit automatically checks the voltage change of the voltmeter at each lower-level machine's CAN communication port to determine if the lower-level machine is sending messages on that route, thus determining if communication is required. If the voltage counter value corresponding to a given route fluctuates continuously, it indicates that a message is being sent along that route. The corresponding relay will automatically close, enabling communication between the host computer and that channel. If the voltage counter value corresponding to a given route does not fluctuate, it indicates that no message is being sent along that route, and the relay will remain open. When it is necessary to switch channels again, all relays can be disconnected with a single button press on the remote control, and the control unit will automatically select the channel again.

[0034] This invention has been successfully applied in the assembly workshop and can be extended to all scenarios requiring multi-channel CAN communication. Its advantages are particularly significant in the process of frequent channel switching, such as program flashing, offline testing, fault diagnosis, and parameter calibration of transmissions, MCUs, and VCUs in new energy and AMT vehicles. It can effectively improve work efficiency and reduce usage costs.

[0035] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely preferred examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system, characterized in that, include: A single-channel CAN communication tool, a wireless control module, a control unit, and at least two lower-level CAN ports; The input end of the single-channel CAN communication tool is used to connect to the host computer, and the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals of the output end of the single-channel CAN communication tool are connected in parallel to lead out multiple cables. The wireless control module includes the same number of relay units as the multiple cables, and a wireless remote control unit; each relay unit includes a control coil and two contacts that are synchronously controlled by the control coil to open and close. The wireless remote control unit is used to centrally control the control coil of any relay unit, and each control coil can connect to a corresponding relay unit, thereby switching the output of the single-channel CAN communication tool to the corresponding lower-level CAN port. The multiple cables are respectively connected to the stationary contact side of the two contacts of each relay unit; The CAN-H and CAN-L terminals corresponding to the CAN ports of each lower-level machine are respectively connected to the moving contact side of the two contacts of the corresponding relay unit; Each of the lower-level machine's CAN ports has a voltmeter connected in parallel to its CAN-H and CAN-L terminals. The voltmeter is connected to the corresponding control unit, which can control the on / off state of each relay.

2. The multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The wireless remote control unit includes a remote controller and a wireless receiver. The wireless receiver is electrically connected to the control coil of each relay unit and is used to receive the wireless signals emitted by the remote controller and control the on / off state of the corresponding control coil.

3. A multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The remote control is equipped with multiple control buttons, the number of which is the same as the number of relay units and corresponds one-to-one. The control buttons have a self-locking function, and when a button is pressed, the relay unit is continuously connected. Each relay control module and wireless control module is equipped with an indicator light. When the channel is connected, the corresponding indicator light is constantly lit, making it easy to clearly identify the channel that is connected.

4. A multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The wireless control module is an independent unit with a modular design, and the number of relay units can be expanded or reduced to adapt to different CAN channel requirements.

5. A multi-channel CAN communication channel fast switching system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input terminal of the single-channel CAN communication tool is connected to the USB port or DB9 port of the host computer.

6. A method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels based on the system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Connect the input of the single-channel CAN communication tool to the host computer; Connect the CAN-H and CAN-L terminals of the single-channel CAN communication tool in parallel to lead out multiple cables, and connect the multiple cables to the stationary contact side of each relay unit in the wireless control module respectively. Power on the system; By operating the remote control of the wireless control module, the on / off state of the control coil of the corresponding relay unit is controlled to connect the CAN channel of the target lower-level machine and realize channel switching.

7. The method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels according to claim 6, characterized in that, The steps for powering on the system include independently powering and starting the host computer, single-channel CAN communication tool, wireless control module, and slave computer.

8. The method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels according to claim 6, characterized in that, The control buttons on the remote control have a self-locking function, which keeps the relay unit continuously connected when the button is pressed.

9. A method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels according to claim 6, characterized in that, The channel switching can be done manually by operating the remote control of the wireless control module. The host computer does not need to execute any specific configuration or control commands during the entire switching process.

10. A method for fast switching of multi-channel CAN communication channels according to claim 6, characterized in that, All channel switching can be selected in adaptive mode. The control unit automatically judges the voltage change of the voltmeter of each lower-level machine's CAN communication port to determine whether a message has been sent. If so, the corresponding relay unit is closed to realize communication between the upper-level machine and the channel. When it is necessary to switch channels again, all relays can be disconnected with a single button on the remote control, and the control unit can automatically select the channel again.

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