A debugging test board based on RF MESH communication technology

Abstract

The utility model relates to communication technical field, specifically disclose a kind of debugging test board based on RF MESH communication technology, comprising: integrated on the same substrate RF MESH module, processor module, antenna module and data interface module;Through the design of integration, data interface module, processor module, RF MESH module and antenna module are effectively integrated on the same substrate, complete two-way communication link is built, complete signal transceiving and processing link between terminal equipment and RF MESH network is realized, so that debugging board does not need to rely on public network operator, reduce long-term operating cost and equipment power consumption.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of communication technology and relates to a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology. Background Technology

[0002] In applications such as data acquisition, online monitoring, or concentrators, devices typically require remote communication capabilities for data transmission and management. Currently, cellular network technologies such as GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) are commonly used as the primary communication solution for these devices. However, using existing communication solutions like GPRS faces several challenges in practical applications. First, GPRS communication relies on public cellular networks, which consumes significant communication resources when the number of devices is large, potentially leading to high continuous data traffic fees and operational costs. Second, for battery-powered terminal devices, existing communication modules (such as GPRS modules) typically have relatively high operating and standby power consumption, significantly shortening battery life and necessitating frequent battery replacements, thus increasing maintenance difficulty and costs. Furthermore, the deployment and maintenance costs of GPRS modules and their associated services are also relatively high. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention provides a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology, which reduces long-term operating costs and equipment power consumption.

[0004] This utility model provides a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology, including: an RF MESH module, a processor module, an antenna module, and a data interface module integrated on the same substrate;

[0005] The data interface module receives signals sent by the terminal device and transmits the signals to the processor module; the processor module parses and processes the signals to generate a first signal and transmits the first signal to the RF MESH module; the RF MESH module converts the first signal into a radio frequency signal and transmits the radio frequency signal to the antenna module for transmission;

[0006] Alternatively, the antenna module receives a second radio frequency signal and transmits the second radio frequency signal to the RF MESH module; the RF MESH module converts the second radio frequency signal into a second signal and transmits the second signal to the processor module; the processor module processes the second signal and then transmits the second signal to the terminal device through the data interface module.

[0007] Furthermore, it also includes a power module;

[0008] The power module provides operating power to the RF MESH module, the processor module, the antenna module, and / or the data interface module.

[0009] Furthermore, the RF MESH module includes an RF processing chip, an antenna switching switch, a signal coupler, and a signal amplifier connected in sequence;

[0010] Furthermore, the antenna module includes: an antenna and an antenna tuner;

[0011] One end of the antenna tuner is connected to one end of the signal coupler, and the other end is connected to the feed point of the antenna.

[0012] Furthermore, the processor module includes a controller and / or a microprocessor.

[0013] Furthermore, it also includes a test module, which is communicatively connected to the processor module.

[0014] Furthermore, the test module includes a field-programmable gate array and / or a microprocessor.

[0015] Furthermore, a heat dissipation module is included, which is disposed on the processor module or the RF MESH module.

[0016] Furthermore, the heat dissipation module includes a cooling fan and a heat sink;

[0017] The heat sink is in contact with the surface of the processor module or the RF MESH module via a thermal pad, and the cooling fan is fixed to the heat sink.

[0018] This embodiment discloses a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology, including:

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has at least the following technical effects:

[0020] This invention integrates the data interface module, processor module, RF MESH module, and antenna module onto the same substrate through an integrated design, constructing a complete bidirectional communication link. This enables a complete signal transmission and processing link between the terminal device and the RF MESH network, eliminating the need for the debugging board to rely on public network operators and reducing long-term operating costs and device power consumption. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2This is a diagram showing the positional relationship between modules within a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology in one embodiment of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The following description, with reference to the schematic diagram, illustrates a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology, which represents a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that those skilled in the art can modify the present invention described herein while still achieving its advantageous effects. Therefore, the following description should be understood as being of general knowledge to those skilled in the art and is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0024] The present invention will be described in more detail below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. The advantages and features of the present invention will become clearer from the following description. It should be noted that the drawings are in a very simplified form and use non-precise proportions, and are only used to facilitate and clarify the illustration of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] This utility model discloses a debugging and testing board based on RF MESH (Radio Frequency Mesh Network) communication technology, characterized in that it includes: an RF MESH module, a processor module, an antenna module, and a data interface module integrated on the same substrate.

[0026] In this embodiment, the data interface module receives a signal sent by the terminal device and transmits the signal to the processor module; the processor module parses and processes the signal to generate a first signal and transmits the first signal to the RF MESH module; the RF MESH module converts the first signal into a radio frequency signal and transmits the radio frequency signal to the antenna module for transmission.

[0027] Alternatively, the antenna module receives a second radio frequency signal and transmits the second radio frequency signal to the RF MESH module; the RF MESH module converts the second radio frequency signal into a second signal and transmits the second signal to the processor module; the processor module processes the second signal and then transmits the second signal to the terminal device through the data interface module.

[0028] In this embodiment, through integrated design, the data interface module, processor module, RF MESH module and antenna module are effectively integrated on the same substrate, constructing a complete bidirectional communication link. This realizes a complete signal transmission and processing link between the terminal device and the RF MESH network, so that the debugging board does not need to rely on public network operators, reducing long-term operating costs and device power consumption.

[0029] In one specific embodiment, the substrate is a PCB (printed circuit board). Of course, those skilled in the art can also choose different substrate types according to the actual situation.

[0030] In this embodiment, the data interface module includes at least one of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, a serial port, or an Ethernet interface. The data interface module serves as a port for the debugging and testing board to exchange signals with external terminal devices, such as personal computers or other devices.

[0031] Preferably, the data interface module also includes interface control chips such as a USB controller chip, a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter) transceiver chip, or an Ethernet PHY (Physical Layer) chip. These chips can be used to realize data signal transmission and protocol conversion with external devices.

[0032] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the processor module includes a controller and / or a microprocessor.

[0033] Specifically, the controller and the microprocessor parse, encapsulate, or execute corresponding control logic on the received signal to generate a first signal conforming to a preset communication protocol, and then transmit the first signal to the RF MESH module. Alternatively, the processor module receives a second signal transmitted from the RF MESH module through the data bus, performs data parsing, status judgment, or executes upper-layer application processing on the second signal, and finally transmits the processing result or response signal to an external device through the data interface module.

[0034] In this embodiment, the first signal includes a data frame or control command required by the RF MESH protocol stack. The second signal includes digital data or status information obtained by demodulation by the RF MESH module.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the RF MESH module includes an RF processing chip (RF), an antenna switching switch, a signal coupler, and a signal amplifier (PA) connected in sequence.

[0036] The RF processing chip is connected to one end of the processing module at the end furthest from the antenna switching switch; the signal amplifier is connected to one end of the antenna module at the end furthest from the signal coupler.

[0037] The specific connection methods for the aforementioned RF processing chip, antenna switching switch, signal coupler, and signal amplifier are as follows:

[0038] The signal output of the RF processing chip is directly connected to the signal input of the antenna switch via wires or PCB traces. The signal output of the antenna switch is then connected to the signal input of the signal coupler via wires or PCB traces. The signal output of the signal coupler is connected to the signal input of the signal amplifier via wires or PCB traces. Finally, the signal output of the signal amplifier is connected to the external antenna module via a dedicated RF coaxial cable.

[0039] The specific signal transmission process is as follows: the RF MESH module receives the first signal from the processor module, and after sequential processing by the RF processing chip, antenna switching switch, signal coupler and signal amplifier, it up-converts the signal into a radio frequency signal and transmits it to the antenna module for transmission; or the radio frequency signal received from the antenna module is processed by the RF processing chip through the signal amplifier, signal coupler and antenna switching switch, and then down-converted into a second signal and transmitted to the processor module.

[0040] In one specific embodiment, the RF processing chip is a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or transceiver IC that integrates baseband processing and RF transceiver functions. It is configured to support at least one wireless personal area network standard, such as the IEEE 802.15.4 standard or its derivatives, and operates in a specific frequency band, such as the Sub-GHz ISM band or the 2.4GHz ISM band. This enables the RF processing chip to perform baseband processing, modulation and demodulation, and protocol frame encapsulation and decapsulation operations on the first signal to achieve wireless communication functions. It can also perform low-noise amplification, mixing, filtering, analog-to-digital conversion, digital signal processing (including demodulation, channel equalization, synchronization, etc.), baseband processing, and protocol decapsulation on the received RF signal. Of course, those skilled in the art can choose the type of RF processing chip according to the actual situation.

[0041] In another specific embodiment, the signal amplifier is a power amplifier (PA) or a low-noise amplifier (LNA).

[0042] Furthermore, the antenna module includes an antenna and an antenna tuner.

[0043] One end of the antenna tuner is connected to one end of the signal coupler, and the other end is connected to the feed point of the antenna.

[0044] Furthermore, this embodiment also includes a power module (POWER).

[0045] The power module provides operating power to the RF MESH module, the processor module, the antenna module, and / or the data interface module.

[0046] In this embodiment, one end of the power module is connected to an external power source through a power input interface, while the other end converts the input voltage into the operating voltage required by the RF MESH module, the processor module, the antenna module, and / or the data interface module.

[0047] In one specific embodiment, the power module is a Traco Power TBLC 015-105A2 multi-output DC-DC power supply, and a power management chip (PMIC) can also be selected.

[0048] Furthermore, the data interface module includes at least one of a USB interface, a serial port, or an Ethernet interface, designed to provide flexible and diverse external communication and data interaction capabilities.

[0049] In this embodiment, the data interface module provided is compatible with the electrical characteristics and connection methods of different types of capacitor-powered power supplies, such as different voltage ranges, current capacities, and interface types. Each test channel can independently adapt to the testing requirements of a specific type of power supply.

[0050] Furthermore, this embodiment also includes a test module (TEST).

[0051] In one specific embodiment, the test module and the processor module are communicatively connected.

[0052] Specifically, the test module and the processor module establish a bidirectional communication connection via a UART serial interface. The processor module can send test start commands, configuration parameters, and requests to read test results to the test module using a specific command format. Correspondingly, after completing the test, the test module will send the test data and status information back to the processor module via the UART interface according to a predetermined data format.

[0053] In one specific embodiment, the test module is a field-programmable gate array and / or a microprocessor.

[0054] Furthermore, this embodiment also includes a heat dissipation module.

[0055] The heat dissipation module is disposed on the processor module or the RF MESH module to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the processor module and the RF MESH module, thereby improving the stability of system operation.

[0056] In one specific embodiment, the heat dissipation module includes a heat sink and a cooling fan.

[0057] Specifically, the heat sink is in contact with the surface of the processor module or the RF MESH module via a thermal pad, and the cooling fan is fixed to the heat sink.

[0058] In another specific embodiment, the cooling fan is fixed to the heat sink by screws or clamps.

[0059] In this embodiment, the debugging test board also includes a control panel, which includes multiple control buttons and status indicator lights to facilitate user monitoring and operation.

[0060] In one specific embodiment, the control buttons include a power switch button, a test start / stop button, and a mode selection button, etc. Those skilled in the art can select and configure different buttons according to actual needs to facilitate user monitoring and operation of the debugging test board.

[0061] Furthermore, this embodiment also includes a data acquisition module (COLLECT), a data processing unit (PROCESS), and a data storage unit (STORAGE).

[0062] Specifically, the data acquisition module connects to external sensors through a sensor interface, collects data, preprocesses and filters it through the data processing unit, and stores it in the data storage unit.

[0063] In one specific embodiment, the data acquisition module includes an analog-to-digital converter, and the sensor data is input into the data processing unit after passing through the analog-to-digital converter.

[0064] In another specific embodiment, the data processing unit is a microcontroller and / or an MCU.

[0065] In this embodiment, the outer shell of the debugging test board based on RF MESH communication technology is made of metal material, which has a good shielding effect and prevents external electromagnetic interference.

[0066] Furthermore, the present invention also includes a connector, which includes multiple independent connection interfaces for enabling pluggable electrical connections between the debugging test board based on RF MESH communication technology disclosed in this embodiment and other electronic devices.

[0067] In this embodiment, the application scenarios of the debug test board based on RF MESH communication technology include:

[0068] (1) Wireless Mesh Distribution Network Data Acquisition and Backhaul Test: Simulates and assists in the development of wireless network nodes that do not rely on fiber optic infrastructure, verifying their access capabilities and data backhaul stability in complex environments. Through the RF MESH module, the performance of the device in an ad hoc network environment is tested, such as the dynamic adjustment of network topology, the efficiency of data routing, and the communication reliability in areas with limited signal coverage, providing a test and verification platform for building an end-to-end IP-linked and easily managed wireless distribution network solution.

[0069] (2) Supplementary data collection and transmission network test: The debugging test board of this embodiment is used to simulate the direct connection between the existing collector / concentrator and the Cisco gateway, or to simulate terminal devices such as smart meters with embedded Cisco communication modules, to test their data collection, aggregation and transmission capabilities, and to verify the feasibility of the solution in realizing meter reading networking, improving management efficiency, ensuring link stability and data reliability, so as to provide a test foundation for building a more complete data collection network.

[0070] (3) PLC Mesh (Power Line Mesh Network) Data Collection Test: The debugging test board of this embodiment is used to simulate the process of smart meters with embedded Cisco communication modules directly connecting to devices such as CGR240 for meter reading in the community. The data transmission performance in the power line communication environment is tested to verify the ability of the solution to achieve meter reading networking, improve management level, perform real-time meter management and ensure multi-level security without the need for traditional collectors and concentrators.

[0071] (4) PLC Mesh Data Energy Saving Test: The debugging test board of this embodiment is used to simulate the PLC Mesh module connecting to a single lamp controller or building power terminal control network, and the function of CGR (Cisco Connected Grid Router) industrial router in remotely aggregating lighting areas or building networks is tested. By simulating 3G and other backhaul methods, the effectiveness of the solution in realizing centralized management, remote monitoring, data acquisition and ultimately energy saving of municipal lighting and building power terminals is verified.

[0072] In summary, the debugging and testing board provided in this embodiment has high flexibility and configurability, and can provide comprehensive testing and verification support for a variety of IoT applications based on Cisco wireless and PLC Mesh technologies, accelerating the research and development and deployment of related solutions, thereby improving their performance and reliability.

[0073] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this utility model without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this utility model and their equivalents, this utility model also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology, characterized in that, include: An RF MESH module, processor module, antenna module, and data interface module are integrated on the same substrate. The data interface module receives signals sent by the terminal device and transmits the signals to the processor module; the processor module parses and processes the signals to generate a first signal and transmits the first signal to the RF MESH module. The RF MESH module converts the first signal into a radio frequency signal and transmits the radio frequency signal to the antenna module for transmission; Alternatively, the antenna module receives a second radio frequency signal and transmits the second radio frequency signal to the RF MESH module; The RF MESH module converts the second radio frequency signal into a second signal and transmits the second signal to the processor module. After parsing and processing the second signal, the processor module transmits the second signal to the terminal device through the data interface module.

2. The commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology as claimed in claim 1 wherein, It also includes a power module; The power module provides operating power to the RF MESH module, the processor module, the antenna module, and / or the data interface module.

3. A debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The RF MESH module includes an RF processing chip, an antenna switching switch, a signal coupler, and a signal amplifier connected in sequence. The end of the RF processing chip furthest from the antenna switching switch is connected to one end of the processor module; The end of the signal amplifier furthest from the signal coupler is connected to one end of the antenna module.

4. The commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology according to claim 3, wherein, The antenna module includes: an antenna and an antenna tuner; One end of the antenna tuner is connected to one end of the signal coupler, and the other end is connected to the feed point of the antenna.

5. The commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology as claimed in claim 1 wherein, The processor module includes a controller and / or a microprocessor.

6. The commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology as claimed in claim 1 wherein, The data interface module includes at least one of a USB interface, a serial port, or an Ethernet interface.

7. The commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology as claimed in claim 1 wherein, It also includes a test module, which is communicatively connected to the processor module.

8. A debugging and testing board based on RF MESH communication technology according to claim 7, characterized in that, The test module includes a field-programmable gate array and / or a microprocessor.

9. The commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology as claimed in claim 1, wherein, It also includes a heat dissipation module, which is disposed on the processor module or the RF MESH module.

10. A commissioning test board based on RF MESH communication technology as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The heat dissipation module includes a cooling fan and a heat sink; the heat sink is in contact with the surface of the processor module or the RF MESH module through a thermal pad, and the cooling fan is fixed on the heat sink.

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