A wired hand-in-hand conferencing system and related devices

Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a wired hand-in-hand conference system and related equipment, and belongs to the technical field of conference communication. The application is composed of a conference unit group connected in series by a plurality of conference units, two ends of the conference unit group are respectively a first end and a second end; a conference host, the first end is connected with the conference host; a detection switching device, the second end is connected with the conference host through the detection switching device, when the detection switching device detects that the communication between the conference unit group and the conference host through the first end is disconnected, the communication between the conference unit group and the conference host through the second end is established, after the communication between the second end and the conference host is established, the conference unit communicates with the conference host through the first end and the second end respectively. By introducing a redundant backup communication path, the single point failure problem of the traditional hand-in-hand series system is solved. Even if the main line is disconnected, the system can automatically switch to the backup path, ensuring that the conference is uninterrupted, and improving the communication reliability of the conference system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of conference communication technology, and in particular to a wired daisy-chain conference system and related equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In existing wired conferencing systems, especially those using a daisy-chain connection, multiple conferencing units (such as microphone units and delegate units) are connected in series via a common bus (usually a multi-core cable) to form a chain or ring topology. The conferencing host is responsible for powering all conferencing units along the entire link and managing audio, control data, and other communications with each unit. This connection method has advantages such as simple wiring, low cost, and easy expansion, and is widely used in small and medium-sized conference rooms, training rooms, courtrooms, and other similar settings.

[0003] However, this traditional daisy-chain structure has a significant reliability flaw: because all units are connected in series on the same physical line, if the cable breaks, becomes loose, or malfunctions at the connection point (node) between two conference units, or if the connection between conference units is interrupted, power and communication between all conference units after the failure point and the host will be completely interrupted. This will directly affect the normal use of subsequent units, causing problems such as conference interruptions, inability to record speeches, and control failures, seriously affecting the continuity and reliability of the conference. In important meetings, hearings, or trials, such interruptions are unacceptable.

[0004] Currently, common solutions to this problem mainly include: 1) using higher quality cables and connectors to reduce the probability of physical failure; 2) reserving redundant lines in the system design, but this usually requires manual intervention for switching; 3) using more complex topologies such as wireless or wired ring networks, but these are costly and may introduce problems such as latency and interference. These solutions either fail to fundamentally solve the problem of a single point of failure causing a complete system outage, increase system complexity and cost, or have low switching efficiency, failing to meet the application scenarios with strict requirements for high reliability and seamless switching.

[0005] Therefore, the industry urgently needs a technical solution that can automatically, quickly, and seamlessly switch affected conference units to backup communication paths when a non-disconnection failure occurs, thereby ensuring the continuous normal operation of the entire conference system.

[0006] In summary, the technical problems existing in the relevant technologies need to be improved. Utility Model Content

[0007] The main objective of this application is to propose a wired daisy-chain conferencing system and related equipment, which aims to solve the problem of communication interruption of all subsequent units due to single-point line failure in traditional daisy-chain conferencing systems, realize automatic fault detection and seamless switching of communication links, thereby greatly improving the reliability and availability of the system.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, one aspect of this application proposes a wired daisy-chain conferencing system, which includes: A conference unit group is composed of multiple conference units connected in series, with the two ends of the conference unit group being the first end and the second end, respectively. A conference host, with the first end connected to the conference host; The detection switching device is connected to the conference host via the second end. When the detection switching device detects that the communication between the conference unit group and the conference host is disconnected via the first end, it establishes communication between the conference unit group and the conference host via the second end. After establishing communication between the second end and the conference host, the conference unit communicates with the conference host via both the first end and the second end.

[0009] In some embodiments, the detection switching device includes: A detection circuit is used to acquire communication parameters between the conference unit group and the conference host. A microcontroller unit, connected to the detection circuit, is used to compare the communication parameters with a preset threshold. A switching unit is connected to the microcontroller unit. When the microcontroller unit determines, through the communication parameters, that the conference unit group has lost communication with the conference host through the first terminal, it controls the switching unit to establish communication between the conference unit group and the conference host through the second terminal.

[0010] In some embodiments, the detection switching device is further configured to: When it is detected that all communication between the conference unit group and the conference host through the first terminal has been restored, the communication between the conference unit and the conference host through the second terminal is interrupted.

[0011] In some embodiments, the detection switching device further includes: an indicator; The indicator is connected to the microcontroller unit, and when the microcontroller unit determines that the conference unit group has lost communication with the conference host through the first terminal, it outputs an indication signal through the indicator.

[0012] In some embodiments, the detection circuit includes a Hall current sensor and a signal conditioning circuit. The Hall current sensor is connected between the conference host and the second terminal, the signal conditioning circuit is connected to the Hall current sensor, and the signal conditioning circuit is connected to the microcontroller unit.

[0013] In some embodiments, the switching unit includes a relay connected to the microcontroller unit for establishing or terminating communication between the second end and the conference host.

[0014] In some embodiments, the microcontroller unit is connected to the conference host and is used to report to the conference host that the communication between the first end and the conference host has been disconnected, and / or the communication between the second end and the conference host.

[0015] In some embodiments, the conference unit includes at least one of a microphone, a speaker, and a control interface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the microcontroller is an STM32F407 microcontroller.

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, another aspect of this application provides an electronic device, which includes the wired daisy-chain conferencing system as described above.

[0018] The embodiments of this application include at least the following beneficial effects: This application provides a wired daisy-chain conferencing system, which consists of a group of conferencing units connected in series, with the two ends of the conferencing unit group being a first end and a second end, respectively; a conferencing host, with the first end connected to the conferencing host; and a detection and switching device, with the second end connected to the conferencing host through the detection and switching device. When the detection and switching device detects a disconnection in communication between the conferencing unit group and the conferencing host through the first end, it establishes communication between the conferencing unit group and the conferencing host through the second end. After establishing communication between the second end and the conferencing host, the conferencing units communicate with the conferencing host through the first end and the second end, respectively. By introducing redundant backup communication paths and an automatic detection and switching mechanism, the single point of failure problem of traditional daisy-chain systems is fundamentally solved. Even if any point on the main line is disconnected, the system can automatically switch to the backup path in a very short time, ensuring uninterrupted conferencing and improving the communication reliability of the conferencing system. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a conference system based on related technologies; Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the wired daisy-chain conference system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the detection switching device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this application and are not intended to limit it. In the following description, when referring to the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with those of this application; they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the embodiments of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit this application.

[0022] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, a conference unit refers to a terminal device used by participants in a conference system, whose functions may include audio pickup, playback, requesting to speak, voting, and information display. The conference host is the core control device of the system, responsible for audio processing, communication with each unit, and power management. A daisy-chain configuration refers to multiple conference units being connected in series via cables with the same electrical interface, with the output port of the previous unit connected to the input port of the next unit. The first end typically refers to the end of the conference unit group closest to the conference host and the first one connected to it; the second end refers to the end of the conference unit group.

[0023] In related technologies, such as Figure 1 The conference system shown comprises multiple conference units connected in series within a conference unit group. These conference unit groups are connected to the conference host via a common bus, forming a chain or ring topology. The conference host is responsible for powering all conference units along the entire link and managing audio, control data, and other communications with each unit. During system operation, if a cable breaks, becomes loose, or experiences a line fault at a connection point (node) between two conference units, or if the connection between conference units is interrupted, power supply and communication between all conference units after the fault point and the host will be completely cut off.

[0024] In view of this, please refer to Figure 2 This application provides a schematic diagram of a wired daisy-chain conference system. The system includes: a conference host 100, multiple conference units (2001, 2002, …, 200n, forming a conference unit group 200), and a detection and switching device 300.

[0025] Multiple conference units 2001~200n are connected in a daisy-chain configuration via standard conference cables to form a conference unit group 200. Conference unit group 200 has a first end (end A) and a second end (end B). The first end (end A) is directly connected to the corresponding output / input port of the conference host 100 via a main line. The main line is typically a multi-core cable, carrying DC power, audio signals, control data, etc. During normal operation, the conference host 100 powers all conference units 200 via the main line and communicates bidirectionally with all units.

[0026] The second end (B end) of the conference unit group 200 is connected to the input port of the detection switching device 300. One output port of the detection switching device 300 is connected to another dedicated backup port of the conference host 100 or a port multiplexed with the main port via a backup line. The backup line is physically independent of the main line, forming a redundant communication path.

[0027] In this embodiment, the internal switching device 300 is in a normal state, and its switching unit connected to the backup line (such as...) Figure 2 The relay in the system is in the off state. Therefore, although the backup line is physically connected, the signal loop is not connected, and the system is actually operating in single-main-line mode. The detection switching device 300 continuously monitors the main line through its detection circuit (specifically, it may monitor the current flowing into the first terminal of the conference unit group 200, or monitor the line status between the host 100 and the first terminal).

[0028] When a main line experiences a disconnection fault at a certain node (e.g., between conference units 2002 and 2003), the power supply and communication between all conference units (2003 to 200n) after the fault point (point F) and the conference host 100 are immediately interrupted.

[0029] At this time, the detection circuit within the detection switching device 300 will sensitively detect abnormal changes in line parameters (e.g., a sharp drop or disappearance of current at the monitoring point). The detection circuit sends this change signal to the microcontroller unit (MCU) for analysis. The MCU compares the real-time acquired signal value with pre-stored normal operating thresholds or initial calibration values. When the change exceeds a preset fault determination threshold, the MCU determines that a line break fault has occurred.

[0030] After determining the fault, the MCU immediately performs the following operations: 1. Generate control signals to drive the internal switching unit (such as a relay) to close its contacts.

[0031] 2. Closing the contact connects the second end (B end) of the conference unit group 200 to the backup line through the internal circuit of the detection switching device 300, thereby establishing a complete backup communication link from the conference host 100 through the backup line and the detection switching device 300 to the second end (B end) of the conference unit group.

[0032] 3. The MCU controls the indicator to output an indication signal, such as lighting up the red LED fault indicator on the device panel, and can report the fault code "main line disconnection" to the conference host 100 through its communication interface (such as UART).

[0033] After the switch is completed, the system establishes a dual-path communication state: Conference units (2001, 2002) prior to the point of disconnection F still maintain connection and communication with the conference host 100 via the undamaged main line 300.

[0034] Conference units (2003 to 200n) following the fault point F resume connection and communication with the conference host 100 via a newly established backup path (i.e., conference unit group second end B -> detection switching device 400 -> backup line -> conference host 100). Upon receiving the fault report, the conference host 100 can display a message "Backup line detected" on its management interface and log the information. For the host and upper-level application software, it can still communicate with all conference units; only the physical path has changed, achieving a seamless fault switching process that is imperceptible to the user.

[0035] Once the faulty line is repaired (e.g., by reconnecting a loose connector), the main line resumes operation. The detection circuit of the switching device 300 will again detect that the line parameters have returned to normal (e.g., the current has returned to the normal range). After a preset stabilization delay (e.g., 3-5 seconds to prevent false alarms due to line jitter), the MCU determines that the main line fault has been eliminated. Subsequently, the MCU controls the switching unit to disconnect (the relay contacts open), thereby interrupting communication on the backup line. The system automatically switches back to single-main-line operation mode. At the same time, the MCU turns off the fault indicator light and can optionally report the status information "Main line restored, backup line disconnected" to the host 100.

[0036] In some embodiments, the detection switching device 300 mainly includes: a detection circuit 310, a microcontroller unit (MCU) 320, a switching unit 330, and an indicator 340.

[0037] The detection circuit 310 is used for real-time, non-invasive monitoring of the main line current. This embodiment uses a Hall current sensor. The Hall current sensor U8 is connected in series in the ground (GND) loop of the conference host 100, or is threaded onto the main cable. When current flows, the sensor outputs a weak voltage signal (Vout) proportional to the current. This signal is then fed into a signal conditioning circuit composed of operational amplifiers, etc. The signal conditioning circuit amplifies, biases, and low-pass filters the Vout signal to match the MCU's ADC input range (e.g., 0-3.3V) and suppresses high-frequency interference. The conditioned analog voltage signal is then sent to a specific ADC input pin of the MCU320.

[0038] Microcontroller Unit (MCU) 320: Employs STMicroelectronics' STM32F407 series microcontroller. This chip features a high-performance ARM Cortex-M4 core, multiple built-in high-precision 12-bit ADCs, and a high sampling rate sufficient to capture rapid changes in current.

[0039] Once a fault is detected, the MCU320 immediately outputs a high level through its GPIO pin, driving the switching unit 330. Simultaneously, it outputs a high level through another GPIO pin, illuminating an LED indicator (as indicator 340). Furthermore, the MCU320 sends a preset fault message to the conference host 100 via its UART serial port.

[0040] Switching unit 330 employs a single-pole double-throw (SPDT) electromagnetic relay. The MCU's output pin is connected to the coil of relay J3 via a transistor Q1 driver circuit. When the MCU outputs a high level, transistor Q1 conducts, energizing the relay J3 coil, and its common terminal (COM) closes with the normally open contact (NO). The relay contacts are connected in series in the signal path connecting the second terminal (B terminal) of the conference unit group to the backup line. Contact closure establishes the backup communication link. A diode is also included in the circuit to absorb the back electromotive force generated when the relay coil is de-energized, protecting the driver transistor.

[0041] Indicator 340, in this embodiment, an LED is designed as a fault indicator. The device may also include a green LED as a power / operation status indicator.

[0042] It is understood that the content of the above method embodiments is applicable to the present device embodiments. The specific functions implemented by the present device embodiments are the same as those of the above method embodiments, and the beneficial effects achieved are also the same as those achieved by the above method embodiments.

[0043] This application also provides an electronic device, which includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the above-described method. This electronic device can be any smart terminal, including tablet computers, in-vehicle computers, etc.

[0044] It is understood that the content of the above method embodiments is applicable to this device embodiment. The specific functions implemented by this device embodiment are the same as those of the above method embodiments, and the beneficial effects achieved are also the same as those achieved by the above method embodiments.

[0045] The embodiments described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of technology and the emergence of new application scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0046] Those skilled in the art will understand that the technical solutions shown in the figures do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application, and may include more or fewer steps than shown, or combine certain steps, or different steps.

[0047] The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0048] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or some of the steps in the methods disclosed above, as well as the functional modules / units in the systems and devices, can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof.

[0049] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0050] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, and "more than" means two or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0051] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of the units described above is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0052] The units described above as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0053] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0054] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes multiple instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing programs, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0055] The preferred embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this does not limit the scope of the claims of the present application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and substance of the embodiments of the present application shall be within the scope of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A wired daisy-chain conferencing system, characterized in that, include: A conference unit group is composed of multiple conference units connected in series, with the two ends of the conference unit group being the first end and the second end, respectively. A conference host, with the first end connected to the conference host; The detection switching device is connected to the conference host via the second end. When the detection switching device detects that the communication between the conference unit group and the conference host is disconnected via the first end, it establishes communication between the conference unit group and the conference host via the second end. After establishing communication between the second end and the conference host, the conference unit communicates with the conference host via both the first end and the second end.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection switching device includes: A detection circuit is used to acquire communication parameters between the conference unit group and the conference host. A microcontroller unit, connected to the detection circuit, is used to compare the communication parameters with a preset threshold. A switching unit is connected to the microcontroller unit. When the microcontroller unit determines, through the communication parameters, that the conference unit group has lost communication with the conference host through the first terminal, it controls the switching unit to establish communication between the conference unit group and the conference host through the second terminal.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection switching device is also used for: When it is detected that all communication between the conference unit group and the conference host through the first terminal has been restored, the communication between the conference unit and the conference host through the second terminal is interrupted.

4. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The detection switching device further includes: an indicator; The indicator is connected to the microcontroller unit, and when the microcontroller unit determines that the conference unit group has lost communication with the conference host through the first terminal, it outputs an indication signal through the indicator.

5. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The detection circuit includes a Hall current sensor and a signal conditioning circuit. The Hall current sensor is connected between the conference host and the second terminal. The signal conditioning circuit is connected to the Hall current sensor and the microcontroller unit.

6. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The switching unit includes a relay, which is connected to the microcontroller unit and is used to establish or terminate communication between the second end and the conference host.

7. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The microcontroller unit is connected to the conference host and is used to report to the conference host that the communication between the first end and the conference host has been disconnected, and / or the communication between the second end and the conference host.

8. The wired daisy-chain conference system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conference unit includes at least one of a microphone, a speaker, and a control interface.

9. The wired daisy-chain conference system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The microcontroller unit is an STM32F407 microcontroller.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes the wired daisy-chain conference system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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