Method for allocating and grouping individual addresses of a plurality of nodes, controller area network bus, computer program and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for allocating and grouping individual addresses of nodes, comprising: operating, a switch such that the switch is in an open state such that at least some of nodes are disconnected from the master node; sending, a first address claim message to the nodes connected to the master node; receiving, individual addresses of each of the nodes connected to the master node, wherein the received individual addresses are grouped in a first group; operating, the switch such that the switch is in a closed state such that the nodes are connected to the master node; sending, a second address claim message to the nodes connected to the master node; receiving, individual addresses of each of the nodes connected to the master node not being part of the first group, wherein the received individual addresses are grouped in a second group.

Description

[0001] P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0002] 1

[0003] Description

[0004] METHOD FOR ALLOCATING AND GROUPING INDIVIDUAL ADDRESSES OF A PLURALITY OF NODES CONNECTED TO A CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK BUS , CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK BUS , COMPUTER PROGRAM AND COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM

[0005] A method for allocating and grouping individual addresses of a plurality of nodes connected to a controller area network bus is provided . In addition, a controller area network bus , a computer program and a computer-readable storage medium are provided .

[0006] Generally, a typical master node is connected by a typical single controller area network, CAN, bus to multiple nodes . These nodes can be connected, for example , to at least two systems , such that the master node has to group the nodes based on their physical connection to the respective system, in order to handle the respective nodes collectively as a group .

[0007] A method for automatically grouping nodes of a controller area network, particularly based on their functionality, is to be provided . Furthermore , a controller area network bus and a computer program which are able to perform such a method are provided . In addition, a computer-readable storage medium with such a computer program is provided .

[0008] Such a method is described by the subj ect-matter of the independent claims . Advantageous embodiments , implementations and further developments are the sub ect-matter of the respective dependent claims . P2024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 2025

[0009] 2

[0010] A method for allocating and grouping individual addresses of a plurality of nodes connected to a controller area network, CAN, bus is specified, wherein the CAN bus connects a master node to the plurality of nodes, and wherein the CAN bus comprises at least one switch. For example, the master node comprises a printed circuit board on which at least two main branches of the CAN bus are implemented. Exemplarily, the at least one switch is implemented on the printed circuit board on one of the at least two main branches. The at least one switch is, for example, a software-controlled switch. Exemplarily, the at least one switch comprises a semiconductor switch, such as a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor, MOSFET, a bipolar junction transistor, BJT, or an electromechanical relay.

[0011] One of the main branches, e.g. a first main branch, is configured to connect the master node to at least some of the nodes, e.g. nodes of a first group, and the other one of the main branches, e.g. a second main branch, is configured to connect the master node to the other at least some of the nodes, e.g. nodes of a second group. Exemplarily, the at least one switch is configured to connect the master node to the nodes of the second group in a closed state, and the at least one switch is configured to disconnect the master node from the nodes of the second group in an open state.

[0012] For example, the CAN bus comprises a further switch. The further switch is, exemplarily, configured to connect the master node to the nodes of the first group in a closed state, and the further switch is configured to disconnect the master node from the nodes of the second group in an open state. Thus, due to the switch and the further switch, the first group and the second group can be connected to the P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0013] 3 master node independently from one another . Advantageously, each group can be isolated independently from one another, e . g . when replacing a failed node .

[0014] For example , each group is characteristic of a physical connection to a di f ferent system .

[0015] Exemplarily, each main branch has two signal lines , a CAN high line and a CAN low line . The switch is arranged in particular on the CAN high line and on the CAN low line , respectively . For example , the switch is configured to simultaneously connect or disconnect both the CAN high line CAN low line .

[0016] For example , each main branch has an end region comprising a terminating resistor . The terminating resistor has , for example , a resistance of approximately 120 Q . Exemplarily, the terminating resistor connects the CAN high line and the CAN low line of a respective main branch in the end region .

[0017] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the at least one switch is operated by the master node such that the at least one switch is in an open state such that at least some of the plurality of nodes are disconnected from the master node .

[0018] For example , before the at least one switch is operated in the open state , the master node sends a waiting message to all nodes such that all nodes are in a waiting state . In particular, the at least one switch is in the closed state initially, such that the waiting message is sent to all nodes of all main branches . The waiting message is received by each node , and each node is operated to be in a waiting state . The P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0019] 4 waiting state is , for example , characteristic of a state where each node is waiting for determining an individual address . In particular, the waiting message further comprises a first time interval , which is characteristic of a timeout . In particular, the method described herein is performed within the first time interval , and after the time interval has ended, the method is terminated . Particularly, after the waiting message is sent , the at least one switch is operated to be in the open state and the method is performed .

[0020] The first time interval is , for example , at least 1 second, in particular approximately 5 seconds .

[0021] Exemplarily, the method is performed when an assembly comprising the master node and the nodes connected by the CAN bus is on first use and / or when switching the assembly on for the first time .

[0022] According to at least one embodiment of the method, a first address claim message is sent by the master node to the nodes connected to the master node . Particularly, the first address claim message is sent to all nodes connected to the master node . In particular, the first address claim message is sent exclusively to the nodes of the first group as the at least one switch is in the open state . This means , for example , that the first address claim message is broadcasted to the CAN bus and therefore to all nodes of the first group, wherein the at least one switch is in the open state .

[0023] According to at least one embodiment of the method, individual addresses of each of the nodes connected to the master node are received by the master node , wherein the received individual addresses are grouped in the first group . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0024] 5

[0025] Exemplarily, each node which receives the first address claim message is configured to determine the respective individual address depending on the first address claim message . Each node which has determined the individual address depending on the first address claim message further sends the individual address to the master node by the CAN bus .

[0026] As the at least one switch is in the open state , exclusively the individual addresses of the nodes of the first group are received by the master node , such that the master node groups the received individual addresses in the first group .

[0027] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the at least one switch is operated by the master node such that the at least one switch is in a closed state such that the plurality of nodes are connected to the master node .

[0028] According to at least one embodiment of the method, a second address claim message is sent by the master node to the nodes connected to the master node . Particularly, the second address claim message is sent to all nodes connected to the master node . In particular, the second address claim message is sent to all the nodes of the first group and the second group as the at least one switch is in the closed state . This means , for example , that the second address claim message is broadcasted to the CAN bus and therefore to all nodes of the first group and the second group, wherein the at least one switch is in the closed state .

[0029] According to at least one embodiment of the method, individual addresses of each of the nodes connected to the master node not being part of the first group are received by the master node , wherein the received individual addresses P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0030] 6 are grouped in the second group . For example , i f a node has already determined the respective individual address depending on the first address claim message , the respective nodes do not perform a further determination of a further individual address .

[0031] Exemplarily, each node which receives the second address claim message is configured to determine the respective individual address depending on the second address claim message i f the nodes have not yet determined an individual address . Each node which has determined the individual address depending on the second address claim further sends the individual address to the master node by the CAN bus .

[0032] As only the individual addresses of the nodes of the second group are determined, exclusively the individual addresses of the nodes of the second group are received by the master node , such that the master node groups the received individual addresses in the second group .

[0033] As each group is characteristic of a physical connection to a di f ferent system, the CAN bus with the switch is configured to split a communication from the master node to the nodes based on a functionality of the respective nodes , being dependent on the functionality of the respective system .

[0034] The method described herein is , for example , at least partly a computer-implemented method . Furthermore , the method stages are in particular carried out in the order indicated herein before .

[0035] An idea of the method described herein is , inter alia, to provide an active control of the CAN bus branches . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0036] 7

[0037] Exemplarily, for assemblies with a CAN network and multiple CAN nodes connected on one single CAN bus , wherein one node is a master node connected with other nodes with similar functionality, all nodes with related functions are organi zed in various ways , and their outputs / inputs are connected to di f ferent systems . With the present method a grouping of the nodes based on their physical connection to di f ferent systems is advantageously provided to be advantageously able to handle those nodes collectively as a group . At the same time , the nodes are assigned an individual address , being characteristic, for example , of a unique CAN Node ID .

[0038] With the method provided herein, unique CAN node IDs can be assigned to the nodes , and the nodes can be grouped based on their physical connection without adding extra hardware or wired connections per node and / or without having extra CAN channels per group . Advantageously, a communication splitting is particularly achieved with the switch of the CAN bus .

[0039] In particular, a grouping of nodes is advantageously achieved, based on their functionality by using an active control of the switch, and thus providing a physical CAN bus split technique .

[0040] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the switch is operated to be in the closed state as a default state . In particular, the CAN bus is a single CAN bus having solely one channel .

[0041] Advantageously, during operation of the assembly, all nodes can be operated by the master node . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0042] 8

[0043] According to at least one embodiment of the method, each node initially has a default address . The default address is , exemplarily, characteristic of the address Oxf f . Initially, all nodes are particularly provided with the same default address . Exemplarily, when the nodes are initially provided to the assembly, e . g . when switching the assembly on for the first time , the nodes have the default address .

[0044] For example , each node is configured to determine the individual address depending on the first address claim message or the second address claim message i f the node has the default address . I f the node has already determined the individual address , the default address is replaced with the respective individual address and the respective node does not determine a further individual address . This means , i f the at least one switch is in the closed state , and the second address claim message is sent to all the nodes , the nodes of the first group have the respective individual addresses and the nodes of the second group have the default addresses . Thus , exclusively the nodes of the second group determine the individual addresses depending on the second address claim message .

[0045] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the first address claim message comprises a first predefined range of addresses . For example , the first predefined range of addresses comprises a plurality of individual addresses , wherein each individual address corresponds to one of the nodes of the first group . Exemplarily, the first predefined range of addresses is predefined depending on a predetermined setup of the nodes of the first group . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0046] - 9 -

[0047] Exemplarily, each individual address of the first predefined range of addresses is characteristic of a speci fic functionality of the respective node of the first group .

[0048] Particularly, each individual address of the first predefined range of addresses is characteristic of a hexadecimal identi fier of the respective node of the first group .

[0049] Advantageously, depending on the setup of the nodes of the first group, respective individual addresses are provided in the first predefined range of addresses .

[0050] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the second address claim message comprises a second predefined range of addresses . For example , the second predefined range of addresses comprises a plurality of individual addresses , wherein each individual address corresponds to one of the nodes of the second group . Exemplarily, the second predefined range of addresses is predefined depending on a predetermined setup of the nodes of the second group .

[0051] Exemplarily, each individual address of the second predefined range of addresses is characteristic of a speci fic functionality of the respective node of the second group . Particularly, each individual address of the first predefined range of addresses is characteristic of a hexadecimal identi fier of the respective node of the second group .

[0052] Advantageously, depending on the setup of the nodes of the second group, respective individual addresses are provided in the second predefined range of addresses .

[0053] For example , a number of nodes of the first group can be di f ferent from or the same as a number of nodes in the second P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0054] 10 group . At least some nodes in the first group can be the same as at least some nodes in the second group regarding their functionality . In particular, all individual addresses comprised in the first predefined range of addresses and the second predefined range of addresses are di f ferent from one another .

[0055] For example , the first group comprises a number of nodes of a first functionality and a number of nodes of a second functionality, and the second group comprises a number of nodes of a first functionality and a number of nodes of a second functionality . The number of nodes of the first functionality is , for example , the same for the first group and the second group, and the number of nodes of the second functionality is , for example , the same for the first group and the second group . Alternatively, the number of nodes of the respective functionality is di f ferent for di f ferent groups .

[0056] According to at least one embodiment of the method, each node chooses an address of the first predefined range of addresses based on a unique identi fier of the respective node , being the respective individual address . In particular, the choosing is characteristic of the determination of the individual address by the nodes of the first group .

[0057] According to at least one embodiment of the method, each node not having been assigned an individual address chooses an address of the second predefined range of addresses based on a unique identi fier of the respective node , being the respective individual address . In particular, the choosing is characteristic of the determination of the individual address by the nodes of the second group . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0058] - 11 -

[0059] The unique identi fier of the respective node is , for example , a serial number, a media-access-control , MAC address or a hardware ID .

[0060] According to at least one embodiment of the method, i f one of the nodes is replaced by a new node , a single address claim message is sent by the master node to the new node such that the individual address of the replaced node is assigned to the new node . The single address claim message comprises , for example , the individual address of the replaced node .

[0061] Exemplarily, the new node has a default address . When the new node receives the single address claim message , the new node chooses the individual address of the single address claim message at the individual address of the new node .

[0062] Advantageously, i f any node fails and needs to be replaced, the master node has the respective individual address of the failed node to be replaced . When the failed node is replaced by the new node , the master node advantageously provides the former individual address to the new node , and thus the grouping can be maintained without re-running the method .

[0063] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the nodes are operated depending on the individual addresses of the first group and the second group .

[0064] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the nodes are grouped in n groups , wherein n is a natural number of at least two , and n- 1 switches are used for grouping the individual addresses to n groups . Exemplarily, i f there are n groups , there are n main branches , wherein n- 1 main branches are provided with a corresponding switch . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0065] - 12 -

[0066] The method can be extended such that first , all switches are operated to be in the open state , as described herein before , for acquiring the individual addresses of the nodes of the first group . Subsequently, a first switch corresponding to the main branch connected to the nodes of the second group, closest to the main branch connected to the nodes of the first group, is operated to be in the closed state for acquiring the individual addresses of the nodes of the first group . Subsequently, a second switch corresponding to the main branch connected to the nodes of a third group, closest to the main branch connected to the nodes of the second group, is additionally operated to be in the closed state for acquiring the individual addresses of the nodes of the third group . This scheme is continued until all n- 1 switches are operated to be in the closed state , such that all individual addresses are acquired and grouped accordingly .

[0067] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the first group of the plurality of nodes is configured to be connected to a first system, and the second group of the plurality of nodes is configured to be connected to a second system . In particular, the nodes of the first group are connected by a first physical connection to the first system, and the nodes of the second group are connected by a second physical connection to the second system .

[0068] For example , the systems are part of a direct current , DC, electric vehicle of fboard charger, an alternating current , AC electric vehicle of fboard charger and / or any automotive vehicle with multiple electronic control units . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0069] 13

[0070] According to at least one embodiment of the method, the CAN bus comprises the further switch, and upon failure of at least one node of the first group, the further switch is operated to be in the open state , and upon failure of at least one node of the second group, the at least one switch is operated to be in the open state . The at least one switch and the further switch can be operated independently from one another . Advantageously, each group can be isolated independently upon a node failure .

[0071] According to at least one embodiment of the method, a CAN bus communication between the master node and the plurality of nodes is split by the at least one switch for performing the method described herein above . In particular, the CAN bus communication is split with the at least one switch and, for example , with the further switch . Advantageously, solely a CAN bus communication between the master node and the nodes of a respective group can be implemented .

[0072] Furthermore , a controller area network, CAN, bus is speci fied . The controller area network bus is configured to perform the method described herein . Therefore , all features and embodiments disclosed in connection with the method are also disclosed in connection with the controller area network bus and vice versa .

[0073] According to at least one embodiment , the CAN bus comprises a common branch configured to be connected to the master node . The master node comprises , for example , the printed circuit board on which the common branch is integrated . Exemplarily, the master node forms a communication unit , and particularly comprises a CAN transceiver unit . The CAN transceiver unit is P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0074] - 14 - exemplarily also integrated on the printed circuit board and is particularly connected to the common branch .

[0075] Exemplarily, the common branch has two signal lines , a CAN high line and a CAN low line .

[0076] According to at least one embodiment , the CAN bus comprises at least two main branches connected to the common branch, particularly the first main branch and the second main branch . In particular, the CAN high line of the first main branch and the CAN high line of the second main branch are both connected to the CAN high line of the common branch . In particular, the CAN low line of the first main branch and the CAN low line of the second main branch are both connected to the CAN low line of the common branch .

[0077] According to at least one embodiment , the CAN bus comprises at least one switch arranged within one of the at least two main branches . Exemplarily, the at least one switch is arranged downstream of the common branch in the one of the at least two main branches , particularly the second main branch .

[0078] Exemplarily, the switch is arranged between a part of the CAN high line of the respective main branch facing the common branch and a part of the CAN high line of the respective main branch facing away from the common branch . Exemplarily, the switch is further arranged between a part of the CAN low line of the respective main branch facing the common branch and a part of the CAN low line of the respective main branch facing away from the common branch .

[0079] According to at least one embodiment of the CAN bus , each of the at least two main branches is configured to be connected P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0080] 15 to a respective group comprising at last some nodes of a plurality of nodes . The nodes comprise , particularly are formed of , inter alia, a monitoring device , such as an insulation monitoring device , and / or a communication device , such as a power line communication device .

[0081] According to at least one embodiment of the CAN bus , the at least one switch is arranged between the common branch and the nodes of the respective group of the one of the aft least two main branches .

[0082] According to at least one embodiment of the CAN bus , the switch is configured to provide a signal path from the common branch to the nodes of the respective group in a closed state , and the switch is configured to disconnect a signal path from the common branch to the nodes of the respective group in an open state .

[0083] According to at least one embodiment of the CAN bus , the switch is configured to provide a further signal path from the common branch to a resistor in the open state . Exemplarily, the main branch with the switch has the end region comprising the terminating resistor, and a further end region comprising the resistor, being a further terminating resistor . I f the switch is operated to be in the open state , the switch connects the common branch to the further end region with the further terminating resistor via the further signal path .

[0084] The further terminating resistor has , for example , a resistance of approximately 120 Q .

[0085] In addition, a computer program is speci fied comprising instructions which, when the computer program is executed by P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0086] 16 a computer, cause the computer program to execute the method described herein .

[0087] Further, a computer-readable storage medium is speci fied on which the computer program described herein is stored .

[0088] Exemplary embodiments of the method are explained in more detail below with reference to the Figures .

[0089] Figure 1 shows a flowchart of the method according to an exemplary embodiment .

[0090] Figure 2 shows a controller area network bus which is configured to perform the method according to an exemplary embodiment .

[0091] Figure 3 shows a further flow chart of the method according to an exemplary embodiment for the controller area network according to Figure 2 .

[0092] Figure 4 shows a detailed part of the controller area network bus according to an exemplary embodiment .

[0093] Figures 5 and 6 each show an assembly with a controller area network bus according to an exemplary embodiment .

[0094] Elements of the same structure or function are marked with the same reference signs across all Figures .

[0095] Method stage S I according to the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 comprises that a master node 6 , exemplarily shown in Figure 2 , operates a switch 5 such that the switch 5 is in an P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0096] 17 open state such that at least some of the plurality of nodes 7 are disconnected from the master node 6 .

[0097] Subsequently, in a method stage S2 , a first address claim message is sent by the master node 6 to the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 . The master node 6 particularly broadcasts the first address claim message to all the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 , and not to the nodes 7 being disconnected from the master node 6 .

[0098] In a method stage S3 , individual addresses of each of the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 are received by the master node 6 , wherein the received individual addresses are grouped in a first group 8 . In particular, in response to the first address claim message , each node 7 determines an individual address and sends the individual address back to the master node 6 .

[0099] In a method stage S4 , the at least one switch 5 is operated by the master node 6 , such that the switch 5 is in a closed state such that the plurality of nodes 7 are connected to the master node 6 .

[0100] Subsequently, in a method stage S5 , a second address claim message is sent by the master node 6 to the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 . The master node 6 particularly broadcasts the second address claim message to all the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 , particularly being all nodes 7 .

[0101] In a method stage S 6 , individual addresses of each of the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 and not being part of the first group 8 are received by the master node 6 , wherein P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0102] 18 the received individual addresses are grouped in a second group 9 . In particular, in response to the second address claim message , each node 7 which has not determined an individual address yet , determines an individual address and sends the individual address back to the master node 6 .

[0103] Advantageously, all nodes 7 are assigned with an individual address , and the nodes 7 are grouped accordingly by the method according to Figure 1 .

[0104] The controller area network, CAN, bus 1 according to Figure 2 is configured to perform the method according to Figure 1 .

[0105] The CAN bus 1 has a common branch 2 connected to a first main branch 3 and a second main branch 4 . The first main branch 3 is connected to five nodes 7 , namely a first node Nl , a second node N2 , a third node N3 , a fourth node N4 and a fi fth node N5 , exemplarily forming the first group 8 . The second main branch 4 is connected to further five nodes 7 , namely a sixth node N6 , a seventh node N7 , an eighth node N8 , a ninth node N9 and a tenth node N10 , exemplarily forming the second group 9 .

[0106] Between the nodes 7 of the second group 9 and the common branch 2 , a switch 5 is arranged within the second main branch 4 for j ointly connecting and j ointly disconnecting the nodes 7 of the second group 9 to and from the common branch 2 . The master node 6 comprises a transceiver unit 10 , to which the common branch 2 is connected .

[0107] Between the nodes 7 of the first group 8 and the common branch 2 , a further switch 21 is arranged within the first main branch 3 for j ointly connecting and j ointly disconnecting the nodes 7 of the first group 8 to and from P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0108] 19 the common branch 2 . In particular, when performing the method according to Figure 1 , the further switch 21 can be in the closed state .

[0109] Advantageously, having both the switch 5 and the further switch 21 , the master node 5 can control one of the groups of nodes actively, in a case one of the other groups of nodes has encountered with a fault or other issues .

[0110] For example , the first node N1 and the sixth node N6 are equal with respect to their function, i . e . are of a same functionality type . For example , the second node N2 , the third node N3 , the fourth node N4 and the fi fth node N5 as well as the seventh node N7 , the eighth node N8 , the ninth node N9 and the tenth node N10 are equal with respect to their function, i . e . are of a same functionality type . The nodes 7 of the first group 8 are connected to a first system 11 and the nodes 7 of the second group 9 are connected to a second system 12 , as indicated by the arrows in Figure 2 . In particular, the nodes 7 can have at least one input and / or at least one output connected to the respective system 11 , 12 .

[0111] Method stage S7 according to the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3 comprises that the master node 6 sends a waiting message to all nodes 7 such that all nodes 7 are in a waiting state , wherein the switch 5 according to Figure 2 is in the closed state .

[0112] Subsequently, the swich is operated to be in the open state according to method stage S I , and the master sends the first address claim message to the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 according to method stage S2 , as described in connection to Figure 1 . P2024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 2025

[0113] - 20 -

[0114] The first address claim message comprises a first predefined range of addresses corresponding to the setup of the nodes 7 according to Figure 2. In particular, the first predefined range of addresses has a range of OxBl to 0xB4 and 0XC0, provided to the nodes N1 to N5 of the first group 8.

[0115] Subsequently, the master node 6 receives the individual addresses of each of the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6, i.e. the nodes N1 to N5 of the first group 8, as separate responses. The first response is characteristic of the individual address of the second node N2, i.e. OxBl, the second response is characteristic of the individual address of the third node N3, i.e. 0xB2, the third response is characteristic of the individual address of the fourth node N4, i.e. 0xB3, and the fourth response is characteristic of the individual address of the fifth node N5, i.e. 0xB4. The fifth response is characteristic of the individual address of the first node Nl, i.e. OxCO.

[0116] The received individual addresses are grouped to the first group 8.

[0117] Subsequently, the swich is operated to be in the closed state according to method stage S4, and the master sends the second address claim message to the nodes 7 connected to the master node 6 according to method stage S6, as described in connection with Figure 1.

[0118] The second address claim message comprises a second predefined range of addresses corresponding to the setup of the nodes 7 according to Figure 2. In particular, the second predefined range of addresses has a range of 0xB5 to 0xB8 and P2024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 2025

[0119] 21

[0120] 0XC1, provided to all the nodes N1 to N10 of the first group 8 and the second group 9.

[0121] Subsequently, the master node 6 receives the individual addresses of each of the nodes 7 connected to the master node

[0122] 6 and not being part of the first group 8, i.e. the nodes N6 to N10 of the second group 9, as separate responses. In particular, as the nodes N1 to N5 of the first group 8 have already determined the respective individual addresses, the nodes N1 to N5 of the first group 8 do not determine a further individual address. The first response is characteristic of the individual address of the seventh node N7, i.e. 0xB5, the second response is characteristic of the individual address of the eighth node N8, i.e. 0xB6, the third response is characteristic of the individual address of the ninth node N9, i.e. 0xB7, and the fourth response is characteristic of the individual address of the tenth node N10, i.e. 0xB8. The fifth response is characteristic of the individual address of the sixth node N6, i.e. OxCl .

[0123] The received individual addresses are grouped to the second group 9.

[0124] Particularly, all the individual addresses as well as the corresponding groups are stored in a non-volatile memory, exemplarily of the master node 6.

[0125] Subsequently, in method stage S8, the master node 6 sends an exit message to all nodes 7 such that all nodes 7 exit the waiting state and in particular exit a state where the nodes

[0126] 7 are ready for determining the individual address.

[0127] Finally, the method is ended in method stage S9. P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0128] - 22 -

[0129] The main branches 3 , 4 according to the exemplary embodiment of Figure 4 , as also shown in connection with Figure 2 , have a CAN low line 13 and a CAN high line 14 , being connected in series to one another . In particular, the CAN low lines 13 and the CAN high lines 14 of both main branches 3 , 4 form a common main branch .

[0130] The first main branch 3 has an end region comprising a first terminating resistor 15 , wherein the first terminating resistor 15 connects the CAN low line 13 with the CAN high line 14 of the first main branch 3 in the end region . The second main branch 4 has an end region comprising a second terminating resistor 15 , wherein the second terminating resistor 15 connects the CAN low line 13 with the CAN high line 14 of the second main branch 4 in the end region .

[0131] The switch 5 comprises a further end region comprising a resistor, being a further terminating resistor 16 , which connects a further CAN low line 13 with a further CAN high line 14 of the further end region . I f the switch 5 is operated to be in the open state , the switch 5 connects the common branch 2 to the further end region with the further terminating resistor 16 .

[0132] The assembly 17 according to the exemplary embodiment of Figure 5 comprises the CAN bus 1 according to Figure 1 , wherein the second node N2 to the fi fth node N5 of the first group 8 correspond to a respective communication device and the first node N1 of the first group 8 corresponds to a monitoring device . The seventh node N7 to the tenth node N10 of the second group 9 correspond to a respective communication device and the sixth node N6 of the second 92024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0133] 23 group 9 corresponds to a monitoring device . The master node 6 corresponds to a communication unit . The first system 11 and the second system 12 correspond to a charging connector, respectively .

[0134] The second node N2 to the fi fth node N5 of the first group 8 are each connected to the first system 11 via a contactor 18 . The seventh node N7 to the tenth node N10 of the second group 9 are each connected to the second system 12 via a contactor 18 .

[0135] The assembly 17 according to the exemplary embodiment of Figure 6 additionally comprises , compared to the assembly 17 of Figure 5 , a further contactor 19 . The further contactor 19 is connected between a common output line of the second node N2 to the fi fth node N5 and a common output line of the seventh node N7 to the tenth node N10 .

[0136] For example , each of the first system 11 and the second system 12 are connected to a respective additional device 20 . The additional device 20 corresponds , for example , to a controlling device .

[0137] This patent application claims the priority of the Indian patent application IN 202411070855 and the German patent application DE 102024132253 . 5 , the disclosure content of which is hereby incorporated by reference , respectively . P2024 , 0818 WO N / P23- 1553WO01 September 15 , 2025

[0138] 24

[0139] Reference signs list

[0140] 1 controller area network bus

[0141] 2 common branch

[0142] 3 first main branch

[0143] 4 second main branch

[0144] 5 switch

[0145] 6 master node

[0146] 7 node

[0147] 8 first group

[0148] 9 second group

[0149] 10 transceiver unit

[0150] 11 first system

[0151] 12 second system

[0152] 13 CAN low line

[0153] 14 CAN high line

[0154] 15 terminating resistor

[0155] 16 further terminating resistor

[0156] 17 ass e mb 1 y

[0157] 18 contactor

[0158] 19 further contactor

[0159] 20 additional device

[0160] 21 further switch

[0161] N1...N10 nodes

[0162] R1...R5 responses

[0163] S 1...S 9 method stages

Claims

P2024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 2025- 25 -Claims1. Method for allocating and grouping individual addresses of a plurality of nodes (7) connected to a controller area network, CAN, bus (1) , wherein the CAN bus (1) connects a master node (6) to the plurality of nodes (7) , and wherein the CAN bus (1) comprises at least one switch (5) , the method comprising :- operating, by the master node (6) , the at least one switch (5) such that the at least one switch (5) is in an open state such that at least some of the plurality of nodes (7) are disconnected from the master node (6) ,- sending, by the master node (6) , a first address claim message to the nodes (7) connected to the master node (6) ,- receiving, by the master node (6) , individual addresses of each of the nodes (7) connected to the master node (6) , wherein the received individual addresses are grouped in a first group ( 8 ) ,- operating, by the master node (6) , the at least one switch (5) such that the at least one switch (5) is in a closed state such that the plurality of nodes (7) are connected to the master node (6) ,- sending, by the master node (6) , a second address claim message to the nodes (7) connected to the master node (6) ,- receiving, by the master node (6) , individual addresses of each of the nodes (7) connected to the master node (6) not being part of the first group (8) , wherein the received individual addresses are grouped in a second group (9) .

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein- the switch (5) is operated to be in the closed state as a default state.P2024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 2025263. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein- each node (7) initially has a default address.

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein- the first address claim message comprises a first predefined range of addresses, and- the second address claim message comprises a second predefined range of addresses.

5. Method according to claim 4, wherein, when the switch (5) is in the open state,- each node (7) chooses an address of the first predefined range of addresses based on a unique identifier of the respective node, being the respective individual address.

6. Method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, when the switch (5) is in the closed state,- each node (7) not having been assigned an individual address chooses an address of the second predefined range of addresses based on a unique identifier of the respective node (7) , being the respective individual address.

7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, if one of the nodes (7) is replaced by a new node, the method further comprises:- sending, by the master node (6) , a single address claim message to the new node such that the individual address of the replaced node (7) is assigned to the new node.

8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein- the nodes (7) are operated depending on the individual addresses of the first group (8) and the second group (9) .P2024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 2025- 27 -9. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein- the nodes (7) are grouped in n groups, wherein n is a natural number of at least two, and- n-1 switches (5) are used for grouping the individual addresses to n groups.

10. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein- the first group (8) of the plurality of nodes (7) is configured to be connected to a first system (11) , and the second group (9) of the plurality of nodes (7) is configured to be connected to a second system (12) .

11. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein- the CAN bus (1) comprises a further switch (21) , and- upon failure of at least one node (7) of the first group(8) , the further switch (21) is operated to be in the open state, and- upon failure of at least one node (7) of the second group(9) , the at least one switch (5) is operated to be in the open state.

12. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein- a CAN bus (1) communication between the master node (6) and the plurality of nodes (7) is split by the at least one switch for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. Controller area network, CAN, bus (1) with- a common branch (2) configured to be connected to a master node ( 6 ) ,- at least two main branches (3, 4) connected to the common branch ( 2 ) , and92024,0818 WO N / P23-1553WO01 September 15, 202528- at least one switch (5) arranged within one of the at least two main branches (3, 4) , wherein- each of the at least two main branches (3, 4) is configured to be connected to a respective group (8, 9) comprising at last some nodes (7) of a plurality of nodes (7) , and- the at least one switch (5) is arranged between the common branch (2) and the nodes (7) of the respective group (8, 9) of the one of the at least two main branches (3, 4) .

14. Controller area network bus (1) according to claim 13, wherein- the switch (5) is configured to provide a signal path from the common branch (2) to the nodes (7) of the respective group (8, 9) in a closed state, and- the switch (5) is configured to disconnect a signal path from the common branch (2) to the nodes (7) of the respective group (8, 9) in an open state.

15. Controller area network bus (1) according to claim 14, wherein- the switch (5) is configured to provide a further signal path from the common branch (2) to a resistor (16) in the open state.

16. Computer program comprising instructions which, when the computer program is executed by a computer, cause the computer program to execute the method according to one of claims 1 to 12.

17. Computer-readable storage medium on which the computer program according to claim 16 is stored.

Images