Address-Storage Connector for Faster, Reliable Bus Device Setup
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors used for connecting devices to communication lines, such as the CAN bus, require complex and time-consuming preparation processes, leading to poor reliability and long setup times.
Innovation Solution
A connector system that includes a first interface unit with multiple connection ends for connecting devices and communication lines, an address storage unit for determining the device's address, and additional interface units for serial connection, enabling efficient and reliable connectivity while allowing address determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connectors are used to connect devices to communication lines, then connectivity is provided, but preparation time is long and reliability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate modular components: a plug unit with connection ends and an socket unit with corresponding receptacles. This segmentation allows for pre-assembly and testing of individual modules, reducing on-site preparation time while maintaining connection reliability through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector components are designed to be pre-assembled and pre-tested before deployment. The plug and socket units can be prepared in advance with proper wiring and configuration, eliminating time-consuming field preparation while ensuring reliable connections when deployed.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional connectors are used, then basic connectivity is achieved, but the preparation process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates universal interfaces that can connect to various communication line types (e.g., CAN bus, Ethernet). The standardized plug and socket units with multiple connection ends provide multi-functional capability, simplifying the preparation process by eliminating the need for different connector types for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple connection ends for different signal lines are integrated into single plug and socket units. This merging of multiple connection functions into unified components reduces preparation complexity by eliminating the need for separate connection operations for each signal line.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connectors only provide connectivity, then connection function is achieved, but address determination capability is missing
Solution Approach 1:
The connector acts as an intermediary between the communication line and the device, incorporating address determination functionality. The plug and socket units include mechanisms to read, store, or transmit device address information, enabling the connector to mediate both physical connection and logical identification functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for connecting a device and a communication line is disclosed. The connector includes a first interface unit and an address storage unit. The first interface unit includes a plurality of connection ends. An address information is stored in the address storage unit. A first group of the connection ends is connected to the communication line. A second group of the connection ends is connected to the address storage unit. A third group is connected to the device. The address of the device can be determined by the address information. A connector system for connecting devices and communication lines and to a motor control center is also disclosed.