Auto Addressing via Functional Connection in Automotive Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing networked systems require either preconfigured addresses or special connections for each module, making inventory management complex and repairs with substituted parts difficult, especially in automotive systems using CAN or LIN buses.
Innovation Solution
The method involves auto-addressing networked modules based on their position within the system through successive activation of functional connections, eliminating the need for preprogrammed addresses or special connections, using a Light Control Unit (LCU) and pixel controllers to determine unique addresses by measuring voltage across LED strings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If preconfigured unique addresses are assigned to each module prior to installation, then each module can be uniquely identified on the shared bus, but inventory management becomes complex and repairs with substituted parts become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically assigns addresses to modules based on their position in the daisy-chain configuration. When a module is powered on, it detects whether it is the first module (no prior module detected) or a subsequent module (prior module detected), and automatically receives an address assignment from the controller without requiring preconfiguration. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual address configuration and complex inventory management.
2Reliability
If preprogrammed addresses are required in each module, then unique identification is achieved, but the system becomes less adaptable to module substitutions and repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The address assignment system is dynamic rather than static. Addresses are not fixed in the module hardware but are dynamically assigned based on the module's position in the network at the time of power-on. When a module is substituted or added, the system automatically detects the change in module positions and reassigns addresses accordingly, making the system highly adaptable to repairs and modifications without requiring manual reconfiguration.
3Extent of automation
If auto addressing wire or special wire connections are used to provide communication bus through each module, then automatic address assignment is enabled, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bus serves multiple functions: it provides both the data communication pathway and the address assignment mechanism. The same shared bus used for normal module communication is also used to detect module positions and assign addresses automatically. This eliminates the need for separate auto-addressing wires or special connections, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full automation capability.
4Reliability
If larger connectors with additional wires are used on the shared bus to provide unique addresses, then address assignment capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The address assignment functionality is extracted from the physical connector structure and implemented through software-based detection and assignment protocols. Instead of encoding addresses in additional physical wires or larger connectors, the system uses the existing communication bus to exchange address assignment messages. This extraction of the addressing function from hardware to software simplifies connector design and reduces manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for auto addressing includes a communication bus interface configured to receive an address assignment request to assign an address to the apparatus. A functional connection is configured to activate a device connected to the apparatus. A detector is configured to measure a characteristic of the device and to compare the characteristic with a validation parameter. The characteristic depends on the functional connection. An address assignment circuit is configured to store the address in a memory of the apparatus in response to receiving the address assignment request at the apparatus, and the characteristic being validated with the validation parameter.