System Bus Cycle Time Control via Signal Propagation Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing monitoring and control systems face challenges in ensuring reliable operation due to fixed communication times that do not adapt to the actual signal propagation conditions, leading to inefficient system bus utilization.
Innovation Solution
Measuring signal propagation times during the boot phase and dynamically setting the cycle time based on the longest signal propagation time to optimize data transfer rates and access times for all connected modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed communication times are used for all modules, then reliable operation is ensured, but system bus utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the communication cycle time variable rather than fixed. The time control unit dynamically adjusts the cycle time based on actual signal propagation times measured in the system, allowing the system to adapt to different configurations and optimize bus utilization while maintaining reliable operation through measured and controlled timing parameters.
2Reliability
If communication times are designed for maximum system expansion, then reliable operation is ensured, but bus utilization is optimized poorly for smaller systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by measuring actual signal propagation times in the specific system configuration and using these measured values to set appropriate cycle times. This allows the system to adapt the communication parameters to the actual physical conditions and module distances present, rather than using conservative fixed values designed for maximum expansion scenarios.
3Reliability
If cycle time is increased to accommodate longest propagation time, then all modules can communicate reliably, but overall communication speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different modules to operate with timing parameters suited to their specific distances from the master controller. Modules closer to the master can use shorter cycle times for faster communication, while modules farther away use the measured propagation time to determine their appropriate cycle time, optimizing both reliability and speed for each local segment of the system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for defining a cycle time for a transmission cycle on a system bus of a monitoring and/or control system having at least one communication module and at least one input/output module, which is connected to the communication module via the system bus for transmitting measurement and/or control signals and is intended to input and/or output measurement and/or control signals to field applications, the at least one communication module having a time control unit for controlling a transmission cycle which is constantly repeatedly carried out and has defined communication times for the communication and input/output modules which are connected to the system bus, comprises measuring the signal propagation times on the system bus and defining the cycle time for a transmission cycle on the system bus on the basis of the longest signal propagation time measured.