Autonomous Address Allocation via Voltage Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data transmission systems face challenges in reliably and efficiently allocating unique addresses to multiple identical devices connected to a data transmission bus, particularly when devices with identical part numbers need to be installed at different locations.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a device with a voltmeter that measures a potential at an additional contact, allowing the communication apparatus to select an address from multiple predefined addresses based on the measured potential, enabling autonomous address allocation without the need for a central controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple identical devices with identical part numbers are installed at different locations in the data transmission system, then device availability and standardization are improved, but address allocation becomes problematic because identical devices cannot have identical addresses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple predefined addresses in the communication apparatus and pre-establishing a mapping between voltage levels and addresses. When the device is installed, the system automatically determines the correct address by measuring the voltage at the additional contact and selecting the corresponding predefined address, eliminating the need for manual address configuration while ensuring reliable address allocation for identical devices at different locations.
2Reliability
If a central controller is used to allocate addresses automatically, then address allocation reliability is improved, but device complexity and communication overhead increase due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the communication apparatus within each device to autonomously determine its own address without requiring a central controller. The device measures the voltage at the additional contact, retrieves the corresponding predefined address from its internal memory, and configures its communication interface independently. This self-allocating mechanism eliminates the need for complex central control while maintaining reliable address assignment.
3Ease of operation
If additional contacts and detection mechanisms are added to enable autonomous address selection, then address allocation simplicity is improved, but connection apparatus complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the additional contact to serve multiple functions: it provides a voltage signal that indicates the device's installation position, enables automatic address determination through voltage measurement, and facilitates autonomous configuration without requiring separate detection circuits or complex identification mechanisms. This multi-functional approach simplifies the overall system while maintaining ease of operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for simple and reliable address allocation for multiple devices, enabling the use of identical devices at different locations without logistical issues, and eliminates the need for special start procedures or adapted communications.
Implementation Method 1
the device (1) has a voltmeter (30) that is designed to measure a potential (POT) present at the additional contact (K5, K5') with respect to the first supply potential (GND) and/or with respect to the second supply potential (VS)
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the teachings herein include a device comprising: a communication apparatus for sending and/or receiving data via a data transmission bus and a device-side connection apparatus connecting the device to the bus. The connection apparatus includes electrical contacts to be connected in pairs to bus-side electrical contacts of a connection apparatus on the bus. The contacts comprise a data contact for a data signal, a supply contact to transmit a first supply potential, a second supply contact to transmit a second potential different from the first, and a third contact. A voltmeter measures a potential present at the third contact with respect to the first supply potential and/or the second supply potential. The communication apparatus assigns an address to the device for sending and/or receiving the data via the bus, selected from multiple different predefined addresses on the basis of the potential measured at the third contact.