Bypass-capable nodes for daisy chain network protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional daisy chain networks in oil and gas exploration and transportation are vulnerable to single or multiple points of failure, impacting network reliability and causing electromotive force issues, especially in SCADA systems and linear network topologies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a daisy chain network with bypass-capable communication nodes that include optical-electrical circuitry and a sensing and switching subsystem to automatically switch between primary and bypass communication paths when a node fails, using processors and computer-readable media to monitor and adaptively control internodal transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a conventional daisy chain network is used, then the network structure is simple and economical, but the network reliability deteriorates due to single point of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the daisy chain network into multiple independent segments by inserting optical bypass units between communication nodes. Each segment can operate independently, so that a failure in one node does not propagate to other nodes. The bypass capability creates logical segmentation that isolates failures while maintaining physical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical bypass unit acts as an intermediary component between communication nodes in the daisy chain. It provides an alternative transmission path that mediates the connection, allowing signals to bypass failed nodes without disrupting the entire network. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction by adding reliability through an intermediate protective layer.
2Reliability
If bypass-capable communication nodes are implemented, then the network reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the bypass functionality from the main communication node and implements it as a separate optical bypass unit. This extraction allows the communication node to remain relatively simple while the bypass unit handles the complexity of failure detection and alternative path routing. The bypass capability is taken out as an independent module that can be added without fundamentally redesigning the communication node.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical bypass unit implements self-service through automatic failure detection and self-actuated switching. The monitoring circuitry continuously checks the health of communication nodes and automatically activates the bypass path when a failure is detected, without requiring manual intervention or complex control systems. This self-service mechanism reduces the operational complexity while maintaining high reliability.
3Loss of time
If automatic switching is implemented, then the response time to failure is reduced, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the bypass paths and monitoring circuits before failures occur. The optical bypass units are already connected and ready, with monitoring continuously active, so that when a failure occurs, the switching action can immediately execute without delay for path configuration or manual approval. This preliminary preparation enables instantaneous response while keeping the control logic simple and predetermined.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring circuitry provides continuous feedback on the health status of communication nodes to the bypass control logic. This feedback mechanism enables automatic detection of failures and triggers the switching action only when necessary. The feedback loop is simple and direct, providing real-time status information that drives the bypass decision without requiring complex analysis or control algorithms.
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 solution enhances network reliability by instantly bypassing failed communication nodes, reducing the impact of failures and electromotive force issues, and ensuring continuous operation in daisy chain networks, particularly in oil and gas exploration and transportation.
Implementation Method 1
optical-electrical circuitry configured to transform an optical signal received by one or both of the transceivers into an electrical signal to transmit to the communication node primary circuitry
Implementation Method 2
transform an electrical signal received from the communication node primary circuitry into an optical signal for transmission by one or both of the transceivers
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for protecting daisy chain networks from node malfunction or power outage are disclosed. One or more communication nodes in a daisy chain network can be bypass-capable communication nodes. Bypass-capable communication nodes can include a sensing and switching subsystem, embedded in the node or external to the node in a fiber optic cable running along the daisy chain network. In embodiments, the sensing and switching subsystem can responsively switch the bypass-capable communication node from communication node primary circuitry to primary circuitry responsive to node malfunction or node power outage. The sensing and switching subsystem also can switch back from bypass circuitry to primary circuitry responsive to restoration of node function or node power. In embodiments, switching occurs responsive to excitation or de-excitation of the node itself.