CAN Impedance Matching Adapter with Software-Configured Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bus adapters require manual impedance matching by engineers, which is inconvenient and inefficient, as they need to measure and add resistors based on the existing network impedance, complicating the connection process.

Innovation Solution

An impedance matching adapter with an internal circuit, CAN interface module, and impedance matching module that automatically adjusts resistance values between interfaces using a relay and terminal resistor, controlled by a host computer via a USB interface, allowing software-driven impedance configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If manual impedance matching is required, then the adapter can be kept simple and inexpensive, but the ease of operation deteriorates and requires engineer intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadapter simplicityVSAvoidimpedance matching operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter automatically performs impedance matching by detecting the existing bus impedance and autonomously configuring the terminal resistor, eliminating the need for engineer intervention. The system self-adjusts the resistance value based on detected impedance characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter dynamically changes the resistance parameter by switching the terminal resistor on or off based on the detected bus impedance. The control circuit adjusts the resistance value between the two interfaces to match the existing bus impedance automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the adapter carries terminal resistors to match unknown bus impedance, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance compatibilityVSAvoidadapter structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter uses a dynamic switching mechanism where the terminal resistor is selectively connected or disconnected based on detected bus impedance. The relay or switch controlled by the control circuit dynamically adjusts the resistance configuration to match different bus impedance levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit acts as an intermediary that detects bus impedance and mediates the connection of the terminal resistor. It processes the impedance detection result and controls the relay or switch to appropriately configure the terminal resistor based on the detected impedance characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If engineers manually add resistors or jumper caps to achieve impedance matching, then impedance matching can be achieved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance matching resultVSAvoidconnection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter pre-configures the terminal resistor and detection circuit before connection. When connected to the bus, the system automatically detects impedance and activates the appropriate resistor configuration without requiring pre-manual setup by the engineer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (adding resistors, jumper caps) with an automated electronic detection and switching system. The control circuit electronically detects impedance and switches the terminal resistor into place automatically, eliminating manual wiring operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12395383B2Impedance matching adapter, impedance matching system, and impedance matching method
Publication Date: 2025.08.19 SHANGHAI TOSUN TECH LTD
  • US12395383B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An impedance matching adapter, an impedance matching system, and an impedance matching method are provided. The impedance matching adapter includes an internal circuit, and a controller area network (CAN) interface module and an impedance matching module that are electrically connected to the internal circuit. The CAN interface module is configured to be connected to a target network. The impedance matching module is connected to the CAN interface module. The internal circuit is configured to control the impedance matching module to adjust a resistance value between two interfaces of the CAN interface module. In this way, the user can build a hardware circuit automatically through software to realize a bus adapter with configurable impedance, which improves the use efficiency of the general bus adapter.