Communication Circuit Switching Between Redundant and Independent Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication semiconductor devices with redundant functions require surplus hardware, leading to increased system costs due to the need for multiple communication circuits that cannot be used independently.
Innovation Solution
A communication semiconductor device with a first and second communication circuit, each equipped with a diagnostic circuit, and switchover function units controlled by a control circuit to switch between redundant and non-redundant modes based on diagnostic results and mode signals, allowing configuration as a non-redundant system when not required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the same signal is input to two or more communication circuits to realize redundant function, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and system cost increase due to surplus hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between redundant and non-redundant modes through control circuits that monitor diagnostic results and automatically reconfigure the communication circuit connections. This allows the system to adapt its hardware configuration based on operational needs and fault conditions, rather than being statically configured for redundancy at all times.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication semiconductor device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in redundant mode for high reliability applications, switch to non-redundant mode for cost-effective implementations, and support independent operation of each communication circuit. The switchover function units enable the same hardware to serve different operational requirements.
2Reliability
If the same signal is input to two or more communication circuits to realize redundant function, then reliability is improved, but system cost increases due to surplus hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its configuration based on whether redundancy is required, allowing manufacturers to produce a single device that can be deployed in both redundant and non-redundant scenarios, thereby reducing inventory complexity and manufacturing costs compared to producing separate devices for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the communication semiconductor device by switching between different connection configurations through the switchover function units. This allows the same physical hardware to operate with different topological parameters (redundant vs. non-redundant), effectively addressing cost concerns without sacrificing reliability when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If switchover function units are added to switch between redundant and non-redundant modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching control functionality into separate switchover function units that are integrated within the communication semiconductor device itself. This segmentation allows for modular control of each communication circuit's connection status, making the complexity manageable and localized rather than requiring a monolithic external control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication semiconductor device performs self-diagnosis through diagnostic circuits and automatically controls its own configuration switching without requiring external intervention. The control circuits within the device monitor its own state and trigger appropriate switchover actions, reducing the need for external complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication semiconductor device according to the present invention includes: a first communication circuit and a second communication circuit; a first switchover function unit that is connected to one end of the first communication circuit and one end of the second communication circuit, and that switches over paths for signals with respect to the first communication circuit and the second communication circuit; and a second switchover function unit that is connected to an other end of the first communication circuit and an other end of the second communication circuit, and that switches over paths for signals with respect to the first communication circuit and the second communication circuit, and outputs a switchover instruction, regarding an input destination and an output source, to the first switchover function unit and the second switchover function unit, on the basis of a redundant/non-redundant mode switchover signal, and a state of the first communication circuit and the second communication circuit.