Configurable Communication Interface for Vehicle CMU Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication management units (CMUs) require software modifications every time a new type of communication interface is added, making it inefficient to accommodate various communication systems, such as satellite data units and high frequency data radio interfaces, due to the need for frequent updates.
Innovation Solution
A CMU with configurable communication interfaces and a communication controller that uses an interface configuration table to determine and configure the appropriate communication protocol for each interface, allowing it to adapt to different communication systems without requiring software modifications each time a new type is added.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the CMU software is modified each time a new communication interface is added, then the CMU can accommodate new communication systems, but the maintenance complexity and update frequency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal configuration table structure that can accommodate multiple communication interface types (SDU, HFDR, and future interfaces) through a standardized parameter framework. The configuration table uses generic field names and data structures that can represent different protocol types without requiring software restructuring, allowing the same software binary to support multiple interface types through configuration alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from modifying software code to modifying configuration parameters. By storing communication protocol parameters (such as packet formats, timing characteristics, and data structures) in a configurable table rather than hardcoding them in software, the system allows interface adaptations through parameter changes alone, eliminating the need for software recompilation and reducing maintenance complexity.
2Device complexity
If the CMU uses fixed communication protocols for each interface, then the software structure remains simple, but the system cannot adapt to different communication systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication interface functionality into two distinct layers: a fixed software structure that handles core processing functions, and a configurable parameter layer stored in a table that defines specific protocol behaviors. This segmentation allows the simple fixed software structure to remain unchanged while the adaptable configuration table provides interface-specific parameters, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration table acts as an intermediary layer between the fixed software structure and the variable communication protocols. Rather than directly modifying the software to adapt to different protocols, the configuration table mediates by providing parameter mappings that translate diverse protocol requirements into a unified internal representation that the fixed software can process.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle communication management unit is provided that includes at least one configurable communication interface, at least one memory and a communication controller. Each configuration communication interface is configured to interface signals between a communication link and the vehicle communication management unit using a select communication protocol. The memory is used to store operating instructions of the communication management unit including an interface configuration table. The interface configuration table includes communication operating parameters for select communication protocols. The communication controller is used to control communication operations of the communication management unit. The communication controller is configured to determine a type of communication protocol used in a communication link coupled to the at least one configurable communication interface. The communication controller is further configured to configure the at least one configurable communication interface with communication operating parameters stored in the configuration table associated with the determined type of communication protocol.