Cyclic Data Frame Mapping for Single-Cycle Device Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems require multiple cycles to facilitate data communication between controlled devices due to the absence of direct communication functionality, necessitating intervention from a main control device and additional networks for data exchange.

Innovation Solution

A system enabling direct data communication between controlled devices without the need for additional networks, allowing data transfer in a single cycle by reconfiguring data frames to allow controlled devices to communicate directly with each other.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If data communication between controlled devices is performed via the main control device, then system control is maintained, but the number of communication cycles increases and system responsiveness decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem controlVSAvoidcommunication cycles
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments communication paths by introducing a direct communication channel between controlled devices while maintaining the main control device's oversight role. This allows data to be transmitted directly between controlled devices without requiring full mediation through the main control device, thereby reducing communication cycles while preserving system control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a communication conversion unit as an intermediary that enables direct data exchange between controlled devices. This intermediary component facilitates peer-to-peer communication while the main control device maintains overall system coordination, resolving the contradiction between direct communication efficiency and centralized control reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Speed

If direct communication between controlled devices is implemented, then communication speed increases, but system complexity increases due to additional networks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication speedVSAvoidnetwork structure
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the existing communication network multi-functional by enabling it to handle both main control device-to-controlled device communication and controlled device-to-controlled device direct communication. The communication conversion unit allows the same network infrastructure to serve multiple communication patterns, achieving direct communication without adding separate network hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a virtual communication path that copies the functionality of a separate direct communication network within the existing network framework. By using communication conversion units that translate and forward messages, the system achieves direct communication effects without duplicating physical network infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP4339720B1System, control method therefor, and program
Publication Date: 2026.03.25 CANON KK
  • EP4339720B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4339720B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4339720B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

In a system, a plurality of controlled devices, including a first controlled device and a second controlled device, and a main control device configured to control the plurality of controlled devices are connected via a network. The main control device includes a communicator configured to transmit and receive a data frame including a plurality of data areas via the network in a predetermined cycle, and a setter configured to set a structure of the data frame. The setter has a function of setting the same data area in the data frame as a data area in which the first controlled device should write data and a data area from which the second controlled device should read data.