Dual Communication Path for Vehicle Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multiple unit (MU) communication systems in vehicle systems lack the ability to identify specific vehicles for commands and status messages, leading to poor performance, limited flexibility, and difficulty in troubleshooting and adjusting operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual communication path system where a first communication path uses industry standard MU signals and a second path, such as Ethernet over MU, allows for specific vehicle identification and higher fidelity commands and status messages, enabling improved control and redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional MU communication is used, then compatibility with older vehicles is maintained, but vehicle identification capability and command precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is segmented into two independent paths: a first communication path using conventional MU signals for basic compatibility, and a second communication path using Ethernet over MU for enhanced vehicle identification and command precision. This segmentation allows each path to specialize in specific functions without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a second communication path dimension to the existing single-path MU system. By overlaying Ethernet communication on top of the conventional MU infrastructure, the system gains enhanced capabilities in vehicle identification and command precision while preserving backward compatibility through the original communication path.
2Loss of information
If dual communication path system is implemented, then command precision and vehicle identification are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second communication path (Ethernet over MU) is designed to be multi-functional, handling both vehicle identification and detailed command transmission. This universal approach consolidates multiple information transmission functions into a single enhanced path, reducing the need for additional separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces communication modules as intermediary devices that manage the interaction between the two communication paths. These modules translate and coordinate messages between conventional MU format and Ethernet over MU format, ensuring seamless integration without requiring complete system redesign.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional MU communication is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but troubleshooting capability and operational flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is made dynamic by allowing selective use of different communication paths based on operational requirements. The system can adaptively choose to use the conventional MU path for simple operations, the Ethernet path for detailed troubleshooting, or both simultaneously for enhanced operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple communication paths with different capabilities before operational needs arise. This allows the system to immediately leverage enhanced troubleshooting and flexibility features when needed, without requiring real-time system reconfiguration.
4Reliability
If single communication path is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but communication redundancy and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by providing a backup communication path that can take over if the primary path fails. The dual-path architecture ensures that communication reliability is maintained through pre-established redundancy, cushioning against potential single-point failures.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a first communication module and a second communication module. The first communication module is configured to be disposed onboard a first vehicle of a vehicle consist, and the second communication module is configured to be disposed onboard a second vehicle of the vehicle consist. The first and second communication modules are communicatively coupled by first and second communication paths. The first and second communication modules are configured to communicate first information over the first communication path and second information over the second communication path. At least a portion of the first information includes a first command corresponding to a first operation of at least one of the first or second vehicles. At least a portion of the second information includes a second command corresponding to the first operation.