Dual-Path Message Transmission Using Voltage and Current Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face reliability and safety issues due to the failure of digital data message transmission between controllers and receivers, leading to potential system failures or inefficiencies, especially in complex interrelated systems.
Innovation Solution
A controller that transmits digital data messages via two different transmission paths using distinct techniques, such as varying voltage and current, to ensure redundancy and increase functional safety, even in environments where external influences may distort signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single transmission path and technique is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to potential transmission failures
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is segmented into multiple independent transmission paths (first and second transmission paths) with different transmission techniques. Each path operates independently, so if one path fails, the other can still transmit data, thereby improving reliability without requiring a completely redundant complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different transmission techniques are used on different paths, involving parameter changes in how data is encoded and transmitted. For example, one path may use voltage-based signaling while another uses current-based signaling, making them resistant to different types of interference and improving overall reliability.
2Reliability
If redundant transmission paths are implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with multi-functionality, capable of transmitting data through multiple different transmission techniques simultaneously. This universal design allows a single device to handle various transmission methods, providing redundancy without requiring separate dedicated systems for each technique.
Solution Approach 2:
The redundant transmission paths are designed asymmetrically with different transmission techniques rather than identical copies. This asymmetric redundancy is more efficient because it protects against different types of failures and interference, reducing the need for overly complex symmetric redundancy systems.
3Speed
If voltage variation is used for transmission, then transmission speed is improved, but susceptibility to external interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses different transmission paths as intermediaries with different physical characteristics. When one path (e.g., voltage-based) is susceptible to external interference, the other path (e.g., current-based or different encoding) acts as an alternative intermediary that is less affected by the same interference, maintaining transmission integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission system employs a composite approach by combining multiple transmission techniques with different physical properties. This is analogous to composite materials where different materials with different properties are combined to achieve overall performance that overcomes the weaknesses of individual components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the reliability and safety of data transmission by allowing continued message reception even if one transmission technique fails, thereby preventing systematic errors and maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the first transmission technique uses a variation of a voltage on the bus or on a first signal terminal connected to the bus in order to transmit the message
Implementation Method 2
the second transmission technique uses a variation of a current on the second bus line or on a second signal terminal connected to the same
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to a controller operable to transmit digital data messages to a receiver via a communication link having at least a first and a second transmission path, the controller comprising a first signal terminal the first transmission path and a second signal terminal for the second transmission path. The first signal terminal is operable to digitally transmit a first message to the receiver according to a first transmission technique and the second signal terminal is being operable to digitally transmit a second message to the receiver according to a second, different transmission technique.