Dynamic Connection Timeout Management in Redundant Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication networks in industrial automation face challenges in setting optimal connection timeout values, leading to premature termination of I/O connections or delayed recovery from disruptions, affecting communication speeds and system performance.
Innovation Solution
A method to calculate a connection timeout value based on predetermined topological, protocol, and performance characteristics, including worst-case network recovery time, maximum data packet interval, and worst-case communication latency, to determine communication timeouts and manage I/O connections effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the timeout value is set small to detect connection failures quickly, then the detection speed is improved, but the connection may be terminated prematurely during legitimate network disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the timeout value parameter based on network conditions, topology characteristics, and device performance metrics. Instead of using a fixed timeout value, the system calculates an optimal timeout value that adapts to changing network conditions, thereby preventing premature connection termination while maintaining accurate failure detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The timeout value is transformed from a static configuration parameter to a dynamic value that changes based on real-time network conditions. The system continuously monitors network performance and adjusts the timeout value accordingly, allowing the connection management to be flexible and adaptive rather than rigid and fixed.
2Reliability
If the timeout value is set large to avoid premature connection termination, then the connection stability is improved, but the detection and recovery from actual disruptions is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system calculates an optimal timeout value that is neither too small nor too large, but precisely tuned to the specific network conditions. By changing the timeout parameter dynamically based on measured network characteristics, the system achieves both fast detection and high stability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where network performance data is continuously collected and used to adjust the timeout value. This closed-loop approach allows the system to learn from actual network behavior and optimize the timeout setting to minimize both false disconnections and detection delays.
3Device complexity
If a fixed timeout value is used for simplicity, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different network conditions is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration by automatically calculating the optimal timeout value based on its own measurements of network characteristics. Instead of requiring manual configuration or complex external setup, the device autonomously determines the appropriate timeout setting, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements of network topology and performance characteristics before establishing connections, using this advance information to pre-calculate the optimal timeout value. This preliminary action allows the system to be well-prepared and adaptive from the start without adding operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of configuring a communication network including a network device includes obtaining a first parameter associated with a predetermined topological characteristic of the communication network, a second parameter associated with a communication protocol of the communication network and a third parameter associated with a performance characteristic of the communication network, and calculating a connection timeout value based on the first parameter, the second parameter and the third parameter. The network device is configured to determine whether a communication timeout has occurred on the communication network based on the connection timeout value. Calculating the connection timeout value may include calculating a sum of the first parameter, the second parameter and the third parameter.