Embedded High-Speed Protocol for Distributed Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication protocols in distributed embedded control systems, such as CAN and CANFD, face limitations in bandwidth, latency, and compatibility, making it challenging to integrate new modules into existing systems without significant costs and complexity, especially in industries like automotive where upgrading entire systems is expensive and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
Embedding a second high-speed protocol within the first protocol, allowing modules supporting the second protocol to operate seamlessly with those only supporting the first protocol, by utilizing unused bit quanta in CAN message packets, thereby increasing data transmission capacity without disturbing existing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If CANFD protocol is adopted to increase data bandwidth, then bandwidth is improved, but compatibility with legacy CAN modules deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds a second high-speed protocol within the first CAN protocol framework, allowing CANFD modules to nest their high-speed communications within the existing CAN message structure. This nesting enables legacy CAN modules to coexist with CANFD modules on the same bus, as the embedded protocol utilizes unused bit quanta in CAN message packets without interfering with standard CAN communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the CAN message packet into different bit quanta, identifying and utilizing unused portions for embedding the second high-speed protocol. By dividing the message structure into usable and unused segments, the system allows selective use of high-speed transmission for specific data while maintaining compatibility with legacy systems that only utilize the standard CAN protocol.
2Quantity of substance
If entire CAN system is upgraded to CANFD, then bandwidth is improved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring complete system replacement, the patent enables partial adoption where only specific modules need to support the embedded second protocol to benefit from enhanced bandwidth. This partial action approach allows gradual migration and reduces the complexity and cost of upgrading entire vehicle networks.
Solution Approach 2:
By nesting the high-speed protocol within the existing CAN framework, the system avoids the complexity of implementing a completely separate communication infrastructure. The embedded protocol utilizes the same physical bus and message structure, eliminating the need for separate wiring harnesses and reducing system complexity.
3Speed
If CANFD protocol is used, then transmission speed is improved, but requirement for accurate clocks and processors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling high-speed transmission only in specific portions of the CAN message where bit quanta are unused by the standard protocol. This localized high-speed communication does not require system-wide clock synchronization or high-precision processors, as only the embedded protocol segments require the additional timing accuracy, while legacy CAN segments continue to operate with standard timing tolerances.
Data Source
AI summary
A control network communication arrangement includes a second protocol embedded into a first protocol in a way that modules supporting the second protocol may be aware of and utilize the first protocol whereas modules supporting only the first protocol may not be aware of the second protocol. Operation of modules using the second protocol does not disturb operation of the modules not configured to use or understand the second protocol. By one approach, the messages sent using the second protocol will be seen as messages sent using the first protocol but not having a message necessary to understand or as needing a particular response. In another approach, modules using the second protocol can be configured to send message during transmission of first protocol messages by other modules, the second protocol messages being triggered off of expected aspects of the message sent under the first protocol.