Ethernet Communication Protocol for Stage Lighting Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protocols for exchanging information between controlling computers and show devices in stage lighting systems are inflexible and lack a standardized method for efficiently transmitting status, position, and movement data over a single common line, restricting the scalability and extensibility of network communication.
Innovation Solution
A communication protocol using UDP over Ethernet that allows for flexible port configuration, enabling multiple controlling computers to communicate with various devices using Multicast or Broadcast methods, with user-configurable parameters to define ports for different signals and requests, allowing for extensive data exchange without exceeding stringent MTU limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing protocols are used for exchanging information between controlling computers and show devices, then communication can be established, but the system lacks flexibility and scalability for efficiently transmitting status, position, and movement data
Solution Approach 1:
The communication protocol segments data transmission into distinct packet types (status packets, position packets, movement packets) with specific formats for different data categories. This segmentation allows flexible handling of various data types while maintaining a structured approach that doesn't increase overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol creates a universal communication framework that can handle multiple functions (status monitoring, position tracking, movement control) through a single standardized interface. This multi-functionality enables the system to adapt to different device types and communication needs without requiring separate protocols for each function
2Quantity of substance
If multiple controlling computers and devices are connected to exchange large amounts of data, then network functionality increases, but data transmission may exceed MTU limits
Solution Approach 1:
Large data transmissions are segmented into smaller packets that fit within MTU limits. The protocol divides complex data sets (such as multiple device status updates or position information) into discrete, manageable packets that can be transmitted efficiently without exceeding network constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol adds structural dimensions to data transmission by organizing data into hierarchical packet formats with headers, payloads, and trailers. This dimensional organization allows efficient packing of large amounts of data into MTU-compliant packets while maintaining data integrity and transmission speed
3Productivity
If a standardized method is implemented for transmitting status, position, and movement data, then communication efficiency improves, but the protocol structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol uses parameter-based configuration to define packet structures, data formats, and transmission characteristics. By changing parameters rather than restructuring the entire protocol, the system can optimize for different efficiency requirements while maintaining a consistent underlying framework that doesn't increase fundamental complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A format for controlling information between multiple masters and clients uses each of a plurality of ports over a specified line, where the specified line can be ethernet, and where the ports can be opened and closed, and where the ports are calculated based on the number assigned to the console, a console multiplier, and at least one increment that represents the kind of information where there are multiple kinds of information.