Multidrop Ethernet Node Fault Detection via Impedance Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network technologies face challenges in efficiently detecting short circuits and breaks in multidrop single pair Ethernet networks, which can disrupt communication and are difficult to diagnose.
Innovation Solution
A network node equipped with a transceiver and a test unit that can detect short circuits and breaks by measuring terminal impedance and comparing it to reference impedances, allowing for accurate identification of faults in the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multidrop single pair Ethernet is used to connect multiple network nodes cost-effectively, then the quantity of network nodes that can be connected increases and cost decreases, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring structural faults increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multidrop network into individual detectable segments by measuring terminal impedance at each network node. Each network node's connection to the twisted-pair cable can be independently tested, allowing faults to be localized to specific segments rather than requiring network-wide diagnostics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical inspection methods with electrical impedance measurements. Instead of manually tracing cables or using visual inspection, the system uses the test unit to measure terminal impedance electrically, automatically detecting short circuits, breaks, and termination errors through electrical characteristics.
2Device complexity
If traditional fault detection methods are used in multidrop Ethernet, then device complexity remains low, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures terminal impedance as a key parameter to detect faults. By monitoring changes in impedance values and comparing them against expected ranges, the system can precisely identify the presence and type of structural faults such as short circuits, breaks, or termination errors without complex diagnostic equipment.
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
Enables cost-effective and reliable detection of structural faults in multidrop bus systems, ensuring uninterrupted communication and simplifying fault diagnosis.
Implementation Method 1
the test unit is configured to detect a short circuit between the network terminals, a short circuit between the network lines and/or a short circuit between one of the network lines and a supply voltage of the network node, and/or to detect a break in at least one of the network lines
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a network node comprising a transceiver, that is galvanically isolated coupled to the network terminals of the network node, wherein the network not also comprises a test unit, which is galvanically connected to the network nodes, such that the test unit can apply a predefined common mode voltage at the network terminals and also configured to detect a structural fault of a network, which may be connected to the network terminals. The present disclosure also relates to a corresponding system and method.