Ethernet Switch CAN Bus Connector for Unified Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Maintenance, installation, and test operations in passenger transport buses with separate local communication networks are complex due to the need for separate tools for Ethernet and CAN bus systems, requiring a solution to simplify these processes.
Innovation Solution
An Ethernet switch with a connector for connecting to a CAN bus, allowing control of test, configuration, and update operations from an external device, enabling unified management of both Ethernet and primary devices connected to the CAN bus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate tools are used for Ethernet and CAN bus systems, then each system can be managed independently, but the complexity of maintenance and installation operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines Ethernet switch management and CAN bus device management into a single unified tool. The Ethernet switch includes a connector that interfaces with the CAN bus, allowing one tool to communicate with both Ethernet devices and CAN bus devices, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining independent system management capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The Ethernet switch is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating a CAN bus connector and communication capabilities. This universal interface enables the same device to serve both as an Ethernet switch and as a node accessible via CAN bus, allowing a single management tool to handle both network types without requiring separate specialized tools.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors and interfaces are provided, then connectivity options increase, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design where the Ethernet switch incorporates both Ethernet ports and a CAN bus connector. This multi-functional interface allows the single device to connect to both Ethernet networks and CAN bus systems, providing versatile connectivity options while avoiding the need for multiple separate devices with different connectors, thereby simplifying installation.
3Ease of operation
If a unified management tool is used for Ethernet and CAN bus devices, then maintenance operations are simplified, but the tool complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the management capabilities for Ethernet and CAN bus devices into a single unified tool by providing the Ethernet switch with a CAN bus connector and communication stack. This integration allows one tool to communicate with both Ethernet devices and CAN bus devices through the switch, simplifying maintenance operations while the switch itself handles the protocol translation and communication complexity internally.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
Ethernet switch (5), comprising: - a set of Ethernet ports adapted to be connected to respective devices (7) via Ethernet links (6); - an Ethernet frame switching module adapted to receive an Ethernet frame, to select an Ethernet port of said set according to said received Ethernet frame and to provide said frame to said selected Ethernet port, said Ethernet switch being characterized in that it further comprises a connector adapted to be connected to a communication bus (2) distinct from an Ethernet link; said Ethernet switch being further characterized in that it is adapted to receive, via said connector, at least one message transmitted on the communication bus, to perform, according to said received message, at least one operation among a configuration, test, or update operation of said Ethernet switch.