HSR Network Access Unit for Nonintrusive Test Node Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing, commissioning, and maintenance of industrial communication networks with HSR ring topology require disconnection and reconnection of nodes, leading to potential system modification and prolonged downtime, which increases the risk of failure and reduces availability.
Innovation Solution
An access unit with first and second ports, where the first ports remain connected during normal operation and the second port allows data traffic to be passed to or test data injected into the network during testing, commissioning, or maintenance, using passive components to maintain network integrity without altering connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a test node is inserted into the HSR ring by disconnecting and reconnecting nodes, then testing and maintenance can be performed, but the system faces prolonged downtime and increased risk of modification errors
Solution Approach 1:
The access unit is pre-configured with multiple ports and connection capabilities before being deployed in the HSR ring. The first ports are already connected to the ring, and the second ports are prepared to accept test nodes, eliminating the need for on-site disconnection and reconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The access unit serves as an intermediary device between the HSR ring and test nodes. It provides dedicated second ports that allow test nodes to connect to the ring without requiring any nodes to be disconnected or reconnected, thus maintaining continuous system availability while enabling testing operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If nodes are disconnected and reconnected for test node insertion, then testing can be performed, but the complexity of the process increases and errors may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The access unit is segmented into multiple functional ports: first ports for permanent connection to the HSR ring and second ports for optional connection to test nodes. This segmentation allows independent connection management, where test node connections can be established without affecting the ring connections, thereby reducing operational complexity and error risk.
3Ease of operation
If the HSR ring is opened for test node connection, then testing can be performed, but the probability of system failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access unit acts as a mediator that enables test node connectivity while preserving HSR ring integrity. By providing dedicated second ports on the access unit, test nodes can connect to the ring without any nodes needing to be disconnected, thus maintaining continuous ring closure and preventing failures associated with opening and reclosing connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The access unit is preliminarily configured with established first ports connected to the HSR ring before testing begins. This pre-established connection eliminates the need to open the ring during testing operations, maintaining ring integrity and preventing failures that would result from connection disruptions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an access unit for accessing an industrial communication network are provided. An access unit has first ports connected to the communication network and at least one second port. The access unit is configured to pass data traffic between nodes of the communication network through the access unit in a first operational state of the access unit. The access unit is configured to pass data traffic to a test node via the at least one second port and/or allow test data to be injected into the communication network via the at least one second port in a second operational state of the access unit.