HSR Ring Access Unit for Live Test Node Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing, commissioning, and maintenance of industrial communication networks with HSR ring topology face challenges such as limited access to nodes, risk of modifying the network behavior, and prolonged interruptions in communication links, especially in areas with restricted access like substation process levels.
Innovation Solution
An access unit with first ports remaining connected during normal operation and a second port for testing, commissioning, or maintenance, allowing data traffic to be passed or test data to be injected without altering connections between nodes, using passive components to maintain network integrity and reduce downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a test node is inserted into the HSR ring by disconnecting existing connections, then testing and maintenance can be performed, but the communication links are interrupted and the risk of network modification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access unit is pre-installed in the HSR ring before testing is needed, with its first ports already connected to the ring. This preliminary setup allows the unit to remain dormant during normal operation and only activate when testing is required, thus maintaining network availability while enabling easy test node connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The access unit acts as an intermediary device between the HSR ring and the test node. It provides dedicated second ports that can connect to a test node without requiring disconnection of the ring's existing connections. This mediator role allows testing access while preserving the integrity and continuity of the communication ring.
2Ease of operation
If connections in the HSR ring are disconnected and reconnected for testing, then test access is achieved, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The access unit is pre-configured and permanently installed in the HSR ring with established connections. The first ports are already integrated into the ring topology, and the second ports are ready to accept test node connections. This eliminates the need for temporary disconnection and reconnection operations during testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The access unit provides separate first ports for ring connections and second ports for test node connections. This segmentation of connection interfaces allows independent access to the ring and the test node without requiring modification of existing connections, thus reducing the time and complexity of test setup.
3Ease of operation
If a test node is connected by removing existing connections, then testing can be performed, but the risk of incorrect reinstallation and network modification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access unit serves as a fixed intermediary with dedicated second ports specifically designed for test node connections. These ports provide standardized, pre-configured interfaces that eliminate the need for field technicians to perform complex disconnection and reconnection operations, thereby reducing the risk of installation errors and network modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The access unit is pre-installed and configured during the initial system setup phase. The connection topology and port mappings are established beforehand, ensuring that subsequent test node connections follow a predetermined, error-resistant path. This preliminary configuration prevents ad-hoc connection errors that could modify the network structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and an access unit (30) for accessing an industrial communication network are provided. An access unit (30) has first ports (58) connected to the communication network and at least one second port (59). The access unit (30) is configured to pass data traffic between nodes (41-44) of the communication network through the access unit (30) in a first operational state of the access unit (30). The access unit (30) is configured to pass data traffic to a test node (34) via the at least one second port (59) and/or allow test data to be injected into the communication network via the at least one second port (59) in a second operational state of the access unit (30).