Linear Network Node Autoconfiguration via Current Direction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronic systems with multiple devices connected in a network, the complexity of controlling and identifying nodes increases with the number of devices, making it difficult to transmit control signals effectively, especially in applications requiring additional information about device layout.
Innovation Solution
A method of autoconfiguration that allows nodes in a linear network to extract their unique identifiers and relative positions by transmitting current direction information, reducing the need for multiple connections and simplifying the identification process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a master node assigns unique addresses to each node in the network, then node identification is achieved, but the number of connections or pins per node increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each node automatically determines its own address and position in the network by detecting current direction through its own measurements, without requiring external assignment from a master node. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex master-node communication infrastructure and reduces connection requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical connection system (multiple pins for address assignment) with an electromagnetic field-based system where nodes detect current direction through the bus. This substitution allows address determination without additional physical connections beyond the standard power and data bus.
2Reliability
If slave nodes connect with unique available addresses and the master node collects addresses by arbitration, then node identification is achieved, but the autoconfiguration process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Nodes perform preliminary measurements of current direction during the power-up phase before formal network operation begins. This preliminary action allows nodes to pre-determine their addresses and positions, so that when the network becomes operational, all nodes are already configured and ready to communicate immediately, eliminating time-consuming arbitration processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Each node independently and simultaneously determines its own address and position through self-measurement of current direction, rather than waiting for a centralized arbitration process. This parallel self-service approach dramatically reduces configuration time compared to sequential master-node arbitration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional information regarding device layout is required for dynamic light applications, then control capability is improved, but the network complexity and number of connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The current flowing through the bus serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides power to nodes, enables data communication, and carries position information through its direction. This multi-functionality allows the network to obtain device layout information without adding separate dedicated connections for positioning, as the existing power/data bus carries all necessary information.
Solution Approach 2:
The current direction acts as an intermediary carrier that conveys position information without requiring direct dedicated signaling between nodes. By measuring the direction of current flow through the bus, nodes can infer their relative positions and device layout, using the current itself as an information intermediary rather than requiring separate communication channels.
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
This method enables efficient and reliable device control in networks with many connected devices by determining node addresses and positions in a single step, reducing the time required for autoconfiguration and minimizing the number of connection pins needed.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting a current in the network from the chosen node. This allows reading the direction of the current flowing through at least the nodes not chosen in previous iteration cycles
Data Source
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Figure 3
AI summary
A method for autoconfiguration of a plurality of nodes in a linear network allows extracting the address and position of each node. The method includes applying an identifier field for transmitting to the bus the bit sequence of the identifier of a chosen node. Then for at least for the first node to the last but one node, a field comprising a predetermined bit sequence is applied. The field comprises dominant bits, so a current is transmitted. This allows reading the direction of the current through at least each remaining node of the plurality that was not previously chosen. This allows storing a direction bit associated to the position of the chosen node relative to said at least each node that was not previously chosen. Then, a further field is applied for transmitting any stored direction bit associated to that node and obtained in any previous iteration. The iteration continues by choosing a node different from a node chosen in any previous cycle, starting the communication, until all nodes are identified.