Magnetic Adjacency Detection for Communication Module Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to efficiently determine the sequence of interconnected, communication-capable modules, particularly in systems where modules communicate wirelessly or without a wired data bus, complicating troubleshooting and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the transmission of a magnetic signal from a first module with increasing intensity to identify adjacent modules, which then transmit identification data via a communication channel to determine the sequence, utilizing a detection unit to coordinate the process among the modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modules communicate wirelessly or without a wired data bus, then communication flexibility is improved, but the ability to determine module sequence deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary carrier to transmit sequence information between modules. The magnetic signal serves as a mediator that can be detected by adjacent modules even when traditional wired communication is absent, thereby resolving the information loss problem while maintaining communication flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/wired data bus system with a magnetic field-based detection system. Instead of relying on physical connection sequences, the system uses magnetic signal transmission and detection to determine module arrangement, enabling sequence identification in wireless configurations
2Area of stationary object
If magnetic signal intensity is increased to detect distant modules, then detection range is improved, but detection precision deteriorates due to detection of non-adjacent modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment of magnetic signal intensity, starting with a low initial intensity that is gradually increased. This dynamic approach allows the system to first detect adjacent modules at low intensity, then progressively expand detection range by increasing intensity only after adjacent modules are identified, thereby maintaining precision while improving range
Solution Approach 2:
The detection process uses periodic measurement cycles with varying signal intensities. The system performs multiple detection passes, each at a different intensity level, allowing it to systematically identify modules at different distances while maintaining the ability to distinguish adjacent from non-adjacent modules through the periodic intensity variation
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 unambiguous determination of the sequence of interconnected modules, independent of communication channel type, facilitating efficient troubleshooting and maintenance across both wired and wireless module arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
each having a communication unit, and a coil for transmitting and/or receiving a magnetic signal
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining a sequence in which at least three interconnected, communication-capable modules (2, 2') are arranged. The method comprises the following steps: - Outputting a magnetic signal from a first module (2, 2') at a predetermined intensity; - Increasing the signal intensity until the signal is detected by a module (2, 2') directly adjacent to the transmitting module (2, 2'), but not detected by a module (2, 2') that is not directly adjacent; - Outputting identification data from the module (2, 2') that detected the magnetic signal to a detection unit via a communication channel; and - Determining a sequence of the modules (2, 2') based on the identification data.The invention further relates to an arrangement (1) of at least three interconnectable communication-capable modules (2, 2'), each having a coil (9) for outputting and/or receiving a magnetic signal, and a detection unit, wherein the arrangement (1) is configured to carry out a method.