Master Interface Controller for Automatic Network Device Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network interconnectivity systems are complex, error-prone, and burdensome for end users due to the manual configuration of numerous individual cables and devices, which complicates the addition and management of devices in network-based control and monitoring systems.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing node interface controllers with separate communication links to monitor and manage connections between cables and devices, featuring a master interface controller that automatically acquires device type identification data to compile a network map, and switches communication links to isolate non-responsive devices, ensuring reliable communication and power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration of individual cables and devices is used, then device connectivity is achieved, but system complexity and error-proneness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic device identification and network mapping through the master interface controller acquiring device type identification data from node interface controllers. The system automatically compiles network maps and detects communication failures without manual intervention, allowing the network to self-configure and self-monitor
Solution Approach 2:
The interface controllers serve multiple functions: monitoring cable connections, acquiring device identification data, compiling network maps, detecting communication failures, and switching communication links. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate manual configuration steps for each individual cable and device
2Reliability
If multiple communication links are implemented, then communication reliability improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The master interface controller continuously monitors communication responses from devices through the second communication links. When a device fails to respond, the system automatically switches communication to an alternative link and continues monitoring to verify the switch was successful, creating a closed-loop feedback system that maintains reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The master interface controller acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity of multiple communication links. It automatically acquires device identification data, compiles network maps, detects communication failures, and performs link switching, thereby shielding end users from the complexity of managing multiple communication paths
3Loss of time
If automatic device identification is implemented, then configuration time is reduced, but information processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The master interface controller automatically acquires device type identification data from node interface controllers when devices are first connected to the network. The system pre-compiles this information into a network map, so that subsequent device additions or modifications can be quickly integrated without time-consuming manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the network topology through the compiled network map, which stores device identification data and connection information. This digital representation allows for rapid processing and management of network devices without requiring physical inspection or manual documentation of each device
Data Source
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AI summary
A system monitors cable interface connections in a network. An individual cable interface connection includes a connection between a cable and an associated device in the network. The system includes a plurality of individual interface controllers. The plurality of individual interface controllers monitor one or more cable interface connections in a network. This plurality of interface controllers include a first interface controller for automatically acquiring device type identification data from a second interface controller which is monitoring a connection between a cable and an associated device in the network. The deyice type identification data is acquired via the cable and the first and second cable interface connections at the end of the cable. The device type identification data supports identification of the device associated with the second cable interface connection. The first interface controller supports communication between individual interface controllers in the network on a first communication link. The system further includes a second communication link, different from the first communication link, being conveyed via the plurality of cable interface connections in the network.