Master Module for Superimposed Signal Abnormality Reporting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-wire electric systems, such as those using IO-Link, face challenges with complex circuit configurations and long recognition times due to the number of wires required for signal transmission and communication, particularly when converting detected signals into communication data.
Innovation Solution
A master module that mediates communication between an electric apparatus and an apparatus control device, utilizing a signal processing device with a superimposition circuit to transmit operation signals and data signals as a superimposed signal, and includes a data signal processing unit to extract data from the superimposed signal, an abnormality information generation unit to detect abnormalities, and an information output unit to notify the control device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If IO-Link communication method is used for three-wire electric apparatuses, then communication data can be transmitted along with detected information, but the number of wires increases and circuit configurations become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the operation signal line and data signal line into a single wire, allowing both control commands and status information to be transmitted through the same physical medium. This merging reduces the total wire count while maintaining full communication capability between the control device and electric apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The single wire serves multiple functions: it carries both operation signals for controlling the electric apparatus and data signals for transmitting detected information and communication data. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated lines for each purpose.
2Loss of information
If detected signals are converted into communication data before transmission, then information can be transmitted, but the recognition time increases due to conversion processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data signal from the superimposed signal at the receiving end, separating the control and information functions only where needed for processing. The original superimposed signal maintains its compact form during transmission, avoiding premature conversion and associated time delays.
3Device complexity
If superimposed signal communication is implemented, then wire count is reduced, but devices not designed for superimposed signals cannot be embedded in the system
Solution Approach 1:
The master module acts as an intermediary device that bridges between superimposed signal communication and traditional communication methods. It receives superimposed signals, processes the data, and can communicate with both superimposed-signal-compatible devices and traditional devices through appropriate interfaces, enabling heterogeneous device integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A master module (52A) mediates communication between an electric apparatus (6) to which a signal processing device (100) is connected and apparatus control devices (3, 4B) that control the electric apparatus. The master module is provided with: a plurality of first communication ports (54) for respectively connecting to a plurality of signal processing devices via a communication cable (51) for transmitting a superimposed signal; a data signal processing unit (44) that extracts a data signal from the superimposed signal received through the first communication port; an abnormality information generation unit (504) that, on the basis of status information that is included in the extracted data signal and indicates an abnormal state of the electric apparatus, generates abnormality information which indicates information related to an abnormality that has occurred; and an information output unit (503) that outputs the abnormality information such that the apparatus control devices can acquire the abnormality information.