Modular Device ID Assignment Using Voltage-Coded Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems with multiple modular devices struggle with correctly identifying and routing communications to the correct device, leading to potential malfunctions and instability, especially in aircraft with electric engines, as they often require exact hardware and software matches for device identification, complicating replacements.
Innovation Solution
A system that determines device IDs based on voltage values derived from the coupling configuration of electrical contacts, allowing processors to accurately identify devices and route commands, enabling the use of similar parts for replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If preassigned device identifications are used, then device identification is simple, but device replacement flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic device identification by allowing devices to self-identify through configurable electrical contacts that can be physically connected or disconnected. This replaces static preassigned IDs with a dynamic system where device identity is determined by the current physical configuration of electrical contacts, enabling flexible replacement while maintaining identification simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the identification parameter from fixed hardware/software codes to voltage-based identification through configurable electrical contacts. By changing the physical connection state of these contacts, the system can dynamically assign different IDs to the same physical device, enabling replacement flexibility without complicating the identification mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modular devices are used, then system versatility is improved, but signal routing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service identification where each modular device automatically determines its own ID through the configurable electrical contacts and voltage-based identification system. This eliminates the need for manual configuration or complex routing protocols, ensuring accurate signal routing while maintaining system versatility through easy device addition and replacement.
3Measurement precision
If exact hardware matches are required, then device identification precision is improved, but maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal identification system where any device with the same physical connector configuration can assume any device ID in the system. This universality allows maintenance personnel to replace any faulty module with any working module of the same type, regardless of original ID assignment, thereby reducing maintenance complexity while maintaining identification precision through voltage-based detection.
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 approach simplifies device identification and command routing, ensuring stable aircraft operation and facilitating easy replacement of components without requiring exact hardware and software matches.
Implementation Method 1
determining voltage values that are based on a coupling configuration of the plurality of electrical contacts
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to control of systems with modular devices. In one embodiment, a device is disclosed, comprising: a plurality of electrical contacts; and at least one processor, wherein the plurality of electrical contacts are configured to be coupled to one of: a first voltage source or a second voltage source, wherein the at least one processor is configured to determine an identification (ID) value for the device by determining voltage values that are based on a coupling configuration of the plurality of electrical contacts.