Multi-Branch Cable Topology for Load Cell Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load cell topology networks using traditional cables require dedicated junction boxes, leading to inflexible connections, long wiring lengths, high costs, and inconvenient maintenance, as they necessitate reconfiguration when load cells are replaced or added.
Innovation Solution
A load cell topology network utilizing multi-branch cables with at least three connectors and signal lines, allowing for interconnection of electrical signals between multiple nodes without junction boxes, enabling flexible networking topologies such as daisy-chain, bus, and cascaded configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional cables with junction boxes are used to connect load cells, then connections can be established, but the connection manner becomes inflexible, wiring length increases, cost increases, and maintenance convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cable connection system is segmented into multiple independent multi-branch cables, each capable of connecting multiple load cells directly. This eliminates the need for a centralized junction box and allows flexible configuration of load cell networks in daisy-chain, bus, or cascaded topologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-branch cable is designed with universal applicability to connect multiple load cells simultaneously through its multiple connectors. Each cable can be configured in different topologies and can replace multiple traditional cable-junction box combinations, providing multi-functional connectivity.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional cables with junction boxes are used, then load cells can be connected, but wiring length becomes long and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the connection system into multiple shorter multi-branch cables instead of one long cable running through a junction box, the total wiring length is reduced and the structure is simplified.
3Ease of repair
If traditional cables with junction boxes are used, then connections are established, but maintenance convenience deteriorates when load cells need to be replaced or added
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented multi-branch cable design allows individual load cells to be accessed and replaced by simply disconnecting and reconnecting cable connectors, eliminating the need to open or reconfigure a junction box.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design enables dynamic reconfiguration of the load cell network. Connectors can be easily plugged and unplugged to add, remove, or replace load cells without affecting the overall system structure or requiring junction box modifications.
4Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated junction boxes are used, then load cell networking is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The functionality of multiple cable connections and the junction box is merged into a single multi-branch cable unit. This integration eliminates the need for separate junction box components and reduces the total number of parts required, thereby reducing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-branch cable provides universal networking capability that replaces dedicated junction boxes. A single cable design can support multiple connection topologies and configurations, eliminating the need for different types of junction boxes for different networking scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a load cell topology network comprising at least one multi-branch cable and a plurality of load cells. Each multi-branch cable comprises at least three connectors and one or more groups of signal lines; each group of signal lines comprise at least three branch signal lines, with one end of each branch signal line connected to at least three connectors described respectively and correspondingly, and the other end of each branch signal line connected to a common node, thereby realizing the interconnection of the same kinds of electrical signals between respective connectors; each connector is adapted to be connected to another multi-branch cable or a load cell. The plurality of load cells are electrically connected by the multi-branch cable to form a topology network.