Network system
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In network systems with multiple layers, communication failures can occur when a single communication line is used, leading to issues with signal interference between devices from different layers, and intermediary device failures can disrupt overall communication.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of filters that differentiate between high-frequency and low-frequency signals, allowing for separate communication pathways between layers, ensuring that even if an intermediary device fails, communication between layers can continue uninterrupted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same communication line is used for all devices, then device complexity is reduced, but communication reliability deteriorates due to signal interference between different layers
Solution Approach 1:
The communication line is segmented into multiple communication pathways based on signal frequency. A first communication pathway transmits high-frequency signals for same-layer device communication, while a second communication pathway transmits low-frequency signals for hierarchical communication. This segmentation prevents signal interference between different communication types while maintaining a single physical line structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the communication line are assigned different functional qualities. The first communication pathway is optimized for high-frequency signals with specific impedance characteristics, while the second communication pathway is optimized for low-frequency signals. This local quality differentiation allows simultaneous operation of multiple communication protocols without mutual interference.
2Reliability
If communication pathways are separated by frequency, then signal interference is reduced, but device complexity increases due to filter requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system utilizes frequency as a distinguishing parameter to separate different communication pathways. By assigning different frequency ranges to different communication functions (high-frequency for same-layer, low-frequency for hierarchical), the system achieves pathway separation without requiring physical isolation. Frequency-selective filtering is implemented to enable this parameter-based separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediary device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a communication bridge between layers and as a frequency separation node. The communication separation function is integrated into the intermediary device's existing structure, allowing it to perform multiple roles simultaneously rather than requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function.
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 solution enhances the reliability of communication by maintaining connectivity between layers even in the event of intermediary device failures, preventing disruptions and ensuring continuous control over indoor units.
Implementation Method 1
a first filter always connected to the first line and the second line, and having a function of not attenuating a high-frequency first signal and of attenuating a low-frequency second signal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In a network in which a plurality of devices are classified into a plurality of layers, in a case where communication independent of the layers and communication within the layers are performed through physical lines, the reliability of communication is improved. A physical first line (501) is connected to an outdoor unit (110) and a first indoor unit (121), which are first-layer devices, and a physical second line (502) is connected to a second indoor unit (122), which is a second-layer device. A first intermediary unit (150), which is a first intermediary device, includes a first filter (151) always connected to the first line (501) and the second line (502). The first intermediary unit (150) communicates with the outdoor unit (110) and the second indoor unit (122) via a first signal. The first filter (151) is installed so as not to attenuate a high-frequency first signal used for communication among the outdoor unit (110), the first indoor unit (121), the first intermediary unit (150), and the second indoor unit (122) and so as to attenuate a low-frequency second signal used for communication between the first intermediary unit 150 and the second indoor unit 122.