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Solution Overview
Problem
In network systems with multiple layers, using a single communication line can lead to failures in communication between devices of different layers due to signal interference, causing unreliable communication when an intermediary device fails.
Innovation Solution
Implementing filters that differentiate between high-frequency and low-frequency signals, ensuring that high-frequency signals for communication among first-layer and second-layer devices are not attenuated, while low-frequency signals used between intermediary devices and other layers are attenuated, maintaining communication even if an intermediary device fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same communication line is used for all devices, then the network structure is simplified and easier to implement, but communication between devices of different layers fails due to signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the communication line frequency-dependent in its transmission characteristics. Different sections of the network (first layer vs. second layer) have different frequency response characteristics, allowing high-frequency signals to pass through the first layer while low-frequency signals are attenuated. This creates localized signal transmission properties that enable both simplified topology and reliable layer-specific communication.
2Reliability
If an intermediary device is introduced to separate communication lines, then communication reliability between layers is improved, but the system becomes more complex and vulnerable to intermediary device failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signal separation function from the intermediary device and implements it directly in the transmission medium (communication line). Instead of using active devices to filter and separate signals, the system uses the inherent frequency-dependent attenuation characteristics of the communication line itself, removing the need for complex intermediary separation devices while maintaining communication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses frequency-selective attenuation as an intermediary mechanism to separate communication channels. The communication line itself acts as a mediator that automatically routes high-frequency signals to the first layer and low-frequency signals to the second layer, eliminating the need for active intermediary devices that could become failure points.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an intermediary device is used to transfer communication signals, then layer-specific communication is enabled, but a failure in the intermediary device causes communication failure between different layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication spectrum into different frequency bands that can traverse the same physical medium simultaneously. High-frequency signals carry first-layer communication while low-frequency signals carry second-layer communication, allowing both layers to communicate independently through the same communication line without requiring intermediary devices that could fail.
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 communication reliability by allowing communication to continue between layers even if an intermediary device fails, preventing disruptions in control and operation of indoor units within the network system.
Implementation Method 1
The first filter is installed so as not to attenuate a high-frequency first signal used for communication among the first-layer device, the first intermediary device, and the second-layer device and so as to attenuate a low-frequency second signal used for communication between the first intermediary device and the second-layer device
Data Source
AI summary
In a network in which devices are classified into a plurality of layers, a physical first line is connected to an outdoor unit and a first indoor unit, which are first-layer devices, and a physical second line is connected to a second indoor unit, which is a second-layer device. A first intermediary unit, which is a first intermediary device, includes a first filter always connected to the first line and the second line. The first intermediary unit communicates with the outdoor unit and the second indoor unit via a first signal. The first filter is installed so as not to attenuate a high-frequency first signal used for communication among the outdoor unit, the first indoor unit, the first intermediary unit, and the second indoor unit and so as to attenuate a low-frequency second signal used for communication between the first intermediary unit and the second indoor unit.