Multi-Tier Control Network Integrating Power and Data Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional control systems in manufacturing and vehicular applications face challenges due to complex wiring and high costs, especially in transit vehicles, where relay-based technologies require extensive wiring and are costly to maintain and diagnose.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tier, hierarchical control network architecture with a master control bus and lower-tier buses that integrate power and data distribution, using hub controllers to manage and distribute power and data efficiently across network nodes, reducing the need for extensive wiring and enhancing scalability and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If relay-based control technology is used, then control functions can be implemented, but wiring becomes extensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power distribution and data communication into a single integrated network architecture. Power sources are distributed through the same network infrastructure that carries control signals, eliminating the need for separate power cables to each component. This merging reduces wiring complexity while maintaining full control automation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The network architecture provides multi-functionality by using a unified communication network that simultaneously handles power distribution, control signaling, and data communication. This universal approach allows the same infrastructure to serve multiple functions, reducing overall system complexity compared to dedicated separate systems for each function.
2Reliability
If extensive wiring is used for control systems, then all components can be connected, but maintenance and diagnosis become costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the control system by transitioning from voltage-based relay control to digital communication-based control. This parameter change enables more efficient error detection, isolation, and diagnosis capabilities through digital signaling and network protocols, reducing maintenance costs while maintaining system connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated network architecture incorporates comprehensive feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor system status, component health, and communication integrity. This feedback enables proactive maintenance, faster fault diagnosis, and reduced maintenance costs by providing real-time information about system conditions without requiring extensive physical inspection.
3Power
If separate power cables are run to each component, then power can be distributed, but the network becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power distribution and data communication into a single integrated network. Power sources are distributed through the same network infrastructure that carries control signals, with power switching controlled digitally through the network. This eliminates the need for separate power cables to each component, reducing network complexity while maintaining full power distribution capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical power distribution systems with electronically controlled power switching. Instead of physical power switches and separate power wiring, the system uses digital control signals over the network to electronically switch power delivery, reducing mechanical complexity and improving control precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A control network comprises a plurality of network nodes arranged in a plurality of tiers, with first-tier nodes and lower tier nodes. A master control bus interconnects the first-tier nodes, which are also connected to a power source. Lower-tier buses interconnect groups of the lower tier nodes. The lower-tier buses include both data lines and a power source line derived from the power source, allowing the lower tier nodes to selectively distribute power to local loads. A first-tier node may be embodied as a hub controller configured to be connected to one or more of said lower-tier buses. The hub controller may comprise a plurality of internal hub nodes (including a hub master node and hub slave nodes) integrated within the same physical unit.