Multiplexed Network Communication Unit With Adaptive Impedance Termination

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Solution Overview

Problem

The diversity in manufacturing multiplexed communication networks due to the need for termination modules at end and intermediate nodes increases costs, complicates inventory management, and can lead to errors, as nodes must switch between end and intermediate statuses.

Innovation Solution

A communication device with termination means that can define specific impedances, allowing it to function as either an end node or a coupling interface between network beams, reducing the need for separate termination modules and simplifying wiring by using a single bundle for all connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If termination modules are used at end nodes in multiplexed communication networks, then communication performance is optimized through impedance matching, but manufacturing diversity increases and costs rise

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing diversity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides both mechanical connection and impedance matching termination. The connector can serve as either an intermediate connector or an end connector with termination, eliminating the need for separate termination modules and reducing manufacturing diversity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The termination function is merged with the connector structure. The connector incorporates termination means (resistive and capacitive components) directly into its design, combining the mechanical connection function with the electrical termination function into a single integrated component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If separate termination modules are used for end nodes, then impedance matching is achieved, but inventory management becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimpedance matchingVSAvoidinventory management

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

A single connector design serves both intermediate and end node functions. The connector includes termination means that can be activated or deactivated based on whether the connector is installed at an end or intermediate position, eliminating the need for separate inventory of termination modules.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector's termination function is dynamic rather than fixed. The termination means can be selectively connected or disconnected based on the installation position, allowing the same connector to adapt to different network configurations (end or intermediate node) without requiring different hardware variants.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If nodes must switch between end and intermediate statuses, then network flexibility is maintained, but errors increase due to configuration mistakes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenode status switchingVSAvoidconfiguration accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector automatically adapts its termination function based on its installation position. The dynamic connection means (such as jumpers or switches) are configured during installation to match the node type, eliminating the need for complex software configuration and reducing human error.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connector performs self-configuration based on its physical installation. By simply installing the connector at different positions (end or intermediate), the termination function is automatically activated or deactivated, eliminating the need for manual configuration and reducing setup errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Reliability

If termination modules are fixed in connectors, then impedance matching is ensured, but wiring diversity increases across the network

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimpedance matchingVSAvoidwiring diversity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed as a universal component that can function both as an intermediate connector and as an end connector with termination. This single design eliminates the need for different wiring configurations for different node types, reducing wiring diversity across the network.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3556059B1Communication unit with specific impedance, for a multiplexed network with multiple bundles

Publication Date: 2021.08.11 PSA AUTOMOBILES SA

Figure 1~3

AI summary

A communication unit (OC) equips a multiplexed network (RC) comprising at least one first bundle (F1) including at least one group of N wires (with N ≥ 2). This unit (OC) comprises a first connector (C1) equipped with N first main terminals (BP1n) connected to the N wires of the first bundle group (F1), termination means (MT) defining N specific impedances, and a second connector (C2) equipped with N second main terminals (BP2n) connected to the N first main terminals (BP1n) and able to be connected to N wires of a group of a second bundle of the network (RC), and N auxiliary terminals (BAn) connected to the transmission means (MT) in order to be placed at N specific impedances, and suitable, when the unit (OC) is installed at one end of the network (RC), for being coupled to the N second main terminals (BP2n).