Network Addressing Modes for Flexible Device Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network systems lack flexibility and efficiency in assigning network addresses, particularly during the maintenance phase, as they require re-addressing of devices when new devices are added, which can be cumbersome and prone to errors, and do not offer a range of addressing modes to accommodate different network topologies and device types.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that support multiple network addressing modes, including automap full mode, automap-by-type full mode, automap light mode, automap-by-type light mode, and manual node commissioning mode, allowing for automatic or manual assignment of node addresses based on geographical locations and device types, enabling flexible address assignment without re-addressing existing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single addressing mode is used for all network devices, then the addressing process is simple, but the system cannot accommodate different network topologies and device types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple addressing modes (automap full, automap-by-type full, automap light, automap-by-type light, manual node commissioning) within a single network apparatus, allowing the system to universally support different network topologies, device types, and deployment scenarios. Each mode serves specific functions: automap full for complete automatic addressing, automap-by-type for type-specific addressing, automap light for minimal addressing changes, and manual modes for user-controlled addressing.
2Productivity
If automatic addressing modes are used, then address assignment is efficient and error-free, but existing devices must be re-addressed when new devices are added
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic addressing modes that adapt to network changes. The automap light mode specifically allows new devices to be added with sequential addressing without requiring re-addressing of existing devices. The system dynamically selects appropriate addressing modes based on network conditions and device types, enabling efficient address assignment while minimizing disruption to existing network configurations.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual addressing mode is used, then individual address control is precise, but the process is cumbersome and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hierarchy of addressing modes that provide partial automation. The manual node commissioning mode offers complete manual control for precise address assignment when needed, while automap full mode provides complete automation for efficiency. The intermediate modes (automap light, automap-by-type) offer partial automation, allowing users to control specific aspects while automating others, thus balancing precision and ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods and apparatus for multiple network addressing modes are disclosed. The method includes selecting one of an automap full mode, an automap-by-type full mode, an automap light mode, an automap-by-type light mode and a manual node commissioning mode for determining and assigning the node addresses for the network devices, determining and assigning the node addresses for the network devices based on the automap full mode, determining and assigning the node addresses for the network devices based on the automap-by-type full mode, determining and assigning the node addresses for newly added network devices to an existing network based on the automap light mode, determining and assigning the node addresses for the newly added network devices to the existing network based on the automap-by-type light mode, and determining and assigning the node addresses for the network devices based on the manual node commissioning mode.