Network Apparatus Automatic ID Assignment via Sequential Command Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in efficiently and automatically setting unique ID numbers for multiple modules connected to a network apparatus, especially when rearrangements or additions are required, leading to complex and time-consuming processes.
Innovation Solution
A network apparatus with modules that include front-stage and rear-stage input/output ports, an ID number information holding unit, and command generation and output units, which automatically assign distinct ID numbers by exchanging first and second command signals, allowing for sequential updating of ID numbers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ID numbers are manually set in each counter using separated communication or DIP switches, then unique ID assignment is achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic ID number assignment where the host computer autonomously communicates with multiple counters to assign unique ID numbers without manual intervention. The host computer transmits ID numbers sequentially to each counter, and the counters automatically receive and store these ID numbers in their internal memory, eliminating the need for manual DIP switch configuration or separate communication setups.
2Reliability
If ID numbers are pre-designated by DIP switches in each counter, then unique identification is established, but rearrangement or addition of counters requires reconfiguration of all ID numbers
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic ID number assignment where the host computer automatically manages ID allocation based on the current configuration of counters. When counters are rearranged or added to the network, the host computer detects the new configuration and automatically reassigns ID numbers through sequential communication, allowing the system to adapt to changes without manual reconfiguration of DIP switches or physical reallocation.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple counters are connected to the network, then simultaneous measurement capability is enhanced, but the complexity of setting and storing ID numbers in the upper-level module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The host computer serves multiple functions: it acts as the central control unit for data acquisition, the automatic ID number assignment system, and the configuration management tool. Through a single communication interface, the host computer can connect to and manage multiple counters, automatically assigning and storing ID numbers for all connected devices without requiring separate manual configuration processes for each counter.
Data Source
AI summary
ID numbers of connected multiple modules are easily automatically set.Each of the multiple modules includes an ID number information holding unit that holds its own ID number information, a first command generation unit that generates a first command for notifying its rear stage of its own ID number information, a first command output unit that outputs the first command from a rear-stage output port, a second command generation unit that generates a second command for notifying its front stage of its own ID number information and ID number information on its rear-stage modules, a second command output unit that outputs the second command from a front-stage output port, and an ID number information update unit that sets, when the first command is received from a front-stage module, new ID number obtained by adding “1” to the ID number of the front-stage module contained in the received first command as its own ID number information in the ID number information holding unit. Each of the multiple modules outputs the first command and second commands for a predetermined period of time to assign a different ID number to each of the multiple modules connected to a network apparatus.