Network Communication Apparatus with Redundant Channels for Fault Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the watercraft field, it is challenging to manage and control the specifications of completed vessels, as engine manufacturers supply engines without predefined node connections, leading to difficulties in establishing and maintaining a stable network, especially with the risk of high fault susceptibility due to undefined node arrangements and potential wire breaking or short-circuit faults in CAN-based BUS-shaped networks.
Innovation Solution
A network communication apparatus with a management node that collects attribute information from each node, assigns unique IDs, and facilitates data transmission through multiple communication channels, ensuring network establishment and providing alternative paths to enhance fault resistance by creating a loop-shaped network with different hardware for each channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a BUS-shaped network is used in watercraft systems, then device connection is simplified, but fault susceptibility increases due to wire breaking or short-circuit risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network into multiple independent communication channels (CAN_HIGH, CAN_LOW, CAN_BACKUP) instead of using a single BUS structure. Each channel can operate independently, so that a fault in one channel does not affect the others. This segmentation transforms the single-point-failure BUS structure into a multi-path redundant architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements redundant communication channels and node ID reassignment mechanisms in advance to cushion against potential faults. When a fault is detected in one channel, the system has pre-configured alternative paths and can reassign node IDs to maintain communication, preventing complete system failure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If node connections are not predefined in watercraft systems, then adaptability to different configurations is improved, but network management and stability become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic node ID detection and assignment mechanisms where nodes self-identify and register with the network management system upon connection. The system automatically detects which nodes are present (e.g., left/right engines, throttles) and assigns appropriate IDs without requiring manual preconfiguration, enabling flexible configurations while simplifying management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs continuous feedback mechanisms where nodes report their status and the management node monitors network integrity. This feedback loop enables automatic detection of node additions, removals, or faults, and triggers appropriate responses such as node ID reassignment or fault isolation, maintaining network stability despite configuration changes.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed node IDs are assigned at design stage, then network establishment is simplified, but adaptability to configuration changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static fixed node ID assignment to dynamic node ID allocation. Node IDs are assigned based on real-time detection of which nodes are actually connected and active in the system. This dynamic approach allows the network to adapt to different configurations (single engine, dual engine, with or without remote controls) while maintaining simplified establishment procedures through automatic detection.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a network communication apparatus that is capable of, even when each node to be connected is undefined, managing a connection state of the node with ease. The network communication apparatus includes at least one node connected to a network and a management node that manages each of the at least one node. Each of the at least one node includes a data transmission and reception unit for transmitting and receiving data containing an ID field giving contents of the data and a data field giving an entity of the data, and an analyzing unit for analyzing meanings of the ID field and a data field of received data. The management node collects attribute information from each of the at least one node, and assigns and gives a node ID number to each of the at least one node based on the collected attribute information.