Network Module Data Splitting for Automation Latency Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automation processes controlled via data networks, high latency due to multiple network components and data processing delays hampers the speed and accuracy of control loop responses, particularly in applications like electric motor control where quick position regulation is critical.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where output data from a control device are split into portions and transmitted through a superordinate data path to a network module, which then distributes them via subordinate data paths, allowing simultaneous or overlapping transmission, reducing overall communication cycle time by enabling earlier start of data transmission on subordinate paths before completion of transmission on the superordinate path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is transmitted sequentially through multiple network components, then data transmission reliability is maintained, but transmission latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The output data is divided into multiple portions (first portion, second portion, etc.) that can be transmitted simultaneously or in overlapping time windows through different subordinate data paths. This segmentation allows parallel transmission while maintaining data integrity through the superordinate data path coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device begins transmitting portions of output data to the network module before the complete data set is ready. The network module starts distributing data portions to signal units before receiving all portions, enabling earlier completion of the communication cycle while maintaining reliability through coordinated data assembly.
2Reliability
If data transmission waits for complete data sets, then data integrity is ensured, but control loop bandwidth is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transmits data portions to the network module before the complete output data set is generated. The network module distributes these portions to signal units in advance, allowing the communication cycle to complete before all data is fully prepared, thus increasing control loop bandwidth while maintaining integrity through coordinated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission and distribution of data portions occurs continuously and in parallel rather than waiting for complete data sets. Multiple portions are transmitted and distributed simultaneously through different paths, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the communication cycle and maximizing control loop productivity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple network components process directed data, then routing accuracy is improved, but cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data transmission path is segmented into superordinate and subordinate data paths, with specific portions routed through appropriate paths based on destination. This segmentation enables parallel routing of multiple data portions to different signal units, maintaining routing accuracy while reducing overall cycle time through simultaneous transmissions.
Data Source
AI summary
A network module is specified for controlling an automation process via a data network with superordinate and subordinate data paths. The network module is configured to successively receive, during a communication cycle, via the superordinate data path, a first portion of a sum total of first output data transmitted to signal units connected to a first subordinate data path, a first portion of a sum total of second output data transmitted to signal units connected to a second subordinate data path, a second portion of the first output data and a second portion of the second output data. The network module is configured to send the first and second portions of the first output data immediately subsequently to one another via the first subordinate data path and the first and second portions of the second output data immediately subsequently to one another via the second subordinate data path.