Parallel Multi-Port Control with Shared Code and Dedicated Processors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parallel multi-port charging systems face issues such as high processor speed requirements, large code memory needs, single-point failures, and increased complexity and cost due to a single processor controlling all ports in serial sequence.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multiple processors, each controlling a port independently, with shared common software code and port-specific configuration data, allowing parallel operation and reducing the need for repeated code and enhancing system robustness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single processor controls all ports in serial sequence, then the system structure is simple, but the processor speed requirement increases and port response time delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control function into multiple independent processors, with each processor dedicated to controlling a specific port. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single high-speed processor to handle all ports sequentially, as each processor operates independently at its own pace, thereby reducing individual processor speed requirements while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Device complexity
If a single processor controls all ports, then the system structure is simple, but the code memory size increases due to repeated software code for each port
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal software architecture where a single copy of the control software resides in shared memory and can be executed by multiple processors. This universal approach eliminates the need to store duplicate software code for each port, significantly reducing code memory requirements while allowing each processor to independently control its assigned port using the same software routine.
3Device complexity
If a single processor controls all ports, then the system structure is simple, but system reliability decreases due to single-point failure
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the control system into multiple independent processors, each handling a specific port, the patent creates architectural redundancy. If one processor fails, only its associated port is affected while other ports continue to function normally through their dedicated processors, thereby eliminating the single-point failure vulnerability inherent in a centralized single-processor architecture.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the number of ports is extended in a single processor system, then the system versatility increases, but the software development complexity and memory size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal software design that can be executed by any number of processors without requiring additional software copies or modifications. When extending the system to accommodate more ports, new processors are simply added with the same universal software, eliminating the need to increase software development complexity or memory size proportionally with each additional port.
Data Source
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AI summary
A parallel multiple-port system is provided, including a plurality of ports, a plurality of processors, and a memory storing software code which, when executed by the plurality of processors causes the processors to control the plurality of ports. A first processor is configured to control a first port. A second processor is configured to control a second port. The software code includes a common software code portion relevant to the plurality of ports and for execution by the plurality of processors. The software code further includes a port specific code portion including first configuration data for the first port and for execution by the first processor, and second configuration data for the second port and for execution by the second processor. The present application can advantageously be applied to parallel multi-port charging systems.