PLC Communication Interface Multiplexing for Reliable Data Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing controllers like PLCs face challenges in maintaining reliable data communication with external devices without data loss, particularly when multiplexing configurations require hardware replacement.
Innovation Solution
A controller with a communication program execution unit, user program execution unit, communication interface, and determination unit that selects the appropriate communication program based on data destination and execution state, allowing for multiplexed communication without replacing existing hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple communication programs share a single communication interface, then communication reliability and data integrity are improved, but hardware complexity and cost increase due to required hardware replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The communication functionality is segmented into multiple independent communication programs (first communication program and second communication program) that can be selectively executed. Each communication program handles specific communication tasks, allowing the system to achieve multiplexed communication functionality through software segmentation rather than hardware multiplication, thereby improving reliability while avoiding hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A single communication interface is designed to support multiple communication programs through a selection mechanism. The communication interface can be dynamically configured to work with different communication programs based on communication destination and current execution state, making the interface universal and multi-functional. This eliminates the need for multiple dedicated hardware interfaces while maintaining the ability to perform multiple communication functions simultaneously.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single communication interface is used for multiple communication programs, then hardware cost is reduced, but communication efficiency may deteriorate due to resource contention
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic selection of communication programs based on real-time conditions including communication destination and current execution state. The selection is not static but adapts to changing conditions, allowing the single communication interface to be optimally utilized for different tasks at different times. This dynamic approach prevents resource contention by ensuring that only appropriate communication programs are active, thereby maintaining communication efficiency while using cost-effective single-interface hardware.
3Reliability
If communication programs are selected based on destination and execution state, then data loss is prevented and reliability is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The selection of communication programs is based on feedback from the current execution state and communication destination. The system continuously monitors whether a communication program is currently executing and uses this feedback information to make informed selection decisions. This feedback mechanism ensures that data is routed through appropriate communication channels, preventing data loss while using simple, rule-based logic that does not significantly increase control complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An object of the present disclosure is to provide an environment where the functions of communicating with an external device are multiplexed in a controller. A controller executes a plurality of communication programs, and executes a user program for controlling an object to be controlled, the user program including an instruction for communicating with an external device. The controller includes a communication interface that is connectable to any of the plurality of communication programs and controls communication between the plurality of communication programs and the external device. The controller receives data to be communicated to the external device when the instruction is executed, and based on a destination of the data, determines a communication program for transmitting the data to the external device, from among the plurality of communication programs.