Power Distribution Node Self-Identification via Reset Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electrical power distribution systems, particularly in aircraft, there is a need for a method to efficiently identify and address power switches within a network, enabling seamless power management and distribution while minimizing manual intervention and ensuring accurate communication and control.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution node with a set of switchable elements and controller modules, where each module is sequentially identified through a data signal, allowing for permanent assignment of unique identities, facilitating efficient communication and control within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual identification and addressing of power switches is performed in large power distribution systems, then accuracy of power management can be ensured, but time consumption and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution node performs self-identification by automatically generating and transmitting its identity through the communication bus. When a reset signal is detected, the node autonomously increments its identity counter and broadcasts its updated identity without requiring external manual intervention, enabling the system to self-program its addressing scheme
Solution Approach 2:
The identity counter is pre-configured to start at a predetermined value (e.g., zero or one), and the node automatically increments this counter each time it detects a reset signal. This preliminary setup allows the system to pre-establish a sequential addressing scheme before actual power distribution operations begin
2Extent of automation
If sequential identification method is implemented across multiple power controllers, then automation level increases, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The identification process is segmented into discrete steps corresponding to each power controller in the daisy-chain configuration. Each controller independently processes reset signals and transmits its identity sequentially, dividing the overall identification task into manageable segments that can be executed autonomously by each node
Solution Approach 2:
The communication bus serves as an intermediary that carries both the reset signal from the external source and the identity transmissions between power controllers. This single communication medium mediates all identification activities, simplifying the protocol by using existing communication infrastructure rather than requiring dedicated identification channels
3Reliability
If permanent identity assignment is performed during system initialization, then reliability of power management is improved, but initialization time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The identity assignment is triggered periodically whenever a reset signal is detected, allowing the system to re-initialize its addressing scheme as needed. This periodic mechanism ensures that identity information is always current and reliable while keeping the initialization process event-driven rather than continuously active
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical identification processes with electronic signal-based identification. Reset signals and identity transmissions are carried through electrical communication buses rather than requiring physical configuration, dramatically reducing initialization time while maintaining reliability through electronic verification
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution node and method of associating a permanent identity includes a node communication input port and a node communication output port, a first power controller having a first switchable element and a first controller module configured to operate the first switchable element, the first controller module having a first communication input port connected with the node communication input port and a first communication output port, and a second power controller having a second switchable element.