Programmable ASIC I/O Module for Multi-Device Signal Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional I/O modules are application-specific, requiring multiple types for different I/O devices in complex industrial applications, leading to increased complexity and cost due to the need for various modules to handle diverse I/O functions.
Innovation Solution
An application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) with programmable circuitry that supports multiple I/O functions, combined with a matrix switch for signal distribution and pre-programmed I/O interface software for remote configuration, monitoring, and control, allowing a single module to support various I/O devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional application-specific I/O modules are used for different I/O devices, then each device can be properly supported, but the number of modules increases and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal I/O module that can support multiple different I/O device types through programmable circuitry. The ASIC contains reconfigurable logic that can be programmed to match the specific requirements of different devices such as pumps, valves, thermocouples, and flow meters, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The I/O module employs dynamic reconfiguration capability where the ASIC can be programmed at runtime to adapt to different device types. The programmable logic allows the module to change its behavior and signal handling characteristics based on the connected device, providing flexibility without requiring physical module changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple application-specific I/O modules are used to handle diverse I/O functions, then all device requirements are met, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating multiple device-specific functions into a single universal module, the patent reduces the total bill of materials. Instead of purchasing and inventorying multiple specialized modules, the system uses one versatile module that can be programmed to handle any supported device type, lowering both component costs and inventory requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple application-specific modules into a single integrated universal module. The ASIC combines various signal processing capabilities, communication protocols, and device control functions that were previously distributed across separate modules, achieving cost savings through consolidation.
3Reliability
If device-specific software is required for each I/O device type, then proper control and monitoring are achieved, but the software complexity and programming difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The I/O module incorporates self-identification and automatic configuration capabilities. When a device is connected, the module automatically detects the device type and configures its internal logic accordingly, eliminating the need for manual software programming. The system serves itself by automatically adapting to the connected device.
Solution Approach 2:
The software architecture dynamically adapts to the connected device through automatic device detection and configuration. The module can switch between different operational modes and communication protocols based on the identified device type, providing reliable control without requiring the user to write or configure device-specific software.
Data Source
AI summary
An application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for use with a programmable I/O module includes programmable circuitry that enables the ASIC to be configured to support various different I/O functions. The ASIC includes a pin interface, a data interface, a digital section, and an analog section. The pin interface supports analog and digital signal communication and the data interface supports digital data communication. The digital section includes registers for storing digital data such as configuration commands, signal control commands, and digital signal information. The analog section is in electrical signal communication with pin interface and digital data communication with the registers. The analog section includes multiple function-specific elements for processing an electrical signal that is communicated via the pin interface such that the analog section can be configured to establish one of multiple different function-specific processing paths in response to a configuration command received via the data interface.