Programmable I/O Interface Circuit for Mixed-Signal Machine Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern automated or semi-automated machines comprising diverse components from various vendors often result in increased complexity and cost due to non-customized design, leading to underutilization of components and higher maintenance costs, as well as complex wiring and interconnection challenges.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of programmable input/output interface circuits that can adaptively communicate signals between a controller and machine components, using a single signaling channel for both analog and digital signals, reducing the need for multiple signal transformers and complex wiring, and enabling flexible I/O signaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple signal transformers and complex wiring are used to interface with diverse components, then compatibility with various signaling types is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal interface circuit that can handle multiple signaling types (analog, digital, voltage, current) through a single standardized connection protocol. The circuit includes programmable signal conditioning capabilities that allow it to adapt to different component requirements without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each signal type, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The interface circuit employs programmable parameters that can be configured to match different signaling requirements. By changing electrical parameters (voltage levels, impedance, signal filtering) through software configuration rather than hardware reconfiguration, the system achieves adaptability to various components while maintaining a fixed, simple physical wiring structure
2Ease of manufacture
If non-customized components are used from multiple vendors, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal interface standard that allows components from different vendors to be integrated through a common protocol. The interface circuit can be programmed to accommodate various signaling conventions used by different manufacturers, enabling seamless integration of off-the-shelf components without requiring custom adaptation circuits for each vendor's proprietary interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The interface circuit acts as an intermediary layer between the controller and diverse machine components. It translates between the standardized controller interface and the varied component interfaces, allowing off-the-shelf components to be integrated without modification while maintaining system coherence through the mediating interface layer
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of cables and connectors are used for different components, then signaling compatibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal cable and connector standard that can carry multiple signal types (analog, digital, power) through a single multi-pin interface. The interface circuit is programmed to recognize and properly route different signal types through the same physical connection, eliminating the need for multiple specialized cables and connectors while maintaining full signaling compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple signal pathways (analog inputs, digital inputs, power supply, ground) into a single integrated cable assembly with a unified connector. This merging of previously separate connections into one standardized interface simplifies installation and maintenance operations while the internal circuitry maintains the ability to handle each signal type appropriately
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for flexible input/output signaling over a same signaling channel are described. A programmable interface circuit includes a signaling channel that can be adapted, prior to use or during operation, for transmission and/or reception of different types of analog and digital signals. The interface circuit can be used for communications between an isolating communication controller and components of a machine that use diverse signaling types.