RAPIEnet Communication Interface for Star Topology Ethernet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices and network systems using RAPIEnet are limited to ring or line topologies, and general-purpose Ethernet switches cannot support RAPIEnet due to lack of negotiation processes, restricting network expansion and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A communication device and network system that enables RAPIEnet-based applications in star or tree-shaped topologies using general-purpose Ethernet switches by employing a processor to switch between RAPIEnet and IP-based communication methods, utilizing multiple Ethernet ports and UDP/IP protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated switch supporting RAPIEnet is used to configure star or tree-shaped network topology, then RAPIEnet communication is enabled, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device is designed to support multiple communication protocols (RAPIEnet and IP-based protocols) within a single device architecture. The processor can dynamically select between RAPIEnet Data Link layer communication and IP-based UDP/TCP communication, allowing the same device to function in both dedicated RAPIEnet networks and general-purpose Ethernet networks, thereby eliminating the need for separate dedicated switches while maintaining RAPIEnet application functionality in star or tree topologies
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism - the processor's protocol selection capability - that mediates between RAPIEnet upper layer applications and different lower layer communication methods. When star or tree topology is detected, the processor acts as an intermediary by translating RAPIEnet application data into IP-based UDP/TCP packets, enabling compatibility between RAPIEnet applications and general-purpose Ethernet switches without requiring the switches to understand RAPIEnet protocols
2Device complexity
If general-purpose Ethernet switches are used, then device complexity is reduced, but RAPIEnet communication is impossible due to lack of negotiation processes
Solution Approach 1:
The processor serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between RAPIEnet applications and general-purpose Ethernet switches. It detects when star or tree topology is present and automatically switches from RAPIEnet Data Link layer communication to IP-based communication, allowing RAPIEnet applications to communicate through switches that lack RAPIEnet negotiation capabilities while maintaining communication functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The communication device dynamically changes communication parameters by selecting different protocols based on network topology detection. When star or tree topology is detected, the device changes from using RAPIEnet Data Link layer protocols to using IP-based UDP/TCP protocols, enabling compatibility with general-purpose Ethernet switches while maintaining RAPIEnet application functionality
3Reliability
If RAPIEnet Data Link layer negotiation is required for network configuration, then optimal transmission path and automatic ring manager selection are enabled, but network expansion using general-purpose switches is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The processor acts as an intermediary that maintains RAPIEnet application functionality while adapting to different network topologies. When star or tree topology is detected, it mediates by translating RAPIEnet application data into IP-based packets, allowing network expansion using general-purpose switches without compromising the ability to detect topology and select optimal paths in ring topology scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The communication device implements dynamic protocol selection based on detected network topology. In ring topology, it uses RAPIEnet Data Link layer protocols for optimal path selection and automatic ring manager selection. In star or tree topology, it dynamically switches to IP-based protocols to enable network expansion with general-purpose switches, thereby adapting communication behavior to maintain both reliability and expandability
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a communicator; and a processor configured to: if a network composed of a first topology including a star topology or a line topology is included on a communication path connecting the communication device and the other communication device, configure data to be transmitted to the other communication device through a first interface for accessing a RAPIEnet (Real-time Automation Protocol for Industrial Ethernet)-based upper layer and an Internet Protocol (IP)-based lower layer, and transmit the data to the other communication device through the communicator using the communication path.