Redundant Communication Node Using Predefined Forwarding Rules

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Solution Overview

Problem

In communication systems with multiple networks, existing technologies face challenges in preventing unnecessary data traffic and reducing delay differences between redundant transmission paths, leading to inefficient data circulation and potential disruptions in automation networks.

Innovation Solution

A method is implemented where data transmission from a first network device to a second network device occurs over two redundant paths, with a node using predefined information to prevent data from being transmitted back to the first network, utilizing a database with Forward Control bits to define forwarding ports and prevent reverse transmissions, thereby reducing unnecessary data traffic and delay differences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If data is transmitted over redundant paths to ensure reliability, then communication reliability is improved, but unnecessary data traffic and delay differences increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoiddata traffic efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

A node acts as an intermediary between communication networks, using predefined information (first part in data, second part in node database) to control data forwarding. The node selectively forwards data based on predefined rules, preventing unnecessary reverse transmissions while maintaining redundant paths for reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses predefined information that is established before data transmission occurs. The second part of the predefined information is stored in the node beforehand, allowing the node to make forwarding decisions immediately upon receiving data without requiring complex real-time processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If data is transmitted over redundant paths, then communication reliability is improved, but maximum possible delay difference between paths increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoiddelay difference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The node serves as a mediator that receives data from redundant paths and uses predefined information to determine whether to forward data back to the first communication network. This selective forwarding based on predefined rules minimizes unnecessary delays while maintaining the redundancy benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If data transmission is allowed in both directions over redundant paths, then communication flexibility is improved, but data circulation efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication flexibilityVSAvoiddata circulation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different forwarding rules to different directions of data transmission. Based on the first part of the predefined information (source/destination addresses), the node applies selective forwarding: allowing data to travel from first to second network while preventing reverse transmission, thus optimizing data circulation efficiency while maintaining necessary flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The node acts as an intelligent intermediary that uses predefined information to make localized forwarding decisions. By comparing the first part of the predefined information with stored second parts, the node determines appropriate forwarding actions, preventing inefficient data circulation while maintaining communication flexibility where needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8880641B2Redundant communication in a communication system
Publication Date: 2014.11.04 SIEMENS AG
  • US8880641B2 patent drawing
  • US8880641B2 patent drawing
  • US8880641B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for redundant communication in a communication system having a plurality of communication networks connected to one another by at least one node, wherein data that originates from a first communication network is prevented from being transmitted back from the second the communication network into the first communication network as a result of information that is predefined before the transmission.