Ring Communication Path Fault Tolerance via Bidirectional Data Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication systems using ring networks face delays and data loss when a fault occurs, as nodes take time to switch from a main path to a backup path, potentially causing system-wide faults due to the transmission of messages across malfunctioning links.
Innovation Solution
A communication system with a master device and slave devices forming a ring communication path, where the master device outputs management and control data in both directions, and the slave devices process this data based on transmission history to ensure redundant data transmission and fault tolerance by selecting the path with fewer relays or shorter transmission time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nodes transmit messages through malfunctioning links to notify faults, then fault notification is achieved, but data loss and delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The communication path is segmented into multiple independent routes (first direction and second direction). By dividing the single path into two separate directional paths, the system can select alternative routes when one path fails, preventing data loss while maintaining fault notification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a dimensional aspect to path selection by implementing bidirectional communication (first direction and second direction). This dimensional change allows the system to view and select from multiple path options simultaneously, enabling continuous data transmission even when one directional path malfunctions.
2Reliability
If nodes switch communication direction from main path to backup path upon detecting faults, then communication continuity is maintained, but delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by maintaining readiness to switch between first and second directions at all times. Nodes continuously monitor both directional paths and pre-configure alternative routes, enabling immediate switching without delay when faults are detected.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication path selection is made dynamic rather than static. The system can adaptively switch between first direction and second direction based on real-time fault conditions, eliminating fixed main/backup path limitations and reducing switching delays through flexible, condition-based route selection.
3Reliability
If redundant control data is transmitted in both directions, then fault tolerance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bidirectional communication infrastructure serves multiple functions: it transmits control data, carries fault notifications, and provides alternative routing paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each purpose, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved fault tolerance.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system includes master and slave devices connectable to each other and forming a ring communication path. The master device outputs management data to manage communication along the ring communication path in a CW and CCW directions and receives the management data in the CW direction and in the CCW direction, and outputs, in the CW direction and in the CCW direction, control data to be used by the slave device to control equipment. The slave device acquires a history of transmission of the management data output from the master device and received by the slave device in the CW direction and in the CCW direction, and processes, based on the acquired history, one of the control data output from the master device in the CW direction and the control data output from the master device in the CCW direction to control the equipment.