Automatic Self-Addressing Wired Network Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual node addressing in wired networks is complex, error-prone, and costly, requiring significant coordination and expertise, often resulting in non-functioning systems or the need for expensive technical support.
Innovation Solution
A method and circuitry for nodes in multi-drop wired networks to automatically self-address and optionally self-terminate based on their sequential electrical location, using series switches to dynamically separate and rejoin the network during the addressing process, applicable to various communication protocols like DALI and EIA-RS485.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual node addressing is used, then network configuration can be properly set, but the process is complex, error-prone, and costly requiring significant coordination and expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic self-addressing where each node on the network autonomously determines its own address based on its physical position. The first node automatically becomes address 1, the second node becomes address 2, and so on, eliminating the need for manual configuration by technicians. This self-service mechanism resolves the contradiction by making the addressing process simple while maintaining high reliability through automated position-based address assignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring each node with the capability to automatically detect its position in the network and assign itself an address before any communication occurs. The nodes are designed with built-in address detection circuitry that automatically activates when powered, determining addresses based on electrical connection sequence rather than requiring pre-manual configuration.
2Reliability
If factory addressing is used, then some addressing problems are eliminated, but it requires large coordination between factory and installer adding costs and lead time
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring factory pre-addressing and coordination with installers, the patent enables nodes to self-determine their addresses automatically upon installation. Each node autonomously detects its position in the network chain and assigns itself the appropriate address, eliminating the time-consuming coordination between factory and installer while maintaining addressing consistency through the deterministic position-based assignment method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by equipping nodes with built-in automatic address detection capabilities that activate immediately when the node is installed and powered. This preliminary preparation of the addressing mechanism at the node level eliminates the need for upstream coordination at the factory or during installation planning, allowing nodes to autonomously configure themselves in any installation scenario.
3Ease of operation
If random addressing is used, then physical wheels or switches are eliminated, but a lengthy commissioning procedure is required to find and enter each device location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling each node to automatically determine and assign its own address based on its position in the network. Instead of requiring technicians to manually find and record each device location during commissioning, the nodes autonomously detect their electrical connection sequence and self-configure their addresses, eliminating the lengthy data entry process while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback mechanisms where nodes automatically detect their position in the network chain through electrical signaling and use this feedback information to self-assign addresses. The system continuously monitors network topology and dynamically adjusts address assignments based on detected node positions, eliminating the need for manual location tracking during commissioning while maintaining ease of operation.
4Measurement precision
If manual addressing with physical wheels or switches is used, then precise address setting is possible, but the process is cumbersome and requires technical expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by eliminating physical address-setting interfaces entirely. Each node automatically determines its precise address based on its position in the network chain through automated detection circuitry. This removes the need for technicians to manually rotate wheels or switch positions, making the process extremely easy while maintaining precise address assignment through the deterministic position-based methodology.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for addressing nodes in a multi-drop wired network are disclosed. In an embodiment nodes communicate via a two-way communication bus. Upon receipt of an address command, a first node assigns itself a first address, closes a switch to activate an output port of the first node to enable a second node to receive communications from the first node, and sends a second address onto the two-way communication bus. The second address is received by all previously addressed nodes, including a controller if used, as well as the second node, which is as yet unaddressed. Upon receipt of the second address, the second node repeats the process. If a node does not receive an acknowledgement that a subsequent node has addressed itself, that node deactivates its output port and terminates the network.