Self-initializing Serial Interface for Automatic Address Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The commissioning of systems with serial interfaces for data transmission between devices is complex due to the need for manual address assignment during manufacturing, which increases effort and requires management of fixed addresses.
Innovation Solution
A self-initializing serial interface with at least two additional lines, where one line successively forwards a voltage signal for address assignment and the other line provides feedback, allowing automatic address allocation by a master device, reducing the need for manual address management and enabling simplified system commissioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual address assignment is used during manufacturing, then address allocation can be controlled, but commissioning effort and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The serial interface automatically assigns addresses to devices without requiring manual intervention during commissioning. The master device autonomously iterates through connected devices, detects their presence via voltage signal forwarding, and assigns addresses automatically, making the system self-configuring and eliminating manual address management overhead
Solution Approach 2:
The interface performs address assignment automatically during system initialization before operation begins. The master device executes a preliminary addressing sequence that detects all connected devices and allocates addresses in advance, so that when the system enters normal operation, all devices already have assigned addresses and no manual configuration is needed
2Loss of time
If fixed addresses are assigned during manufacturing, then device identification is stable, but system commissioning time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for manual address management by implementing automatic address assignment. The master device autonomously detects connected devices and assigns addresses without human intervention, dramatically reducing commissioning time and eliminating the operational burden of managing fixed addresses
Solution Approach 2:
The interface uses feedback signals from connected devices to determine their presence and status during the addressing process. Devices respond to voltage signals and acknowledgment requests, providing feedback that enables the master device to automatically identify and address all devices in the network without manual input
3Extent of automation
If additional lines are added for automatic addressing, then address assignment is automated, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional lines serve multiple functions: one line forwards voltage signals for device detection and activation, another line provides feedback for address assignment confirmation, and a third line enables synchronization during operation. By making these lines multi-functional, the patent achieves comprehensive automation without requiring excessive separate connections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines address assignment functionality with existing serial communication infrastructure. The additional lines are integrated into the same cable harness as data transmission lines, and the addressing protocol is merged with the existing communication framework, reducing overall system complexity despite adding automation capabilities
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a self-initializing serial interface, comprising a serial interface and at least two further circuits, for devices, wherein the first of the further circuits is provided for successively propagating a voltage signal according to each address assignment to a device, and the second of the further circuits is provided for acknowledging the assignment of an address to the last of the devices.