Shared Memory Fieldbus Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fieldbus communication systems require extensive and error-prone cabling in confined spaces due to the central arrangement of participants, necessitating a simplification of data transmission to reduce cabling needs.
Innovation Solution
The method employs a shared memory device, such as a dual-port RAM, to transmit fieldbus data between participants without physical cabling, using existing firmware and emulating fieldbus controllers to manage data exchange via Ethernet MACs, ensuring real-time communication and reusability of existing communication firmware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fieldbus cabling is used to connect participants in a central arrangement, then reliable data transmission is achieved, but extensive and error-prone cabling is required in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a shared memory device as an intermediary between participants, replacing direct physical cabling. The memory device mediates data exchange between multiple participants through standardized interfaces (PCI, PCI-X, PCI Express), eliminating the need for complex point-to-point cabling while maintaining reliable data transmission through controlled memory access protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cabling system with an electronic memory-based communication system. Instead of physically connecting participants through fieldbus cables, data transmission is achieved through electronic memory operations (read/write access to shared memory addresses), substituting mechanical connections with electronic data exchange.
2Ease of operation
If fieldbus cabling is used for central participant arrangement, then communication between participants is established, but the amount of cabling increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication channels into a single shared memory resource. Instead of requiring separate cabling for each participant pair, all participants access a common memory space through standardized interfaces, consolidating multiple physical connections into one shared electronic resource that serves all communication needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared memory device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a communication medium for all participants, provides data storage, enables real-time data exchange, and supports various fieldbus protocols. This universal resource replaces multiple specialized cabling connections with a single multi-functional electronic system.
3Speed
If conventional fieldbus physics are used, then real-time communication is achieved, but the system requires specific hardware cabling that limits flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of communication medium from physical cabling to electronic memory access. By transitioning from fieldbus physics (electrical signals over cables) to memory-based communication (electronic read/write operations), the system achieves real-time performance through memory speed while gaining flexibility through software-configurable memory access patterns and protocol support.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves providing a common memory device (130) for two members (110,120), where each member has a field bus interface and a memory device (111,121). Field bus data is written onto the common memory device by the former member, and the field bus data is read out from the common memory device by the latter member. Each member has a field bus controller to operating the field bus interface. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) a computer product; and (2) a computer program product.