Solenoid Valve Module Communication for Fewer Control Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing solenoid valve control devices require a large number of communication lines when controlling a large number of solenoid valve modules, leading to increased device size and installation space, as well as complex connection processes, and are limited in the number of solenoid valve blocks due to the need for block select lines.
Innovation Solution
A solenoid valve control device with a communication module connected to multiple solenoid valve modules via a transmission line, a receiving line, and a switching line, where each module includes first and second communication circuits, allowing diagnostic information to be transmitted automatically from the terminal solenoid valve module to the communication module without the need for additional feedback lines, and enabling automatic switching of the signal transmission path when modules are added or changed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of solenoid valve modules are connected to one communication module, then the control capability is improved, but the number of communication lines increases enormously
Solution Approach 1:
The communication function is segmented into two circuits: the first communication circuit handles control signals from the communication module, while the second communication circuit handles diagnostic information transmission. This segmentation allows different types of signals to use different transmission paths, reducing the overall number of communication lines required.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic information from multiple solenoid valve modules is merged into a single transmission path through the switching line. The second communication circuits of adjacent modules are connected in series, allowing diagnostic information from all modules to be combined and transmitted through one line back to the communication module.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of communication lines increases, then the control function is improved, but the device size and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is divided into control signal transmission (first communication circuit) and diagnostic information transmission (second communication circuit). This segmentation allows the use of fewer total lines by reusing the transmission line for control signals and using a separate switching line for diagnostics, rather than requiring dedicated lines for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission line serves multiple functions: it carries control signals from the communication module to all solenoid valve modules, and also serves as a pathway for diagnostic information to return to the communication module through the first communication circuits. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated lines.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of communication lines increases, then the control capability is improved, but the number of connection processes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication interface is segmented into two distinct circuits within each module, with standardized connection points. The first communication circuit connects to the transmission line for control signals, while the second communication circuit connects to both the transmission line (for receiving) and the switching line (for transmitting diagnostics). This standardized segmentation simplifies the connection process by providing clear, consistent connection points across all modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The second communication circuits are pre-configured with series connections through the switching line, so that when modules are connected in sequence, the diagnostic information path is automatically established without requiring additional connection steps. The terminal module's second communication circuit is pre-designed to connect directly to the receiving line, automatically completing the diagnostic feedback loop.
4Measurement precision
If block select lines corresponding to the number of solenoid valve blocks are required, then the control precision is improved, but the number of solenoid valve blocks that can be connected is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented so that the communication module transmits control signals to all modules through the transmission line, and each module's first communication circuit receives and processes these signals. This eliminates the need for separate block select lines while maintaining the ability to control individual modules through their unique identifiers in the communication protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission line serves as a universal communication pathway for control signals to reach all solenoid valve modules, replacing the function of multiple block select lines. The first communication circuits in each module are designed to universally receive and process control signals from the communication module, enabling control of any number of modules without adding corresponding numbers of select lines.
Data Source
AI summary
A second communication circuit of each of solenoid valve modules other than a terminal solenoid valve module receives a signal from a switching line located in the next-stage solenoid valve module, and the second communication circuit of the terminal solenoid valve module that receives no signal from the switching line transmits a solenoid valve control signal and signals related to diagnostic information of the plurality of solenoid valve modules to a communication module via a receiving line.