Surgical Light Address Assignment via Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assigning addresses to components connected to a common bus, such as in surgical lighting systems, are time-consuming and error-prone, especially when using jumpers and dip switches, which can lead to complex and malfunctioning systems.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves using a calibration unit with a control system and sensing device to assign addresses based on distance readings from a calibration plank, allowing components to self-assign addresses through an iterative elimination process or by using distance sensors to determine unique addresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If jumpers and dip switches are used to assign addresses to components, then each component can be individually addressed on the common bus, but the addressing process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables components to automatically self-address by detecting their position on the common bus and assigning addresses programmatically, eliminating the need for manual jumper/dip switch configuration by operators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical addressing system (jumpers and dip switches) with an electronic/programmatic addressing system that uses software to automatically assign addresses, thereby eliminating manual mechanical configuration
2Ease of manufacture
If manual addressing methods are used, then address assignment is possible, but system complexity increases and errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
Components automatically determine their own addresses through detection and programmatic assignment, eliminating the need for complex manual configuration procedures and reducing the complexity of the addressing system
3Device complexity
If a common bus is used to connect components, then wiring is simplified, but each component requires an assigned address for proper communication
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically assigns addresses to components on the common bus through detection and programmatic methods, maintaining the wiring simplicity of the common bus architecture while eliminating the addressing difficulty that would otherwise require manual configuration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach results in a fast, accurate, and automated address assignment process that simplifies the manufacturing and servicing of devices connected to a common communication bus without adding complexity, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
instructing the plurality of components to have the respective sensors take a distance reading indicative of the distance to the front face of the calibration plank
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for assigning addresses to components sharing a common bus. In one embodiment, an iterative elimination process is used to assign the addresses to each component. In another embodiment, each component includes a distance sensor that detects a distance to a front face of a calibration plank. Addresses are assigned to the components based upon the distance readings of the sensors.