TSN Stream Segmentation Across Non-TSN Ethernet Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automation networks, such as SERCOS III, face integration challenges into existing Ethernet networks due to network topology restrictions, making integration into TSN networks difficult, especially when non-TSN-capable nodes are present.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a switch with programmable logic and a controller to divide data into TSN and non-TSN capable partial data streams, enabling integration of automation networks into conventional Ethernet networks by using TSN functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automation networks use fixed network topologies (ring or line) with stable subscriber sequences, then communication reliability is improved, but network adaptability deteriorates when integrating into existing Ethernet networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data stream into multiple partial data streams that can be independently routed through different network paths. This allows the automation network to maintain its structured communication pattern while adapting to the flexibility of existing Ethernet network topologies, resolving the contradiction between maintaining communication reliability and achieving network adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces network switches as intermediary devices that bridge the automation network and existing Ethernet network. These switches programmably route partial data streams between different network segments, enabling the automation network to operate reliably while integrating into the flexible Ethernet infrastructure
2Reliability
If TSN functions are implemented in a network, then data transmission predictability is improved, but device complexity increases when non-TSN-capable nodes are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the TSN data stream into partial data streams that can be selectively routed through TSN-capable segments of the network. This allows TSN functions to be implemented only where needed, maintaining data transmission predictability for critical paths while avoiding the complexity of implementing TSN throughout the entire network, especially when non-TSN-capable nodes are present
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies TSN capabilities locally to specific network segments and data streams rather than uniformly across the entire network. This allows predictable time-sensitive communication for critical automation data while using conventional Ethernet for less critical traffic, reducing overall device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If automation networks are integrated into existing Ethernet networks, then network versatility is improved, but integration difficulty increases due to topology restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into automation network segments and existing Ethernet network segments, connected through programmable switches. This segmentation allows each segment to maintain its own topology characteristics while enabling overall network versatility, reducing integration difficulty by allowing gradual, modular integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs network switches with programmable logic that can function as both automation network nodes and Ethernet network nodes. This multi-functionality enables a single device to bridge different network types, improving network versatility while simplifying integration by eliminating the need for separate integration infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
A method is proposed for operating a network with multiple subscribers in the network. For this purpose, a network having at least one switch (20, 21), at least two terminals (10, 11, 12) and a controller (30) is provided. According to the invention, one of the subscribers now sends and/or receives data to another subscriber via an application protocol, with the data being sent and/or received as a TSN data stream. In order to integrate non-TSN-capable nodes in the network, it is proposed that the TSN data stream be divided into at least two partial data streams (1, 2, 3, 4). Such partial data streams (1, 2, 3, 4) can be configured across non-TSN-capable subscribers or between such subscribers.