Patent ID: 7328286
Filing Date: 2008-02-05
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A method for automatically allocating addresses among control devices connected to a data bus system, in which the control devices interchange data, using respective transmission/reception units, via a common data bus line, and simultaneously access data sent using the common data bus line; said method comprising: starting an address allocation period by transmitting a message on the common data bus line to a plurality of control devices that are to be addressed, said message containing an address that is to be allocated; in response to the message, during the address allocation period, electrically breaking the common data bus line into individual subsections, by each of the control devices which are to be addressed using a respective isolating means for electrically breaking the common data bus line; each of the control devices which are to be addressed placing its respective transmission/reception unit at a transmission potential; each of said control devices determining whether there is a downstream control device which is to be addressed; and only a control device which determines that there is no downstream control device that is to be addressed accepting said address contained in said message.