Intelligent electronic switches, integrated circuit chips, chip products and automobiles for automobiles

Abstract

The present application provides an intelligent electronic switch, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product, and an automobile for use in a vehicle. The intelligent electronic switch is provided with an authentication unit and a key unit, and a load is provided with the key unit. Thus, when the intelligent electronic switch is in a load authentication phase, the intelligent electronic switch can use the authentication unit and the key unit in the load to perform key authentication. After the key authentication is successful, the authentication unit outputs a verification-valid signal. Thus, only when an input terminal receives an enable signal, is the power switch controlled to turn on and conduct to supply power to the load. If the key authentication fails, the authentication unit outputs a verification-invalid signal, causing the intelligent electronic switch to output a cutoff control signal and / or a reminder signal. This prevents the use of unauthenticated loads and / or notifies the user, thereby reducing the problem of driving safety being affected or safety hazards posed by the inability of the intelligent electronic switch to authenticate the load.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of electronic circuit technology, and in particular to an intelligent electronic switch, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product and an automobile for use in a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous development of new energy vehicles towards electrification, intelligence, and connectivity, automotive functions are becoming increasingly complex. These functions require different loads and actuators to implement. Intelligent electronic switches (which can be high-side or low-side drivers) are used to drive and switch in-vehicle loads. They can drive various resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads within the vehicle's control domain and are widely used both inside and outside the vehicle.

[0003] In practical applications, the loads connected to smart electronic switches are typically replaceable. However, the quality of loads of the same type can vary, and existing smart electronic switches are unable to verify the safety, authenticity, and conformity of the loads. Because low-quality, uncertified loads have low reliability during use, installing them in a vehicle or unauthorized replacement of the original load increases the likelihood of driving anomalies, potentially impacting safe driving and even posing a safety hazard. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides an intelligent electronic switch, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product and an automobile for use in a vehicle, which are used to solve the problem that uncertified loads may cause abnormalities and lead to safety hazards during driving.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle, comprising: a power supply terminal, a power ground terminal, an input terminal, a load output terminal, a first communication connection terminal, a power switch, a control unit, and an authentication unit;

[0006] The power supply terminal and the power ground terminal are used to be connected to a battery, and the power switch is used to be connected in series with a load, with a first terminal connected to the power supply terminal or the power ground terminal, a second terminal connected to the load output terminal, and a control terminal connected to the control unit, and the control unit is used to control the power switch to be turned on or off;

[0007] The input end is connected to the control unit, the control unit is connected to the authentication unit, and the authentication unit is used to connect to the key unit of the load through the first communication connection end;

[0008] When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the authentication unit is used to perform key authentication with the key unit; when the key authentication is passed, the authentication unit outputs a verification validity signal, so that the control unit controls the power switch to turn on and conduct when the input end receives the start enable signal, so as to supply power to the load; when the key authentication fails, the authentication unit outputs a verification invalid signal, and when the control unit receives the verification invalid signal from the authentication unit, it outputs a cutoff control signal and / or a reminder signal, the cutoff control signal is used to turn off the power switch, and the reminder signal is used to remind the load that it is a non-authenticated load.

[0009] In a possible design of the first aspect, the intelligent electronic switch enters a load authentication phase each time it is powered on.

[0010] In another possible design of the first aspect, the intelligent electronic switch further includes a load replacement detection unit;

[0011] The load replacement detection unit is connected to the load output terminal and the control unit, and is configured to output a load replacement signal when detecting that the load connected to the load output terminal has been replaced;

[0012] The control unit triggers the intelligent electronic switch to enter a load authentication phase upon receiving the load replacement signal.

[0013] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle may also include an abnormality detection unit;

[0014] The abnormality detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the control unit is further configured to be connected to the microcontroller and the load replacement detection unit. The abnormality detection unit is configured to output a load abnormality signal when detecting that a load abnormality occurs;

[0015] The control unit outputs a load abnormality indication signal upon receiving the load abnormality signal, and controls the load replacement detection unit to perform load replacement detection, wherein the load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to lock and output a shutdown signal;

[0016] The control unit is further configured to trigger the intelligent electronic switch to enter a load authentication phase and output a load change indication signal upon receiving the load change signal, wherein the load change indication signal is configured to trigger the microcontroller to release the lock.

[0017] In another possible design of the first aspect, the vehicle-used intelligent electronic switch further includes an abnormality detection unit;

[0018] The abnormality detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the control unit is further configured to be connected to the microcontroller. The abnormality detection unit is configured to output a load abnormality signal when detecting that the load is abnormal;

[0019] The control unit outputs a load abnormality indication signal when receiving the load abnormality signal, and the load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to lock and output the shutdown signal. The control unit enters the load authentication stage when receiving the load verification signal, wherein the load verification signal is output by the microcontroller after determining that the load has been replaced, and the microcontroller is also used to release the locked output of the shutdown signal after determining that the load has been replaced.

[0020] In an example of the first aspect, when the intelligent electronic switch is in a load authentication stage, the control unit controls the power switch to turn on to supply power to the load, so that the authentication unit performs key verification with a key unit in the load.

[0021] In another example of the first aspect, when the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the control unit controls the current flowing through the power switch to be a first current, where the first current is less than the current when the load is working normally, and the first current is used to turn on the key unit in the load so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key verification.

[0022] In another example of the first aspect, the intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle further includes a power supply output terminal, one end of the power supply output terminal is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal, and the other end of the power supply output terminal is used to connect to the key unit;

[0023] When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the power supply end is used to supply power to the key unit through the power output end, so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key authentication.

[0024] Optionally, the vehicle-used intelligent electronic switch further includes a second switch tube, wherein a first end of the second switch tube is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply end, a second end thereof is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply output end, and a control end thereof is connected to the control unit;

[0025] When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the control unit controls the second switch tube to be turned on, so that the power supply end supplies power to the key unit, so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key authentication.

[0026] In another possible design of the first aspect, the number of power switches and the number of load output terminals are equal and both are multiple, each load output terminal is connected to a corresponding power switch, and each load output terminal is further used to connect to a corresponding sub-load, and the load includes multiple sub-loads;

[0027] The authentication unit is further configured to connect to the key units of the plurality of sub-loads via the first communication connection end, and perform key verification on the plurality of sub-loads when the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication phase;

[0028] The control unit is further configured to control corresponding power switches according to key verification results of the authentication unit on the plurality of sub-loads.

[0029] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an integrated circuit chip, comprising an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle as described in the first aspect and each possible design, wherein the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, and the load output end is a load output pin.

[0030] In a third aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a chip product, including the intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle as described in the first aspect and various possible designs, wherein components of the intelligent electronic switch other than the power switch are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch is located on a second integrated circuit chip;

[0031] Among them, the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, the input end is an input pin, the load output end is a load output pin, and the communication connection end is a communication connection pin. The power supply pin, the power ground pin, the input pin and the communication connection pin are all located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on a second integrated circuit chip.

[0032] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an automobile, comprising the intelligent electronic switch for automobile use as described in the first aspect and each possible design, or the integrated circuit chip as described in the second aspect, or the chip product as described in the third aspect;

[0033] The device further comprises a battery, a load and a microcontroller, wherein the positive electrode of the battery is connected to the power supply terminal, the negative electrode of the battery is connected to the power ground terminal, one end of the load is connected to the load output terminal, and the other end of the load is connected to the power ground terminal or the power supply terminal;

[0034] The load includes a key unit, the key unit is connected to the authentication unit of the intelligent electronic switch, and the microcontroller is connected to the control unit of the intelligent electronic switch.

[0035] In a possible design of the fourth aspect, the intelligent electronic switch outputs a load abnormality indication signal when detecting that the connected load is abnormal, and the microcontroller powers off the intelligent electronic switch after receiving the load abnormality indication signal;

[0036] The microcontroller powers on the intelligent electronic switch upon receiving a load replacement signal, and the intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication phase after being powered on, wherein the load replacement signal is triggered after the load is replaced; or

[0037] The load further includes a first power supply, which is used to power the load. The load is also connected to the microcontroller. The load is used to output load connection information to the microcontroller when it is connected to the intelligent electronic switch. The microcontroller determines whether the load is a new load based on the received load connection information. If the judgment result is yes, the intelligent electronic switch is powered on. After the intelligent electronic switch is powered on, it enters the load authentication stage.

[0038] In another possible design of the fourth aspect, the intelligent electronic switch outputs a load abnormality indication signal when detecting that the connected load is abnormal, and the microcontroller locks the output shutdown signal after receiving the load abnormality indication signal to keep the power switch turned off;

[0039] The microcontroller releases the locked output of the shutdown signal after receiving the load replacement signal and outputs a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch, so that the intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication stage. The load replacement signal is triggered after the abnormal load is replaced; or

[0040] The load further includes a first power supply configured to supply power to the load. The load is further connected to the microcontroller. The load is configured to output load connection information to the microcontroller when connected to the intelligent electronic switch. The microcontroller determines whether the load is a new load based on the received load connection information. If the determination result is yes, the microcontroller releases the lock output of the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch, causing the intelligent electronic switch to enter a load authentication phase.

[0041] In another possible design of the fourth aspect, the vehicle is an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a fuel vehicle, and the load includes at least one of a resistive load, an inductive load, and a capacitive load.

[0042] The automotive intelligent electronic switch, integrated circuit chip, chip product, and automobile provided herein are configured with an authentication unit and a key unit within the intelligent electronic switch, and a key unit within the load. Thus, when the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, key authentication can be performed using the authentication unit and the key unit within the load. After successful key authentication, the authentication unit outputs a verification-valid signal. Thus, the power switch is controlled to turn on and conduct to supply power to the load only when an enable signal is received at the input end. If key authentication fails, the authentication unit outputs a verification-invalid signal, causing the intelligent electronic switch to output a cutoff control signal and / or a reminder signal. Specifically, when the intelligent electronic switch detects that the connected load is an unauthenticated load, it can prevent the unauthenticated load from being used and / or notify the user, thereby reducing the risk of driving safety issues or safety hazards caused by the intelligent electronic switch's inability to authenticate the load. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present application.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in the first embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in the second embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in the third embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in the fourth embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in the fifth embodiment of the present application;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in a sixth embodiment of the present application;

[0050] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the partial components of the automobile provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0051] The above drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and the textual description are not intended to limit the scope of the present application in any way, but rather to illustrate the concepts of the present application to those skilled in the art by reference to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0053] The terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof as used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus comprising a series of steps or modules is not limited to the listed steps or modules, but may optionally include steps or modules not listed, or may optionally include other steps or modules that are inherent to the process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0054] In addition, the terms "first", "second" and "third" are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. The electrical connection in this application includes direct electrical connection and indirect electrical connection. Indirect electrical connection means that other electronic components, pins, etc. may exist between the two electrically connected components. The XX end mentioned in this application may be an actual terminal or may not be an actual terminal, for example, it is only one end of a component or one end of a wire. The "and / or" mentioned in this application includes three cases. For example, A and / or B includes three cases: A, B, and A and B.

[0055] Switches control the on / off function of circuits and are widely used in the electrical field. Currently, switches can be implemented in a variety of ways, including relays, resettable fuses, discrete switching devices, and intelligent electronic switches.

[0056] Traditionally, automotive switches are typically implemented using relays. However, with the accelerating transformation of the automotive intelligent industry, traditional relay switching solutions are limited in functionality and cannot meet complex protection and diagnostic requirements. Intelligent electronic switches, with their high reliability, flexibility, low power consumption, and small size and light weight, can replace relays for driving and switching in-vehicle loads, as well as protecting and diagnosing them. Therefore, intelligent electronic switches have gradually become a trend in switch development.

[0057] In the automotive application field, intelligent electronic switches are mainly used to drive and switch loads such as car lights, valves, pumps, motors, seats, steering wheels, rearview mirrors, door locks, etc., and monitor the short circuit and open circuit, current and voltage of the load during the switching process to protect and diagnose the load. At the same time, the intelligent electronic switch integrates a clamping shutdown function to support the switching energy processing capability, eliminating the need for a freewheeling current recirculation path, thereby reducing design difficulty, reducing battery energy consumption, and saving system costs.

[0058] In practical applications, intelligent electronic switches connect and control loads such as lights, valves, pumps, motors, seats, steering wheels, rearview mirrors, and door locks, which are often replaceable. However, the quality of loads of the same type can vary, and non-certified loads can pose safety risks during use. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles that can verify the safety and authenticity of loads to address the safety risks associated with replacing connected loads.

[0059] In response to the above-mentioned problems, an embodiment of the present application provides an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle, which can perform key verification using an internally set authentication unit and a key unit in the load during the load authentication stage. After the key verification is passed, the authentication unit will output a verification validity signal, so that the power switch will be controlled to turn on and conduct to supply power to the load only when the input end receives a start enable signal. If the key verification fails, the authentication unit will output a verification invalid signal, so that the intelligent electronic switch outputs a cutoff control signal and / or a reminder signal. The cutoff control signal is used to turn off the power switch, and the reminder signal is used to remind the load that it is a non-authenticated load. In this technical solution, when the intelligent electronic switch detects that the load it is connected to is a non-authenticated load, it can turn off the power switch connected to the load or send a reminder signal of the non-authenticated load. This can prevent the use of the non-authenticated load and notify the user, reducing the problem of affecting safe driving or posing a safety hazard due to the inability of the intelligent electronic switch to authenticate the load.

[0060] The following specific embodiments describe in detail the technical solution of the present application and how the technical solution of the present application solves the above-mentioned technical problems. The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be repeated in some embodiments. The embodiments of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a circuit module diagram of a vehicle-use intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided by the first embodiment of the present application. Figure 1As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 includes a power supply terminal VCC, a power ground terminal GND, an input terminal INPUT, a load output terminal OUT, a first communication connection terminal COM1 , a power switch K1 , a control unit 21 and an authentication unit 22 .

[0062] The power supply terminal VCC and the power ground terminal GND are used to connect to the battery 10, and the power switch K1 is used to be connected in series with the load 30. Its first terminal is connected to the power supply terminal VCC or the power ground terminal GND, its second terminal is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and its control terminal is connected to the control unit 21. The control unit 21 is used to control the power switch K1 to turn on or off. For example, in Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the first terminal of the power switch K1 is connected to the positive electrode of the battery 10. In this case, the power switch K1 is connected as a high-side switch (high-side switch), which is a switch connected between the positive electrode of the battery 10 and the load 30. In other embodiments of the present application, the first terminal of the power switch K1 is connected to the negative electrode of the battery 10, that is, the power switch K1 is connected between the negative electrode of the battery 10 and the load 30. In this case, the power switch K1 is connected as a low-side switch (low-side switch), which will not be described in detail here.

[0063] In this embodiment, continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown, the input terminal INPUT is not only used to connect to the microcontroller unit (MCU) 40, but also, in the intelligent electronic switch 20, the input terminal INPUT is connected to the control unit 21, and the control unit 21 is connected to the authentication unit 22. The authentication unit 22 is used to connect to the key unit 31 of the load 30 via the first communication connection terminal COM1. Optionally, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the authentication unit 22 is used to perform key verification with the key unit 31.

[0064] In actual applications, there are many ways to trigger the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase. For example, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may be triggered to enter the load authentication phase when it is powered on, when the load 30 connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20 is replaced, or when the intelligent electronic switch 20 receives a load authentication signal (load authentication indication). It is understood that there may be other ways to trigger the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase, which can be determined based on actual scenarios and are not detailed here.

[0065] For example, since the intelligent electronic switch 20 cannot determine whether the load connected to it has been replaced during the period when it is not powered on, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is powered on for the first time or powered on again after power failure, in order to prevent the load 30 from being replaced during the period when the intelligent electronic switch is powered off, the intelligent electronic switch 20 will enter the load authentication stage every time it is powered on. Figure 1 As shown, a switch unit 50 is connected between the positive electrode of the battery 10 and the power supply terminal VCC. The MCU 40 can control the switch unit 50 to be turned on, so that the intelligent electronic switch 20 is powered on.

[0066] It is understood that the intelligent electronic switch 20 may enter the load authentication phase immediately after power-on, or may enter the load authentication phase within a preset time period after power-on, or after a preset time period, and the embodiment of the present application does not limit the value of the preset time period. For example, the intelligent electronic switch may enter the load authentication phase after power-on and self-test completion, or may enter the load authentication phase within a preset time period after power-on and self-test completion, or after a preset time period after power-on and self-test completion. The present application does not limit the timing of entering the load authentication phase, and it may be determined based on actual needs.

[0067] In one possible design of an embodiment of the present application, the key authentication can be a one-way authentication of the intelligent electronic switch 20. For example, after the intelligent electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication phase, the authentication unit 22 generates a first random number (a randomly generated value) and sends the first random number to the key unit 31 of the load 30 via the first communication connection terminal COM1. After receiving the first random number, the key unit 31 encrypts the first random number based on a built-in encryption algorithm to generate a first check code, and feeds it back to the authentication unit 22. In this way, the authentication unit 22 verifies the authenticity of the load 30 based on the received first check code. Optionally, the authentication unit 22 has a built-in decryption algorithm. The decryption algorithm and the encryption algorithm built into the key unit 31 form a set of key control algorithms. Therefore, after the authentication unit 22 decrypts the first check code using the decryption algorithm to obtain a first decrypted number, it can determine the authenticity of the load based on whether the first decrypted number is the first random number or a number related to the first random number. Optionally, if the first decrypted number is the above-mentioned first random number or a related number of the first random number, the load 30 is considered to be an authentication load; if the first decrypted number is neither the above-mentioned first random number nor a related number of the above-mentioned first random number, the load 30 is considered to be a non-authentication load.

[0068] In another possible design of the embodiment of the present application, key authentication can also be a two-way authentication between the intelligent electronic switch 20 and the load 30. For example, after the intelligent electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication phase, the authentication unit 22 first generates a second random number (a randomly generated value that may be the same as or different from the first random number), processes the second random number using a preset encryption algorithm to generate a second verification code, and then sends the second verification code to the key unit 31 of the load 30. After receiving the second verification code, the key unit 31 decrypts the second verification code to obtain a second decrypted number, and determines whether the intelligent electronic switch 20 has passed the verification based on the second decrypted number. Optionally, after the key unit 31 determines that the intelligent electronic switch 20 has passed verification, the key unit 31 may generate a third random number (a randomly generated value that may be the same as or different from at least one of the first and second random numbers), process the third random number using a preset encryption algorithm to generate a third verification code, and then send the third verification code to the authentication unit 22 of the intelligent electronic switch 20. The authentication unit 22 decrypts the received third verification code to obtain a third decrypted number, and determines the authenticity of the load 30 based on the third decrypted number. It is understood that in this possible design, the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 are pre-installed with the same root key and the same encryption and decryption algorithm, which is not limited here. This two-way authentication scheme further improves the accuracy of the key verification results.

[0069] As an example, when the key verification is successful, the authentication unit 22 outputs a verification valid signal so that the control unit 21 controls the power switch K1 to turn on and conduct when the input terminal INPUT receives the enable signal to supply power to the load 30. In this example, when the authentication unit 22 successfully verifies the key of the load 30, the authentication unit 22 outputs a verification valid signal to the control unit 21, so that the control unit 21 can control the on and off state of the power switch K1 based on the signal received from the microcontroller 40 at the input terminal INPUT. For example, if the control unit 21 detects that the input terminal INPUT has received the enable signal after receiving the verification valid signal, it will control the power switch K1 to turn on and conduct based on the enable signal, so that the battery 10 can supply power to the load 30 through the power switch K1.

[0070] It is understandable that in actual applications, after the control unit 21 receives the verification validity signal, it can also output authentication pass information so that the microprocessor or user connected to the control unit 21 can obtain the load 30 as an authentication load. This embodiment of the application does not limit it.

[0071] As another example, when key verification fails, the authentication unit 22 outputs a verification invalidation signal, and the control unit 21 outputs a cutoff control signal and / or a reminder signal when receiving the verification invalidation signal from the authentication unit 22. The cutoff control signal is used to turn off the power switch K1, and the reminder signal is used to remind the load 30 that it is a non-authenticated load. In this example, when the authentication unit 22 fails to verify the key of the load 30, the authentication unit 22 outputs a verification invalidation signal to the control unit 21. In this way, the control unit 21 controls the power switch K1 to turn off or remain in the cutoff state regardless of whether the input terminal INPUT receives the enable signal / shutdown signal to prohibit power supply to the load 30, and / or sends a reminder signal through at least one method such as voice or display screen display, so that the user is promptly informed that the load 30 is a non-authenticated load.

[0072] Optionally, in this embodiment, the power switch K1 may be an N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (NMOS FET, referred to as NMOS tube), a PMOS tube, a junction field effect transistor (JFET), or an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), etc. The figure uses an N-type MOS tube as an example for illustration. In another possible design of this embodiment, the power switch K1 may also be implemented as a silicon device, or may be implemented using other semiconductor materials, such as silicon carbide (SiC), gallium arsenide (GaAs), or gallium nitride (GaN), etc. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the form of the power switch K1.

[0073] Optionally, a fuse (not shown) may be connected in series between the battery 10 and the power supply terminal VCC to prevent malfunctions caused by excessive current in the line. Other components may also be provided between the power ground terminal GND and the negative terminal of the battery 10, such as a parallel-connected anti-reverse polarity diode and a current-limiting resistor, to improve the stability of the intelligent electronic switch.

[0074] Optional, in Figure 1The schematic diagram does not show the connection between the authentication unit 22, the control unit 21, and the like and the power supply unit. However, in actual applications, a power supply unit may be provided within the intelligent electronic switch 20. One end of the power supply unit is connected to the power supply terminal VCC, and the other end is connected to the control unit 21, the authentication unit 22, and other modules to provide power. The power supply unit then steps down the voltage at the power supply terminal VCC before supplying it to the authentication unit 22, the control unit 21, or other circuits. In other embodiments, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may not include a power supply unit. In this case, a step-down unit is required between the power supply terminal VCC and the positive electrode of the battery 10 to reduce the voltage input to the power supply terminal VCC to the rated operating voltage of the authentication unit 22, the control unit 21, and the like. This allows the voltage at the power supply terminal VCC to directly power the units within the intelligent electronic switch 20. This is not limited in the present embodiment.

[0075] In an embodiment of the present application, during the load authentication stage, the intelligent electronic switch uses the authentication unit and the key unit in the load to perform key verification. Only after the key verification is passed, the intelligent electronic switch controls the power switch to turn on and conduct to supply power to the load when the input end receives an enable signal. If the key verification fails, the intelligent electronic switch controls the power switch to turn off and / or outputs a reminder signal to prevent the use of non-certified loads and / or notify the user, thereby reducing the safety risks that exist when the load connected to the intelligent electronic switch is a non-certified load.

[0076] The above embodiment provides a general introduction to the intelligent electronic switch 20. The following will explain the load power supply principle of the load replacement detection, abnormality detection and load authentication phase in the intelligent electronic switch 20 through different embodiments. Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment is used as a basis for explaining the principles.

[0077] In one possible design, Figure 2 This is a circuit module diagram of a vehicle-use intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the second embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 further includes a load replacement detection unit 23 .

[0078] Among them, the load replacement detection unit 23 is connected to the load output terminal OUT and the control unit 21. The load replacement detection unit 23 is used to output a load replacement signal when it detects that the load 30 connected to the load output terminal OUT is replaced; accordingly, the control unit 21 triggers the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication stage when receiving the load replacement signal.

[0079] In actual applications, there is a scenario where an accessory is replaced without losing power to the vehicle. In this case, a load replacement detection unit 23 can be provided within the intelligent electronic switch 20, and the load replacement detection unit 23 is connected to the load output terminal OUT and the control unit 21. Since the voltage at the load output terminal OUT changes when the load 30 connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20 is replaced, the load replacement detection unit 23 can determine whether the load 30 has been replaced by detecting the voltage change at the load output terminal OUT. If the load 30 is replaced, the load replacement detection unit 23 outputs a load replacement signal to the control unit 21, thereby triggering the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase.

[0080] As an example, continue to refer to Figure 2 As shown, the load replacement detection unit 23 includes a first branch and a first comparator 230 . The first branch includes a first switch tube M1 and a first resistor R1 connected in series.

[0081] The first branch has a first end connected to the first end of the power switch K1, a second end connected to the load output end OUT, and a control end of the first switch tube M1 connected to the control unit 21. Figure 2 In the schematic diagram shown, the first end of the first switch M1 is connected to the first end of the power switch K1, and the second end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the load output terminal OUT. In other embodiments, the first end of the first resistor R1 can be connected to the first end of the power switch K1, and the second end of the first switch M1 is connected to the load output terminal OUT. The connection method of the first branch to the power switch K1 and the load output terminal OUT can be determined according to actual needs and is not detailed here.

[0082] Reference Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the first comparator 230 has a first input terminal connected to the load output terminal OUT, a second input terminal for receiving a first voltage threshold Vth, and an output terminal and an enable terminal EN connected to the control unit 21. When the power switch K1 is in the off state, the control unit 21 controls the first switch M1 to be in the on state and controls the first comparator 230 to enter the working state. The first comparator 230 outputs a first level signal when the voltage at the load output terminal OUT is greater than or equal to the first voltage threshold Vth. Furthermore, the control unit 21 determines that the load connected to the load output terminal OUT has been replaced when the duration of the first level signal is greater than or equal to a first preset duration.

[0083] For example, in Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the first input terminal of the first comparator 230 is a non-inverting terminal, and its second input terminal is an inverting terminal. Thus, when the load 30 is in a normal connection state, due to the voltage divider effect of the load 30, the voltage at the load output terminal OUT is less than the first voltage threshold Vth, and the first comparator 230 outputs a low-level signal. However, when the load 30 is replaced, i.e., after the load 30 is removed, the circuit between the load output terminal OUT and the power ground terminal GND is disconnected, and the voltage at the load output terminal OUT increases, approaching the voltage of the power supply terminal VCC, which is greater than or equal to the first voltage threshold Vth. As a result, the first comparator 230 outputs a high-level signal, i.e., a first-level signal. Typically, the time required to replace a load (from removal to reinstallation) is much longer than the time required for poor contact between the load and the load output terminal OUT. Therefore, to improve detection accuracy, the control unit 21 can detect the duration of the first comparator 230 continuously outputting the first-level signal. The load connected to the load output terminal OUT is determined to have been replaced only when the duration of the first-level signal is greater than or equal to a first predetermined duration.

[0084] In actual applications, in order to ensure personal safety during load replacement, relevant personnel usually perform load replacement when the power switch K1 is in the off-state, and do not perform load replacement detection when the power switch K1 is in the on-state. Therefore, the control unit 21 can control the first switch tube M1 to be in the off-state and the first comparator 230 to be non-operating when the power switch K1 is in the on-state, and control the first switch tube M1 to be in the on-state and control the first comparator 230 to enter the operating state when the power switch K1 is in the off-state. In this way, the first comparator 230 can compare the voltage of the load output terminal OUT collected by the first input terminal with the first voltage threshold Vth during operation, and output the comparison result in real time. The comparison result can reflect whether the load has been replaced, thereby improving the accuracy of load replacement detection.

[0085] In the above Figure 2 Based on the embodiment shown, Figure 3 This is a circuit module diagram of the intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle and its peripheral components provided in the third embodiment of the present application. It can be understood that Figure 3 The specific circuit of the load replacement detection unit 23 is not shown in the schematic diagram shown. Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 further includes an abnormality detection unit 24. The abnormality detection unit 24 is connected to the control unit 21, which is further configured to be connected to the microcontroller 40 and the load replacement detection unit 23. The abnormality detection unit 24 is configured to output a load abnormality signal upon detecting a load abnormality. Accordingly, upon receiving the load abnormality signal, the control unit 21 outputs a load abnormality indication signal and controls the load replacement detection unit 23 to perform load replacement detection. The load abnormality indication signal is configured to trigger the microcontroller 40 to lock and output a shutdown signal.

[0086] Optionally, the control unit 21 is further configured to trigger the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter a load authentication phase and output a load change indication signal when receiving a load change signal, wherein the load change indication signal is configured to trigger the microcontroller 40 to release the lock.

[0087] In actual applications, the load connected to the intelligent electronic switch is usually not frequently replaced. It is likely that the load will be replaced only when it is abnormal. Therefore, in the embodiment of the present application, an abnormality detection unit 24 is provided inside the intelligent electronic switch 20. The abnormality detection unit 24 is used to detect whether the load is abnormal. Only when it is determined that the load is abnormal is the load replacement detection performed. Then, only after the load is replaced is the intelligent electronic switch triggered to enter the load authentication stage. This effectively reduces the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch and avoids resource waste.

[0088] Exemplarily, load abnormalities generally include load short circuit and load disconnection. These load abnormalities can be reflected by detecting changes in at least one parameter such as the output current of the power switch K1, the voltage of the load output terminal OUT, or the voltage of the control terminal of the power switch K1. Therefore, in this embodiment, in addition to being connected to the control unit 21, the abnormality detection unit 24 also needs to be connected to at least one end of the power switch K1 to determine whether the load is abnormal based on the detected voltage or voltage change.

[0089] In one possible implementation, to avoid potential safety hazards caused by the use of abnormal loads in a vehicle, the control unit 21 can provide feedback to the microcontroller 40, so that the microcontroller 40 locks and cuts off the power switch K1 until the abnormal load is replaced and normal operation is restored. Specifically, upon receiving the load abnormality signal output by the abnormality detection unit 24, the control unit 21 will provide feedback of a load abnormality indication signal to the microcontroller 40. In this way, the microcontroller 40 will no longer output the enable signal, but instead lock and output the shutdown signal, so that the power switch K1 remains in the off state when the load is abnormal. Accordingly, after receiving the load replacement signal from the load replacement detection unit 23, the control unit 21 can also provide feedback of a load replacement indication signal to the microcontroller 40, so that the microcontroller 40 releases the locked state, thereby controlling the on and off state of the power switch K1 as needed. This can further ensure the safety of the intelligent electronic switch during use.

[0090] It is understood that in a possible example, the control unit 21 can feed back the load abnormality indication signal and the load replacement indication signal to the microcontroller 40 through the input terminal INPUT, or through a communication connection terminal newly added to the intelligent electronic switch 20 (for example, Figure 3 The second communication connection terminal COM2 shown in the figure feeds back a load abnormality indication signal and a load replacement indication signal to the microcontroller 40. The specific method of communication between the control unit 21 and the microcontroller 40 can be determined according to the actual scenario and will not be described here.

[0091] In the above Figure 1 Based on the embodiment shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 can also enter the load authentication phase based on the instruction of the microcontroller 40. For example, Figure 4 This is a circuit module diagram of a vehicle-use intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the fourth embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch further includes an abnormality detection unit 24. The abnormality detection unit 24 is connected to the control unit 21, and the control unit 21 is further connected to the microcontroller 40. The abnormality detection unit 24 is configured to output a load abnormality signal when detecting an abnormality in the load 30.

[0092] Optionally, the control unit 21 outputs a load abnormality indication signal when receiving a load abnormality signal, and the load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller 40 to lock and output a shutdown signal. The control unit 21 enters the load authentication stage when receiving a load verification signal, wherein the load verification signal is output by the microcontroller 40 after determining that the load 30 is replaced, and the microcontroller 40 is also used to release the locked output of the shutdown signal after determining that the load 30 is replaced.

[0093] In the embodiment of the present application, an abnormality detection unit 24 is provided inside the intelligent electronic switch 20. The abnormality detection unit 24 detects whether the load is abnormal. If so, the abnormality detection unit 24 outputs a load abnormality signal to the control unit 21, so that the control unit 21 feeds back a load abnormality indication signal to the microcontroller 40, so that the microcontroller 40 locks and outputs a shutdown signal, thereby keeping the power switch K1 in the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the off state when the load is abnormal until the microcontroller 40 releases the lock output of the shutdown signal and restores the normal control logic of the power switch K1.

[0094] For example, refer to Figure 4 As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may include a second communication connection terminal COM2. Thus, the control unit 21 can feed back a load abnormality indication signal to the microcontroller 40 via the second communication connection terminal COM2, and receive a load verification signal from the microcontroller 40 via the second communication connection terminal COM2. Of course, in other embodiments of the present application, the intelligent electronic switch 20 and the microcontroller 40 may also communicate via the input terminal INPUT, which is not limited here.

[0095] Optionally, when determining that the load has been replaced, the microcontroller 40 may output a load verification signal to the control unit 21 to trigger the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase, while releasing the locked output of the shutdown signal.

[0096] The microcontroller 40 can determine whether the load has been replaced in a variety of ways, for example, the intelligent electronic switch 20 reports (for example, using Figure 3 Detection is performed by the load replacement detection unit 23 shown in FIG and reported by the control unit 21) or by the load reporting method. As an example, the microcontroller 40 and the load 30 can communicate directly. For example, the load has a self-powered power supply. After being replaced, the load can send a load replacement signal to the microcontroller 40 to inform the microcontroller 40 that the load has been replaced. It is understood that the specific implementation method of the microcontroller 40 determining whether the load has been replaced is not limited to the embodiments of the present application, and it can be determined according to actual needs.

[0097] In this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch can also keep the power switch in the off state when an abnormality occurs in the load, and enter the load authentication phase only when a load verification signal is received from the microcontroller. This can effectively reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch and avoid resource waste.

[0098] The above embodiments describe how, after the intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication phase, the authentication unit 22 in the intelligent electronic switch 20 can perform key authentication with the key unit 31 in the load 30. However, if the load 30 itself lacks a power supply, power must be supplied to the load 30 to ensure communication between the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 for key authentication. The following describes various embodiments for implementing power supply to the key unit 31.

[0099] In a possible implementation, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may utilize the on / off state of the power switch K1 to supply power to the load.

[0100] As an example, see Figures 1 to 4 In the intelligent electronic switch 20 shown, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the control unit 21 controls the power switch K1 to turn on to supply power to the load 30 , so that the authentication unit 22 performs key authentication with the key unit 31 in the load 30 .

[0101] Optionally, the control unit 21 may store a preset duration for the load authentication phase. This allows the control unit 21 to control the power switch K1 to turn on with a first drive current during the preset duration, such that the current flowing through the power switch K1 and the load 30 is a second current. This allows the key unit 31 to communicate with the authentication unit 22 to implement key verification while the load 30 is powered. It will be appreciated that in this example, after the power switch K1 is turned on, the load 30 may temporarily operate normally for the preset duration.

[0102] As another example, refer to Figures 1 to 4 In the illustrated intelligent electronic switch 20, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the control unit 21 controls the current flowing through the power switch K1 to be a first current, which is less than the current of the load 30 during normal operation. The first current is used to turn on the key unit 31 in the load 30, so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 perform key verification.

[0103] In this example, the control unit 21 can control the power switch K1 to turn on with a second drive current for a preset duration during the load authentication phase. In this way, the current flowing through the power switch K1 and the key unit 31 is a first current, which is less than the current when the load is operating normally. Therefore, in this example, the key unit 31 can operate normally within the preset duration to achieve key verification with the authentication unit 22, but it cannot guarantee that other components in the load can also operate normally. This implementation method can not only minimize the power consumption during the load authentication phase, but also prohibit the load from operating during the load authentication phase, avoiding potential safety hazards when the load may be a non-authenticated load, and improving the security of the load verification phase.

[0104] In another possible implementation, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may also utilize a set power supply output terminal to supply power to the load.

[0105] As an example, Figure 5 This is a circuit module diagram of a vehicle-use intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the fifth embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 further includes a power supply output terminal C1 , one end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal VCC, and the other end of which is used to connect to the key unit 31 .

[0106] In a possible design, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the power supply terminal VCC is used to supply power to the key unit 31 through the power output terminal C1 , so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 perform key authentication.

[0107] In this possible design, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is powered on, the power output terminal C1 has a voltage output. Therefore, the intelligent electronic switch 20 can provide the voltage of the power supply terminal VCC to the key unit 31 of the load 30 through the power output terminal C1, so that the power supply circuits of the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 are conductive, thus laying the foundation for key verification between the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31.

[0108] Furthermore, in order to reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20, referring to Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 further includes a second switch tube K2, a first end of the second switch tube K2 is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal VCC, a second end thereof is directly or indirectly connected to the power output terminal C1, and a control end thereof is connected to the control unit 21.

[0109] When the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the control unit 21 controls the second switch tube K2 to be turned on, so that the power supply terminal VCC supplies power to the key unit 31 , so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 perform key authentication.

[0110] Optional, Figure 5 In the description, the first end of the second switch K2 is directly connected to the power supply terminal VCC. In practical applications, the second switch K2 can also be connected between an internal circuit such as the control unit 21 or the authentication unit 22 and the power supply terminal VCC, or between the control unit 21 or the authentication unit 22 and the power output terminal C1. This embodiment does not limit the connection position of the second switch K2.

[0111] As an example, the second switch tube K2 is connected between the authentication unit 22 and the power supply terminal VCC. At this time, the power-on status of the authentication unit 22 and the power output terminal C1 is related to the on-off of the second switch tube K2. When the second switch tube K2 is turned on, the authentication unit 22 is powered on and can work normally. Correspondingly, the power output terminal C1 has a voltage output. When the second switch tube K2 is turned off, the authentication unit 22 is not powered on and cannot work normally. At this time, there is no voltage output at the power output terminal C1.

[0112] As another example, the second switch tube K2 is connected between the authentication unit 22 and the power output terminal C1. At this time, the power-on state of the authentication unit 22 is independent of the on / off state of the second switch tube K2, while the power-on state of the power output terminal C1 is related to the on / off state of the second switch tube K2. When the second switch tube K2 is turned on, the voltage of the power supply terminal VCC can be output to the power output terminal C1 through the authentication unit 22, so that the power output terminal C1 has a voltage output. When the second switch tube K2 is turned off, the authentication unit 22 can be powered on, but the power output terminal C1 has no voltage output, and the key unit 31 of the load cannot work.

[0113] In this embodiment, by providing a second switch tube, the intelligent electronic switch can turn on the second switch tube when in the load authentication stage, and control the second switch tube to be turned off at other times. This can effectively reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch and increase the power-on time of the intelligent electronic switch.

[0114] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for a sixth embodiment of the present application, including an intelligent electronic switch for use in a vehicle and its peripheral components. In this embodiment, the power switch K1 and the load output terminals OUT are equal in number and are both multiple. Each load output terminal is connected to a corresponding power switch. Each load output terminal is also used to connect to a corresponding sub-load, and the load includes multiple sub-loads.

[0115] For example, in Figure 6 In the schematic diagram shown, the power switch K1 includes a first power switch K11 and a second power switch K12, and the load output terminal OUT includes a first load output terminal OUT11 and a second load output terminal OUT12. Accordingly, the load includes a first sub-load 301 and a second sub-load 302. The first sub-load 301 includes a key unit 311, and the second sub-load 302 includes a key unit 312. One end of the first load output terminal OUT11 is connected to the first power switch K11, and the other end is connected to the first sub-load 301. Similarly, one end of the second load output terminal OUT12 is connected to the second power switch K12, and the other end is connected to the second sub-load 302.

[0116] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present application, the authentication unit 22 is further used to connect to the key units of multiple sub-loads through the first communication connection terminal COM1, and to perform key verification on the multiple sub-loads when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage; accordingly, the control unit 21 is also used to control the corresponding power switches according to the key verification results of the authentication unit 22 on the multiple sub-loads.

[0117] As an example, see Figure 6 As shown, the first communication connection terminal COM1 can be shared by multiple sub-loads, and the authentication unit 22 can negotiate different communication signals with different sub-loads. In this way, when the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the authentication unit 22 can communicate with the key unit 31 of the corresponding sub-load by sending or receiving different communication signals to achieve key verification.

[0118] In this embodiment, after the authentication unit 22 obtains the key verification result of the sub-load, it can transmit it to the control unit 21, so that the control unit 21 can control the status of the corresponding power switch according to the key verification results of multiple sub-loads.

[0119] It is understood that in other embodiments of the present application, the intelligent electronic switch may also be provided with multiple first communication connection terminals, each of which may be connected to at least one sub-load, so that the authentication unit 22 communicates with the key unit of the corresponding sub-load via the multiple first communication connection terminals. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the number of first communication connection terminals, nor do they limit the number of input terminals, the number of power switches, and the number of load output terminals OUT included in the intelligent electronic switch. These can all be determined based on actual needs and are not further described here.

[0120] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, an embodiment of the present application further provides an integrated circuit chip, comprising the intelligent electronic switch 20 for a vehicle described in the above embodiments. That is, the intelligent electronic switch 20 described above can be fabricated on the same semiconductor substrate. The power supply terminal VCC is a power supply pin, the power ground terminal GND is a power ground pin, and the load output terminal OUT is a load output pin.

[0121] Optionally, other embodiments of the present application further provide a chip product, which may include the above-mentioned intelligent electronic switch 20 for a vehicle, wherein components of the intelligent electronic switch 20 other than the power switch K1 (for example, a control unit 21, an authentication unit 22, etc.) are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch K1 is located on a second integrated circuit chip, that is, the first integrated circuit chip is made on one semiconductor substrate, and the second integrated circuit chip is made on another semiconductor substrate.

[0122] Among them, the power supply terminal VCC is the power supply pin, the power ground terminal GND is the power ground pin, and the load output terminal OUT is the load output pin. The power supply pin and the power ground pin are located on the first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on the second integrated circuit chip. In addition, the first integrated circuit chip also includes other pins, such as input pins, communication pins, power output pins, etc., and the second integrated circuit chip also includes other pins, such as communication pins, power supply interfaces, etc. It is understandable that the first integrated circuit chip and the second integrated circuit chip can also add other pins, omit related pins, or merge related pins as needed. Here, the first integrated circuit chip and the second integrated circuit chip are packaged into one product.

[0123] In addition, in other embodiments of the present application, a car is also provided. The car can be an electric car, such as an electric passenger car or an electric commercial vehicle, or a hybrid car or a fuel car. For example, Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the components of a car provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 As shown, the car includes a battery 10, a load 30, a microcontroller 40, and an intelligent electronic switch 20. The positive electrode of the battery 10 is connected to the power supply terminal VCC, the negative electrode of the battery 10 is connected to the power ground terminal GND, one end of the load 30 is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and the other end of the load 30 is connected to the power ground terminal GND or the power supply terminal VCC.

[0124] The battery 10 is typically a storage battery that provides a voltage of 12V, 24V, 48V, or the like, but may also be other types of batteries. The load 30 includes at least one of a resistive load, an inductive load, and a capacitive load. Resistive loads include, for example, seat adjustment devices, auxiliary heating devices, window heating devices, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), rear lighting, or other resistive loads. Inductive loads include, for example, pumps, actuators, motors, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic braking systems (EBS), fans, or other systems including inductive loads for one or more wiper systems. Capacitive loads include, for example, lighting elements, such as xenon arc lamps.

[0125] In this embodiment, the load 30 includes a key unit 31, which is connected to the authentication unit 22 of the intelligent electronic switch 20. The microcontroller 40 is connected to the control unit 21 of the intelligent electronic switch 20. The microcontroller 40 is used to control the intelligent electronic switch 20. At the same time, the intelligent electronic switch 20 provides feedback of its status and related parameter information, such as diagnostic parameter information, abnormality detection results, load replacement detection results, and key authentication results for the load, to the microcontroller 40 for processing.

[0126] Optionally, in one possible design of an embodiment of the present application, the intelligent electronic switch 20 outputs a load abnormality indication signal upon detecting an abnormality in the connected load. Upon receiving the load abnormality indication signal, the microcontroller 40 powers down the intelligent electronic switch 20, for example, by controlling the switch unit 50 connected between the positive electrode of the battery 20 and the power supply terminal VCC to shut down. In this possible design, when the microcontroller 40 detects a load abnormality, it can directly power down the intelligent electronic switch 20, suspending the use of the intelligent electronic switch 20 and the load 30, thereby avoiding safety hazards posed by the abnormal load during use.

[0127] Alternatively, in another possible design of the embodiment of the present application, the intelligent electronic switch 20 outputs a load abnormality indication signal upon detecting an abnormality in the connected load. Upon receiving the load abnormality indication signal, the microcontroller 40 latches the output shutdown signal to keep the power switch K1 turned off. In this possible design, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load is abnormal, it may not power off the intelligent electronic switch 20. Instead, it may maintain the switch unit 50 connected between the positive electrode of the battery 10 and the power supply terminal VCC in an on-state, allowing the battery 10 to continue to power the intelligent electronic switch 20. However, to avoid safety hazards posed by abnormal loads during use, the microcontroller 40 may latch the output shutdown signal to keep the power switch K1 in an off-state.

[0128] For example, in a possible design in which the microcontroller 40 powers off the intelligent electronic switch 20 after determining a load anomaly, the microcontroller 40 powers on the intelligent electronic switch 20 upon receiving a load replacement signal. After powering on, the intelligent electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the load is replaced. For example, after replacing the load after the intelligent electronic switch 20 powers off, a relevant person (e.g., a maintenance worker or a user) can send a load replacement signal to the microcontroller 40 via, but not limited to, voice commands, remote control, a key, or a button, causing the microcontroller 40 to power on the intelligent electronic switch 20, thereby triggering the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase.

[0129] Alternatively, in a possible design where the microcontroller 40 does not power off the intelligent electronic switch 20 after determining a load abnormality, but instead locks the output of a shutdown signal to the intelligent electronic switch 20, as an example, upon receiving a load replacement signal, the microcontroller 40 releases the lock on the output of the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch 20, causing the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load verification phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the abnormal load is replaced. In this example, the abnormal load can be replaced while the intelligent electronic switch 20 is powered on. In this case, after replacing the abnormal load, the relevant personnel can send the load replacement signal to the microcontroller 40 through, but not limited to, voice commands, remote control, key, or button, etc., causing the microcontroller 40 to release the lock on the output of the shutdown signal and output the load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch, triggering the intelligent electronic switch to enter the load verification phase.

[0130] Optional, see Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the load 30 further includes a first power supply 32, which is used to power the load 30. The load 30 is also connected to a microcontroller 40. The load 30 is used to output load connection information to the microcontroller 40 when it is connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20, so that the microcontroller 40 determines whether it is a new load based on the received load connection information and performs corresponding operations according to the judgment result.

[0131] Specifically, the first power supply 32 built into the load 30 can ensure its own operation and communication with other components. Therefore, when the load 30 detects that it is connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20, it can feedback load connection information to the microcontroller 40. The load connection information may include a load identifier, etc. In this way, after receiving the load connection information, the microcontroller 40 can determine whether the load 30 is a new load based on the load identifier and obtain a judgment result.

[0132] Optionally, in a possible design of powering off the intelligent electronic switch 20 after the microcontroller 40 determines that the load is abnormal, refer to Figure 7 As shown, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load that reports the load connection information is a new load, the microcontroller 40 powers on the intelligent electronic switch 20, and the intelligent electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication stage after powering on.

[0133] Optionally, in a possible design in which the microcontroller 40 does not power off the intelligent electronic switch 20 after determining that the load is abnormal but instead locks and outputs a shutdown signal to the intelligent electronic switch 20, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load that reports the load connection information is a new load, the microcontroller 40 can release the locked output of the shutdown signal and output a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch 20, so that the intelligent electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication stage.

[0134] In an embodiment of the present application, the load is equipped with a built-in power supply, which can actively report the load connection information after replacement so that the microcontroller can verify the new and old loads. If the smart electronic switch is still connected to the old load, no processing is performed. The smart electronic switch is powered on or unlocked only when the newly connected load is a new load. This can avoid the problem of abnormal loads continuing to be used, effectively reduce the power consumption of the smart electronic switch, and improve authentication efficiency.

[0135] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate other embodiments of the present application after considering the specification and practicing the application disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present application that follow the general principles of the present application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The description and examples are to be considered as exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the present application are indicated by the following claims.

[0136] It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the exact structure described above and shown in the drawings, and that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle, characterized in that: include: A power supply terminal, a power ground terminal, an input terminal, a load output terminal, a first communication connection terminal, a power switch, a control unit, and an authentication unit; The power supply terminal and the power ground terminal are used to be connected to a battery, and the power switch is used to be connected in series with a load, with a first terminal connected to the power supply terminal or the power ground terminal, a second terminal connected to the load output terminal, and a control terminal connected to the control unit, and the control unit is used to control the power switch to be turned on or off; The input end is connected to the control unit, the control unit is connected to the authentication unit, and the authentication unit is used to connect to the key unit of the load through the first communication connection end; When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the authentication unit is used to perform key authentication with the key unit; when the key authentication is passed, the authentication unit outputs a verification validity signal, so that the control unit controls the power switch to turn on and conduct when the input end receives the start enable signal, so as to supply power to the load; when the key authentication fails, the authentication unit outputs a verification invalidation signal, and when the control unit receives the verification invalidation signal from the authentication unit, it outputs a cutoff control signal and / or a reminder signal, the cutoff control signal is used to turn off the power switch, and the reminder signal is used to remind the load that it is a non-authenticated load; The intelligent electronic switch further includes a load replacement detection unit connected to the load output terminal and the control unit. The load replacement detection unit is configured to output a load replacement signal upon detecting that the load connected to the load output terminal has been replaced. Upon receiving the load replacement signal, the control unit triggers the intelligent electronic switch to enter a load authentication phase.

2. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is an anomaly detection unit; The abnormality detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the control unit is further configured to be connected to the microcontroller and the load replacement detection unit. The abnormality detection unit is configured to output a load abnormality signal when detecting that a load abnormality occurs; The control unit outputs a load abnormality indication signal upon receiving the load abnormality signal, and controls the load replacement detection unit to perform load replacement detection, wherein the load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to lock and output a shutdown signal; The control unit is further configured to trigger the intelligent electronic switch to enter a load authentication phase and output a load change indication signal upon receiving the load change signal, wherein the load change indication signal is configured to trigger the microcontroller to release the lock.

3. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication phase each time it is powered on.

4. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the control unit controls the power switch to be turned on to supply power to the load, so that the authentication unit performs key authentication with the key unit in the load.

5. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the control unit controls the current flowing through the power switch to be a first current, where the first current is smaller than the current when the load is operating normally, and the first current is used to turn on the key unit in the load so that the authentication unit performs key authentication with the key unit.

6. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: It also includes a power supply output terminal, one end of the power supply output terminal is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal, and the other end of the power supply output terminal is used to connect to the key unit; When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the power supply end is used to supply power to the key unit through the power output end, so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key authentication.

7. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that: It also includes a second switch tube, wherein a first end of the second switch tube is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply end, a second end thereof is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply output end, and a control end thereof is connected to the control unit; When the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication stage, the control unit controls the second switch tube to be turned on, so that the power supply end supplies power to the key unit, so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key authentication.

8. The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The number of the power switches and the load output terminals is equal and both are multiple, each load output terminal is connected to a corresponding power switch, and each load output terminal is also used to connect to a corresponding sub-load, and the load includes multiple sub-loads; The authentication unit is further configured to connect to the key units of the plurality of sub-loads via the first communication connection end, and perform key verification on the plurality of sub-loads when the intelligent electronic switch is in the load authentication phase; The control unit is further configured to control corresponding power switches according to key verification results of the authentication unit on the plurality of sub-loads.

9. An integrated circuit chip, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, and the load output end is a load output pin.

10. A chip product, characterized in that: An intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein components of the intelligent electronic switch except the power switch are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch is located on a second integrated circuit chip; Among them, the power supply end is a power supply pin, the power ground end is a power ground pin, the input end is an input pin, the load output end is a load output pin, and the communication connection end is a communication connection pin. The power supply pin, the power ground pin, the input pin and the communication connection pin are all located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on a second integrated circuit chip.

11. An automobile, characterized in that: The intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, or the integrated circuit chip according to claim 9, or the chip product according to claim 10; The device further comprises a battery, a load and a microcontroller, wherein the positive electrode of the battery is connected to the power supply terminal, the negative electrode of the battery is connected to the power ground terminal, one end of the load is connected to the load output terminal, and the other end of the load is connected to the power ground terminal or the power supply terminal; The load includes a key unit, the key unit is connected to the authentication unit of the intelligent electronic switch, and the microcontroller is connected to the control unit of the intelligent electronic switch.

12. The automobile according to claim 11, characterized in that The intelligent electronic switch outputs a load abnormality indication signal when detecting that the connected load is abnormal, and the microcontroller powers off the intelligent electronic switch after receiving the load abnormality indication signal; The microcontroller powers on the intelligent electronic switch when receiving the load replacement signal. After the intelligent electronic switch is powered on, it enters the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the load is replaced.

13. The automobile according to claim 11, characterized in that The intelligent electronic switch outputs a load abnormality indication signal when detecting that the connected load is abnormal, and the microcontroller locks and outputs a shutdown signal after receiving the load abnormality indication signal to keep the power switch turned off; After receiving the load replacement signal, the microcontroller releases the locked output of the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch, so that the intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication stage. The load replacement signal is triggered after the abnormal load is replaced.

14. The automobile according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that: The vehicle is an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or a fuel vehicle, and the load includes at least one of a resistive load, an inductive load and a capacitive load.

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