Sequence diagnostic reset

Abstract

The invention relates to sequence diagnostic reset. A method for performing sequence diagnostics in a power network (110) is presented. The method comprises: a) sending a diagnostic control signal from the controller (114) to the power switch (116) for initiating a sequence diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch (116) and changing a current diagnostic state of the power switch (116) using a timeout of the diagnostic control signal; b) if the timeout matches the predetermined time interval, continuing the sequence diagnosis by entering a subsequent diagnosis state of the current diagnosis state; and c) if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, resetting the sequence diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnosis state. Furthermore, a power switch (110) is presented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for performing sequential diagnostics in a power network and a power network. Background Art

[0002] Distributed and reliable automotive power distribution generally requires a reliable solution for harness protection. Thus, intelligent protection power switches are increasingly replacing fuse links. Such power switches allow for the development of distributed power network architectures, such as those required for autonomous driving technology. Such power switches generally also provide diagnostic measures (such as by providing a current sensing signal that can indicate, for example, overcurrent). In such an event, the power switch can then be turned on, particularly for harness protection. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a first aspect, a method for performing sequential diagnostics in a power network is presented. The method includes:

[0004] a) Sending a diagnostic signal from a controller to a power switch to initiate sequential diagnostics at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch, and using a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change the current diagnostic state of the power switch;

[0005] b) If the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, continuing the sequential diagnostics by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state; and

[0006] c) If the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, resetting the sequential diagnostics by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0007] In another aspect, a power network is presented. The power network includes at least a power switch for switching a load and a controller for controlling the power switch. The controller is configured to send a diagnostic control signal to the power switch to initiate sequential diagnostics at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch. The controller is further configured to use a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change the current diagnostic state of the power switch. The power switch is configured to: if the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, continue the sequential diagnostics by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state. The power switch is further configured to: if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, reset the sequential diagnostics by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0008] Those skilled in the art will recognize additional features and advantages upon reading the following detailed description and viewing the drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limitation, and like reference numerals in the figures of the drawings refer to like or equivalent elements. The elements of the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale relative to each other. The features of the various illustrated examples may be combined unless they are mutually exclusive.

[0010] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a distributed automotive power network is illustrated;

[0011] Figure 2 A circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a power network is illustrated;

[0012] Figure 3 A flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method for performing sequential diagnostics in a power network is illustrated; and

[0013] Figure 4 Another flowchart illustrating an exemplary sequence indicating diagnostic status in sequential diagnostics is illustrated. Detailed Description

[0014] In a first aspect, a method for performing sequential diagnostics in a power network is presented. The term "power network" as generally used herein is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or customized meaning. A power network can be at least partially interconnected system configured to transmit or particularly distribute electrical power or energy. A power network can include at least one of the following: a power source (such as a battery); transmission lines (such as wires or traces); loads; power distribution devices; monitoring devices (such as sensors). The load can include, for example, an electric motor. The power distribution device can particularly include power switches and / or controllers. In particular, as will be further outlined in detail below, the power network includes at least one power switch for switching a load and a controller for controlling the power switch. The power network can be an isolated power network. Thus, the power network can be not connected to another power network. The power network can be an automotive power network. The power network can be a distributed power network. In particular, the power network can be a distributed automotive power network. Thus, the power network can be particularly configured to distribute electrical power to different parts or components of a vehicle, such as in an automotive application. In other words, the method can be performed in an automotive power network (particularly in a distributed automotive power network). Thus, the method and / or the power network can be used for automotive applications. Generally speaking, other options can also be feasible in addition to those exemplarily listed herein.

[0015] The term "sequential diagnosis" generally used in this text is a broad term and, to a person skilled in the art, is given its ordinary and customary meaning and is not restricted to a special or customized meaning. Sequential diagnosis can be a step-by-step process or procedure for identifying a fault or failure event in a system, particularly in a power network. In particular, sequential diagnosis can be a step-by-step process for identifying a failure event in at least one component of a power network. A fault event can be, for example, or include, an overcurrent. Sequential diagnosis can include measuring or sensing at least one physical property (such as current). Sequential diagnosis can also include evaluating the physical property. For example, sequential diagnosis can include deriving another physical property (such as energy or temperature) therefrom. As another example, sequential diagnosis can include comparing the physical property with a threshold (such as a predetermined overcurrent value). Thus, as will be further described in detail below, sequential diagnosis can include different steps or diagnostic states. As indicated, sequential diagnosis can be performed, in particular, in a step-by-step manner (in other words, sequentially). Thus, sequential diagnosis can include stepping through or scanning through a plurality of diagnostic states. However, it can also be possible to jump between different diagnostic states. In particular, sequential diagnosis can also allow resetting to an initial step or diagnostic state.

[0016] In step a), the method includes: sending a diagnostic control signal from a controller to a power switch for initiating sequential diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch. Further, the method includes: using a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change the current diagnostic state of the power switch. The term "controller" generally used in this text is a broad term and, to an ordinary person skilled in the art, is given its ordinary and customary meaning and is not restricted to a special or customized meaning. A controller can be a device configured to observe or regulate or operate or manage at least one other entity. A controller can be or can include an electronic device, or particularly a computing device. Thus, a controller can be or can include at least one electronic circuit, particularly an integrated circuit. A controller can include at least one processor (such as a central processing unit). A controller can include at least one peripheral device (such as an input / output interface or a memory). A controller can particularly be a microcontroller. Thus, a controller can be embedded in a power network. As described, the power network can particularly be a distributed automotive power network. Thus, a controller can be a regional controller or a central controller. A regional controller can be configured to control at least one spatial region or functional region of the power network. A region can be, for example, the front side of a vehicle or the back side of a vehicle. A central controller can be configured to control the entire power network. Other options can generally also be feasible.

[0017] The term "power switch" generally used in this document is a broad term and, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, is given its ordinary and customary meaning and is not restricted to a special or customized meaning. A power switch can be or can include an electronic component configured to control the flow of electrical power in an electronic circuit. A power switch can be configured to turn on or off the power supply to another device, particularly to a load. In a power network, a power switch can be configured to connect or disconnect different parts of the power network. A power switch can be or can include at least one semiconductor device, particularly a power semiconductor device. A power switch can be or can include at least one electronic circuit, particularly at least one integrated circuit. A power switch can particularly include at least one transistor. The transistor can be selected from the group consisting of: field effect transistors (FETs), particularly metal oxide field effect transistors (MOSFETs); bipolar transistors; insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs). Other options can also be feasible.

[0018] A power switch can be an intelligent power switch or a smart power switch, particularly a smart protection power switch. Thus, a power switch can be configured to perform other tasks in addition to a mere switching operation. A power switch can be configured to communicate with other devices, particularly with a controller. A power switch can include an interface. A power switch can include at least one pin. A power switch can include a logic circuit configured to process signals, particularly diagnostic control signals from a controller. The logic circuit can include at least one logic gate (such as an OR gate). A power switch can be configured to perform measurements. A power switch can include a measurement circuit. The measurement circuit can particularly be configured at least to sense current. A power switch can be configured to evaluate the measurements. As will be further outlined in detail below, a power switch can have different states, particularly different diagnostic states, where each state can refer to different tasks (such as current sensing).

[0019] Diagnostic states can be defined and / or stored in a memory. In particular, states can be defined and / or stored at different addresses in an address register. More particularly, settings for each diagnostic state of a power switch can be stored at an address in the address register of the power switch. The power switch can include a memory. The power switch can include an address register. The address register can be configured to store diagnostic states or more particularly settings for each diagnostic state. Thus, retrieving an address in the address register can cause the power switch to acquire different states. Thus, sequential diagnostics can include stepping through or scanning through different addresses (e.g., by using a counter, particularly a diagnostic state counter). The power switch can include at least one counter. In particular, the diagnostic switch can include a diagnostic state counter. The diagnostic state counter can be configured to change the diagnostic state. For such a purpose, the diagnostic state counter can, for example, increment an address value. The diagnostic state counter can be configured to change an address, particularly an address that defines the diagnostic state of the power switch.

[0020] The term "diagnostic state" generally used herein is a broad term and, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, is given its ordinary and customary meaning and is not limited to a special or customized meaning. Further details regarding diagnostic states can also be referred to the foregoing paragraphs. A diagnostic state can refer to a specific task performed within a diagnosis, particularly a specific task performed within a sequential diagnosis that includes tasks performed in a different order. For example, a diagnostic state can be a current sensing state. A diagnostic state can refer to a specific task performed by a power switch. A diagnostic state can particularly include settings of the power switch (such as measurement settings). As indicated above, each diagnostic state can be stored at an address in the address register of the power switch. In particular, settings for each diagnostic state of the power switch can be stored at an address in the address register of the power switch. In normal operation, sequential diagnostics can be performed by sequentially going through a predetermined set of diagnostic states. Going through the diagnostic states can be achieved by using a diagnostic state counter, for which purpose the diagnostic state counter can increment the address in sequence. In a fault operation, the sequential diagnostics can be reset. Correspondingly, the diagnostic state counter can be reset in such an event. The diagnostic state counter can particularly respond to a diagnostic control signal from a controller and more particularly to a timeout in the diagnostic control signal.

[0021] The term "diagnostic control signal" generally used in this text is a broad term and, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, is given its ordinary and customary meaning and is not restricted to a special or customized meaning. A diagnostic control signal can be a signal that controls a diagnostic state or a change in a diagnostic state. In particular, a diagnostic control signal can be a signal sent from a controller to a power switch to control the diagnostic state or a change in the diagnostic state of the power switch. As will be described in further detail below, a change in the diagnostic state can be particularly changed by using a timeout of the diagnostic control signal. A diagnostic control signal can be a digital signal, particularly a binary signal. A diagnostic control signal can include a signal state HIGH and LOW. HIGH can refer to a predetermined high voltage. LOW can refer to a predetermined low voltage. In particular, HIGH can be a voltage significantly higher than LOW. In binary representation, HIGH can correspond to logic 1. In binary representation, LOW can correspond to logic 0. The timeout of a diagnostic control signal can be the LOW time of the diagnostic control signal. Alternatively, the timeout of a diagnostic control signal can be an interruption (particularly a temporary interruption) of the diagnostic control signal. Other options can also be feasible.

[0022] In step b), the method includes: if the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, continue the sequential diagnosis by entering the subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state. Thus, if the timeout of the diagnostic control signal matches a predetermined time interval, the current diagnostic state of the power switch can be changed to the subsequent diagnostic state of the sequential diagnosis. For example, the time interval can be from 25 μs to 150 μs. In step c), the method includes: if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, reset the sequential diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state. This feature can be used to restart the method at a defined diagnostic state (e.g., in the case of loss of synchronization). Thus, if the timeout of the diagnostic control signal exceeds a predetermined time threshold, the sequential diagnosis can be restarted again. Exceeding the time threshold can include at least one of being higher than an upper time threshold and lower than a lower time threshold. Thus, exceeding the time threshold can include exceeding or being higher than the upper time threshold. For example, the upper time threshold can be greater than or equal to 150 μs. Additionally or alternatively, exceeding the time threshold can include exceeding or being lower than the lower time threshold. For example, the lower time threshold can be less than or equal to 25 μs.

[0023] At least one of a diagnostic state, a diagnostic state sequence, a time interval, and a time threshold (in particular, an upper time threshold and / or a lower time threshold) can be defined in the protocol. The protocol can be a communication protocol implemented in a power network for communication between at least a controller and a power switch. As described, the power switch can be an intelligent power switch. Thus, the power switch can be configured to understand or interrupt the protocol (such as by using a logic circuit). The logic circuit can be particularly configured to process diagnostic state signals, especially for a diagnostic state counter. Also as described, the power switch can include a diagnostic state counter. The diagnostic state counter can be connected to the logic circuit. The diagnostic state counter can be configured to respond to the diagnostic state signals processed by the logic circuit. The diagnostic state counter can be configured to set the diagnostic state of the power switch. Step b) can include incrementing or increasing the diagnostic state counter, particularly to a sequence address in the address register of the power switch. Step c) can include resetting or restarting the diagnostic state counter, particularly to an initial address, at which the sequence diagnosis is initially started.

[0024] In step d), the method can further include: if the timeout is interrupted by at least two signal edges, resetting the sequence diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state. Thus, if two signal edges are sent from the controller to the power switch, the sequence diagnosis can also be restarted. The signal edge can be a short HIGH time of a diagnostic control signal (such as a HIGH time of 10 μs or less, for example). In step e), in addition, the method can further include: continuing the sequence diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnostic state. Particularly, in step e), the method can include: if the timeout neither matches a predetermined time interval nor exceeds a predetermined time threshold, continuing the sequence diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnostic state. More particularly, in step e), the method can include: if the timeout neither matches a predetermined time interval, nor exceeds a predetermined time threshold, nor is interrupted by at least two signal edges, continuing the sequence diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnostic state. For example, the time interval can be from 25 μs to 150 μs, the upper time threshold of the time interval can be 150 μs, there can be no lower time threshold, and the signal edge can also not interrupt the timeout. In such a case, if the timeout is less than 25 μs, according to step e), then the sequence diagnosis can be continued by maintaining at the current diagnostic state. Options of other implementation methods are of course also feasible.

[0025] In step f), the method may further include: for each current diagnostic state, sending a diagnostic state signal from the power switch to the controller. The term "diagnostic state signal" generally used herein is a broad term and, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, is given its ordinary and customary meaning and is not limited to a special or customized meaning. A diagnostic state signal may be a signal indicating a specific diagnostic state of the power switch. A diagnostic state signal may indicate the result of the power switch performing a task in a specific diagnostic state. For example, the diagnostic state may be a current sensing state, and the diagnostic state signal may refer to the sensed current. A diagnostic state signal may include a status value. A diagnostic state signal may include a current sensing signal or a derived signal thereof, particularly a signal related to a derived energy value (more particularly related to the 2 i 2 t value). The i 2 t value is also referred to as "Grenzlastintegral" or "Schmelzintegral" in German and generally may refer to the integral of the square of the current over time. The energy absorbed by an electronic component over time may be a function of the i 2 t value. The increase in the temperature of an electronic component may also be a function of the absorbed energy. Excessive temperature or overcurrent may damage or destroy the electronic component. The i 2 t value or the current sensing signal may indicate excessive temperature or overcurrent. Therefore, the i

[0026] t value or the current sensing signal may be used as an indicator to turn off the load before damaging the load. In step g), the method may further include: if the diagnostic state signal indicates overcurrent, turning off the load by using the power switch. In other words, in this case the load may be disconnected from the power supply (such as by opening the power switch).Throughout the present disclosure, the existing method steps may be performed in the indicated order. However, it should be noted that different orders may also be possible. The method may include other method steps not listed. Further, one or more method steps may be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more method steps may be performed simultaneously or in a temporally overlapping manner. The power switch may include at least two pins, particularly a diagnostic enable (DEN) pin and a current sense (IS) pin. Steps a) to c) and optionally steps d) and e) may be performed by using a first pin of the power switch, particularly the DEN pin. Step f) may be performed by using a separate second pin of the power switch, particularly the IS pin. Thus, the diagnostic control signal may be sent or transmitted from the controller to the power switch via the DEN pin (e.g., from a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) pin of the controller). Thus, the first pin, particularly the DEN pin, may be configured to receive the diagnostic control signal from the controller. The controller may include a GPIO pin. The GPIO pin may be configured to send the diagnostic control signal. Further, the diagnostic status signal may be transmitted or sent from the power switch to the controller (e.g., to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) of the controller) via the IS pin. Thus, the second pin, particularly the IS pin, may be configured to send or transmit the diagnostic status signal to the controller. The controller may include an ADC. The ADC may be configured to receive the diagnostic status signal. Generally, the power network may include an interconnection. The interconnection may connect at least the controller and the power switch. Thus, the interconnection may also connect at least one of the controller and the power switch to at least one other device. The interconnection may be a wired interconnection. The interconnection may include a plurality of signal lines (e.g., wires or traces). The diagnostic control signal may be sent or transmitted between the controller and the power switch via the interconnection, and optionally the diagnostic status signal may be sent or transmitted.

[0027] In another aspect, a power network is presented. The power network includes at least a power switch for switching a load and a controller for controlling the power switch. The controller may be configured to control other devices in addition to the power switch (such as other power switches and / or other types of devices). Thus, the controller may particularly be configured to control a plurality of power switches. The controller is configured to send a diagnostic control signal to the power switch to initiate a sequence diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch. The controller is further configured to use a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change a current diagnostic state of the power switch. The power switch is configured to: if the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, continue the sequence diagnosis by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state. The power switch is further configured to: if the timeout exceeds a time threshold, reset the sequence diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0028] Generally, according to any of the embodiments related to a method for performing sequential diagnosis in a power network, a controller and a power switch may be configured to perform sequential diagnosis in the power network, as will be described in further detail above or below. In particular, the power switch may be further configured to reset the sequential diagnosis by restarting at an initial diagnosis state if a timeout is interrupted by at least two signal edges. The power switch may be further configured to continue the sequential diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnosis state otherwise. In particular, the power switch may be configured to continue the sequential diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnosis state if the timeout neither matches a predetermined time interval nor exceeds a predetermined time threshold. More particularly, the power switch may be configured to continue the sequential diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnosis state if the timeout neither matches a predetermined time interval, nor exceeds a predetermined time threshold, nor is interrupted by at least two signal edges. The power switch may be further configured to send a diagnosis state signal from the power switch to the controller for each current diagnosis state. The power switch may be configured to turn off the load if the diagnosis state signal indicates an overcurrent. For other definitions and embodiments regarding the power network, reference may be made to the definitions and embodiments of the method for performing sequential diagnosis in the power network given above.

[0029] The methods and devices presented herein have a number of advantages over the prior art as has been indicated throughout the description. Controlling the diagnosis state of the power switch by using a timeout in the diagnostic control signal can simplify the sequential diagnosis and make it more stable. In particular, the reset can be simplified and controlled by using only one signal (i.e., the diagnosis state signal) instead of using one or more other signals for that purpose. This can additionally save one or more other pins at the device. It is generally not possible or at least difficult to control multiple pins synchronously during application. Now, the other pins can be used separately for other purposes. Thus, by using the presented methods and devices, the reset can now be particularly independent of additional pins.

[0030] The terms “have”, “comprise”, “include” or any arbitrary grammatical variations thereof generally used herein are used in a non-exclusive manner. Thus, these terms can refer to both a case where no other features exist in the overall context described except the features introduced by these terms, and a case where one or more other features exist. For example, the expressions “A has B”, “A comprises B” and “A includes B” can refer to both a case where no other elements exist in A except B (i.e., the case where A consists solely and uniquely of B), and a case where one or more other elements (such as element C, elements C and D or even other elements) also exist in the overall A except B.

[0031] In addition, it should be noted that the terms "at least one", "one or more" or similar expressions indicating that a feature or element may be present once or more than once are typically used only once when introducing the corresponding feature or element. In most cases, when referring to the corresponding feature or element, the expressions "at least one" or "one or more" are not repeated even though the corresponding feature or element may in fact be present once or more than once.

[0032] Further, as used herein, the terms "preferably", "more preferably", "specifically", "more specifically", "particularly", "more particularly" or similar terms are used in connection with optional features without limiting the possibilities of alternatives. Thus, the features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the present disclosure may be implemented by using alternative features. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the present disclosure" or similar expressions are intended to be optional features, without any limitation to alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, without any limitation to the scope of the present disclosure and without limiting the possibility of combining the features introduced in this way with other optional or non-optional features of the present disclosure.

[0033] By way of overview and without excluding other possible embodiments, the following embodiments may be envisaged:

[0034] Embodiment 1: A method for performing sequential diagnosis in a power network, the method comprising:

[0035] a) sending a diagnostic control signal from a controller to a power switch to initiate sequential diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch and using a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change the current diagnostic state of the power switch;

[0036] b) if the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, continuing the sequential diagnosis by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state; and

[0037] c) if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, resetting the sequential diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0038] Embodiment 2: The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the power network is an automotive power network, particularly a distributed automotive power network.

[0039] Embodiment 3: The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method is performed in an automotive power network, particularly in a distributed automotive power network.

[0040] Embodiment 4: The method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein exceeding the time threshold in step c) includes at least one of being higher than an upper time threshold and being lower than a lower time threshold.

[0041] Example 5: The method according to the foregoing example, wherein the upper time threshold is greater than or equal to 150 μs.

[0042] Example 6: The method according to any one of the foregoing two examples, wherein the lower time threshold is less than or equal to 25 μs.

[0043] Example 7: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the time interval in step b) is from 25 μs to 150 μs.

[0044] Example 8: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, further comprising:

[0045] d) If the timeout is interrupted by at least two signal edges, reset the sequence diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0046] Example 9: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, further comprising:

[0047] e) Otherwise, continue the sequence diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnostic state.

[0048] Example 10: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the diagnostic control signal is a digital signal, in particular a binary signal.

[0049] Example 11: The method according to the foregoing example, wherein the diagnostic control signal includes a signal state HIGH and LOW, and wherein the timeout of the diagnostic control signal is the LOW time of the diagnostic control signal.

[0050] Example 12: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein at least one of the diagnostic state, the sequence of diagnostic states, the time interval, and the time threshold is defined in a protocol.

[0051] Example 13: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the setting of the power switch for each diagnostic state is stored at an address in the address register of the power switch.

[0052] Example 14: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the power switch includes a diagnostic state counter configured to set the diagnostic state of the power switch, wherein step b) includes incrementing the diagnostic state counter, and wherein step c) includes resetting the diagnostic state counter.

[0053] Example 15: The method according to any one of the foregoing examples, further comprising:

[0054] f) For each current diagnostic state, send the diagnostic state signal from the power switch to the controller.

[0055] Example 16: A method according to the preceding example, wherein the diagnostic status signal comprises a current sensing signal or a derived signal thereof, in particular a signal related to a derived energy value (more particularly related to the 2 i

[0056] t value).

[0057] Example 17: A method according to any one of the two preceding examples, further comprising:

[0058] g) If the diagnostic status signal indicates an overcurrent, turning off the load by using a power switch.

[0059] Example 18: A method according to any one of the three preceding examples, wherein steps a) to c) and optionally steps d) and e) are performed by using a first pin of the power switch, and step f) is performed by using a separate second pin of the power switch.

[0060] Example 19: A method according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the power network comprises an interconnection, via which a diagnostic control signal and optionally a diagnostic status signal are sent between the controller and the power switch.

[0061] Example 20: A power network comprising at least a power switch for switching a load and a controller for controlling the power switch, wherein the controller is configured to send a diagnostic control signal to the power switch to initiate a sequence diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch, wherein the controller is further configured to use a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change the current diagnostic state of the power switch, wherein the power switch is configured to: if the timeout matches a preset time interval, continue the sequence diagnosis by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state, and wherein the power switch is further configured to: if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, reset the sequence diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0062] Example 21: The power network according to the preceding example, wherein the power network is an automotive power network, in particular a distributed automotive power network.

[0063] Example 22: The power network according to any one of the preceding examples related to a power network, wherein the controller is a regional controller.

[0064] Example 23: The power network according to any one of the preceding examples related to a power network, wherein the controller is a microcontroller.

[0065] Example 25: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch is further configured to: otherwise, continue the sequence diagnosis by remaining in the current diagnostic state.

[0066] Example 26: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch is further configured to: for each current diagnostic state, send a diagnostic status signal from the power switch to the controller.

[0067] Example 27: A power network according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the controller includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive the diagnostic status signal, in particular a current sensing signal.

[0068] Example 28: A power network according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the power switch is configured to: if the diagnostic status signal indicates an overcurrent, turn off the load.

[0069] Example 29: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the controller and the power switch are configured to perform sequence diagnosis in the power network according to any of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0070] Example 30: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch is an intelligent power switch.

[0071] Example 31: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch includes logic circuitry configured to process diagnostic control signals.

[0072] Example 32: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch includes an address register configured to store the diagnostic status.

[0073] Example 33: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch includes a diagnostic status counter configured to change the diagnostic status.

[0074] Example 34: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch includes a measurement circuit configured to sense current.

[0075] Example 35: A power network according to any of the foregoing embodiments relating to a power network, wherein the power switch includes at least two pins.

[0076] Example 36: A power network according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the first pin is configured to receive a diagnostic control signal from the controller.

[0077] Example 37: A power network according to any one of the two foregoing examples, wherein the second pin is configured to send a diagnostic status signal to the controller.

[0078] Example 38: A power network according to any one of the foregoing examples relating to a power network, wherein the power switch comprises a transistor selected from the group consisting of: a field effect transistor (FET), in particular a metal oxide field effect transistor (MOSFET); a bipolar transistor; an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT).

[0079] Example 39: A power network according to any one of the foregoing examples relating to a power network, further comprising an interconnection connecting the controller and the power switch.

[0080] Example 40: A power network according to any one of the foregoing examples relating to a power network, wherein the controller comprises at least one pin, in particular a general purpose input / output (GPIO) pin, which is configured to send a diagnostic control signal.

[0081] In the subsequent description of the examples, other optional features and examples will preferably be disclosed in more detail in combination with the dependent examples. Wherein, as will be recognized by the person skilled in the art, the corresponding optional features can be implemented in an independent manner or in any feasible combination. The preferred examples do not limit the scope of the disclosure. The examples are schematically depicted in the figures. Wherein, the same reference numerals in these figures refer to the same or functionally similar elements.

[0082] Figure 1Illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a power network 110 (particularly an automotive power network 110, more particularly a distributed automotive power network 110). Thus, the power network 110 can be distributed within the vehicle 112. Accordingly, the power network 110 can be configured to spatially distribute electrical power within the vehicle 112. A number of electronic components of the power network can control such distribution. The power network 110 includes at least a controller 114 and a power switch 116. The controller 114 is configured to control the power switch 116. The power switch 116 is configured to switch a load 118. Thus, the controller 114 can be at least indirectly configured to control the load 118. In an automotive application, the load 118 can particularly include an electric motor. As shown, the power network 110 can particularly include a plurality of controllers 114, power switches 116, and loads 118. Each controller 114 can be configured to control a plurality of power switches 116. The controller 114 can particularly be a microcontroller. The controller 114 can particularly be a regional controller 114. Thus, the controller 114 can be configured to control one or more power switches in a particular zone of the vehicle 112 (e.g., in the rear side zone of the vehicle 112). The power network 110 can also include a power source 120. In an automotive application, the power source 120 can particularly be a battery. The controller 114 and / or the power switch 116 can be configured to distribute electrical power (particularly the electrical power provided by the power source 120) within the power network 110.

[0083] Figure 2 The circuit diagram illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the power network 110. As described, the power network 110 particularly includes a controller 114 and a power switch 116. In addition, the power network 110 can include an interconnection 122 that connects the controller 114 to the power switch 116. The interconnection 122 can include a plurality of signal lines (e.g., wires or traces) that connect the pins of the controller 114 to the power switch 116. The controller 114 can include at least one of a GPIO pin and an ADC pin. Particularly, the controller 114 can include a plurality of GPIO pins. The power switch 116 can include at least one of an input (IN) pin and an output (OUT) pin. The IN pin can be connected to the controller 114. The OUT pin can be connected to the load 118. Further, the power switch 116 can include a power supply voltage (VS) pin. The VS pin can be connected to the power source 120, which can particularly be a battery that provides a battery voltage V BAT as described. The controller 114 can, for example, send a pulse width modulation signal to the IN pin to control the switching behavior of the power switch. Correspondingly, the power switch 116 can connect the load 118 to the power source 120 or disconnect the load 118 from the power source 120, and thus conduct or turn off the load 118 accordingly. Thus, V BATIt can be transmitted to the load 118 via the OUT pin. The power switch 116 can particularly include a transistor as a switching element for such a purpose. The transistor can be selected from the group consisting of: FET, particularly MOSFET; bipolar transistor; IGBT. Other options can also be feasible.

[0084] The power switch 116 can be an intelligent power switch 116 or a smart power switch 116. The power switch 116 can also particularly include at least one of the DEN pin and the IS pin. The power switch 116 can be configured to exchange diagnostic signals with the controller 114 via the interconnect 122. Similarly, the controller 114 can be configured to exchange diagnostic signals with the power switch 116 via the interconnect 122. Particularly, as Figure 2 shown, the power switch 116 and the controller 114 can be configured to exchange diagnostic signals between the DEN pin and the GPIO pin and / or between the IS pin and the ADC pin. The diagnostic signals can include diagnostic control signals and / or diagnostic status signals. Therefore, the diagnostic control signal can be sent from the controller 114 to the power control switch 116 via the GPIO pin, the interconnect 122, and the DEN pin. The diagnostic status signal can be sent from the power switch 116 to the controller 114 via the IS pin, the interconnect 122, and the ADC pin. Figure 2 In the figure, the arrow 124 indicates the progress of the diagnostic control signal, and the arrow 126 indicates the progress of the diagnostic status signal. Therefore, the diagnostic signal, particularly the diagnostic control signal, can be sent without passing through the IN pin of the power switch. The diagnosis (which can particularly be a sequence diagnosis) can be independent of the IN pin, and thus there can be no limitation on, for example, the pulse width modulation signal sent from the controller 114 to the power switch 116 via the IN pin.

[0085] Accordingly, the power switch 116 can be configured to perform diagnostics (especially sequence diagnostics) in cooperation with at least the controller 114. The power switch 116 can include logic circuitry 128. As will be described in further detail below, the logic circuitry 128 can be configured to process diagnostic control signals, especially the timeout of diagnostic control signals. The power switch 116, especially the logic circuitry 128, can be configured to evaluate the timeout, especially the length of the timeout. The logic circuitry 128 can generally also be configured to enable the power switch 116 to communicate with the controller 114. The power switch 116 can include an address register 130. The address register 130 can include a plurality of addresses. The address register 130 can generally also be configured to enable the power switch 116 to communicate with the controller 114. In particular, the address can also represent the diagnostic state of the power switch 116 within the sequence diagnostics. Additionally or alternatively, the address can represent the setting of the diagnostic state of the power switch 116. For example, the diagnostic state can be a current sensing state. Accordingly, the address register 130 can be configured to store the diagnostic state or the setting of the diagnostic state.

[0086] In sequence diagnostics, the power switch 116 can scan through or step through different predetermined diagnostic states. The scan can be triggered in particular by a diagnostic control signal from the controller 114. More particularly, as will be explained in further detail below, the scan can be triggered by a timeout in the diagnostic control signal. In each diagnostic state, the power switch 116 can then respond to the controller via the diagnostic control signal. For example, the diagnostic control signal can be or can include a current sensing signal or a signal derived therefrom. The scan through the diagnostic states can be implemented in particular by using a counter. The power switch 116 can include a diagnostic state counter for this purpose. The diagnostic state counter 132 can be configured to change the diagnostic state of the power switch 116. In particular, the diagnostic state counter 132 can be configured to scan through the diagnostic states by incrementing the address value in the address register of the power switch 116. Accordingly, sequence diagnostics can include scanning through a plurality of diagnostic states by using the diagnostic state counter 132. The diagnostic state counter 132 can also be resetable. Accordingly, the power switch 116 can re-enter the initial diagnostic state of the sequence diagnostics and restart the sequence diagnostics, rather than continuing with the subsequent diagnostic states in the address register.

[0087] As already indicated, the diagnostic state of power switch 116 can be, for example, the current sensing state. Thus, the diagnostic state signal can be, for example, the current sensing signal or a signal derived therefrom. Power switch 116 can be a protected power switch 116. In the case of overcurrent, or also in other fault events, power switch 116 can be configured to turn off load 118. Thus, power switch 116 can be configured to observe or monitor current. Thus, power switch 116 can include measurement circuit 134 for sensing or measuring current and for generating a corresponding current sensing signal as the diagnostic state signal. Controller 114 can include ADC 136. ADC 136 can generally be configured to receive and process the diagnostic state signal, which can be, in particular, the current sensing signal as described. In particular, the diagnostic state signal, more particularly the current sensing signal, can be passed into a voltage by using resistor R SENSE Controller 114 can then read out the voltage by using ADC 136. In summary, as will be described below, controller 114 and power switch 116 can be particularly configured to perform sequential diagnosis in power network 110.

[0088] Figure 3 A flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method for performing sequential diagnosis in power network 110 is illustrated. The method includes the following steps:

[0089] a) (Identified by reference numeral 138) Sending a diagnostic control signal from controller 114 to power switch 116 to initiate sequential diagnosis at the initial diagnostic state of power switch 116 and using the timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change the current diagnostic state of power switch 116;

[0090] b) (Identified by reference numeral 140) If the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, continuing the sequential diagnosis by entering the subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state; and

[0091] c) (Identified by reference numeral 142) If the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold, resetting the sequential diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state.

[0092] The method can further include one or more of the following steps:

[0093] d) (Identified by reference numeral 144) If the timeout is interrupted by at least two signal edges, resetting the sequential diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state;

[0094] e) (Identified by reference numeral 146) Otherwise, continuing the sequential diagnosis by maintaining the current diagnostic state;

[0095] f) (identified by reference numeral 148) For each current diagnostic state, send the diagnostic status signal from the power switch 116 to the controller 114; and

[0096] g) (identified by reference numeral 150) If the diagnostic status signal indicates an overcurrent, turn off the load 118 by using the power switch 116.

[0097] Figure 4 A further flowchart illustrates an exemplary sequence indicating the diagnostic status in a sequence diagnosis. As indicated, the diagnostic control signal can be sent from the controller 114 to the power switch 116 via the DEN PIN to control the diagnostic status of the power switch 116. Figure 4 In the figure, reference numeral 152 indicates an exemplary timeline of the diagnostic control signal. The diagnostic control signal can be a digital signal, particularly a binary signal. Thus, the control signal can include signal states HIGH and LOW. The timeout of the diagnostic control signal can be the LOW time of the diagnostic control signal. The sequence diagnosis can be initiated at the initial or first diagnostic state of the power switch 116. The first diagnostic state can correspond to the first address ADDR1 in the address register 130 of the power switch 116. Corresponding to the first diagnostic state, the power switch 116 can send the first diagnostic status signal to the controller 114 via the IS pin. Figure 4 In the figure, reference numeral 154 indicates the timeline of the diagnostic status signal corresponding to the first diagnostic state. Generally, the diagnostic status signal can include a current sensing signal or a derived signal thereof, particularly a signal related to the derived energy value (more particularly related to the i 2 t value). The diagnostic status signal can be or can include an analog signal or a digital signal. The diagnostic status signal can be or can include a data packet or information.

[0098] Figure 4 The first timeout indicated as 1.TO can be within the time interval mentioned in step b) (e.g., between 25 μs and 150 μs). Thus, the diagnostic status counter 132 can increment the current address ADDR1 in the address register 130 of the power switch 116 to the subsequent address ADDR2. Correspondingly, the power switch 116 can exhibit a second diagnostic state and send the corresponding second diagnostic status signal to the controller 114. In Figure 4 In the figure, reference numeral 156 indicates the timeline of the diagnostic status signal corresponding to the second diagnostic state. Figure 4The second timeout, indicated as 2.TO in , can again cause the diagnostic status counter 132 to increment the current address ADDR2 to a subsequent address ADDR3 representing a third diagnostic status within the time interval mentioned in step b). In the third diagnostic status, the power switch 116 can send a corresponding third diagnostic status signal to the controller 114. Figure 4 Reference numeral 158 in indicates the timeline of the diagnostic status signal corresponding to the third diagnostic status.

[0099] Subsequently, the diagnostic status counter 132 and all sequence diagnostics can be reset (e.g., because the controller 114 loses synchronization of the current address). This can be achieved by using a third timeout of a diagnostic control signal that exceeds a predetermined time threshold as outlined in step c). The third timeout is indicated as 3.TO in Figure 4 The exceeding of the time threshold mentioned in step c) can generally include being higher than an upper time threshold and / or lower than a lower time threshold. As indicated in the example and Figure 4 The predetermined time threshold can be an upper time threshold of 150 μs and the third timeout can be longer than the 150 μs. Thus, the diagnostic status counter 132 can be reset again to the initial address ADDR1 to restart the sequence diagnostics at a known address and at the initial first diagnostic status. Thus, the power switch 116 can send the first diagnostic status signal or an updated version thereof to the controller 114 again. More generally, the power switch 116 can send the diagnostic status signal corresponding to the first diagnostic status of the power switch 116 to the controller 114 again. Figure 4 The fourth timeout, indicated as 4.TO in , can again cause the sequence diagnostics to proceed from the subsequent diagnostic status stored at ADDR2 in the address register 130 of the power switch 116 within the time interval mentioned in step b) (e.g., between 25 μs and 150 μs).

[0100] Two signal edges can interrupt Figure 4 the fifth timeout, indicated as 5.TO in . This can also be used to restart the sequence diagnostics at the initial diagnostic status as mentioned in step d). Thus, the power switch 116 can send the diagnostic status signal corresponding to the first diagnostic status again. Figure 4The sixth timeout indicated as 6.TO may neither be within the predetermined time interval mentioned in step b), nor be higher than the predetermined upper time threshold mentioned in step c), and it may also not include the interrupt signal edge mentioned in step d). In this case, the diagnostic status counter 132 may be maintained at the current address (i.e., ADDR1 here as mentioned in step e). Accordingly, the power switch 116 may retransmit the last diagnostic status signal or its updated version to the controller 114. In the present example, the power switch 116 may retransmit the diagnostic status signal corresponding to the first diagnostic status. Of course, other values of the time threshold or the time interval or the number of signal edges of the interrupt timeout may also be feasible. Generally, the predetermined time threshold or the predetermined time interval or other explicit settings for the diagnostic status and the sequence of the diagnostic status may be defined in the protocol.

[0101] Although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various alternative and / or equivalent implementations may replace the specific examples shown and described without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific examples discussed herein. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to be limited only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0102] It should be noted that the methods and devices, including their preferred embodiments, outlined in this document may be used alone or in combination with other methods and devices disclosed in this document. Additionally, the features outlined in the device aspect also apply to the corresponding methods, and vice versa. Moreover, all aspects of the methods and devices outlined in the existing documents may be combined arbitrarily. In particular, the features of the claims may be combined with another feature in any way.

[0103] It should be noted that the description and the drawings merely illustrate the principles of the proposed methods and systems. Those skilled in the art will be able to implement various arrangements, which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure and are included within its spirit and scope. Additionally, all examples and embodiments outlined in this existing document are explicitly intended, in principle, only for the explanatory purpose of helping the reader understand the principles of the proposed methods and systems. Moreover, all statements providing the principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as its specific examples, are intended to encompass their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for performing sequence diagnostics in a power network (110), the method comprising: a) sending a diagnostic control signal from a controller (114) to a power switch (116) for initiating the sequence diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch (116), and using a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change a current diagnostic state of the power switch (116); b) continuing the sequence diagnosis by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state if the timeout matches a predetermined time interval; and c) resetting the sequence diagnostics by restarting at the initial diagnostics state if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold.

2. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the method is performed in a vehicle power grid (110), in particular in a distributed vehicle power grid (110). 3 . The method according to claim 1 , wherein exceeding the time threshold in step c) comprises at least one of being above an upper time threshold and being below a lower time threshold.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: d) resetting the sequence diagnostics by restarting at the initial diagnostics state if the timeout is interrupted by at least two signal edges.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: e) Otherwise, continuing the sequence diagnosis by maintaining at the current diagnosis state.

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the diagnostic states, the sequence of diagnostic states, the time intervals and the time thresholds are defined in a protocol.

7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the setting of the power switch (116) for each diagnostic state is stored at an address in an address register (130) of the power switch (116).

8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the power switch (116) includes a diagnostic state counter (132) configured to set a diagnostic state of the power switch (116), wherein step b) includes incrementing the diagnostic state counter (130), and wherein step c) includes resetting the diagnostic state counter (130).

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: f) for each current diagnostic state, sending a diagnostic state signal from the power switch (116) to the controller (114).

10. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the diagnostic status signal comprises a current sensing signal or a derived signal thereof, in particular a signal relating to a derived energy value, more particularly relating to i 2 The signal of the t value.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding two claims, further comprising: g) if the diagnostic status signal indicates an overcurrent, shutting off a load (118) by using the power switch (116).

12. A power network (110), comprising at least a power switch (116) for switching a load (118) and a controller (114) for controlling the power switch (116), wherein the controller (114) is configured to send a diagnostic control signal to the power switch (116) for initiating a sequence diagnosis at an initial diagnostic state of the power switch (116), wherein the controller (114) is further configured to use a timeout of the diagnostic control signal to change a current diagnostic state of the power switch (116), wherein the power switch (116) is configured to continue the sequence diagnosis by entering a subsequent diagnostic state of the current diagnostic state if the timeout matches a predetermined time interval, and wherein the power switch (116) is further configured to reset the sequence diagnosis by restarting at the initial diagnostic state if the timeout exceeds a predetermined time threshold.

13. The power network (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein the power network (110) is a vehicle power network (110), in particular a distributed vehicle power network (110).

14. The power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the controller (114) is a zone controller (114).

15. The power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the power switch (116) is a smart power switch (116).

16. The power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the power switch (116) comprises a logic circuit (128) configured to process the diagnostic control signal.

17. The power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the power switch (116) comprises an address register (130) configured to store the diagnostic status.

18. The power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the power switch (116) comprises a diagnostic state counter (132) configured to change the diagnostic state.

19. The power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the power switch (116) comprises a measurement circuit (134) configured to sense a current.

20. A power network (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to a power network (110), wherein the power switch (116) comprises a transistor selected from the group consisting of: a field effect transistor FET, in particular a metal oxide field effect transistor MOSFET; a bipolar transistor; an insulated gate bipolar transistor IGBT.

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