Protection circuit, driver, method, controller and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a protection circuit, a driver, a method, a controller and a vehicle, the protection circuit comprises an acquisition module, a comparison module, a driving module and a control module, an acquisition voltage is generated according to a lower one of voltages at two ends of a load, and an enable signal is generated according to a comparison result of the acquisition voltage and a reference voltage; an output signal is generated according to the input signal and the enable signal, so that a power supply loop for controlling a load is switched on and off, and a first protection mechanism for hardware detection processing can be formed when an open-circuit fault is detected; the input signal is generated according to the collected voltage, and the input signal can also control the power supply loop of the load through the driving module when the open-circuit fault is detected, so that a second protection mechanism for software judgment and processing is formed, a dual protection mechanism can be formed when the load has the open-circuit fault, and the reliability of open-circuit protection is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of electronic technology, and in particular to a protection circuit, a driver, a method, a controller, and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] There are usually two ways to handle an open circuit fault that occurs in a load. One way is to only perform open circuit detection without any corresponding protection action. The other way is to perform a corresponding protection action after detecting the open circuit fault.

[0003] However, both of these processing methods have low reliability in terms of open circuit protection. Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide an open circuit protection solution with higher reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiments of the present application provide a protection circuit, a driver, a method, a controller, and a vehicle, which improve the reliability of open circuit protection and at least partially solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, according to the first aspect of the present application, a protection circuit is provided, which includes an acquisition module, a comparison module, a drive module and a control module. The acquisition module is configured to generate an acquisition voltage based on the lower of the voltages at both ends of the load; the comparison module is connected to the acquisition module and is configured to generate an enable signal based on the comparison result of the acquisition voltage and the reference voltage; the drive module is connected to the comparison module and is configured to generate an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the on-off of the power supply circuit of the load; the control module is connected to the acquisition module and the drive module and is configured to generate an input signal based on the acquisition voltage.

[0006] Optionally, the acquisition module includes a first resistor and a second resistor, the first end of the first resistor is connected to the first end of the load; the first end of the second resistor is connected to the second end of the first resistor, the first end of the control module and the comparison module, and the second end of the second resistor is connected to the ground end.

[0007] Optionally, the comparison module includes a third resistor, a fourth resistor and a first comparator, the first end of the third resistor is connected to the first power supply end; the first end of the fourth resistor is connected to the second end of the third resistor, and the second end of the fourth resistor is connected to the ground end; the first input end of the first comparator is connected to the output end of the acquisition module, the second input end of the first comparator is connected to the first end of the fourth resistor and the second end of the third resistor, and the output end of the first comparator is connected to the driving module.

[0008] Optionally, the driving module includes a driver, a first switch and a second switch, the enable end of the driver is connected to the output end of the comparison module, the first input end of the driver is connected to the second end of the control module, and the second input end of the driver is connected to the third end of the control module; the control end of the first switch is connected to the first output end of the driver, the first end of the first switch is connected to the second power supply end, and the second end of the first switch is connected to the second end of the load; the control end of the second switch is connected to the second output end of the driver, the first end of the second switch is connected to the first end of the load and the input end of the acquisition module, and the second end of the second switch is connected to the ground end.

[0009] Optionally, the driving module further includes a fifth resistor, a first end of the fifth resistor is connected to the second end of the second switch, and a second end of the fifth resistor is connected to the ground end.

[0010] Optionally, the protection circuit also includes a second comparator, the first input terminal of the second comparator is connected to the first end of the fifth resistor, the second input terminal of the second comparator is connected to the second end of the fifth resistor and the ground terminal, and the output terminal of the second comparator is connected to the fourth end of the control module.

[0011] Optionally, the protection circuit further includes a signal source connected to the second end of the load and configured to provide an open circuit detection power supply signal to the load.

[0012] Optionally, the signal source includes a diode, an anode of the diode is connected to the third power supply terminal, and a cathode of the diode is connected to the second terminal of the first switch and the second terminal of the load.

[0013] Optionally, when the enable signal connected to the enable terminal of the driver is valid, the level state of the first input terminal of the driver is the same as the level state of the first output terminal of the driver, and the level state of the second input terminal of the driver is the same as the level state of the second output terminal of the driver; when the enable signal connected to the enable terminal of the driver is invalid, the level state of the first output terminal of the driver and the level state of the second output terminal of the driver respectively control the first switch and the second switch to be disconnected.

[0014] Optionally, the input signal includes a first input signal and a second input signal; the control module is further configured to generate the first input signal and the second input signal based on the comparison result of the collected voltage and the preset voltage range, and the level state of the first input signal is the same as the level state of the second input signal.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the present application, an air-conditioning driver is provided, which includes the above-mentioned protection circuit.

[0016] According to a third aspect of the present application, a protection method is provided, which is applied to the above-mentioned protection circuit, and the protection method includes: generating a collection voltage based on the lower of the voltages at both ends of the load; generating an enable signal based on the comparison result of the collection voltage and the reference voltage; generating an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the on-off of the power supply circuit of the load; and generating an input signal based on the collection voltage.

[0017] Optionally, the protection method also includes: when the comparison result indicates that the collected voltage is less than the reference voltage, the enable signal controls the driving module to stop working to disconnect the power supply circuit of the load; when the collected voltage is less than the fault preset value, the control module provides the driving module with a first input signal and a second input signal for controlling the disconnection of the power supply circuit.

[0018] Optionally, the protection method further includes: when the comparison result indicates that the collected voltage has recovered to the reference voltage, enabling the signal to control the driving module to operate normally; when the collected voltage has recovered to the fault recovery value, the control module providing the first input signal and the second input signal to the driving module.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, a controller is provided, on which a computer program is stored, and when the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the above-mentioned protection method are implemented.

[0020] According to a fifth aspect of the present application, a vehicle is provided, which includes the above-mentioned protection circuit, the above-mentioned air-conditioning driver, the above-mentioned controller, the above-mentioned computer-readable storage medium or the above-mentioned computer program product, or the vehicle executes the above-mentioned protection method.

[0021] The protection circuit, driver, method, controller, and vehicle of the embodiments of the present application generate a collection voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load, generate an enable signal based on the comparison result of the collection voltage with a reference voltage, and generate an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the load's power supply circuit on and off. This can form a first-level protection mechanism for hardware detection processing when an open-circuit fault is detected. An input signal is generated based on the collection voltage, and this input signal can also control the load's power supply circuit through a driver module when an open-circuit fault is detected, thereby forming a second-level protection mechanism for software judgment processing. Furthermore, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the load, a dual protection mechanism can be formed, which improves the reliability of open-circuit protection. Since the hardware detection processing time is shorter than the software judgment processing time, the first and second protection mechanisms can be implemented sequentially, which not only improves the timeliness of open-circuit protection but also improves the reliability of open-circuit protection.

[0022] Other features and advantages of the present application will be described in detail in the subsequent detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for describing the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. Those skilled in the art can also derive other drawings based on these drawings without inventive effort.

[0024] In order to more completely understand the present application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be given in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same drawing numbers represent the same parts in the following description.

[0025] Figure 1 is a principle block diagram of a protection circuit provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2 is a circuit principle block diagram of a protection circuit provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the working process of the protection circuit provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4 is a schematic structural diagram of an air conditioner driver provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 5 is an application diagram of a controller provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle provided in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Description of reference numerals:

[0032] 10. Acquisition module; R2, first resistor; R3, second resistor;

[0033] 20. Comparison module; R4, third resistor; R5, fourth resistor; IC2, first comparator;

[0034] 30, driving module; IC3, driver; M1, first switch; M2, second switch; R1, fifth resistor;

[0035] 40. Control module;

[0036] 50, signal source; D1, diode;

[0037] GND, ground terminal; VDD, first power terminal; HV+, second power terminal; VCC, third power terminal; IC1, second comparator; RC, load;

[0038] 100. Protection circuit;

[0039] 210, air conditioner driver; 220, controller; 290, processor;

[0040] 300. Vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0042] In traditional technical solutions, there are basically two types of protection circuits for open loads:

[0043] 1. When checking the circuit status of the load, it is necessary to control the output of a certain current and detect whether the working circuit is normal by judging the size of the current in the detected circuit.

[0044] 2. Add a signal source to the circuit that needs to be tested, and let the microcontroller keep collecting the signal source to determine whether the circuit is normal.

[0045] The above solution has the following disadvantages:

[0046] 1. The method that requires output current to judge during detection can only detect whether the circuit is normal at a certain moment, and cannot continuously monitor the circuit status. It is often difficult to find the problem at the first time of the fault. It is not applicable to loads involving high voltage or critical information.

[0047] 2. Regarding the method that relies on continuous detection by a single-chip microcomputer, some solutions use optocouplers as signal transmission components for the purpose of high-low voltage separation. In the case of poor contact, for example, the circuit has a high-frequency on-off phenomenon. The characteristics of the optocoupler device will make it difficult to capture such signals, resulting in failure to accurately judge abnormal conditions. Secondly, the method of using a single-chip microcomputer to calculate and collect signals to determine whether the circuit is normal is limited by calculation time and sampling time, and may result in untimely fault judgment.

[0048] In view of the above situation, each embodiment of the present application can continuously monitor the normality of the circuit and detect abnormal situations in time by monitoring the signal source connected to the load circuit. By adopting a dual-channel protection method of hardware detection processing + software judgment processing, when an abnormal situation occurs, the hardware circuit can first respond quickly to the signal change and execute the preset protection action. At the same time, the software judgment follows closely and shuts down the load's working requirements to make the load out of the abnormal state. Compared with the simple software judgment and signal collection method, such a solution has a faster response speed and more timely action; and the dual-channel protection method can also ensure that when any protection scheme fails, there is an extra layer of insurance, which improves the reliability of open circuit protection, thereby being better at protecting power safety and reducing the probability of load damage.

[0049] In the event of a circuit anomaly, such as an open circuit, the embodiments of the present application can promptly cut off the input of the working power supply and shut down the output of the load circuit, thereby preventing damage to the electronic control or load caused by abnormal current and achieving self-protection. Furthermore, in the event of unstable fault phenomena, the software's judgment logic can be modified to easily add strategies for reconnecting the working power supply and restoring the load output after the fault is recovered. This adapts to various special power systems and avoids system errors caused by erroneous recovery judgments and frequent faults.

[0050] The embodiment of the present application provides a protection circuit 100, such as Figure 1 As shown, the protection circuit 100 includes an acquisition module 10, a comparison module 20, a driver module 30, and a control module 40. The acquisition module 10 is configured to generate an acquisition voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load RC. The comparison module 20 is connected to the acquisition module 10 and configured to generate an enable signal based on the comparison result of the acquisition voltage and a reference voltage. The driver module 30 is connected to the comparison module 20 and configured to generate an output signal based on an input signal and an enable signal to control the power supply circuit of the load RC. The control module 40 is connected to the acquisition module 10 and the driver module 30 and configured to generate an input signal based on the acquisition voltage.

[0051] It will be appreciated that the protection circuit 100 of the embodiment of the present application generates a sampling voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load RC, generates an enable signal based on the comparison result of the sampling voltage with a reference voltage, and generates an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the power supply circuit of the load RC. This can form a first-level protection mechanism for hardware detection processing when an open-circuit fault is detected. The input signal generated based on the sampling voltage can also control the power supply circuit of the load RC via the driver module 30 when an open-circuit fault is detected, thereby forming a second-level protection mechanism for software judgment processing. Furthermore, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the load RC, a dual protection mechanism can be formed, which improves the reliability of open-circuit protection. Because the hardware detection processing duration is shorter than the software judgment processing duration, the first and second protection mechanisms can be implemented sequentially, which not only improves the timeliness of open-circuit protection but also improves the reliability of open-circuit protection.

[0052] It should be noted that the control module 40 may be a microcontroller unit (MCU) or a single chip microcomputer or other devices having corresponding control functions.

[0053] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the acquisition module 10 includes a first resistor R2 and a second resistor R3. The first end of the first resistor R2 is connected to the first end of the load RC. The first end of the second resistor R3 is connected to the second end of the first resistor R2, the first end (AD2) of the control module 40, and the comparison module 20. The second end of the second resistor R3 is connected to the ground terminal GND.

[0054] It should be noted that the first resistor R2 and the second resistor R3 can divide the voltage at the first end of the load RC to obtain the sampled voltage. In some embodiments, the second resistor R3 can also be omitted.

[0055] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the comparison module 20 includes a third resistor R4, a fourth resistor R5, and a first comparator IC2. The first end of the third resistor R4 is connected to the first power supply terminal VDD. The first end of the fourth resistor R5 is connected to the second end of the third resistor R4, and the second end of the fourth resistor R5 is connected to the ground terminal GND. The first input end of the first comparator IC2 is connected to the output end of the acquisition module 10, the second input end of the first comparator IC2 is connected to the first end of the fourth resistor R5 and the second end of the third resistor R4, and the output end of the first comparator IC2 is connected to the driver module 30.

[0056] It should be noted that the third resistor R4 and the fourth resistor R5 divide the voltage of the first power supply terminal VDD to obtain a reference voltage. The first input terminal and the second input terminal of the first comparator IC2 can be the inverting input terminal and the non-inverting input terminal, respectively. When the collected voltage is less than the reference voltage, it indicates that there is a circuit break or open circuit fault in the power supply circuit of the load RC. This is because the voltage of the second power supply terminal HV or the voltage of the third power supply terminal VCC is not transmitted to the first resistor R2, resulting in a drop in the collected voltage. At this time, the enable signal output by the first comparator IC2 is at a low level. When the collected voltage is greater than or equal to the reference voltage, it indicates that the power supply circuit of the load RC is normal. At this time, the enable signal output by the first comparator IC2 is at a high level.

[0057] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the driver module 30 includes a driver IC3, a first switch M1, and a second switch M2. The enable terminal (EN) of the driver IC3 is connected to the output terminal of the comparison module 20, the first input terminal (IN1) of the driver IC3 is connected to the second terminal (HON) of the control module 40, and the second input terminal (IN2) of the driver IC3 is connected to the third terminal (PWM1) of the control module 40. The control terminal of the first switch M1 is connected to the first output terminal (OUT1) of the driver IC3, the first terminal of the first switch M1 is connected to the second power terminal HV, and the second terminal of the first switch M1 is connected to the second terminal of the load RC. The control terminal of the second switch M2 is connected to the second output terminal (OUT2) of the driver IC3, the first terminal of the second switch M2 is connected to the first terminal of the load RC and the input terminal of the acquisition module 10, and the second terminal of the second switch M2 is connected to the ground terminal GND.

[0058] It should be noted that the driver IC3 can be a driver circuit or a driver chip. The first switch M1 and the second switch M2 can both be switching devices such as insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) or power switches. When the enable signal is valid, for example, at a high level, the driver IC3 operates normally, outputs the level of the first input terminal of the driver IC3 as the level of the first output terminal, and outputs the level of the second input terminal of the driver IC3 as the level of the second output terminal. At this time, the on and off of the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 are controlled by the control module 40. When the enable signal is invalid, for example, at a low level, the driver IC3 does not operate, the level of the first output terminal and the level of the second input terminal of the driver IC3 are both low, and the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 are both disconnected.

[0059] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the driving module 30 further includes a fifth resistor R1 , a first end of the fifth resistor R1 is connected to the second end of the second switch M2 , and a second end of the fifth resistor R1 is connected to the ground end GND.

[0060] It should be noted that the fifth resistor R1 is optional. The fifth resistor R1 can be used to prevent a short circuit fault in the power supply circuit when the load RC is short-circuited, or can also be used to detect the current in the power supply circuit. Among them, HV+ and HV- can also be referred to as the high voltage side and the low voltage side, respectively.

[0061] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the protection circuit 100 also includes a second comparator IC1, a first input terminal of the second comparator IC1 is connected to the first end of the fifth resistor R1, a second input terminal of the second comparator IC1 is connected to the second end of the fifth resistor R1 and the ground terminal GND, and an output terminal of the second comparator IC1 is connected to the fourth end (AD1) of the control module 40.

[0062] It should be noted that the second comparator IC1 is optional. The fifth resistor R1 can convert the current flowing through it into a voltage across both terminals, and the second comparator IC1 is used to generate a comparison result of the voltage across both terminals.

[0063] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the driving module 30 further includes a signal source 50 connected to the second end of the load RC and configured to provide an open circuit detection power signal to the load RC.

[0064] It should be noted that the signal source 50 can continuously provide an open circuit detection power supply signal for detecting an open circuit or a broken circuit in the power supply circuit, regardless of whether the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 are turned on or off. Therefore, it is possible to continuously detect whether the power supply circuit is normal or not, thereby being able to promptly detect abnormal situations such as open circuit or broken circuit faults.

[0065] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 As shown, the signal source 50 includes a diode D1 , an anode of the diode D1 is connected to the third power supply terminal VCC, and a cathode of the diode D1 is connected to the second end of the first switch M1 and the second end of the load RC.

[0066] It should be noted that the voltage of the third power supply terminal VCC can be set as needed, and can be exemplarily +15V, so that the existing power supply voltage can be used without the need for an additional power supply. The voltage of the third power supply terminal VCC is less than or equal to the voltage of the second power supply terminal HV, which can prevent the voltage of the second power supply terminal HV from flowing back to the third power supply terminal VCC.

[0067] In some embodiments, when the enable signal connected to the enable terminal of driver IC3 is valid, the level state of the first input terminal of driver IC3 is the same as the level state of the first output terminal of driver IC3, and the level state of the second input terminal of driver IC3 is the same as the level state of the second output terminal of driver IC3. When the enable signal connected to the enable terminal of driver IC3 is invalid, the level state of the first output terminal of driver IC3 and the level state of the second output terminal of driver IC3 respectively control the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 to be turned off.

[0068] It should be noted that the enable signal is illustratively valid when it is at a high level. In this case, the control module 40 can control the on and off of the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 through the driver IC 3. The enable signal is illustratively invalid when it is at a low level. In this case, the driver IC 3 outputs two low-level signals to control the off of the first switch M1 and the second switch M2.

[0069] In some embodiments, the input signal includes a first input signal and a second input signal. The control module 40 is further configured to generate the first input signal and the second input signal according to a comparison result between the sampled voltage and a preset voltage range, wherein the level state of the first input signal is the same as the level state of the second input signal.

[0070] It should be noted that the second end of the control module 40 can output a first input signal, and the third end of the control module 40 can output a second input signal. The lower limit of the preset voltage range is a preset fault value, and the upper limit of the preset voltage range is a preset recovery value. When the collected voltage is less than the preset fault value, it indicates that an open circuit or a broken circuit fault has occurred in the power supply circuit of the load RC. At this time, a low-level first input signal and a second input signal are output, or the first input signal and the second input signal may not be output, so as to control the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 to be disconnected through the driver IC3. When the collected voltage is greater than or equal to the preset recovery value, it indicates that the open circuit or broken circuit fault in the power supply circuit has been restored. At this time, a high-level or low-level first input signal and a second input signal can be output as needed to control the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 to be turned on and off as needed through the driver IC3.

[0071] The working principle of the protection circuit 100 is as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown:

[0072] The sampled voltage obtained by dividing the first resistor R2 and the second resistor R3 is directly input to the first terminal (AD2) of the control module 40. The control module 40 compares the input sampled voltage with a preset voltage range preset by the software program. When the input sampled voltage is less than the normal range, the control module 40 stops the outputs of HON and PWM1, and both IN1 and IN2 of the driver IC3 are low. The function of the driver IC3 is as follows: under normal operating conditions, OUT1 and OUT2 reflect the input states of IN1 and IN2, respectively. Therefore, regardless of whether the driver IC3 is enabled, the corresponding OUT1 and OUT2 will output a low level, the first switch M1 and the second switch M2 will be disconnected, and the load RC will stop working.

[0073] When an abnormal situation (such as a broken or open power circuit) occurs, the change in the sampled voltage triggers a rapid response from the first comparator IC2, outputting an enable signal to the EN pin of the driver IC3. Once disabled, the driver IC3 immediately ceases operation, disconnecting both the first switch M1 and the second switch M2. This entire process is triggered entirely by hardware, resulting in a faster response and more immediate action than software calculations. Secondly, the change in the sampled voltage converted from the signal source 50 is fed into the control module 40 via a branch circuit. Upon determining a fault, the control module 40 ceases input to the driver IC3, halting its output at the software level and bringing the product into a fully protected state.

[0074] At this point, the first comparator IC2 and control module 40 continue to monitor the circuit status. When the circuit returns to normal for the first time, the first comparator IC2 will first restore its normal output level, unblocking driver IC3 and returning the driver IC3's output to its normal operating state, following the input. The control module 40 then re-evaluates whether the collected voltage meets recovery conditions (e.g., whether the signal fluctuations are normal and whether the normal level is maintained for a sufficient period of time). Once the circuit is fully restored to normal, the HON and PWM1 outputs are enabled as required, and the system resumes normal operation.

[0075] Integrated circuits (ICs) feature complex electrical schemes and numerous electrical components, especially when high- and low-voltage components coexist within the electronic control system. Damage to high-voltage components can affect the entire electronic control system and, in severe cases, paralyze the external power supply system to which the load RC is connected.

[0076] Existing detection circuits use a loop detection method that controls the output detection current when the load RC is not operating to determine whether the loop current value is normal. However, this solution cannot detect loop anomalies if the fault phenomenon is unstable or the fault occurs after the detection is complete, posing a certain safety risk.

[0077] At the same time, when existing detection circuits detect a circuit fault, one approach is to rely on external fault status and rely on an external BMS or VCU to determine and implement protection operations. Another approach is to pass the detection signal value to an external host computer for judgment and protection. However, this protection solution is not a low-risk method for complex integrated systems, and there is a risk of untimely protection or failure due to external factors.

[0078] Unlike the aforementioned detection circuit, the present invention can provide a continuous detection signal through a dedicated signal source 50, continuously detecting the normal state of the circuit when the circuit is not in operation. When the circuit is in operation, a voltage or operating current can also be input as the signal source 50 to continuously monitor the normal state of the circuit, allowing any abnormality to be detected immediately.

[0079] At the same time, using a comparator as an output device responds faster and more sensitively than using isolation devices such as optocouplers, and can detect higher-frequency signal changes, which means that anomalies can be discovered more promptly and more abnormal conditions can be discovered. It has a wider range of applications and can fully function in complex integrated modules.

[0080] In summary, when an abnormal situation occurs, the power system can be protected immediately without relying on external functions. The protection is more accurate and timely, and it can also prevent unnecessary risks to the system due to loss of communication or failure of external protection.

[0081] The embodiment of the present application also provides an air conditioner driver 210, such as Figure 4 As shown, the air conditioner driver 210 includes the aforementioned protection circuit 100. The air conditioner driver 210 may be, but is not limited to, an integrated drive circuit.

[0082] It will be appreciated that since the air conditioner driver 210 of the embodiment of the present application includes the aforementioned protection circuit 100, it can also generate a sampling voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load RC, generate an enable signal based on the comparison between the sampling voltage and a reference voltage, and generate an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the power supply circuit of the load RC. This can form a first-level protection mechanism based on hardware detection processing when an open-circuit fault is detected. The input signal generated based on the sampling voltage can also control the power supply circuit of the load RC via the driver module 30 when an open-circuit fault is detected, thus forming a second-level protection mechanism based on software determination processing. Consequently, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the load RC, a dual protection mechanism can be implemented, improving the reliability of open-circuit protection. Because the hardware detection processing takes less time than the software determination processing, the first and second protection mechanisms can be implemented sequentially, improving both the timeliness and reliability of open-circuit protection.

[0083] An embodiment of the present application also provides a protection method, which is applied to the above-mentioned protection circuit 100, and the protection method includes: generating a collection voltage based on the lower of the voltages at both ends of the load RC; generating an enable signal based on the comparison result of the collection voltage and the reference voltage; generating an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the on-off of the power supply circuit of the load RC; and generating an input signal based on the collection voltage.

[0084] It is understood that since the protection method of the embodiment of the present application is applied to the above-mentioned protection circuit 100, it can also generate a sampling voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load RC, generate an enable signal based on the comparison result of the sampling voltage and the reference voltage, and generate an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the power supply circuit of the load RC. This can form a first-level protection mechanism for hardware detection processing when an open circuit fault is detected. The input signal is generated based on the sampling voltage. This input signal can also control the power supply circuit of the load RC through the driver module 30 when an open circuit fault is detected, thereby forming a second-level protection mechanism for software judgment processing. Furthermore, when an open circuit fault occurs in the load RC, a dual protection mechanism can be formed, which improves the reliability of the open circuit protection. In particular, because the duration of the hardware detection processing is shorter than the duration of the software judgment processing, the first and second protection mechanisms can be implemented sequentially, which not only improves the timeliness of the open circuit protection but also improves the reliability of the open circuit protection.

[0085] In some embodiments, the protection method further includes: when the comparison result indicates that the collected voltage is less than the reference voltage, an enable signal controls the driver module 30 to stop operating, thereby disconnecting the power supply circuit of the load RC. When the collected voltage is less than a preset fault value, the control module 40 provides the driver module 30 with a first input signal and a second input signal for controlling the disconnection of the power supply circuit.

[0086] It should be noted that this embodiment can provide a dual protection mechanism in terms of software and hardware when an open circuit fault occurs, thereby improving the reliability of the open circuit protection.

[0087] In some embodiments, the protection method further includes: when the comparison result indicates that the collected voltage has recovered to the reference voltage, enabling the signal to control the normal operation of the driving module 30. When the collected voltage recovers to the fault recovery value, the control module 40 provides the first input signal and the second input signal to the driving module 30.

[0088] It should be noted that this embodiment can provide a dual protection mechanism in terms of software and hardware when recovering from an open circuit fault, thereby improving the reliability of the open circuit protection.

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, the embodiment of the present application further provides a controller 220 on which a computer program is stored, and when the computer program is executed by the processor 290, the steps of the above-mentioned protection method are implemented.

[0090] It will be appreciated that, since the controller 220 of the embodiment of the present application implements the steps of the aforementioned protection method when executed, it can also generate a sampled voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load RC, generate an enable signal based on the comparison result of the sampled voltage with the reference voltage, and generate an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the power supply circuit of the load RC on and off. This can form a first-level protection mechanism based on hardware detection processing when an open-circuit fault is detected. Generating an input signal based on the sampled voltage can also control the power supply circuit of the load RC via the driver module 30 when an open-circuit fault is detected, thereby forming a second-level protection mechanism based on software judgment processing. Consequently, when an open-circuit fault occurs in the load RC, a dual protection mechanism can be established, thereby improving the reliability of open-circuit protection. Since the hardware detection processing duration is shorter than the software judgment processing duration, the first and second protection mechanisms can be implemented sequentially, which not only improves the timeliness of open-circuit protection but also improves the reliability of open-circuit protection.

[0091] like Figure 6 As shown, an embodiment of the present application further provides a vehicle 300 , which includes the above-mentioned protection circuit 100 , the above-mentioned air-conditioning driver 210 or the above-mentioned controller 220 , or the vehicle 300 executes the above-mentioned protection method.

[0092] It will be appreciated that since the vehicle 300 of the embodiment of the present application includes the aforementioned protection circuit 100, the aforementioned air conditioner driver 210, or the aforementioned controller 220, or implements the aforementioned protection method, it can also generate a sampled voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load RC, generate an enable signal based on a comparison between the sampled voltage and a reference voltage, and generate an output signal based on the input signal and the enable signal to control the power supply circuit of the load RC. This can form a first-level protection mechanism based on hardware detection processing when an open-circuit fault is detected. Generating an input signal based on the sampled voltage can also control the power supply circuit of the load RC via the driver module 30 when an open-circuit fault is detected, thereby forming a second-level protection mechanism based on software determination processing. Consequently, a dual protection mechanism can be implemented when an open-circuit fault occurs in the load RC, thereby improving the reliability of open-circuit protection. Because the hardware detection process takes less time than the software determination process, the first and second protection mechanisms can be implemented sequentially, improving both the timeliness and reliability of open-circuit protection.

[0093] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "plurality" means two or more, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0094] In the above embodiments, the description of each embodiment has its own focus. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, reference can be made to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0095] The embodiments, implementation methods and related technical features of the present application can be combined and replaced with each other without conflict.

[0096] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present application and do not constitute any form of limitation to the present application. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present application without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present application are still within the scope of the technical solution of the present application.

Claims

1. A protection circuit, characterized in that: The protection circuit comprises: a collection module configured to generate a collection voltage according to the lower of the voltages at both ends of the load; a comparison module, connected to the acquisition module, and configured to generate an enable signal according to a comparison result between the acquired voltage and a reference voltage; a driving module connected to the comparison module and configured to generate an output signal according to an input signal and the enable signal to perform on-off control on a power supply circuit of the load; The control module is connected to the acquisition module and the driving module, and is configured to generate the input signal according to the acquired voltage.

2. The protection circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The acquisition module includes: a first resistor, wherein a first end of the first resistor is connected to a first end of the load; A second resistor, wherein a first end of the second resistor is connected to the second end of the first resistor, the first end of the control module and the comparison module, and a second end of the second resistor is connected to the ground end.

3. The protection circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The comparison module includes: a third resistor, wherein a first end of the third resistor is connected to the first power supply end; a fourth resistor, wherein a first end of the fourth resistor is connected to the second end of the third resistor, and a second end of the fourth resistor is connected to the ground end; A first comparator, wherein a first input end of the first comparator is connected to the output end of the acquisition module, a second input end of the first comparator is connected to the first end of the fourth resistor and the second end of the third resistor, and an output end of the first comparator is connected to the driving module.

4. The protection circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The driving module includes: a driver, wherein an enable terminal of the driver is connected to the output terminal of the comparison module, a first input terminal of the driver is connected to the second terminal of the control module, and a second input terminal of the driver is connected to the third terminal of the control module; a first switch, wherein a control end of the first switch is connected to the first output end of the driver, a first end of the first switch is connected to the second power supply end, and a second end of the first switch is connected to the second end of the load; A second switch, wherein a control end of the second switch is connected to the second output end of the driver, a first end of the second switch is connected to the first end of the load and the input end of the acquisition module, and a second end of the second switch is connected to the ground end.

5. The protection circuit according to claim 4, characterized in that: The driving module further includes a fifth resistor, a first end of the fifth resistor is connected to the second end of the second switch, and a second end of the fifth resistor is connected to the ground end.

6. The protection circuit according to claim 5, characterized in that: The protection circuit also includes a second comparator, a first input terminal of the second comparator is connected to the first end of the fifth resistor, a second input terminal of the second comparator is connected to the second end of the fifth resistor and the ground terminal, and an output terminal of the second comparator is connected to the fourth end of the control module.

7. The protection circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The protection circuit further includes a signal source connected to the second end of the load and configured to provide an open circuit detection power supply signal to the load.

8. The protection circuit according to claim 7, wherein: The signal source includes a diode, an anode of the diode is connected to the third power supply terminal, and a cathode of the diode is connected to the second terminal of the first switch and the second terminal of the load.

9. The protection circuit according to claim 4, wherein: When the enable signal connected to the enable terminal of the driver is valid, the level state of the first input terminal of the driver is the same as the level state of the first output terminal of the driver, and the level state of the second input terminal of the driver is the same as the level state of the second output terminal of the driver; When the enable signal connected to the enable terminal of the driver is invalid, the level state of the first output terminal of the driver and the level state of the second output terminal of the driver respectively control the first switch and the second switch to be turned off.

10. The protection circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The input signal includes a first input signal and a second input signal; The control module is further configured to generate the first input signal and the second input signal according to a comparison result of the collected voltage and a preset voltage range, and a level state of the first input signal is the same as a level state of the second input signal.

11. An air conditioner driver, characterized in that: The device comprises a protection circuit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A protection method, characterized in that: Applied to the protection circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the protection method comprises: Generate a harvested voltage based on the lower of the voltages across the load; generating an enable signal according to a comparison result of the collected voltage and a reference voltage; generating an output signal according to the input signal and the enable signal to perform on-off control on the power supply circuit of the load; The input signal is generated according to the collected voltage.

13. The protection method according to claim 12, characterized in that: The protection method further comprises: When the comparison result indicates that the collected voltage is less than the reference voltage, the enable signal controls the driving module to stop working, so as to disconnect the power supply circuit of the load; When the collected voltage is less than a fault preset value, the control module provides the driving module with a first input signal and a second input signal for controlling the disconnection of the power supply circuit.

14. The protection method according to claim 12, characterized in that: The protection method further comprises: When the comparison result indicates that the collected voltage has recovered to the reference voltage, the enable signal controls the driving module to operate normally; When the collected voltage recovers to a fault recovery value, the control module provides a first input signal and a second input signal to the driving module.

15. A controller having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that: When the computer program is executed by a processor, the steps of the method according to any one of claims 12 to 14 are implemented.

16. A vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle includes the protection circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the air-conditioning driver according to claim 11, or the controller according to claim 15, or the vehicle executes the protection method according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

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