Intelligent electronic switch for vehicle, integrated circuit chip, chip product and automobile

Abstract

The invention provides an intelligent electronic switch for a vehicle, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product and an automobile, the intelligent electronic switch is internally provided with an authentication unit and a secret key unit, and a load is internally provided with the secret key unit, so that when the intelligent electronic switch is in a load authentication stage, the secret key unit can be unlocked; the intelligent electronic switch can carry out secret key verification through the authentication unit and the secret key unit in the load, after the secret key verification is passed, the authentication unit can output a verification effective signal, in this way, the power switch is controlled to be turned on to supply power to the load only when the input end receives a turn-on enable signal, and if the secret key verification fails, the power switch is controlled to be turned on to supply power to the load. When the load is authenticated, the authentication unit outputs a verification invalid signal, and the intelligent electronic switch outputs a cut-off control signal and / or a reminding signal, so that the use of a non-authenticated load can be prevented and / or a user can be notified, and the problem that safe driving is affected or potential safety hazards exist due to the fact that the intelligent electronic switch cannot authenticate the load is solved.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 202410649475.7, filed on May 23, 2024, entitled "Intelligent Electronic Switch for Vehicles, Integrated Circuit Chip, Chip Product and Automobile". Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of electronic circuit technology, and in particular to an intelligent electronic switch for automobiles, an integrated circuit chip, a chip product, and an automobile. Background Technology

[0003] With the continuous development of electrification, intelligence, and connectivity in new energy vehicles, the functions of automobiles are becoming increasingly complex. The realization of these functions requires different loads and different actuators. Among them, intelligent electronic switches (which can be high-side driven or low-side driven) are used for driving and switching loads inside the vehicle. They can drive various resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads in the vehicle body control domain, and their applications inside and outside the vehicle are very extensive.

[0004] In practical applications, the loads connected to smart electronic switches are usually replaceable. However, the quality of loads of the same type can vary, and existing smart electronic switches cannot identify the safety, authenticity, or qualification of the load. Because low-quality, uncertified load components have low reliability during use, installing them on a vehicle or replacing the original load can increase the likelihood of malfunctions while driving, potentially affecting safe driving and even posing safety hazards. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an intelligent electronic switch, integrated circuit chip, chip product, and automobile for use in vehicles, in order to solve the problem that uncertified load components may malfunction during driving, leading to safety hazards.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles, comprising: a power supply terminal, a power ground terminal, an input terminal, a load output terminal, a first communication connection terminal, a power switch, a control unit, and an authentication unit;

[0007] The power supply terminal and the power ground terminal are used to connect to the battery. The power switch is used to connect in series with the load. Its first terminal is connected to the power supply terminal or the power ground terminal, its second terminal is connected to the load output terminal, and its control terminal is connected to the control unit. The control unit is used to control the power switch to turn on or off.

[0008] The input terminal is connected to the control unit, the control unit is connected to the authentication unit, and the authentication unit is used to connect to the key unit of the payload through the first communication connection terminal;

[0009] When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the authentication unit performs key verification with the key unit. When the key verification is successful, the authentication unit outputs a valid verification signal, so that the control unit controls the power switch to turn on and supply power to the load when it receives an enable signal at the input terminal. When the key verification fails, the authentication unit outputs an invalid verification signal. When the control unit receives the invalid verification signal from the authentication unit, it outputs a cut-off control signal and / or a reminder signal. The cut-off control signal is used to turn off the power switch, and the reminder signal is used to remind the load that it is an unauthenticated load.

[0010] In one possible design of the first aspect, the intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication phase each time it is powered on.

[0011] In another possible design of the first aspect, the intelligent electronic switch further includes a load replacement detection unit;

[0012] The load replacement detection unit is connected to the load output terminal and the control unit. The load replacement detection unit is used to output a load replacement signal when it detects that the load connected to the load output terminal has been replaced.

[0013] When the control unit receives the load replacement signal, it triggers the smart electronic switch to enter the load authentication phase.

[0014] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch for vehicles may also include an anomaly detection unit;

[0015] The anomaly detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the control unit is also used to connect to the microcontroller and the load replacement detection unit. The anomaly detection unit is used to output a load anomaly signal when an anomaly is detected in the load.

[0016] When the control unit receives the load abnormality signal, it outputs a load abnormality indication signal and controls the load replacement detection unit to perform load replacement detection. The load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to lock the output shutdown signal.

[0017] The control unit is also used to trigger the smart electronic switch to enter the load authentication stage and output a load replacement indication signal when the load replacement signal is received. The load replacement indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to unlock.

[0018] In another possible design of the first aspect, the vehicle's intelligent electronic switch also includes an anomaly detection unit;

[0019] The anomaly detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the control unit is also used to connect to the microcontroller. The anomaly detection unit is used to output a load anomaly signal when an anomaly is detected in the load.

[0020] When the control unit receives the load abnormality signal, it outputs a load abnormality indication signal. The load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to lock the output shutdown signal. When the control unit receives the load verification signal, it enters the load authentication stage. The load verification signal is output by the microcontroller after determining that the load has been replaced. The microcontroller is also used to unlock the shutdown signal output after determining that the load has been replaced.

[0021] In one example of the first aspect, when the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the control unit controls the power switch to turn on to supply power to the load, so that the authentication unit performs key verification with the key unit in the load.

[0022] In another example of the first aspect, when the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the control unit controls the current flowing through the power switch to a first current, which is less than the current when the load is operating normally. The first current is used to turn on the key unit within the load so that the authentication unit performs key verification with the key unit.

[0023] In another example of the first aspect, the vehicle-mounted smart electronic switch further includes a power supply output terminal, one end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal, and the other end of which is used to connect to the key unit.

[0024] When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the power supply terminal is used to supply power to the key unit through the power supply output terminal, so that the authentication unit and the key unit can perform key verification.

[0025] Optionally, the intelligent electronic switch for the vehicle also includes a second switching transistor, the first end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal, the second end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power output terminal, and the control terminal of which is connected to the control unit.

[0026] When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the control unit controls the second switch tube to turn on, so that the power supply terminal supplies power to the key unit, so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key verification.

[0027] In another possible design of the first aspect, the number of power switches and the load output terminals are equal and there are multiple load output terminals, each load output terminal is connected to a power switch, and each load output terminal is also used to connect to a corresponding sub-load, the load including multiple sub-loads;

[0028] The authentication unit is also used to connect to the key unit of multiple sub-loads through the first communication connection terminal, and to perform key verification on multiple sub-loads when the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication stage;

[0029] The control unit is also used to control the corresponding power switches based on the key verification results of the authentication unit for multiple sub-loads.

[0030] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an integrated circuit chip, including a vehicle-use intelligent electronic switch as described in the first aspect and various possible designs, wherein the power supply terminal is a power supply pin, the power ground terminal is a power ground pin, and the load output terminal is a load output pin.

[0031] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a chip product, including a smart electronic switch for automobiles as described in the first aspect and various possible designs, wherein the components of the smart electronic switch other than the power switch are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch is located on a second integrated circuit chip;

[0032] Wherein, the power supply terminal is a power supply pin, the power ground terminal is a power ground pin, the input terminal is an input pin, the load output terminal is a load output pin, and the communication connection terminal is a communication connection pin. The power supply pin, the power ground pin, the input pin, and the communication connection pin are all located on the first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on the second integrated circuit chip.

[0033] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide an automobile, including a vehicle-use intelligent electronic switch as described in the first aspect and various possible designs, or an integrated circuit chip as described in the second aspect, or a chip product as described in the third aspect;

[0034] It also includes a battery, a load, and a microcontroller, wherein the positive terminal of the battery is connected to the power supply terminal, the negative terminal of the battery is connected to the power supply ground terminal, one end of the load is connected to the load output terminal, and the other end of the load is connected to the power supply ground terminal or the power supply terminal.

[0035] The load includes a key unit connected to the authentication unit of the smart electronic switch, and the microcontroller connected to the control unit of the smart electronic switch.

[0036] In one possible design of the fourth aspect, the intelligent electronic switch outputs a load abnormality indication signal when it detects an abnormality in the connected load, and the microcontroller powers off the intelligent electronic switch after receiving the load abnormality indication signal.

[0037] When the microcontroller receives a load replacement signal, it powers on the smart electronic switch. After power-on, the smart electronic switch enters the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the load is replaced; or...

[0038] The load also includes a first power supply for supplying power to the load. The load is also connected to the microcontroller. When the load is connected to the smart electronic switch, it outputs load connection information to the microcontroller. The microcontroller determines whether the load is a new load based on the received load connection information. If the determination result is yes, it powers on the smart electronic switch. After the smart electronic switch is powered on, it enters the load authentication stage.

[0039] In another possible design of the fourth aspect, the intelligent electronic switch outputs a load abnormality indication signal when it detects an abnormality in the connected load, and the microcontroller locks the output shutdown signal after receiving the load abnormality indication signal to keep the power switch off.

[0040] Upon receiving a load replacement signal, the microcontroller unlocks the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch, enabling the intelligent electronic switch to enter the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the abnormal load is replaced; or...

[0041] The load also includes a first power supply for supplying power to the load. The load is also connected to the microcontroller. When the load is connected to the smart electronic switch, it outputs load connection information to the microcontroller. The microcontroller determines whether the received load connection information is a new load. If the determination result is yes, it unlocks the output of the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the smart electronic switch so that the smart electronic switch enters the load authentication stage.

[0042] In another possible design of the fourth aspect, the vehicle is an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a gasoline vehicle, and the load includes at least one of a resistive load, an inductive load, and a capacitive load.

[0043] The intelligent electronic switch, integrated circuit chip, chip product, and automobile provided in this application, by setting an authentication unit and a key unit within the intelligent electronic switch and a key unit within the load, allows the intelligent electronic switch to perform key verification with the key unit in the load during the load authentication phase. Upon successful key verification, the authentication unit outputs a valid verification signal. This ensures that the power switch is turned on to supply power to the load only when an enable signal is received at the input. Conversely, if key verification fails, the authentication unit outputs an invalid verification signal, causing the intelligent electronic switch to output a cut-off control signal and / or a warning signal. In other words, when the intelligent electronic switch detects that its connected load is unauthenticated, it can prevent the use of the unauthenticated load and / or notify the user, reducing the risk of unsafe driving or potential safety hazards caused by the intelligent electronic switch's inability to authenticate the load. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles and its peripheral components provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles and its peripheral components provided in the second embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles and its peripheral components provided in the third embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles and its peripheral components provided in the fourth embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles and its peripheral components provided in the fifth embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module of an intelligent electronic switch for vehicles and its peripheral components provided in the sixth embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of some components of a car provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0054] The terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, appearing in this application specification, claims, and drawings, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or modules is not limited to the steps or units listed, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to such process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0055] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. The electrical connections in this application include direct electrical connections and indirect electrical connections. Indirect electrical connections refer to connections where other electronic components, pins, etc., may exist between the two connected components. The "XX terminal" mentioned in this application may or may not be an actual terminal; for example, it may simply be one end of a component or one end of a wire. The "and / or" mentioned in this application includes three cases; for example, A and / or B includes A, B, and A and B.

[0056] Switches play a crucial role in controlling the on / off state of circuits and are widely used in the electrical field. Currently, switches are mainly implemented in various ways, including relays, resettable fuses, discrete switching devices, and intelligent electronic switches.

[0057] Traditionally, automotive switches are typically implemented using relays. However, with the accelerating transformation of the automotive industry towards intelligent technology, traditional relay switches, due to their limited functionality, cannot meet complex protection and diagnostic needs. Intelligent electronic switches, on the other hand, offer high reliability, flexibility, low power consumption, and are small and lightweight, making them a viable alternative to relays for driving and switching loads within the vehicle, as well as for protecting and diagnosing those loads. Therefore, intelligent electronic switches are gradually becoming the trend in switch development.

[0058] In automotive applications, intelligent electronic switches are mainly used to drive and switch loads such as headlights, valves, pumps, motors, seats, steering wheels, rearview mirrors, and door locks. They also monitor the loads for short circuits and open circuits, current and voltage during the switching process, providing protection and diagnostics for the loads. At the same time, intelligent electronic switches integrate clamping and shutdown functions, which support the energy handling capabilities of the switches. They do not require a freewheeling current recirculation path, thereby reducing design complexity, lowering battery energy consumption, and saving system costs.

[0059] In practical applications, the loads connected to and controlled by intelligent electronic switches, such as vehicle lights, valves, pumps, motors, seats, steering wheels, rearview mirrors, and door locks, are usually replaceable. However, the quality of loads of the same type can vary, and uncertified loads may pose safety hazards during use. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an automotive intelligent electronic switch to identify the safety and authenticity of loads, in order to solve the problem of safety hazards that may arise after replacing loads connected to intelligent electronic switches.

[0060] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a smart electronic switch for vehicles. During the load authentication phase, an internal authentication unit verifies the key with a key unit within the load. Upon successful key verification, the authentication unit outputs a valid verification signal. Only when an enable signal is received at the input terminal will the power switch be turned on to supply power to the load. Conversely, if key verification fails, the authentication unit outputs an invalid verification signal, causing the smart electronic switch to output a cutoff control signal and / or an alert signal. The cutoff control signal turns off the power switch, and the alert signal indicates that the load is unauthenticated. In this solution, when the smart electronic switch detects that its connected load is unauthenticated, it can either turn off the power switch connected to the load or issue an unauthenticated load alert signal. This prevents the use of unauthenticated loads and notifies the user, reducing the risk of unsafe driving or potential safety hazards caused by the smart electronic switch's inability to authenticate the load.

[0061] The technical solution of this application and how the technical solution of this application solves the above-mentioned technical problems are described in detail below with specific embodiments. These specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for a vehicle-mounted intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the first embodiment of this application. Figure 1As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 includes a power supply terminal VCC, a power ground terminal GND, an input terminal INPUT, a load output terminal OUT, a first communication connection terminal COM1, a power switch K1, a control unit 21, and an authentication unit 22.

[0063] Among them, the power supply terminal VCC and the power ground terminal GND are used to connect to the battery 10, and the power switch K1 is used to connect in series with the load 30. Its first terminal is connected to the power supply terminal VCC or the power ground terminal GND, its second terminal is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and its control terminal is connected to the control unit 21. The control unit 21 is used to control the power switch K1 to turn on or off. For example, in Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the first terminal of power switch K1 is connected to the positive terminal of battery 10. In this case, power switch K1 is connected as a high-side switch, which is a switch connected between the positive terminal of battery 10 and load 30. In other embodiments of this application, the first terminal of power switch K1 is connected to the negative terminal of battery 10, that is, power switch K1 is connected between the negative terminal of battery 10 and load 30. In this case, power switch K1 is connected as a low-side switch, which will not be described in detail here.

[0064] In this embodiment, refer to Figure 1 As shown, the input terminal INPUT is used not only to connect to the microcontroller unit (MCU) 40, but also, in the smart electronic switch 20, to the control unit 21. The control unit 21 is connected to the authentication unit 22, which is used to connect to the key unit 31 of the load 30 via the first communication connection terminal COM1. Optionally, when the smart electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication phase, the authentication unit 22 is used to perform key verification with the key unit 31.

[0065] In practical applications, there are many ways to trigger the smart electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase. For example, the smart electronic switch 20 will enter the load authentication phase when it is powered on, when the load 30 connected to the smart electronic switch 20 is replaced, or when the smart electronic switch 20 receives a load verification signal (load verification indication). It is understandable that there may be other ways to trigger the smart electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase, which can be determined according to the actual scenario, and will not be elaborated here.

[0066] For example, since the smart electronic switch 20 cannot determine whether the load connected to it has been replaced during its power-off period, to prevent the load 30 from being replaced during the power-off period when the smart electronic switch 20 is first powered on or after being powered on again, the smart electronic switch 20 will enter a load authentication phase each time it is powered on. Optionally, refer toFigure 1 As shown, a switching unit 50 is connected between the positive terminal of the battery 10 and the power supply terminal VCC. The MCU 40 can control the switching unit 50 to turn on, so that the intelligent electronic switch 20 is powered on.

[0067] It is understood that the intelligent electronic switch 20 can enter the load authentication stage immediately after power-on, or it can enter the load authentication stage within a preset time period after power-on, or after a preset time period. Furthermore, this application embodiment does not limit the value of the preset time period. For example, the intelligent electronic switch can enter the load authentication stage after power-on and self-test completion, or it can enter the load authentication stage within a preset time period after the power-on self-test completion, or it can enter the load authentication stage after a preset time period. This application does not limit the timing of entering the load authentication stage; it can be determined according to actual needs.

[0068] In one possible design of this application embodiment, the key authentication can be a one-way authentication of the smart electronic switch 20. For example, after the smart electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication stage, the authentication unit 22 generates a first random number (a randomly generated value) and sends the first random number to the key unit 31 of the load 30 through the first communication connection terminal COM1. After receiving the first random number, the key unit 31 encrypts the first random number based on its built-in encryption algorithm to generate a first verification code and feeds it back to the authentication unit 22. In this way, the authentication unit 22 verifies the authenticity of the load 30 based on the received first verification code. Optionally, the authentication unit 22 has a built-in decryption algorithm, which is a key control algorithm with the encryption algorithm built into the key unit 31. Therefore, after the authentication unit 22 decrypts the first verification code using the decryption algorithm to obtain a first decrypted number, it can determine the authenticity of the load based on whether the first decrypted number is the first random number or a related number of the first random number. Optionally, if the first decryption number is the first random number or a related number of the first random number, then load 30 is considered an authentication load; if the first decryption number is neither the first random number nor a related number of the first random number, then load 30 is considered an unauthentication load.

[0069] In another possible design of this application embodiment, key authentication can also be a two-way authentication between the smart electronic switch 20 and the load 30. For example, after the smart electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication stage, the authentication unit 22 first generates a second random number (a randomly generated value that may be the same as or different from the first random number mentioned above), and processes the second random number using a preset encryption algorithm to generate a second verification code. Then, the second verification code is sent to the key unit 31 of the load 30. After receiving the second verification code, the key unit 31 decrypts the second verification code to obtain a second decryption number, and determines whether the smart electronic switch 20 has passed the verification based on the second decryption number. Optionally, after the key unit 31 determines that the smart electronic switch 20 has passed verification, the key unit 31 can generate a third random number (a randomly generated value that may be the same as or different from at least one of the first and second random numbers mentioned above), and process the third random number using a preset encryption algorithm to generate a third verification code. This third verification code is then sent to the authentication unit 22 of the smart electronic switch 20. The authentication unit 22 decrypts the received third verification code to obtain a third decrypted number, and uses this third decrypted number to determine the authenticity of the payload 30. It is understood that in this possible design, the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 have the same root key and the same encryption / decryption algorithm pre-set; this is not limited here. This two-way authentication scheme further improves the accuracy of the key verification result.

[0070] As an example, when the key verification is successful, the authentication unit 22 outputs a valid verification signal, causing the control unit 21 to control the power switch K1 to turn on when it receives an enable signal at the input terminal INPUT, thereby supplying power to the load 30. In this example, when the authentication unit 22 successfully verifies the key for the load 30, it outputs a valid verification signal to the control unit 21. The control unit 21 can then control the on / off state of the power switch K1 based on the signal received from the microcontroller 40 at the input terminal INPUT. For example, if the control unit 21 detects an enable signal at the input terminal INPUT after receiving the valid verification signal, it will control the power switch K1 to turn on based on that enable signal, allowing the battery 10 to supply power to the load 30 through the power switch K1.

[0071] It is understood that in practical applications, after receiving the valid verification signal, the control unit 21 can also output the authentication pass information so that the microprocessor or user connected to the control unit 21 can obtain the load 30 as the authentication load. This application embodiment does not limit it.

[0072] As another example, when key verification fails, authentication unit 22 outputs a verification invalid signal. When control unit 21 receives the verification invalid signal from authentication unit 22, it outputs a cutoff control signal and / or an alert signal. The cutoff control signal is used to turn off power switch K1, and the alert signal is used to remind the user that load 30 is an unauthenticated load. In this example, when authentication unit 22 fails to verify the key of load 30, it outputs a verification invalid signal to control unit 21. Thus, regardless of whether the input terminal INPUT receives an enable / disable signal, control unit 21 controls power switch K1 to turn off or remain in the off state to prevent power supply to load 30, and / or issues an alert signal through at least one means such as voice or display screen, so that the user is promptly informed that load 30 is an unauthenticated load.

[0073] Optionally, in this embodiment, the power switch K1 can be an N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (NMOS FET), a PMOS transistor, a junction field-effect transistor (JFET), or an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), etc. The illustration uses an N-type MOS transistor as an example. In another possible design of this embodiment, the power switch K1 can also be implemented as a silicon device, or it can be implemented using other semiconductor materials, such as silicon carbide (SiC), gallium arsenide (GaAs), or gallium nitride (GaN). This application does not limit the form of the power switch K1.

[0074] Optionally, a fuse (not shown) can be connected in series between battery 10 and the power supply terminal VCC to prevent malfunctions caused by excessive current in the line. Other components can also be provided between the power ground terminal GND and the negative terminal of battery 10, such as a reverse polarity protection diode and a current-limiting resistor connected in parallel, to improve the stability of the smart electronic switch.

[0075] Optional, in Figure 1The schematic diagram does not show the connection relationship between the authentication unit 22, control unit 21, etc., and the power supply unit. However, in practical applications, a power supply unit can be installed inside the intelligent electronic switch 20. One end of the power supply unit is connected to the power supply terminal VCC, and the other end supplies power to modules such as the control unit 21 and authentication unit 22. This allows the power supply unit to step down the voltage of the power supply terminal VCC before supplying power to the authentication unit 22, control unit 21, or other circuits. In other embodiments, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may not have a power supply unit. In this case, a step-down unit needs to be installed between the power supply terminal VCC and the positive terminal of the battery 10 to reduce the voltage input to the power supply terminal VCC to the rated operating voltage of the authentication unit 22 and control unit 21, etc., so that the voltage at the power supply terminal VCC can directly power the units inside the intelligent electronic switch 20. This application does not limit this embodiment.

[0076] In the embodiments of this application, during the load authentication phase, the smart electronic switch uses the authentication unit to perform key verification with the key unit in the load. Only after the key verification is successful will the smart electronic switch control the power switch to turn on and supply power to the load when it receives the enable signal at the input terminal. If the key verification fails, the smart electronic switch controls the power switch to turn off and / or outputs an alert signal to prevent the use of unauthenticated loads and / or notify the user, thereby reducing the security risks that exist when the load connected to the smart electronic switch is an unauthenticated load.

[0077] The above embodiments provide a general overview of the intelligent electronic switch 20. The following explanations, through different embodiments, illustrate the load replacement detection, anomaly detection, and load authentication phase load power supply principles within the intelligent electronic switch 20. It is understood that the following embodiments are based on the above... Figure 1 The principles are explained based on the embodiments shown.

[0078] In one possible design, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for a vehicle-mounted intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the second embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the smart electronic switch 20 also includes a load replacement detection unit 23.

[0079] The load replacement detection unit 23 is connected to the load output terminal OUT and the control unit 21. The load replacement detection unit 23 is used to output a load replacement signal when it detects that the load 30 connected to the load output terminal OUT has been replaced. Correspondingly, when the control unit 21 receives the load replacement signal, it triggers the smart electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication stage.

[0080] In practical applications, there is a scenario where parts need to be replaced without losing vehicle power. In this case, the intelligent electronic switch 20 can be equipped with a load replacement detection unit 23, which is connected to both the load output terminal OUT and the control unit 21. Since the voltage at the load output terminal OUT changes when the load 30 connected to the intelligent electronic switch 20 is replaced, the load replacement detection unit 23 can determine whether the load 30 has been replaced by detecting this voltage change. Upon confirming that the load 30 has been replaced, it outputs a load replacement signal to the control unit 21, thus triggering the intelligent electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase.

[0081] As an example, continue to refer to Figure 2 As shown, the load replacement detection unit 23 includes a first branch and a first comparator 230. The first branch includes a first switch M1 and a first resistor R1 connected in series.

[0082] In this first branch, its first terminal is connected to the first terminal of power switch K1, its second terminal is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and the control terminal of the first switching transistor M1 is connected to the control unit 21. For example, in Figure 2 In the schematic diagram shown, the first terminal of the first switching transistor M1 is connected to the first terminal of the power switch K1, and the second terminal of the first resistor R1 is connected to the load output terminal OUT. In other embodiments, the first terminal of the first resistor R1 can be connected to the first terminal of the power switch K1, and the second terminal of the first switching transistor M1 can be connected to the load output terminal OUT. The connection method between the first branch and the power switch K1 and the load output terminal OUT can be determined according to actual needs, and will not be elaborated here.

[0083] Reference Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the first comparator 230 has its first input terminal connected to the load output terminal OUT, its second input terminal used to connect to the first voltage threshold Vth, and its output terminal and enable terminal EN both connected to the control unit 21. When the power switch K1 is in the off state, the control unit 21 controls the first switching transistor M1 to be in the on state and controls the first comparator 230 to enter the working state. The first comparator 230 outputs a first level signal when the voltage at the load output terminal OUT is greater than or equal to the first voltage threshold Vth; moreover, the control unit 21 determines that the load connected to the load output terminal OUT has been replaced when the duration of the first level signal is greater than or equal to a first preset duration.

[0084] For example, in Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the first input terminal of the first comparator 230 is a non-inverting input, and its second input terminal is an inverting input. Thus, when the load 30 is in a normal connection state, due to the voltage division effect of the load 30, the voltage at the load output terminal OUT is less than the first voltage threshold Vth, and the first comparator 230 outputs a low-level signal. When the load 30 is replaced, i.e., after the load 30 is removed, the connection between the load output terminal OUT and the power supply ground terminal GND is broken, and the voltage at the load output terminal OUT will increase, approaching the voltage at the power supply terminal VCC, which will be greater than or equal to the first voltage threshold Vth. Therefore, the first comparator 230 will output a high-level signal, i.e., the first level signal. Normally, the time required for the load to be replaced (from removal to reinstallation) is much longer than the time required for poor contact between the load and the load output terminal OUT. Therefore, to improve detection accuracy, the control unit 21 can detect the duration of the first comparator 230 continuously outputting the first level signal. Only when the duration of the first level signal is greater than or equal to a first preset duration is it determined that the load connected to the load output terminal OUT has been replaced.

[0085] In practical applications, to ensure personal safety during load replacement, personnel typically perform load replacement when power switch K1 is in the off state, and do not perform load replacement detection when power switch K1 is in the on state. Therefore, control unit 21 can control the first switch M1 to be in the off state and the first comparator 230 to be inactive when power switch K1 is in the on state, and control the first switch M1 to be in the on state and control the first comparator 230 to enter the working state when power switch K1 is in the off state. In this way, the first comparator 230 can compare the voltage of the load output terminal OUT collected at the first input terminal with the first voltage threshold Vth during operation, and output the comparison result in real time. This comparison result can reflect whether the load has been replaced, thereby improving the accuracy of load replacement detection.

[0086] In the above Figure 2 Based on the illustrated embodiment, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for a vehicle-mounted intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components, provided in the third embodiment of this application. It is understood that... Figure 3 The schematic diagram does not show the specific circuitry of the load replacement detection unit 23. For example... Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 further includes an anomaly detection unit 24. This anomaly detection unit 24 is connected to a control unit 21, which is also connected to a microcontroller 40 and a load replacement detection unit 23. The anomaly detection unit 24 outputs a load anomaly signal when an anomaly is detected in the load. Correspondingly, the control unit 21 outputs a load anomaly indication signal upon receiving the load anomaly signal and controls the load replacement detection unit 23 to perform load replacement detection. This load anomaly indication signal triggers the microcontroller 40 to lock the output shutdown signal.

[0087] Optionally, the control unit 21 is also used to trigger the smart electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication stage and output a load replacement indication signal when a load replacement signal is received. The load replacement indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller 40 to unlock.

[0088] In practical applications, the load connected to the smart electronic switch is usually not frequently replaced, and is likely to be replaced only when the load is abnormal. Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, the smart electronic switch 20 is provided with an abnormality detection unit 24. The abnormality detection unit 24 is used to detect whether the load is abnormal. Only when the load is determined to be abnormal will the load replacement detection be performed. In this way, the smart electronic switch is triggered to enter the load authentication stage only after the load is replaced. This effectively reduces the power consumption of the smart electronic switch and avoids resource waste.

[0089] For example, load anomalies typically include load short circuits and load open circuits. These load anomalies can be reflected by detecting changes in at least one parameter, such as the output current of power switch K1, the voltage at the load output terminal OUT, or the control terminal voltage of power switch K1. Therefore, in this embodiment, in addition to being connected to the control unit 21, the anomaly detection unit 24 also needs to be connected to at least one end of the power switch K1 to determine whether the load is abnormal based on the detected voltage or voltage changes.

[0090] In one possible implementation, to avoid potential safety hazards caused by abnormal loads on the vehicle, the control unit 21 can provide feedback to the microcontroller 40, so that the microcontroller 40 can lock the power switch K1 off until the abnormal load is replaced. Specifically, when the control unit 21 receives a load abnormality signal from the abnormality detection unit 24, it will send a load abnormality indication signal to the microcontroller 40. The microcontroller 40 will then stop outputting an enable signal and instead lock an output disable signal, ensuring that the power switch K1 remains off during load abnormalities. Correspondingly, after receiving a load replacement signal from the load replacement detection unit 23, the control unit 21 can also send a load replacement indication signal to the microcontroller 40, so that the microcontroller 40 can unlock and control the on / off state of the power switch K1 as needed. This further ensures the safety of the intelligent electronic switch during use.

[0091] Understandably, in one possible example, the control unit 21 can feed back load anomaly indication signals and load replacement indication signals to the microcontroller 40 via the input terminal INPUT, or via a communication connection terminal added to the smart electronic switch 20 (e.g., Figure 3 The second communication connection terminal COM2 shown in the figure feeds back the load abnormality indication signal and the load replacement indication signal to the microcontroller 40. The specific communication method between the control unit 21 and the microcontroller 40 can be determined according to the actual scenario, and will not be elaborated here.

[0092] In the above Figure 1 Based on the illustrated embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 can also enter the load authentication phase based on the instruction of the microcontroller 40. For example, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for a vehicle-mounted intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the fourth embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch further includes an anomaly detection unit 24. This anomaly detection unit 24 is connected to a control unit 21, which is also connected to a microcontroller 40. The anomaly detection unit 24 outputs a load anomaly signal when an anomaly is detected in the load 30.

[0093] Optionally, when the control unit 21 receives a load abnormality signal, it outputs a load abnormality indication signal. The load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller 40 to lock the output shutdown signal. When the control unit 21 receives a load verification signal, it enters the load authentication stage. The load verification signal is output by the microcontroller 40 after determining that the load 30 has been replaced. The microcontroller 40 is also used to release the lock on the shutdown signal after determining that the load 30 has been replaced.

[0094] In the embodiments of this application, the intelligent electronic switch 20 is provided with an abnormality detection unit 24. The abnormality detection unit 24 is used to detect whether the load is abnormal. If so, it outputs a load abnormality signal to the control unit 21, so that the control unit 21 feeds back a load abnormality indication signal to the microcontroller 40, so that the microcontroller 40 locks the output shutdown signal, thereby keeping the power switch K1 in the intelligent electronic switch 20 in the off state when the load is abnormal, until the microcontroller 40 releases the lock on the shutdown signal and resumes the normal control logic of the power switch K1.

[0095] For example, refer to Figure 4 As shown, the intelligent electronic switch 20 may include a second communication connection terminal COM2. Thus, the control unit 21 can send a load abnormality indication signal to the microcontroller 40 via the second communication connection terminal COM2, and receive a load verification signal from the microcontroller 40 via the second communication connection terminal COM2. Of course, in other embodiments of this application, the intelligent electronic switch 20 and the microcontroller 40 can also communicate via the input terminal INPUT, which is not limited here.

[0096] Optionally, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load has been replaced, it can output a load verification signal to the control unit 21 to trigger the smart electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication stage, and at the same time unlock the output of the shutdown signal.

[0097] The microcontroller 40 can determine whether the load has been replaced in various ways, such as by the smart electronic switch 20 reporting (e.g., using...). Figure 3 The load replacement detection unit 23 shown in the diagram detects the load replacement and reports it to the control unit 21 or through load reporting. As an example, the microcontroller 40 and the load 30 can communicate directly. For instance, the load has a self-powered supply, and after being replaced, it can send a load replacement signal to the microcontroller 40 so that the microcontroller 40 knows that the load has been replaced. It is understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the specific implementation method of the microcontroller 40 in determining whether the load has been replaced; it can be determined according to actual needs.

[0098] In this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch can also keep the power switch in the off state when the load is abnormal, and only enter the load authentication stage when it receives the load verification signal from the microcontroller. This can effectively reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch and avoid resource waste.

[0099] The above embodiments describe how, after the smart electronic switch enters the load authentication stage, the authentication unit 22 in the smart electronic switch 20 can perform key verification with the key unit 31 in the load 30. However, when the load 30 itself does not have a power supply, it needs to be powered to ensure that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 can communicate to achieve key verification. The following describes the implementation scheme for powering the key unit 31 through different embodiments.

[0100] In one possible implementation, the smart electronic switch 20 can supply power to the load using the on / off state of the power switch K1.

[0101] As an example, refer to Figures 1 to 4 When the intelligent electronic switch 20 shown is in the load authentication stage, the control unit 21 controls the power switch K1 to turn on to supply power to the load 30, so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 in the load 30 can perform key verification.

[0102] Optionally, the control unit 21 can store a preset duration for the load authentication phase. During this preset duration, the control unit 21 can control the power switch K1 to turn on with a first drive current, causing the current flowing through the power switch K1 and the load 30 to be a second current. This allows the key unit 31 to communicate with the authentication unit 22 to perform key verification while the load 30 is powered. It is understood that in this example, after the power switch K1 turns on, the load 30 can operate normally for a short period after the preset duration.

[0103] As another example, see Figures 1 to 4 The intelligent electronic switch 20 shown is in the load authentication stage. The control unit 21 controls the current flowing through the power switch K1 to be a first current. This first current is less than the current when the load 30 is working normally. This first current is used to turn on the key unit 31 in the load 30 so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 can perform key verification.

[0104] In this example, control unit 21 can control power switch K1 to turn on with a second drive current for a preset duration during the load authentication phase. The current flowing through power switch K1 and key unit 31 is a first current, which is less than the current during normal load operation. Therefore, in this example, key unit 31 can operate normally within the preset duration to achieve key verification with authentication unit 22. However, it cannot guarantee that other components in the load will also operate normally. This implementation not only minimizes power consumption during the load authentication phase but also prevents the load from operating during this phase, avoiding potential security risks when the load is not authenticated, thus improving the security of the load verification phase.

[0105] In another possible implementation, the smart electronic switch 20 can also supply power to the load using a set power output terminal.

[0106] As an example, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for a vehicle-mounted intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the fifth embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the smart electronic switch 20 also includes a power supply output terminal C1. One end of the power supply output terminal C1 is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal VCC, and the other end of the power supply output terminal C1 is used to connect to the key unit 31.

[0107] In one possible design, when the smart electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication phase, the power supply terminal VCC is used to supply power to the key unit 31 through the power supply output terminal C1, so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 perform key verification.

[0108] In this possible design, when the smart electronic switch 20 is powered on, the power supply output terminal C1 has a voltage output. Therefore, the smart electronic switch 20 can provide the voltage of the power supply terminal VCC to the key unit 31 of the load 30 through the power supply output terminal C1, so that the power supply circuit between the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 is connected, thus laying the foundation for the key verification between the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31.

[0109] Furthermore, in order to reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch 20, refer to Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 also includes a second switching transistor K2. The first end of the second switching transistor K2 is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal VCC, the second end is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply output terminal C1, and the control terminal is connected to the control unit 21.

[0110] When the intelligent electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the control unit 21 controls the second switch tube K2 to turn on, so that the power supply terminal VCC supplies power to the key unit 31, so that the authentication unit 22 and the key unit 31 perform key verification.

[0111] Optional, Figure 5 The example provided illustrates this by directly connecting the first terminal of the second switch K2 to the power supply terminal VCC. In practical applications, the second switch K2 can also be connected between the internal circuitry of the control unit 21 or authentication unit 22 and the power supply terminal VCC, or between the control unit 21 or authentication unit 22 and the power output terminal C1. This embodiment does not limit the connection position of the second switch K2.

[0112] As an example, the second switch K2 is connected between the authentication unit 22 and the power supply terminal VCC. At this time, the energization state of the authentication unit 22 and the power supply output terminal C1 is related to the on / off state of the second switch K2. When the second switch K2 is on, the authentication unit 22 is energized and can work normally. Correspondingly, the power supply output terminal C1 has voltage output. When the second switch K2 is off, the authentication unit 22 is not energized and cannot work normally. At this time, the power supply output terminal C1 has no voltage output.

[0113] As another example, the second switch K2 is connected between the authentication unit 22 and the power output terminal C1. In this case, the power-on state of the authentication unit 22 is independent of the on / off state of the second switch K2, while the power-on state of the power output terminal C1 is related to the on / off state of the second switch K2. When the second switch K2 is on, the voltage of the power supply terminal VCC can be output to the power output terminal C1 through the authentication unit 22, so that the power output terminal C1 has a voltage output. When the second switch K2 is off, the authentication unit 22 can be powered on, but the power output terminal C1 has no voltage output, and the key unit 31 of the load cannot work.

[0114] In this embodiment, by setting a second switch, the intelligent electronic switch can turn on the second switch when it is in the load authentication stage, and turn off the second switch at other times. This can effectively reduce the power consumption of the intelligent electronic switch and increase the power-on time of the intelligent electronic switch.

[0115] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit module for an automotive intelligent electronic switch and its peripheral components provided in the sixth embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the number of power switches K1 and load output terminals OUT are equal and multiple. Each load output terminal is connected to a corresponding power switch, and each load output terminal is also used to connect to a corresponding sub-load. The load includes multiple sub-loads.

[0116] For example, in Figure 6 In the schematic diagram shown, power switch K1 includes a first power switch K11 and a second power switch K12, and load output terminal OUT includes a first load output terminal OUT11 and a second load output terminal OUT12. Correspondingly, the load includes a first sub-load 301 and a second sub-load 302. The first sub-load 301 includes a key unit 311, and the second sub-load 302 includes a key unit 312. One end of the first load output terminal OUT11 is connected to the first power switch K11, and the other end is connected to the first sub-load 301. Similarly, one end of the second load output terminal OUT12 is connected to the second power switch K12, and the other end is connected to the second sub-load 302.

[0117] Optionally, in embodiments of this application, the authentication unit 22 is further configured to connect to the key units of multiple sub-loads via the first communication connection terminal COM1, and to perform key verification on multiple sub-loads when the smart electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage; correspondingly, the control unit 21 is further configured to control the corresponding power switch according to the key verification results of the authentication unit 22 on multiple sub-loads.

[0118] As an example, refer to Figure 6 As shown, the first communication connection terminal COM1 can be shared by multiple sub-loads. The authentication unit 22 can communicate with different sub-loads using different communication signals. Thus, when the smart electronic switch 20 is in the load authentication stage, the authentication unit 22 can communicate with the key unit 31 of the corresponding sub-load by sending or receiving different communication signals to achieve key verification.

[0119] In this embodiment, after the authentication unit 22 obtains the key verification result of the sub-load, it can transmit it to the control unit 21, so that the control unit 21 can control the state of the corresponding power switch according to the key verification results of multiple sub-loads.

[0120] It is understood that in other embodiments of this application, the smart electronic switch may also be provided with multiple first communication connection terminals, each of which can be connected to at least one sub-load, so that the authentication unit 22 can communicate with the key unit of the corresponding sub-load through multiple first communication connection terminals. The embodiments of this application do not limit the number of first communication connection terminals, nor do they limit the number of input terminals, the number of power switches, or the number of load output terminals OUT included in the smart electronic switch; these can all be determined according to actual needs, and will not be elaborated here.

[0121] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, this application also provides an integrated circuit chip, which includes the automotive smart electronic switch 20 in the above embodiments. That is, the smart electronic switch 20 can be fabricated on the same semiconductor substrate. The power supply terminal VCC is the power supply pin, the power ground terminal GND is the power ground pin, and the load output terminal OUT is the load output pin.

[0122] Optionally, other embodiments of this application also provide a chip product, which may include the above-mentioned automotive smart electronic switch 20, wherein the components of the smart electronic switch 20 other than the power switch K1 (e.g., control unit 21, authentication unit 22, etc.) are located on the first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch K1 is located on the second integrated circuit chip. That is, the first integrated circuit chip is fabricated on one semiconductor substrate, and the second integrated circuit chip is fabricated on another semiconductor substrate.

[0123] In this design, the power supply pin VCC is the power supply pin, the ground pin GND is the power ground pin, and the load output pin OUT is the load output pin. The power supply pin and the power ground pin are located on the first integrated circuit chip, while the load output pin is located on the second integrated circuit chip. Additionally, the first integrated circuit chip includes other pins, such as input pins, communication pins, and power output pins, and the second integrated circuit chip includes other pins, such as communication pins and power interface pins. It is understood that the first and second integrated circuit chips can add other pins, omit related pins, or combine related pins as needed. Here, the first and second integrated circuit chips are packaged into a single product.

[0124] In addition, other embodiments of this application also provide a vehicle, which can be an electric vehicle, such as an electric passenger vehicle or an electric commercial vehicle, or a hybrid vehicle or a gasoline-powered vehicle. For example, Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating some components of a car provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the vehicle includes a battery 10, a load 30, a microcontroller 40, and a smart electronic switch 20. The positive terminal of the battery 10 is connected to the power supply terminal VCC, and the negative terminal of the battery 10 is connected to the power ground terminal GND. One end of the load 30 is connected to the load output terminal OUT, and the other end of the load 30 is connected to either the power ground terminal GND or the power supply terminal VCC.

[0125] The battery 10 is typically a rechargeable battery, providing voltages such as 12V, 24V, and 48V, but other types of batteries are also possible. The load 30 includes at least one of resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads. Resistive loads include, for example, seat adjustment devices, auxiliary heating devices, window heating devices, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), rear lighting, or other resistive loads. Inductive loads include, for example, pumps, actuators, motors, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic braking systems (EBS), fans, or other systems that include inductive loads for one or more wiper systems. Capacitive loads include, for example, lighting elements such as xenon arc lamps.

[0126] In this embodiment, the load 30 includes a key unit 31, which is connected to the authentication unit 22 of the smart electronic switch 20. The microcontroller 40 is connected to the control unit 21 of the smart electronic switch 20. The microcontroller 40 is used to control the smart electronic switch 20. At the same time, the smart electronic switch 20 feeds back its status and related parameter information to the microcontroller 40, such as diagnostic related parameter information, anomaly detection results, load replacement detection results, key authentication results for the load, etc., for the microcontroller 40 to process.

[0127] Optionally, in one possible design of this application embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 outputs a load abnormality indication signal when it detects an abnormality in the connected load. Upon receiving the load abnormality indication signal, the microcontroller 40 powers off the intelligent electronic switch 20, for example, by controlling the switch unit 50 connected between the positive terminal of the battery 20 and the power supply terminal VCC to turn off. In this possible design, when the microcontroller 40 detects a load abnormality, it can directly power off the intelligent electronic switch 20, suspending the use of the intelligent electronic switch 20 and the load 30, thereby avoiding safety hazards caused by the abnormal load during use.

[0128] Optionally, in another possible design of this application embodiment, the intelligent electronic switch 20 outputs a load abnormality indication signal when it detects an abnormality in the connected load. After receiving the load abnormality indication signal, the microcontroller 40 locks the output shutdown signal to keep the power switch K1 off. In this possible design, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load is abnormal, it may not power down the intelligent electronic switch 20, but instead keep the switching unit 50 connected between the positive terminal of the battery 10 and the power supply terminal VCC in the on-conducting state, so that the battery 10 continues to supply power to the intelligent electronic switch 20. However, in order to avoid safety hazards caused by abnormal loads during use, the microcontroller 40 may lock the output shutdown signal to keep the power switch K1 in the off-state.

[0129] For example, in a possible design where the microcontroller 40 powers off the smart electronic switch 20 after determining a load anomaly, as an example, the microcontroller 40 powers on the smart electronic switch 20 upon receiving a load replacement signal. After powering on, the smart electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the load is replaced. For instance, after replacing the load following a power outage of the smart electronic switch 20, a relevant person (e.g., a maintenance worker or user) can send a load replacement signal to the microcontroller 40 via, but not limited to, voice commands, remote control, key, or button, causing the microcontroller 40 to power on the smart electronic switch 20 and trigger it to enter the load authentication phase.

[0130] Optionally, in a design where the microcontroller 40, after determining a load anomaly, does not power down the smart electronic switch 20 but instead locks the output of a shutdown signal to the smart electronic switch 20, as an example, the microcontroller 40, upon receiving a load replacement signal, unlocks the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the smart electronic switch 20, causing the smart electronic switch 20 to enter the load authentication phase. This load replacement signal is triggered after the abnormal load is replaced. In this example, the abnormal load can be replaced when the smart electronic switch 20 is powered on. After replacing the abnormal load, a person can send a load replacement signal to the microcontroller 40 via, but not limited to, voice commands, remote control, key, or buttons, causing the microcontroller 40 to unlock the shutdown signal and output a load verification signal to the smart electronic switch, triggering the smart electronic switch to enter the load authentication phase.

[0131] Optional, refer to Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, the load 30 further includes a first power supply 32, which is used to supply power to the load 30. The load 30 is also connected to the microcontroller 40. The load 30 is used to output load connection information to the microcontroller 40 when it is connected to the smart electronic switch 20, so that the microcontroller 40 can determine whether it is a new load based on the received load connection information and perform corresponding operations according to the determination result.

[0132] Specifically, the first power supply 32 built into the load 30 can ensure its own operation and communication with other components. Therefore, when the load 30 detects that it is connected to the smart electronic switch 20, it can feed back load connection information to the microcontroller 40. This load connection information may include load identifiers, etc. After receiving the load connection information, the microcontroller 40 can determine whether the load 30 is a new load based on the load identifier and obtain the determination result.

[0133] Optionally, in the possible design of powering down the intelligent electronic switch 20 after the microcontroller 40 determines an abnormal load, refer to... Figure 7 As shown, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load reporting the load connection information is a new load, the microcontroller 40 powers on the smart electronic switch 20, and the smart electronic switch 20 enters the load authentication stage after being powered on.

[0134] Optionally, in a design where the microcontroller 40 does not power down the smart electronic switch 20 after determining that the load is abnormal, but instead locks the output of the shutdown signal to the smart electronic switch 20, when the microcontroller 40 determines that the load reporting the load connection information is a new load, the microcontroller 40 can release the lock on the shutdown signal and output a load verification signal to the smart electronic switch 20, so that the smart electronic switch 20 can enter the load authentication stage.

[0135] In the embodiments of this application, the load has a built-in power supply, which can actively report the load connection information after replacement so that the microcontroller can verify the new and old loads. If the smart electronic switch is still connected to the old load, no processing is performed. The smart electronic switch is only powered on or unlocked when the newly connected load is a new load. This can avoid the problem of abnormal loads continuing to be used, and can also effectively reduce the power consumption of the smart electronic switch and improve the authentication efficiency.

[0136] Other embodiments of this application will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the application disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this application are indicated by the following claims.

[0137] It should be understood that this application is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A smart electronic switch for automobiles, characterized in that, include: Power supply terminal, power ground terminal, input terminal, load output terminal, first communication connection terminal, power switch, control unit and authentication unit; The power supply terminal and the power ground terminal are used to connect to the battery. The power switch is used to connect in series with the load. Its first terminal is connected to the power supply terminal or the power ground terminal, its second terminal is connected to the load output terminal, and its control terminal is connected to the control unit. The control unit is used to control the power switch to turn on or off. The input terminal is connected to the control unit, the control unit is connected to the authentication unit, and the authentication unit is used to connect to the key unit of the payload through the first communication connection terminal; When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the authentication unit performs key verification with the key unit. When the key verification is successful, the authentication unit outputs a valid verification signal, so that the control unit controls the power switch to turn on and supply power to the load when it receives an enable signal at the input terminal. When the key verification fails, the authentication unit outputs an invalid verification signal. When the control unit receives the invalid verification signal from the authentication unit, it outputs a cut-off control signal and / or a reminder signal. The cut-off control signal is used to turn off the power switch, and the reminder signal is used to remind the load that it is an unauthenticated load.

2. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intelligent electronic switch enters the load authentication phase every time it is powered on.

3. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an anomaly detection unit; The anomaly detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the control unit is also used to connect to the microcontroller. The anomaly detection unit is used to output a load anomaly signal when an anomaly is detected in the load. When the control unit receives the load abnormality signal, it outputs a load abnormality indication signal. The load abnormality indication signal is used to trigger the microcontroller to lock the output shutdown signal. When the control unit receives the load verification signal, it enters the load authentication stage. The load verification signal is output by the microcontroller after determining that the load has been replaced. The microcontroller is also used to unlock the shutdown signal output after determining that the load has been replaced.

4. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the control unit controls the power switch to turn on to supply power to the load, so that the authentication unit and the key unit in the load can perform key verification.

5. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the control unit controls the current flowing through the power switch to a first current, which is less than the current when the load is operating normally. The first current is used to turn on the key unit within the load so that the authentication unit can perform key verification with the key unit.

6. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It also includes a power supply output terminal, one end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal, and the other end of which is used to connect to the key unit; When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the power supply terminal is used to supply power to the key unit through the power supply output terminal, so that the authentication unit and the key unit can perform key verification.

7. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a second switching transistor, the first end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power supply terminal, the second end of which is directly or indirectly connected to the power output terminal, and the control terminal of which is connected to the control unit. When the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication phase, the control unit controls the second switch tube to turn on, so that the power supply terminal supplies power to the key unit, so that the authentication unit and the key unit perform key verification.

8. The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of power switches and load output terminals are equal and there are multiple of them. Each load output terminal is connected to a power switch. Each load output terminal is also used to connect to a corresponding sub-load. The load includes multiple sub-loads. The authentication unit is also used to connect to the key unit of multiple sub-loads through the first communication connection terminal, and to perform key verification on multiple sub-loads when the smart electronic switch is in the load authentication stage; The control unit is also used to control the corresponding power switches based on the key verification results of the authentication unit for multiple sub-loads.

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

10. A chip product, characterized in that, The intelligent electronic switch for vehicles as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the components of the intelligent electronic switch other than the power switch are located on a first integrated circuit chip, and the power switch is located on a second integrated circuit chip; Wherein, the power supply terminal is a power supply pin, the power ground terminal is a power ground pin, the input terminal is an input pin, the load output terminal is a load output pin, and the communication connection terminal is a communication connection pin. The power supply pin, the power ground pin, the input pin, and the communication connection pin are all located on the first integrated circuit chip, and the load output pin is located on the second integrated circuit chip.

11. A car, characterized in that, Including the intelligent electronic switch for vehicles as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, or the integrated circuit chip as described in claim 9, or the chip product as described in claim 10; It also includes a battery, a load, and a microcontroller, wherein the positive terminal of the battery is connected to the power supply terminal, the negative terminal of the battery is connected to the power supply ground terminal, one end of the load is connected to the load output terminal, and the other end of the load is connected to the power supply ground terminal or the power supply terminal. The load includes a key unit connected to the authentication unit of the smart electronic switch, and the microcontroller connected to the control unit of the smart electronic switch.

12. The automobile according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the intelligent electronic switch detects an abnormal load, it outputs a load abnormality indication signal. Upon receiving the load abnormality indication signal, the microcontroller powers off the intelligent electronic switch. When the microcontroller receives a load replacement signal, it powers on the smart electronic switch. After power-on, the smart electronic switch enters the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the load is replaced; or... The load also includes a first power supply for supplying power to the load. The load is also connected to the microcontroller. When the load is connected to the smart electronic switch, it outputs load connection information to the microcontroller. The microcontroller determines whether the load is a new load based on the received load connection information. If the determination result is yes, it powers on the smart electronic switch. After the smart electronic switch is powered on, it enters the load authentication stage.

13. The automobile according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the intelligent electronic switch detects an abnormal load, it outputs a load abnormality indication signal. After receiving the load abnormality indication signal, the microcontroller locks the output shutdown signal to keep the power switch off. Upon receiving a load replacement signal, the microcontroller unlocks the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the intelligent electronic switch, enabling the intelligent electronic switch to enter the load authentication phase. The load replacement signal is triggered after the abnormal load is replaced; or... The load also includes a first power supply for supplying power to the load. The load is also connected to the microcontroller. When the load is connected to the smart electronic switch, it outputs load connection information to the microcontroller. The microcontroller determines whether the received load connection information is a new load. If the determination result is yes, it unlocks the output of the shutdown signal and outputs a load verification signal to the smart electronic switch so that the smart electronic switch enters the load authentication stage.

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

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