Individualized detection smart high voltage interlock loop with connector connectivity

Abstract

The technology disclosed herein enables a detector of a high voltage interlock loop to determine the connectivity of high voltage connectors on an individual basis. In a particular example, an apparatus includes a loop current source configured to transmit a loop current for a high voltage interlock loop. The apparatus also includes a first jumper current source connected to the high voltage interlock loop in parallel with a first jumper of a first high voltage connector. The apparatus also includes a second jumper current source connected to the high voltage interlock loop in parallel with a second jumper of a second high voltage connector after the first jumper current source. Additionally, the apparatus includes a detector configured to determine the connectivity of the two high voltage connectors based on whether the loop current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current is received by the detector.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] High-voltage interlock circuits work in conjunction with high-voltage connectors to enhance safety in electrical systems. High-voltage interlock circuits ensure that safety conditions (such as correctly positioned high-voltage connectors) are met before high-voltage equipment is energized. When integrated with high-voltage connectors, high-voltage interlock circuits typically combine low-voltage circuit jumpers and interlocking mechanisms that engage with the connector to create the circuitry necessary to activate the high-voltage system. For example, high-voltage connectors may include features such as alignment notches, keying mechanisms, and jumpers. The high-voltage interlock circuit system utilizes these features to verify that the connector is correctly aligned and securely engaged. If misalignment is present or the connector is not properly engaged, the high-voltage interlock circuit remains open, preventing the completion of the interlock circuitry and thus preventing the activation of the high-voltage equipment.

[0002] This integration ensures that the high-voltage system can only be energized when the connectors are correctly aligned and securely connected, minimizing the risk of electrical accidents, equipment damage, or other safety hazards associated with incorrect connections in high-voltage applications. High-voltage interlock circuits act as fault protection mechanisms to enhance the overall safety and reliability of electrical systems. While previously limited primarily to industrial / commercial applications, the use of high-voltage interlock circuits in the consumer sector is increasing with the growing popularity of electric vehicles. High-voltage electrical systems typically used to power electric vehicles will also benefit from the increased safety provided by high-voltage interlock circuits. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technology disclosed herein enables a detector for a high-voltage interlocked circuit to determine the connectivity of a high-voltage connector on an individual basis. In a specific example, the device includes a loop current source configured to transmit a loop current for the high-voltage interlocked circuit. The device also includes a first jumper current source connected in parallel with a first jumper of the first high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlocked circuit. The first jumper current source is configured to transmit a first jumper current lower than the loop current. The device also includes a second jumper current source connected in parallel with a second jumper of the second high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlocked circuit, following the first jumper current source. The second jumper current source is configured to transmit a second jumper current lower than the first jumper current. Additionally, the device includes a detector connected to the high-voltage interlocked circuit following the second jumper current source. The detector is configured to determine the connectivity of the first and second high-voltage connectors based on whether the loop current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current is received by the detector. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Figure 1 The illustration shows the implementation of an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit for individualized detection of connector connectivity.

[0005] Figure 2The diagram illustrates the operation of detecting the connectivity of individual connectors using a smart high-voltage interlock circuit.

[0006] Figure 3 The illustration shows an operational scenario for detecting the connectivity of individual connectors using an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit.

[0007] Figure 4 The illustration shows an operational scenario for detecting the connectivity of individual connectors using an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit.

[0008] Figure 5 The illustration shows an operational scenario for detecting the connectivity of individual connectors using an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit.

[0009] Figure 6 The illustration shows an operational scenario for detecting the connectivity of individual connectors using an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit.

[0010] Figure 7 The illustration shows the implementation of a detector in a smart high-voltage interlock circuit for individualized detection of connector connectivity.

[0011] Figure 8 The illustration shows the implementation of an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit for individualized detection of connector connectivity in a vehicle.

[0012] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates a computational system used to detect the connectivity of individual connectors using a smart high-voltage interlock circuit. Detailed Implementation

[0013] A high-voltage interlock circuit is an electrical circuit that is complete when all high-voltage connectors on the circuit are correctly connected. The circuitry for a high-voltage interlock circuit operates at a lower current and voltage level than the high-voltage circuit to which the connector is to be connected. This lower current and voltage level is much safer for human users than the high-voltage circuit, allowing the high-voltage interlock circuit to be powered even when one or more connectors are not connected. Each high-voltage connector includes high-voltage contacts for connecting to the high-voltage electrical circuit and low-voltage contacts for connecting to the high-voltage interlock circuit. A jumper wire passing through the connector carries the high-voltage interlock circuit current through the connector. If the high-voltage connector is not properly seated, the jumper wire contacts will not allow current to flow through the connector. The high-voltage interlock circuit will not be completed, and the high-voltage interlock circuit's detector will identify that the connector is not properly seated based on the absence of current.

[0014] If multiple connectors are on the same high-voltage interlock circuit, one or more of the connectors may not be properly connected when the detector does not detect current. Even if one connector is missing or not properly positioned to connect the jumper contact to the high-voltage interlock circuit, the circuit of the high-voltage interlock circuit will be broken. This broken circuit allows the high-voltage interlock circuit to trigger a power cut-off of the high-voltage circuit for safety reasons, but it does not allow the high-voltage interlock circuit to identify where the broken circuit occurred. The high-voltage interlock circuit described below uses additional current sources to bypass the jumper when not connected. By detecting the current from those additional current sources, the detector of the high-voltage interlock circuit can identify which specific connector is not connected. In some examples, the user can be informed about that specific connector, rather than the user having to individually check each connector to find the one that is not properly positioned.

[0015] Figure 1 The illustration depicts an implementation 100 of an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit for individualized detection of connector connectivity. Implementation 100 includes a high-voltage interlock circuit 104 and a high-voltage bus 105, with high-voltage components 102 and 103 connected to the high-voltage bus 105. When the bus-side connector 106A and component-side connector 106B are correctly positioned, high-voltage component 102 is connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 and the high-voltage bus 105 via bus-side connectors 106A and 106B (collectively referred to as high-voltage connector 106). Similarly, when the bus-side connector 107A and component-side connector 107B are correctly positioned, high-voltage component 103 is connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 and the high-voltage bus 105 via bus-side connectors 107A and 107B (collectively referred to as high-voltage connector 107). As shown, each of high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 includes contacts for connecting to the positive and negative buses of the high-voltage bus 105. High-voltage connector 106 includes contacts for jumper 121 (which is a jumper within component-side connector 106B) to connect to high-voltage interlock circuit 104. High-voltage connector 107 includes contacts for jumper 122 (which is a jumper within component-side connector 106B) to connect to high-voltage interlock circuit 104. Depending on the manufacturer, application, or other considerations, high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 can have many different shapes and sizes.

[0016] High-voltage components 102 and 103 are any type of electrical components that draw power from or supply power to the high-voltage bus 105. Examples of electrical components that can be connected to the high-voltage bus 105 include inverters, power supplies, batteries, or other types of high-voltage equipment. If either or both of high-voltage components 102 and 103 are not properly connected to the high-voltage bus 105, the component may fail to function correctly, and if the high-voltage bus 105 is powered, it may pose a safety risk. For example, powering the high-voltage bus 105 with a missing or improperly positioned connector could expose a user to a dangerous electric shock, or could cause excessive heat buildup at the connection point, potentially leading to a fire or other damage.

[0017] A current source 111 supplies current to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104. The current from the current source 111 is referred to as the loop current in this example because, if all connectors are correctly positioned, the loop current will reach the detector 101 of the high-voltage interlock circuit 104. That is, the loop current will flow from the current source 111 through jumpers 121 and 122 into the detector 101. The detector 101 is connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 so that it can determine whether the loop current has reached the detector. If the loop current does not reach the detector 101, then one or more of the high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 are disconnected. In this example, instead of transmitting the loop current at a constant voltage, a waveform generator 114 feeds a voltage waveform to the current source 111. Even if current is received, if the waveform is not received by the detector 101, then the detector 101 can determine that there is another problem in the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 or the connectors connected to it. Therefore, using a waveform provides additional fault protection for the high-voltage interlock circuit 104.

[0018] In a typical high-voltage interlocked circuit configuration, disconnecting one or both of high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 will disconnect the circuit of high-voltage interlocked circuit 104. Detector 101 will not receive loop current on the disconnected circuit. However, in this example, current source 112 is connected in parallel with jumper 121 to high-voltage interlocked circuit 104, and current source 113 is connected in parallel with jumper 122. Given that current flows proportionally to the resistance in the parallel path, the effect of current sources 112 and 113 on the current flowing through jumpers 121 and 122 is negligible when high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 are connected. Jumpers 121 and 122 have extremely low resistance due to the inherent resistance of the wires. In contrast, the current sources have significantly higher resistance (e.g., infinite resistance could be used for modeling purposes), such that the vast majority of the current will still flow through jumpers 121 and 122. Since current sources 112 and 113 will receive almost no current, they will not be adequately powered to generate their own current. If high-voltage connector 106 or 107 is disconnected, preventing loop current from flowing through either jumper 121 or 122, then loop current will flow through current source 112 or 113. Current source 112 or 113 will then be powered to generate its own current and transmit it to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104. As described in detail below, detector 101 detects these different currents to determine which of high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 is disconnected from the high-voltage interlock circuit 104.

[0019] Figure 2 The illustration depicts operation 200 of detecting the connectivity of an individual connector using a smart high-voltage interlock circuit. In operation 200, current source 111 transfers loop current to high-voltage interlock circuit 104 (step 201). The loop current can be constant or influenced by the voltage waveform input from waveform generator 114 to current source 111. The loop current is relatively low (e.g., on the order of tens of milliamps) compared to the current that high-voltage bus 105 can provide. Similarly, the voltage provided by waveform generator 114 can be capped at a relatively low voltage (e.g., 12 volts). The low current and low voltage result in low power transfer on high-voltage interlock circuit 104, which is safer than the power typically transferred on high-voltage bus 105.

[0020] Current source 112 is connected to high-voltage interlock circuit 104 after current source 111 in the path of the loop current. Current source 112 transmits the first jumper current to high-voltage interlock circuit 104 (step 202). As described above, current source 112 is powered only if continuity through jumper 121 exists, which forces the loop current through current source 112. The first jumper current is lower than the loop current in order to distinguish the first jumper current from the loop current. Although a higher current can also distinguish the first jumper current, if the loop current powers current source 112, the current will inherently be less than the loop current.

[0021] Similar to current source 112, current source 113 connects to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 after jumper 121 and current source 112 in the path of the loop current. Current source 113 transmits the second jumper current to the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 (step 203). Current source 113 is only powered if continuity through jumper 122 is maintained. Given the location of current source 113 on the high-voltage interlock circuit 104, depending on whether high-voltage connector 106 is connected, the current received by current source 113 can be either the loop current or the first jumper current from current source 112. The second jumper current is lower than both the loop current and the first jumper current to distinguish it from both. The second jumper current will not be higher than the first jumper current because if the first jumper current powers current source 113, the second jumper current will inherently be less than the first jumper current.

[0022] Detector 101 is located at the end of the high-voltage interlock loop 104 to receive current (if any) arriving at detector 101. Detector 101 measures the received current and determines the connectivity of high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 based on the received current (step 204). If detector 101 receives loop current, detector 101 determines that both high-voltage components 102 and 103 are connected via their respective high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 (step 205). The loop current is delivered to detector 101 via jumpers 121 and 122, while current sources 112 and 113 do not receive sufficient power to provide their respective jumper currents. The path of the loop current for this scenario is shown in implementation 100.

[0023] If detector 101 receives a first jumper current, it determines that high-voltage component 102 is disconnected via high-voltage connector 106 (step 206). When high-voltage connector 106 is not connected, the loop current cannot flow through jumper 121 and instead powers current source 112. This scenario is described in the following operational scenario 300. If detector 101 receives a second jumper current, it determines that at least high-voltage component 103 is disconnected (step 207). Since either the loop current or the first jumper current can power current source 113, receiving a second jumper current at least indicates that high-voltage connector 107 lacks connectivity via jumper 122, but could also indicate that high-voltage connector 106 lacks connectivity via jumper 121. These scenarios are described in the following operational scenarios 400-600.

[0024] If detector 101 does not receive any current, detector 101 can determine that it is not functioning properly. For example, the wires in the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 may be disconnected before, between, or after high-voltage connectors 106 and 107. It should also be understood that although operation 200 is described in the context of the steps, nothing needs to happen in any particular order. Current sources 111-113 provide their respective currents when powered, and detector 101 detects any current arriving at detector 101.

[0025] Figure 3 The illustration depicts an operational scenario 300 where a smart high-voltage interlock circuit is used to detect the connectivity of individual connectors. In operational scenario 300, high-voltage connector 106 is disconnected, with the contacts of bus-side connector 106A and component-side connector 106B separated. Therefore, loop current cannot travel through jumper 121. Instead, the loop current travels to current source 112, powering it to generate a first jumper current. Since high-voltage connector 107 remains connected in this example, the first jumper current travels through jumper 122 and does not power current source 113. Therefore, the first jumper current reaches detector 101. Detector 101 detects the first jumper current and determines that high-voltage connector 106 lacks connectivity, indicating that high-voltage component 102 is disconnected. Since the loop current powering current source 112 in this example includes a voltage waveform from waveform generator 114, the waveform is present in the first jumper current. In this scenario and the scenarios below, detector 101 also detects the waveform to ensure that high-voltage interlock circuit 104 is functioning correctly.

[0026] Figure 4The illustration depicts an operational scenario 500 where a smart high-voltage interlock loop is used to detect the connectivity of individual connectors. In operational scenario 500, high-voltage connector 107 is disconnected, with the contacts of bus-side connector 107A and component-side connector 107B separated. High-voltage connector 106 is connected. Therefore, loop current travels through jumper 121 and does not power current source 112, but subsequently cannot travel through jumper 122. Instead, loop current travels to current source 113, powering it to generate a second jumper current. This second jumper current is thus the current reaching detector 101. Detector 101 detects the second jumper current and determines that at least high-voltage connector 107 lacks connectivity, indicating that high-voltage component 103 is disconnected. However, since current source 113 is the last current source before reaching detector 101, the current powering current source 113 could be either loop current (as shown in this example) or the first jumper current (as shown in operational scenario 500). Therefore, at this point, detector 101 only knows that high-voltage connector 107 is disconnected.

[0027] Figure 5 The illustration depicts an operational scenario 500 where a smart high-voltage interlock loop is used to detect the connectivity of individual connectors. In operational scenario 500, high-voltage connector 106 is disconnected (as in operational scenario 300), and high-voltage connector 107 is disconnected (as in operational scenario 400). Therefore, current cannot flow through either jumper 121 or jumper 122. The loop current first travels to current source 112 to power it, generating a first jumper current. Then, the first jumper current travels to current source 113 to power it, generating a second jumper current. The second jumper current is received by detector 101, as in operational scenario 400. Detector 101 cannot distinguish the difference between the second jumper current received in operational scenario 400 and the second jumper current received in operational scenario 500. Therefore, detector 101 cannot determine whether high-voltage connector 106 is also disconnected, in addition to high-voltage connector 107.

[0028] Figure 6The illustration depicts an operational scenario 600 for detecting the connectivity of individual connectors using a smart high-voltage interlock loop. In operational scenario 600, after detector 101 detects a second jumper current, a temporary jumper 601 is placed in parallel with current source 113. The temporary jumper 601 can be a switch (e.g., a relay) that closes when receiving a signal from detector 101, or detector 101 can trigger the placement of the temporary jumper 601 in some other way. The temporary jumper 601 has negligible resistance, as has jumper 122 when high-voltage connector 107 is connected. Therefore, any current previously received by current source 113 now flows through temporary jumper 601 and does not power current source 113 to generate the first jumper current. In this example, since the loop current powers current source 112, the first jumper current generated by current source 112 flows through temporary jumper 601 and enters detector 101. Detector 101 detects the first jumper current and determines that high-voltage connector 106 is disconnected along with the previously determined high-voltage connector 107.

[0029] Alternatively, if high-voltage connector 106 is connected, the loop current will pass through jumper 121 and will not power current source 112. Therefore, the loop current will be the current that passes through temporary jumper 601 and enters detector 101. After detector 101 detects the loop current, detector 101 determines that high-voltage connector 106 is connected, which is different from the previously determined high-voltage connector 107.

[0030] While the example above connects only two high-voltage components to the high-voltage bus 105, in other examples additional components may be connected to the high-voltage bus and included in the high-voltage interlock loop 104. Such an example is described below with reference to implementation 800.

[0031] Figure 7An implementation 700 of a detector in a smart high-voltage interlocked loop for individualized detection of connector connectivity is illustrated. Implementation 700 includes an example of a detector 101. Detector 101 includes components that function as a current-to-voltage converter to convert current received on the high-voltage interlocked loop 104 into voltage. The voltage is measured, and then the circuit system 703 calculates the received current based on it. Specifically, detector 101 includes a resistor 701 having a resistance known to circuit system 703 and a voltmeter 702 connected to circuit system 703. Circuit system 703 includes a processing circuit system. The processing circuit system may be hard-coded to operate as described herein, or circuit system 703 may include a memory circuit system on which instructions are stored, instructing the processing circuit system to operate as described herein. Voltmeter 702 measures the voltage across resistor 701 and provides the measured voltage to circuit system 703. Circuit system 703 divides the voltage measurement by the resistance of resistor 701 to determine the current. The output current of current sources 111-113 is also known to circuit system 703, allowing circuit system 703 to compare this current with the output current to determine which current has been received. In the example where waveform generator 114 is present, the waveform provided by waveform generator 114 will also exist in the voltage. Although detector 101 includes a basic current-to-voltage converter using resistor 701, detector 101 can use other mechanisms to determine the current received at detector 101. Most of these mechanisms will create a voltage that can be measured, like the voltage across resistor 701 described above, and the current will be calculated from it. However, the current can be measured directly or calculated from other measurements. Additionally, voltmeter 702 is shown separately from circuit system 703, but the circuit system (and possibly resistor 701 itself) used to measure the voltage across resistor 701 can be included in circuit system 703.

[0032] In implementation 700, circuit system 703 notifies an external system of a determination made regarding the received current. Specifically, circuit system 703 may notify the external system of the connectivity of high-voltage connectors 106 and 107 (or the corresponding high-voltage components 102 and 103). If detector 101 does not receive current or a waveform, circuit system 703 may default to indicating no connection for safety reasons (i.e., the high-voltage interlock circuit 104 is faulty, and circuit system 703 may be configured not to take any safety risks). The external system may notify the user of the connectivity, allowing the user to take action to rectify the problem (e.g., connect the connectors or locate / install the missing high-voltage component). The external system may also be able to perform actions independently. For example, the external system may operate the system differently based on one or more components being disconnected (where high-voltage components 102 and 103 are installed). In some examples, the external system may be part of an automated manufacturing system. Information from circuit system 703 can be used to determine which high-voltage components have been installed in the article being manufactured (e.g., a vehicle) and whether the components have been installed correctly. For example, the manufacturing system may assume that the high-voltage component 102 has been installed, but the detector 101 can still detect a first jumper current indicating that the component-side connector 106B may not be correctly positioned in the bus-side connector 106A. In some examples, the circuit system 703 may directly control whether the high-voltage bus 105 is powered, or an external system may control the power to the high-voltage bus 105 based on connectivity information received from the circuit system 703.

[0033] Figure 8The illustration shows an implementation 800 of a smart high-voltage interlock circuit for individualized detection of connector connectivity in a vehicle. Implementation 800 shows an example of a high-voltage interlock circuit installed in a vehicle. Specifically, a current source 811 is installed in a vehicle 831, which is a vehicle with a high-voltage electric propulsion system. Vehicle 831 can be fully electric or a hybrid vehicle that also has an internal combustion engine. Vehicle 831 includes a photovoltaic module 802, a traction inverter 803, a battery charger 804, and a DC / DC converter 805, which are connected to a high-voltage bus 808 via their respective high-voltage connectors. The high-voltage bus 808 carries high-voltage direct current (DC) power to and from a high-voltage battery pack (not shown). The photovoltaic module 802 connects photovoltaic cells to the high-voltage bus 808, providing power from the battery to the high-voltage bus 808 (i.e., stored in the battery pack or used by other components). The traction inverter 803 receives power from the high-voltage bus 808 to power an electric motor used to propel vehicle 831. In some examples, when the motor is used as a generator to slow down vehicle 831, battery charger 804 can also return power to high-voltage bus 808. Battery charger 804 converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and supplies DC to high-voltage bus 808 to charge the battery pack. DC / DC converter 805 converts the high-voltage power from high-voltage bus 808 to low-voltage power (e.g., 12 volts) typically used in automotive applications. Other vehicles may include a different number or type of components than those shown in this example.

[0034] A high-voltage interlock circuit 807 is installed in vehicle 831 to ensure proper connection between high-voltage components 802-805 and high-voltage bus 808. When each of components 802-805 is properly connected to high-voltage bus 808 via its respective connector, the loop current supplied by current source 811 will flow unimpeded through the connector and reach detector 801. As in the example above, current source 811 is powered by a waveform generated via waveform generator 816. In this example, current sources 812-815 are connected in parallel with each jumper of the connector for high-voltage components 802-805. When powered, the current generated by current source 812 is lower than the loop current, the current generated by current source 813 is lower than the current generated by current source 812, the current generated by current source 814 is lower than the current generated by current source 813, and the current generated by current source 815 is lower than the current generated by current source 815. This successively lower current is necessary for the same reason that the first jumper current is lower than the loop current and the second jumper current is lower than the first jumper current in the example above.

[0035] In the example, current source 811 can generate 40 mA, current source 812 can generate 36 mA, current source 813 can generate 32 mA, current source 814 can generate 28 mA, and current source 815 can generate 24 mA. When detector 801 detects 40 mA, detector 801 determines that all high-voltage components 802-805 are correctly connected. When detector 801 detects 36 mA, detector 801 determines that photovoltaic module 802 is disconnected. When detector 801 detects 32 mA, detector 801 determines that at least traction inverter 803 is disconnected, but photovoltaic module 802 can also be disconnected because current source 813 can be powered by loop current or the 36 mA current from current source 812. Similarly, when detector 801 detects 28 mA, detector 801 determines that at least battery charger 804 is disconnected, but traction inverter 803 and photovoltaic module 802 may also be disconnected; and when detector 801 detects 24 mA, detector 801 determines that at least DC / DC converter 805 is disconnected, but battery charger 804, traction inverter 803 and photovoltaic module 802 may also be disconnected.

[0036] Given the ambiguity when detector 801 detects a current different from 40 mA or 36 mA, detector 801 can use a temporary jumper similar to the temporary jumper 601 discussed above to determine whether other high-voltage components are also disconnected. For example, when detector 801 detects 28 mA, it can trigger a temporary jumper that bypasses the current source 814 that generates the 28 mA current. If detector 801 detects 40 mA after bypassing current source 814, it knows that only battery charger 804 is disconnected. If detector 801 detects 32 mA, it determines that traction inverter 803 is also disconnected. At this point, detector 801 still does not know whether photovoltaic module 802 is also disconnected, so it triggers another temporary jumper that bypasses current source 813. If detector 801 then detects 36 mA, it determines that photovoltaic module 802 is also disconnected. However, if it detects 40 mA, it determines that photovoltaic module 802 is connected. Therefore, detector 801 can pinpoint the individual high-voltage component that is disconnected in high-voltage components 802-805 based on the detected current.

[0037] In this example, detector 801 is connected to vehicle computing node 806, which processes at least a portion of the vehicle's functions. Detector 801 notifies vehicle computing node 806 of which high-voltage components 802-805 have been identified as disconnected. Based on the notification from detector 801, vehicle computing node 806 can operate vehicle 831 in a manner different from if all high-voltage components 802-805 are connected. For example, vehicle computing node 806 can shut off high-voltage bus 808 to reduce the risk of electric shock to a user. Alternatively, vehicle computing node 806 can still allow the vehicle to operate while warning the user about the disconnection to ensure the user is not stranded on the roadside. In another example, vehicle computing node 806 can notify the user (e.g., via a display on vehicle 831 or a fault reader connected to vehicle computing node 806) of a specific disconnected component(s), allowing the user to focus their efforts on repairing vehicle 831 on the disconnected component(s).

[0038] Figure 9 The illustration depicts a computing system 900 for detecting the connectivity of an individual connector using a smart high-voltage interlock circuit. Computing system 900 represents any one or more computing systems that can implement the various operating architectures, processes, scenarios, and sequences disclosed herein. Computing system 900 is an example architecture for another type of external system shown in vehicle computing node 806 or implementation 700, but other examples may exist. In some examples, detector 101 or detector 801 may include an architecture similar to computing system 900 instead of circuit system 703. Computing system 900 includes a storage system 945, a processing system 950, and a communication interface 960. Processing system 950 is operatively linked to communication interface 960 and storage system 945. In some implementations, communication interface 960 may be communicatively linked to storage system 945. Computing system 900 may also include other components such as a battery and housing, which are not shown for clarity.

[0039] Communication interface 960 includes components (such as network interface cards, ports, radio frequency (RF) systems, processing circuitry, and software) or other communication devices that communicate over a communication link. Communication interface 960 can be configured to communicate over a metallic link, a wireless link, or an optical link. Communication interface 960 can be configured to use Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), Internet Protocol (IP), Ethernet, optical networks, wireless protocols, communication signaling, or some other communication format—including combinations thereof. Communication interface 960 can be configured to communicate with one or more network servers and other computing systems over one or more networks.

[0040] Processing system 950 includes a microprocessor and other circuitry that retrieves and executes operating software from storage system 945. Storage system 945 may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Storage system 945 may be implemented as a single storage device or across multiple storage devices or subsystems. Storage system 945 may include additional elements, such as a controller for reading operating software from the storage system. Examples of storage media include random access memory, read-only memory, magnetic disks, optical disks, and flash memory, as well as any combination or variation thereof, or any other type of storage media. In some implementations, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium. In some cases, at least a portion of the storage medium may be transient. In any example, the storage medium of storage system 945 or any other computer-readable storage medium herein is not considered a transient form of signal transmission (generally referred to as the “signal itself”), such as a propagating electrical signal, electromagnetic signal, or carrier wave.

[0041] Processing system 950 is typically mounted on a circuit board, which may also house a storage system. Operating software for storage system 945 includes computer programs, firmware, or other forms of machine-readable program instructions. Operating software for storage system 945 includes a high-voltage interlocked loop processor 930. Operating software on storage system 945 may also include an operating system, utilities, drives, network interfaces, applications, or certain other types of software. When read and executed by processing system 950, operating software on storage system 945 instructs computing system 900 to perform processing of notifications from detectors 101 and 801 as described herein. Operating software may execute locally on processing system 950, or it may include virtualization software (such as a hypervisor) to virtualize the computing hardware executing the operating software thereon.

[0042] In at least one example, processor 930 instructs processing system 950 to receive a signal from a detector connected to a high-voltage interlock circuit after the second jumper current source. The detector sends a signal indicating the connectivity of the connector and associated high-voltage components relative to the high-voltage bus. In response to this signal, processor 930 notifies the user about the connectivity.

[0043] The included description and accompanying drawings depict specific implementations to teach those skilled in the art how to make and use the optimal patterns. For the purpose of teaching the principles of the invention, some conventional aspects have been simplified or omitted. Those skilled in the art will understand variations according to these implementations that fall within the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will also understand that the foregoing features can be combined in various ways to form multiple implementations. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specific implementations described above, but is defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit, the device comprising: A loop current source is configured to transmit loop current for the high-voltage interlock circuit; A first jumper current source is connected in parallel with a first jumper of a first high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlock circuit, wherein the first jumper current source is configured to transmit a first jumper current lower than the circuit current. A second jumper current source is connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit after the first jumper current source and in parallel with the second jumper of the second high-voltage connector, wherein the second jumper current source is configured to transmit a second jumper current lower than the first jumper current; as well as A detector is connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit after the second jumper current source, wherein the detector is configured to determine the connectivity between the first high-voltage connector and the second high-voltage connector based on whether the circuit current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current is received by the detector.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the first jumper current is received by the detector, the detector determines that the first high-voltage connector lacks connectivity, and when the second jumper current is received by the detector, the detector determines that the second high-voltage connector lacks connectivity.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, When the second high-voltage connector lacks connectivity, the detector indicates that the second jumper current source should be bypassed, and when the first jumper current is received by the detector, the detector determines that the first high-voltage connector also lacks connectivity.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the loop current is received by the detector, the detector determines that both the first high-voltage connector and the second high-voltage connector are connected.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises: A waveform generator is configured to feed a voltage signal to the loop current source; and The detector is configured to determine that the high-voltage interlock circuit is working properly when the voltage signal is received by the detector.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detector comprises: A current-to-voltage converter, wherein a detector reads the voltage across the current-to-voltage converter and calculates whether the received current is the loop current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detector comprises: A circuit system for communicating with a vehicle computing node in a vehicle equipped with the high-voltage interlock circuit, wherein the circuit system notifies the vehicle computing node about connectivity.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detector comprises: A circuit system for communicating with a manufacturing controller, wherein the circuit system informs the manufacturing controller about connectivity.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the high-voltage interlock circuit is included in a vehicle having a high-voltage power bus.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the first high-voltage connector and the second high-voltage connector connect corresponding components to the high-voltage power bus, wherein the components include one or more of the following: Traction inverter; Battery charger; DC / DC converters; and Photovoltaic module.

11. A method for intelligently detecting the connectivity of connectors in a high-voltage interlock circuit, the method comprising: The loop current for the high-voltage interlock circuit is transferred from the loop current source; A first jumper current lower than the loop current is transmitted from a first jumper current source, and the first jumper current source is connected in parallel with the first jumper of the first high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlock circuit; A second jumper current lower than the first jumper current is transmitted from a second jumper current source, the second jumper current source being after the first jumper current source and connected in parallel with the second jumper of the second high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlock circuit; as well as In a detector connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit after the second jumper current source, the connectivity between the first high-voltage connector and the second high-voltage connector is determined based on whether the circuit current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current is received by the detector.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein determining connectivity comprises: When the detector receives the first jumper current, it is determined that the first high-voltage connector lacks connectivity; as well as When the detector receives the second jumper current, it is determined that the second high-voltage connector lacks connectivity.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, When the second high-voltage connector lacks connectivity, determining connectivity includes: Instructions to bypass the second jumper current source; and When the first jumper current is received by the detector, it is determined that the first high-voltage connector also lacks connectivity.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein determining connectivity comprises: When the loop current is received by the detector, it is determined that both the first high-voltage connector and the second high-voltage connector are connected.

15. The method of claim 11, comprising: The voltage signal from the waveform generator is fed to the loop current source; as well as When the voltage signal is received by the detector, it is determined that the high-voltage interlock circuit is working normally.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein determining connectivity comprises: Read the voltage across the current-to-voltage converter; as well as The calculation determines whether the received current is the loop current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current.

17. The method of claim 11, comprising: The vehicle computing node in the vehicle equipped with the high-voltage interlock circuit is notified about connectivity.

18. The method of claim 11, comprising: Notify the manufacturing controller about connectivity.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein the high-voltage interlock circuit is included in a vehicle having a high-voltage power bus.

20. An apparatus for operating a vehicle having an intelligent high-voltage interlock circuit, the apparatus comprising: One or more computer-readable storage media; A processing system operatively coupled to the one or more computer-readable storage media; as well as Program instructions stored on the one or more computer-readable storage media, when read and executed by a processing system, instruct the means to: The signal is received from the detector connected to the high-voltage interlock circuit after the second jumper current source, wherein: The loop current source is configured to transmit loop current for the high-voltage interlock circuit; The first jumper current source is connected in parallel with the first jumper of the first high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlock circuit, and the first jumper current source is configured to transmit a first jumper current lower than the circuit current. The second jumper current source is connected in parallel with the second jumper of the second high-voltage connector to the high-voltage interlock circuit after the first jumper current source, and the second jumper current source is configured to transmit a second jumper current lower than the first jumper current; and The detector is configured to determine the connectivity between the first high-voltage connector and the second high-voltage connector based on whether the loop current, the first jumper current, or the second jumper current is received by the detector, and to send a signal indicating the connectivity; and In response to the signal, the vehicle's user is notified about connectivity.

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