Automobile seat controller universal test bench

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of general test board of automobile seat controller, solve the problem that existing test equipment (school table) lack of versatility, need to be customized design for different controller.The test board includes: power supply module, provide working power supply for seat controller;Communication module, with seat controller to establish communication connection;Digital signal simulation unit and analog signal simulation unit, respectively to seat controller provide digital and analog input signal;At least one function verification module, it includes seat adjustment function verification module, seat heating function verification module, seat ventilation function verification module and seat massage function verification module one or more, each function verification module is used to connect the function output end of seat controller corresponding and provide verification function;And control unit;Wherein, communication module is connected with control unit;At least one function verification module is connected with control unit, for feedback signal or receiving its control instruction to control unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of automotive parts testing equipment, specifically relating to a universal test bench for automotive seat controllers. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid growth of the new energy vehicle market, the development requirements for in-vehicle controller modules are increasing, especially in terms of development cycle and cost control. During the research, development, production, and quality testing of automotive seats, comprehensive testing of all seat functions is necessary. However, existing testing equipment generally suffers from insufficient versatility; different seat controller products often require customized testing equipment, which not only delays the experimental process but also increases the development cycle and cost.

[0003] The seat controller mainly includes a power supply unit, a communication unit, a seat adjustment unit, a seat heating unit, a seat ventilation unit, a seat massage unit, and a control signal input unit. The power supply unit typically uses either 12V or 24V standard voltage. The communication unit is responsible for data exchange with the vehicle's computer and supports mainstream communication protocols such as CAN and LIN. The seat adjustment unit achieves precise seat angle adjustment via a drive motor. The seat heating unit provides power to the heating pads. The seat ventilation unit controls the fan speed via a PWM signal. The seat massage unit powers the massage airbags and controls their operation. The control signal input unit receives function button / switch signals for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions from the seat and control panel. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention proposes a universal test bench for automotive seat controllers to solve the problems of insufficient universality of existing test equipment (calibration benches) and the need for customized design for different controllers, thereby shortening the development cycle and reducing costs.

[0005] A universal test bench for automotive seat controllers includes: a power supply module for providing operating power to the seat controller; a communication module for establishing a communication connection with the seat controller; a digital signal analog unit and an analog signal analog unit for providing digital and analog input signals to the seat controller, respectively; at least one function verification module, including one or more of a seat adjustment function verification module, a seat heating function verification module, a seat ventilation function verification module, and a seat massage function verification module, each function verification module being connected to a corresponding function output terminal of the seat controller and providing verification functions; and a control unit; wherein the communication module is connected to the control unit; at least one of the function verification modules is connected to the control unit and is used to feed back signals to the control unit or receive its control commands.

[0006] In some examples, the digital signal simulation unit and / or the analog signal simulation unit are connected to the control unit, and the control unit configures their output signals.

[0007] In some examples, the seat adjustment function verification module includes two motor drive signal input interfaces, a motor port, a motor Hall port, a motor Hall feedback signal output interface, and a bidirectional indicator light connected between the two motor drive signal input interfaces; the motor drive signal input interface is connected to the motor port; and the motor Hall port is connected to the motor Hall feedback signal output interface.

[0008] In some examples, the motor Hall feedback signal output interface is also connected to the control unit, enabling the control unit to simulate outputting a motor Hall feedback signal to the interface.

[0009] In some examples, the seat heating function verification module includes a heating signal input interface, a heating pad port, an NTC feedback port, an NTC feedback signal output interface, and an indicator light bridged between the positive terminal of the heating signal input interface and ground; the heating signal input interface is connected to the heating pad port; and the NTC feedback port is connected to the NTC feedback signal output interface.

[0010] In some examples, the NTC feedback signal output interface is connected to a digital potentiometer, which is connected to the control unit and whose resistance is adjusted by the control unit.

[0011] In some examples, the seat ventilation function verification module includes a fan drive signal input interface and a fan interface; on the line of the fan drive signal input interface, there is a branch containing a pull-up resistor and a switch.

[0012] In some examples, the control unit is connected to the fan drive signal input interface and is able to acquire and analyze the PWM signal on the interface.

[0013] In some examples, the seat massage function verification module includes multiple parallel detection circuits, each of which includes an air pump drive signal input interface, a current limiting resistor, and an indicator light, and the air pump drive signal input interface, the current limiting resistor, and the indicator light are connected in series.

[0014] In some examples, the test bench also includes a computer interface for connecting to an external computer.

[0015] The test bench of this invention is highly versatile. Through various types of electrical interfaces and adjustable and simulated functional modules, it can be adapted to different models of seat controllers without the need for separate customization.

[0016] The test bench of this utility model has comprehensive functions. It can simulate the driving and sensor working status of the seat, and collect and detect various parameters of the seat. It also has intuitive function indicators and convenient switch control.

[0017] The test bench of this invention can improve efficiency and reduce costs, reduce the types and quantities of test equipment, improve efficiency, and reduce the R&D cycle and testing costs. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the interaction between the car seat controller and the universal test bench in one embodiment of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0019] A universal test bench for automotive seat controllers, suitable for the testing phase of seat controller development. Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, the interaction between the test bench and the seat controller is clearly illustrated. The test bench includes a power supply module, a communication module, a computer interface, a seat adjustment function verification module, a seat heating function verification module, a seat ventilation function verification module, a seat massage function verification module, a digital signal simulation unit, an analog signal simulation unit, and a control unit.

[0020] The control unit is implemented based on a microcontroller (MCU) and its peripheral circuits, and is equipped with an interactive screen to realize human-computer interaction. This implementation method is a conventional technology in this field and will not be described in detail here.

[0021] The power supply module provides a 12V / 24V standard power supply to the power supply unit of the seat controller. It includes a voltage converter (converting 220V AC mains power to 12V / 24V) and a power supply interface for connecting to the power supply unit of the seat controller. The specific circuitry of the voltage converter and the style and model of the power supply interface are all conventional technologies in this field.

[0022] The communication module interacts with the communication unit of the seat controller to verify its functional integrity. The control unit communicates with the seat controller's MCU through the communication module, simulating the interaction process between the onboard computer and the seat controller to verify the reliability of the communication function. The communication module is designed according to the communication protocol of the seat controller's communication unit (supporting mainstream communication protocols such as CAN and LIN), and its specific circuitry uses conventional technology.

[0023] The computer interface supports devices such as CAN cards and PCAN, allowing real-time uploading of seat controller signals to a computer for analysis, or receiving test commands (such as seat adjustment, seat heating, seat massage, and seat ventilation commands) and sending them back to the seat controller. The test bench can also operate independently, sending commands directly to the seat controller via a digital / analog signal simulation unit without needing to connect to an external computer.

[0024] The seat adjustment function verification module includes two motor drive signal input interfaces (for supporting forward and reverse control of the H-bridge circuit), a motor Hall effect feedback signal output interface, a motor port, and a motor Hall effect port. A bidirectional indicator light is connected between the two motor drive signal input interfaces.

[0025] The motor drive signal input interface is used to connect to the motor drive signal output interface of the seat controller and is connected to the motor port.

[0026] The motor port is used to connect the actual motor.

[0027] The motor Hall port is used to connect the Hall sensor of the motor.

[0028] The motor Hall port is connected to the motor Hall feedback signal output interface.

[0029] The motor Hall feedback signal output interface is used to connect to the motor Hall feedback signal input interface of the seat controller.

[0030] During testing, seat adjustment commands are sent to the seat controller via a computer or digital signal simulation unit. The seat controller outputs a drive signal (forward / reverse) through the motor drive signal output interface, driving the motor to rotate and synchronously triggering changes in the status of the bidirectional indicator lights. The polarity and integrity of the drive signal can be determined in real time based on the changes in the indicator lights. Furthermore, the test bench supports an offline mode: without connecting a physical motor, the control unit simulates the motor's Hall feedback signal to achieve functional verification. That is, the motor Hall feedback signal output interface is also connected to the control unit, which simulates the motor's Hall feedback signal by outputting a PWM signal.

[0031] The seat heating function verification module includes a heating signal input interface (with positive and negative / ground terminals), a heating pad port, an NTC feedback port, and an NTC feedback signal output interface. An indicator light (such as an LED) is connected in parallel between the positive and negative / ground terminals of the heating signal input interface. This interface connects to the heating signal output interface of the seat controller and also to the heating pad port; the heating pad port connects to the positive and negative terminals of the actual heating pad. The NTC feedback port is connected to the NTC sensor (negative temperature coefficient thermistor) on the heating pad, and its output temperature signal (in AD value form) is transmitted to the NTC feedback signal input interface of the seat controller via the NTC feedback signal output interface. The seat controller uses this AD value to determine whether the current temperature has reached the preset heating level, and thus dynamically adjusts the heating signal output.

[0032] During testing, a seat heating command is sent to the seat controller via a computer or digital signal analog unit. The seat controller outputs an electrical signal through its heating signal output interface to power the heating pad connected to the heating pad port, simultaneously triggering changes in the indicator light status. By monitoring the indicator light status in real time, it is possible to accurately determine whether the seat controller's heating function is properly activated.

[0033] In addition, the test bench supports offline mode: there is no need to connect a physical heating pad. Only a digital potentiometer needs to be connected between the NTC feedback signal output interface and GND. The control unit adjusts its resistance value to simulate the NTC feedback signal (AD value) and realize independent verification of the heating function, including simulating the heating control logic at different temperature levels.

[0034] The seat ventilation function verification module includes a fan drive signal input interface and a fan interface (including positive, negative / GND, and fan signal terminals). The fan drive signal input interface connects to the fan drive signal output interface of the seat controller and is connected to the fan signal terminal of the fan interface. A pull-up resistor is provided on the line between the fan drive signal input interface and the fan signal terminal to maintain a high-level signal. A switch is installed in the branch containing this pull-up resistor. When an actual fan is connected to the fan interface, the switch is open because the fan has an integrated pull-up resistor. In testing without a connected fan or in offline mode, the switch can be closed to provide the necessary pull-up function and ensure signal integrity. The switch can be controlled by the control unit.

[0035] During testing, a seat ventilation command is sent to the seat controller via a computer or digital signal analog unit. The controller then outputs a PWM signal through the fan drive signal output interface to adjust the fan speed. By monitoring the fan's operating status in real time (such as the speed feedback signal or PWM duty cycle), it is possible to accurately determine whether the seat controller's ventilation function has been properly activated and adjusted.

[0036] In addition, the test bench supports offline mode: without connecting a physical fan, the control unit can directly collect and analyze the PWM signal (including frequency and duty cycle) output by the fan drive signal output interface, thereby determining whether the ventilation level responds correctly and realizing independent verification of the ventilation control logic.

[0037] Seat massage is achieved by inflating and deflating massage airbags using an air pump. The seat massage function verification module includes several parallel detection circuits. Each detection circuit includes an air pump drive signal input interface, a resistor, and an indicator light (unidirectional). Each air pump drive signal output interface is connected to one air pump drive signal output interface of the seat controller. Monitoring the indicator light status determines whether the air pump drive signal is functioning correctly.

[0038] The seat massage function uses an air pump to control the inflation and deflation of massage airbags to achieve different massage modes. The seat massage function calibration module contains multiple parallel detection circuits, each corresponding to a massage air pump channel, including a series-connected air pump drive signal input interface, a current-limiting resistor, and an indicator light (such as an LED). The air pump drive signal input interface is used to connect to the corresponding air pump drive signal output interface of the seat controller.

[0039] During testing, when the seat controller receives a massage command from the computer or digital / analog signal unit, it outputs a drive signal. This signal is input through the air pump drive signal input interface, illuminating the indicator light in the corresponding detection circuit. By observing the on / off state and changing patterns of each indicator light in real time, it is possible to visually determine whether the signal output of each air pump drive channel of the seat controller is normal, thereby verifying the correctness of its massage control logic.

[0040] This module is designed to support multi-channel synchronous detection, which facilitates rapid functional verification of multiple areas or multiple massage modes and improves testing efficiency.

[0041] The digital signal simulation unit and the analog signal simulation unit are used to simulate various input signals received by the seat controller in the actual working environment, so as to realize comprehensive testing of the controller's functions.

[0042] The digital signal simulation unit is primarily used to simulate the switching signals output from components such as the seat control panel and position sensors, including commands to turn the seat on / off (forward / backward movement, backrest angle adjustment, lumbar support, etc.), heating, ventilation, and massage functions. This unit consists of multiple configurable digital signal output channels, whose high / low level states (e.g., 0V / 12V or 0V / 24V) can be programmed and controlled by the control unit (MCU) to simulate button presses or switch actions. It supports various trigger modes such as pulse and continuous signals to verify the controller's response logic to digital inputs. The digital signal simulation unit can also incorporate a matrix keypad circuit as a supplement or alternative to more realistically simulate the operating logic of an actual seat control panel.

[0043] The analog signal simulation unit is used to simulate the output signals of various analog sensors in the seat system, such as continuously changing voltage or resistance signals generated by seat position potentiometers, occupant weight sensors (e.g., pressure sensors), and NTC temperature sensors. This unit can use a high-precision digital potentiometer or digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to achieve adjustable resistance or voltage output. The output value is precisely adjusted by the control unit to simulate sensor feedback under different operating conditions (e.g., different temperatures, different seat positions, or different pressure levels). For example, when testing heating or ventilation functions, the digital potentiometer can simulate the resistance characteristics of an NTC sensor as it changes with temperature; when testing position memory functions, it can simulate the voltage divider signal output by the potentiometer.

[0044] It should be noted that this utility model involves multiple interfaces and ports, all of which use standardized components in the industry. Their specific specifications, models and connection methods can be flexibly selected according to actual application needs. This utility model does not limit its specific form.

Claims

1. A universal test bench for automotive seat controllers, characterized in that, include: The power supply module provides operating power to the seat controller; The communication module is used to establish a communication connection with the seat controller; The digital signal analog unit and the analog signal analog unit are used to provide digital and analog input signals to the seat controller, respectively; At least one functional verification module, which includes one or more of the following: seat adjustment function verification module, seat heating function verification module, seat ventilation function verification module and seat massage function verification module. Each functional verification module is used to connect to the corresponding functional output terminal of the seat controller and provide verification function. as well as Control unit; The communication module is connected to the control unit; at least one of the function verification modules is connected to the control unit and is used to provide feedback signals to the control unit or receive its control commands.

2. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The digital signal simulation unit and / or the analog signal simulation unit are connected to the control unit, and their output signals are configured by the control unit.

3. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat adjustment function verification module includes two motor drive signal input interfaces, a motor port, a motor Hall port, a motor Hall feedback signal output interface, and a bidirectional indicator light connected between the two motor drive signal input interfaces. The motor drive signal input interface is connected to the motor port; the motor Hall port is connected to the motor Hall feedback signal output interface.

4. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 3, characterized in that, The motor Hall feedback signal output interface is also connected to the control unit, enabling the control unit to simulate outputting the motor Hall feedback signal to the interface.

5. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat heating function verification module includes a heating signal input interface, a heating pad port, an NTC feedback port, an NTC feedback signal output interface, and an indicator light bridged between the positive terminal of the heating signal input interface and ground; the heating signal input interface is connected to the heating pad port; and the NTC feedback port is connected to the NTC feedback signal output interface.

6. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 5, characterized in that, The NTC feedback signal output interface is connected to a digital potentiometer, which is connected to the control unit and whose resistance is adjusted by the control unit.

7. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat ventilation function verification module includes a fan drive signal input interface and a fan interface; on the line of the fan drive signal input interface, there is a branch containing a pull-up resistor and a switch.

8. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control unit is connected to the fan drive signal input interface and can collect and analyze the PWM signal on the interface.

9. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat massage function verification module includes multiple parallel detection circuits. Each detection circuit includes an air pump drive signal input interface, a current limiting resistor, and an indicator light. The air pump drive signal input interface, the current limiting resistor, and the indicator light are connected in series.

10. The universal test bench for automotive seat controllers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test bench also includes a computer interface for connecting to an external computer.

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