Device and method for commissioning electronic equipment powered by an electrical energy source

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for activating electronic equipment (15) powered by an electrical power source (12), the activation device (1) comprising: - electronic equipment configured to implement an electronic function, - an electrical power source configured to power at least the electronic equipment, - a radio communication element (3) configured to receive a radio signal (Sradio), and - a switching element (5) configured to receive the radio signal and activate the electronic equipment by powering said electronic equipment with the electrical power source so as to implement the associated electronic function. Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Device and method for commissioning electronic equipment powered by an electrical energy source TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The technical field of the invention is that of commissioning electronic equipment.

[0002] The present invention relates to a device and a method for commissioning electronic equipment powered by an electrical energy source. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Climate change is a major concern for many legislative and regulatory bodies around the world. Indeed, various restrictions on carbon emissions have been, are being, or will be adopted by various States. In particular, an ambitious standard applies both to new types of aircraft and those currently in circulation, requiring the implementation of technological solutions to make them compliant with current regulations. Civil aviation has been mobilizing for several years now to make a contribution to the fight against climate change.

[0004] Technological research efforts have already made it possible to significantly improve the environmental performance of aircraft. The Applicant takes into consideration the factors impacting all phases of design and development, to obtain less energy-intensive, more environmentally friendly aeronautical components and products whose integration and use in civil aviation have moderate environmental impacts with the aim of improving the energy efficiency of aircraft. The Applicant is constantly working to reduce its climate impact by using methods and operating virtuous development and manufacturing processes and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions to the minimum possible to reduce the environmental footprint of its activity.

[0005] This sustained research and development work covers new generations of aircraft engines, the lightening of aircraft, particularly through the materials used and lighter on-board equipment, the development of the use of electrical technologies to ensure propulsion, and finally aeronautical biofuels.

[0006] In this context, certain electronic equipment powered by an exhaustible source of electrical energy is in particular stored before being put into service. However, if If they are stored for too long, it is possible that the electrical energy source will be completely exhausted before the electronic equipment has actually been put into service.

[0007] It is particularly known to use mechanical means for switching on and off this electronic equipment.

[0008] However, for many electronic devices involved in the aeronautical field, these are introduced and mounted in housings capable of withstanding particularly harsh environments. These housings must then be completely hermetic. Unfortunately, any opening, any mechanical part or any connector extending through the housing could compromise the robustness of the assembly. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention then proposes to allow the commissioning of electronic equipment without compromising the integrity and robustness of the electronic assembly concerned. Furthermore, the present invention also aims to limit the energy consumption of electronic equipment before it is put into service.

[0010] More particularly, the invention relates to a device for commissioning electronic equipment powered by an electrical energy source, the commissioning device comprising: - electronic equipment configured to implement an electronic function, - an electrical power source configured to power at least the electronic equipment, - a radio communication element configured to receive a radio signal, and - a switching element configured to receive the radio signal and put the electronic equipment into operation by powering said electronic equipment with the electrical energy source so as to implement the associated electronic function.

[0011] Thus, advantageously according to the invention, the electronic equipment is put into service remotely by means of radio signals. The commissioning is therefore not done by activating a mechanical member. This makes it possible to make the device, and in particular the electronic equipment, more robust because it is less sensitive to mechanical disturbances. This makes it possible to preserve the integrity of the entire device.

[0012] In addition, before this commissioning, the electronic equipment is in an ultra-low consumption state which makes it possible to preserve the capacity of the energy source. electrical by limiting the discharge current (from the electrical energy source) to a negligible value. Alternatively, such electronic equipment may have zero electrical energy consumption.

[0013] This source of electrical energy then begins to power the electronic equipment only when, following reception of the radio signal, the switching element passes into its activation state (thus allowing the electronic equipment to be powered). This thus makes it possible to preserve the source of electrical energy during storage of the electronic equipment, before the latter becomes operational.

[0014] In addition to the characteristics which have just been mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the commissioning device according to one aspect of the invention may have one or more additional characteristics among the following, considered individually or according to all technically possible combinations: - the radio communication element is further configured to convert the received radio signal into a generated electrical signal, the switching element being configured to receive the electrical signal generated by the radio communication element and implement said power supply of the electronic equipment; - the switching element is configured to enable the electronic equipment to be powered when said switching element is in an activated state; - the switching element comprises a fuse element; - the activation state of the switching element corresponds to the melting of the fusible element; - the switching element comprises a diode; - the activation state of the switching element corresponds to a short-circuit state of the diode; - the switching element comprises an electronic lock; and - the activation state of the switching element corresponds to a switching state of the electronic lock.

[0015] The invention also relates to a method for commissioning electronic equipment powered by an electrical energy source, the method comprising steps of: - transmission, by an external entity, of a radio signal to the electronic equipment, - reception of the radio signal emitted by a radio communication element, - conversion, by the radio communication element, of the radio signal- electrical received into a generated electrical signal, - reception of the electrical signal generated by a switching element, and - commissioning, via the switching element, of the electronic equipment by supplying said electronic equipment with the electrical energy source so as to implement the associated electronic function.

[0016] In addition to the characteristics which have just been mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the commissioning method according to another aspect of the invention may have one or more additional characteristics among the following, considered individually or according to all technically possible combinations: - before the commissioning step, a step of placing the switching element in an activated state following receipt of the generated electrical signal is provided, so as to commission the electronic equipment; - the switching element being a fusible element, the activation state of the switching element corresponds to the melting of the fusible element; - the switching element being a diode, the activation state of the switching element corresponds to a short-circuit state of the diode; and - the switching element being an electronic lock, the activation state of the switching element corresponds to a switching state of the electronic lock.

[0017] The invention and its various applications will be better understood by reading the following description and examining the accompanying figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] The figures are presented for information purposes only and in no way limit the invention.

[0019] [Fig.l] represents, in functional form, an example of a device for putting into service electronic equipment in accordance with the invention;

[0020] [Fig.2] represents a first example of embodiment of the commissioning device of electronic equipment in accordance with the invention;

[0021] [Fig.3] represents a second example of embodiment of the device for commissioning electronic equipment in accordance with the invention;

[0022] [Fig.4] represents a third example of embodiment of the device for putting into service of electronic equipment in accordance with the invention;

[0023] [Fig.5] represents a first example of embodiment of a radioelectric communication element included in the commissioning device of [Fig.l];

[0024] [Fig.6] represents a second example of embodiment of a radioelectric communication element included in the commissioning device of [Fig.l];

[0025] [Fig.7] represents a third example of embodiment of a communication element radio communication included in the commissioning device of [Fig.l];

[0026] [Fig.8] represents a fourth example of embodiment of a commu- radio communication included in the commissioning device of [Fig.l];

[0027] [Fig.9] represents a fifth example of embodiment of a radio communication element included in the commissioning device of [Fig.l]; and

[0028] [Fig. 10] represents, in the form of a flowchart, an example of a method for commissioning electronic equipment in accordance with the present invention.

[0029] For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference signs throughout the figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The present invention is placed in the context of limiting the energy consumption of electronic equipment before it is put into service. More particularly, the invention aims to make it possible to conserve as much as possible the capacity of an electrical energy source of electronic equipment before the latter is operational.

[0031] The invention finds a particular application for electronic equipment powered by an electrical energy source and having a storage period before being put into service.

[0032] In the present description, the term “electronic equipment” means a device comprising at least one electronic component and configured to implement an electronic function. An electronic component is here an elementary constituent of the electronic device. The electronic component is arranged so as to be interconnectable (i.e. to be associated, by connection, with other electronic components so that their operation becomes interdependent).

[0033] For example, the electronic component is for example a resistor, a capacitor or any other passive electronic component (i.e. one that does not require any external energy input). The electronic component may also be an electronic tube, a transistor, an integrated circuit or any other active electronic component (i.e. one that requires an external energy input for its operation).

[0034] Furthermore, the electronic function corresponds to the operation which is implemented by the electronic equipment when the electronic component(s) are activated. In other words, it is the “task” executed by the electronic equipment when the electronic component(s) are activated.

[0035] This electronic function is, for example, in a non-limiting manner, an electronic comparator function, an image processing function, a counting function or a sensor processing function (whatever the physical quantity concerned).

[0036] Preferably, in the present description, the electronic equipment comprises a plurality of electronic components interconnected with each other so as to implement the associated electronic function. Thus, the electronic equipment provided with several electronic components is configured to implement the electronic function which corresponds to the associated task by the combination of the electronic components connected with each other.

[0037] [Fig.l] represents, in functional form, a device 1 for commissioning electronic equipment 15 (also referred to as device 1 in the following).

[0038] As shown in [Fig.l], the device 1 comprises an electrical energy source 12, electronic equipment 15, a radio communication element 3 and a switching element 5.

[0039] The electrical energy source 12 is configured to power at least the electronic equipment 15. More particularly here, the electrical energy source 12 is an electrical energy source that will be depleted when it is consumed. In other words, in the present invention, the electrical energy source 12 is an energy source that is depleted following its electrical consumption.

[0040] The electrical energy source 12 is for example an electric cell, an electric battery or a supercapacitor.

[0041] The commissioning device 1 also comprises the electronic equipment 15. As defined previously, the electronic equipment 15 comprises at least one electronic component (not shown). The electronic equipment 15 also comprises, by way of example, at least one processor and one storage device (not shown). The electronic equipment 15 is configured to implement an associated electronic function (in particular via the processor which executes, for example, instructions stored in the storage device).

[0042] When put into service, the electronic equipment 15 has an average electrical consumption of, for example, between 5 and 30 microamperes (pA). It is for example between 5 and 20 pA. This consumption is for example of the order of 5, 10 or 20 pA.

[0043] The commissioning device 1 is configured to commission the electronic equipment 15. Advantageously, this commissioning is carried out via the radio communication element 3.

[0044] The radio communication element 3 is configured to convert a radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec- For this, the radio communication element 3 is provided with a receiver 3A of a radio signal Sradio. This receiver 3A is configured to receive a radio signal Sradio transmitted by an external entity. This receiver 3A comprises for example an antenna adapted to receive the radio signal Sradio transmitted by the external entity.

[0045] For example, the external entity is for example a dedicated electronic entity. It for example, a smartphone.

[0046] In the present description, the term “radio signal” means an electromagnetic signal whose frequency is less than 300 GHz.

[0047] As can be seen in [Fig.l], the radio communication element 3 also comprises a module 3B for converting the received radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec- Such a conversion module 3B is optional. More particularly, the radio signal Sradio received by the receiver 3A may be sufficiently powerful to enable, without the intermediary of another device, the activation of the electronic function associated with the electronic equipment 15 and thus putting it into service.

[0048] As described in more detail below, the electrical signal Seiec obtained at the output of the conversion module 3B is configured to allow the electronic equipment 15 to be put into service and therefore to activate the associated electronic function.

[0049] In practice, this conversion module 3B comprises at least one rectification module. This rectification module comprises, for example, a capacitor Ci and at least one diode Di. Alternatively, the diode Di can be replaced by a transistor or by an inductance.

[0050] [Fig. 5] represents a first example of embodiment of the radio communication element 3. In this first example, the radio communication element 3 comprises a rectification module 3C comprising two diodes D1, D2 and a capacitor Cl. From the radio signal Sradio received by the antenna 3A, the conversion module 3B converts this radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec- This electrical signal Seiec obtained has a predetermined voltage depending here on the electronic components (here the two diodes D1, D2 and the capacitor Cl) included in the conversion module 3B.

[0051] [Fig. 6] represents a second exemplary embodiment of the radio communication element 3. In this second example, the radio communication element 3 comprises a 3D rectifier module of the Greinacher rectifier type. As can be seen in [Fig. 6], this 3D rectifier module comprises two capacitors C1, C2 and two diodes D1, D2. In this second example, the capacitor C2 is placed in series and upstream of the 3C rectifier module used in the first exemplary embodiment shown in [Fig. 5].

[0052] Here, from the radio signal Sradio received by the antenna 3A, the 3D conversion module converts this radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec. This electrical signal Seiec obtained has a predetermined voltage dependent here on the electronic components (here the two diodes Dl, D2 and the two capacitors Cl, C2) included in the 3D conversion module.

[0053] [Fig.7] represents a third example of embodiment of the commu element radio communication element 3. In this third example, the radio communication element 3 comprises a rectifier module 3E comprising four diodes D1, D2, D3, D4 and four capacitors C1, C2, C3, C4. More particularly here, the rectifier module 3E comprises two module parts 3E1, 3E2. The module part 3E1 comprises two diodes D1, D2 and two capacitors C1, C3, while the module part 3E2 comprises two diodes D3, D4 and two capacitors C2, C4. As shown in [Fig.7], the two module parts 3E1, 3E2 are arranged in cascade, that is to say that the two module parts 3E1, 3E2 are positioned in series.

[0054] Here, from the radio signal Sradio received by the antenna 3A, the conversion module 3E converts this radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec. This electrical signal Seiec obtained has a predetermined voltage dependent here on the electronic components (here the four diodes D1, D2, D3, D4 and the four capacitors C1, C2, C3, C4) included in the conversion module 3E. More particularly here, the predetermined voltage of the electrical signal Seiec is dependent on the two parts 3E1, 3E2 of the module included in the rectification module 3E.

[0055] [Fig. 8] represents a fourth embodiment of the radio communication element 3. In this fourth example, the radio communication element 3 comprises a rectification module 3F comprising six diodes D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6 and six capacitors C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6. More particularly here, and as defined for the third example described previously, the rectification module 3F comprises three module parts 3F1, 3F2, 3F3. Each module part 3F1, 3F2, 3F3 here also comprises two diodes D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6 respectively and two capacitors C1, C4, C2, C5, C3, C6 respectively. As shown in [Fig.8], the three module parts 3F1, 3F2, 3F3 are arranged in cascade, i.e. the three module parts 3F1, 3F2, 3F3 are positioned in series.

[0056] Here, from the radio signal Sradio received by the antenna 3A, the conversion module 3F converts this radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec. This electrical signal Seiec obtained has a predetermined voltage dependent here on the electronic components (here the six diodes D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6 and the six capacitors C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6) included in the conversion module 3F. More particularly here, the predetermined voltage of the electrical signal Seiec is dependent on the three parts 3F1, 3F2, 3F3 of the module included in the rectification module 3F.

[0057] [Fig. 9] represents a fifth example of embodiment of the radio communication element 3. In this fifth example, the radio communication element 3 comprises a 3G rectification module comprising eight diodes Dl, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8 and eight capacitors Cl, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8. More particularly here, and as defined for the third and fourth examples described previously, the rectifier module 3G comprises four module parts 3G1, 3G2, 3G3, 3G4. Each module part 3G1, 3G2, 3G3, 3G4 here also comprises two diodes Dl, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8 respectively and two capacitors Cl, C5, C2, C6, C3, C7, C4, C8 respectively. As shown in [Fig.9], the four module parts 3G1, 3G2, 3G3, 3G4 are arranged in cascade, i.e. the four module parts 3G1, 3G2, 3G3, 3G4 are positioned in series.

[0058] Here, from the radio signal Sradio received by the antenna 3A, the 3G conversion module converts this radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec- This electrical signal Seiec obtained has a predetermined voltage dependent here on the electronic components (here the eight diodes D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8 and the eight capacitors C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8) included in the 3G conversion module. More particularly here, the predetermined voltage of the electrical signal Seiec is dependent on the four parts 3G1, 3G2, 3G3, 3G4 of the module included in the 3G rectification module.

[0059] Alternatively, the conversion module may comprise a rectification module provided with a plurality of module parts as defined previously (each module part comprising two diodes and two capacitors). In other words, the rectification module may comprise a plurality of module parts arranged in cascade relative to each other. The voltage of the electrical signal obtained at the output of the conversion module depends on the number of module parts included in the rectification module (and therefore the electronic components included in this rectification module).

[0060] Thus, advantageously according to the invention, it is possible to adapt the voltage of the electrical signal obtained at the output of the conversion module by using a specific arrangement of the electronic components included in the module. For example, this voltage can be adapted by using a specific number of module parts in the rectifier module.

[0061] As shown in [Fig.l], the commissioning device 1 also comprises the switching element 5. The switching element 5 is configured to receive the electrical signal generated by the electrical communication element 3 and, following this reception, to allow the commissioning of the electronic equipment 15.

[0062] More particularly, following the reception of the electrical signal SeieC, the switching element 5 induces a change in the device 1 so as to allow the electronic equipment 15 to be powered by the electrical energy source 12. In other words, the switching element 5 is configured to allow the establishment the electrical connection between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15, so as to enable the latter to be powered.

[0063] This power supply to the electronic equipment 15 allows it to be put into service and then to activate the associated electronic function.

[0064] More particularly, the switching element 5 has an activation state and a standby state. The activation state corresponds to a state of the switching element 5 in which the latter makes it possible to establish the electrical connection between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15. In other words, in this activation state, the switching element 5 allows the electronic equipment 15 to be put into service (by being powered by the electrical energy source 12).

[0065] The standby state corresponds, for its part, to a state of the switching element 5 in which the latter does not allow the electrical connection between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15. In other words, in the standby state, the switching element 5 interrupts the electrical connection between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15.

[0066] Furthermore, in this standby state, the switching element 5 has a low residual leakage current, i.e. less than 2 pA for example. More particularly, this residual current is for example of the order of 500 nanoamperes (nA), 1 pA or 2 pA. This residual leakage current is ultimately negligible compared to the electrical consumption of the electronic equipment 15. This then makes it possible to limit the electrical energy consumption of the electrical energy source 12 before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service.

[0067] The switching element 5 has a reversible operation or an irreversible operation. An irreversible operation means that if the electrical connection is established between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15, it remains so until the electrical energy source 12 is exhausted. On the contrary, a reversible operation means that the switching element 5 is also configured to interrupt the electrical connection between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15.

[0068] [Fig.2] represents a first example of embodiment of the device 1 for putting into electronic equipment service 15.

[0069] In this first embodiment, the switching element 5 is in the form of a 5A fuse element. Here, the rating of the 5A fuse element (i.e. the current that the 5A fuse element can receive before it melts) is greater than 1 milliampere (mA). Preferably, this rating is between 1 and 10 mA. The rating can, for example, take values ​​of the order of: 1 mA, 2 mA, 5 mA or 10 mA.

[0070] As shown in [Fig.2], this 5A fuse element is associated with a bias resistor 4, a diode 6 and a transistor 7. The bias resistor 4, the diode 6 and the transistor 7 are configured to participate in the commissioning of the electronic equipment 15 with the fuse element 5A. In other words, these different elements make it possible to improve the transition between the standby state and the commissioning of the electronic equipment 15.

[0071] The bias resistor 4 has a resistance value greater than 1 Megaohm (MΩ) for example. Preferably, this resistance value is greater than several tens of Megaohms. More preferably, this resistance value is greater than 100 MΩ. Advantageously, this high resistance value for the bias resistor 4 makes it possible to limit the value of the leakage current of all the electronic elements included in the device (this leakage current is then of the order of a few nanoamperes to a few microamperes at most). This thus makes it possible to limit the consumption of the electrical energy source before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service. This then makes it possible to increase the lifetime of the electrical energy source 12.

[0072] Transistor 7 is for example here an insulated gate field effect transistor (or MOSFET for “metal-oxide-semiconductorfield-effect transistor” according to the commonly used acronym of Anglo-Saxon origin).

[0073] In the standby state, the fuse element 5A is conductive. The transistor 7 has a gate polarized through the resistor 4 and the diode 6. The transistor 7 is therefore in a blocked state.

[0074] In the activation state, the fuse element 5A is open (because it has melted as described below). The transistor 7 is then in a conductive state, allowing the electronic equipment 15 to be put into service. The use of the transistor 7 for the commissioning of the electronic equipment 15 is particularly advantageous because, once the fuse element 5A is in its activation state, the transistor 7 allows better efficiency of the power supply of the electronic equipment 15.

[0075] The switching element 5A (as a fuse element 5A) here has an irreversible operation.

[0076] [Fig. 3] represents a second example of embodiment of the device 1 for commissioning the electronic equipment 15.

[0077] In this second embodiment, the switching element 5 is in the form of an electronic component 5B arranged in parallel with the radio communication element 3. This electronic component 5B is configured so that the associated activation state corresponds to a short-circuit state of this electronic component 5B.

[0078] Here, this electronic component 5B is a diode 5B.

[0079] As can be seen in [Fig.3], in a standby state, the diode 5B is here positioned in a blocking state (relative to the direction of circulation of the intensity from the source of electrical energy 12).

[0080] In this second embodiment, the activation state of the diode 5B corresponds to a short-circuit state thereof. This then allows the electronic equipment 15 to be powered by the electrical energy source 12 (and therefore the commissioning of this electronic equipment 15).

[0081] The switching element 5B (as a diode) here has an irreversible operation.

[0082] The use of a diode as a switching element is particularly advantageous because it makes it possible to limit the leakage current before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service. Indeed, before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service, only the diode 5B induces a leakage current. The latter is here of the order of a few microamperes. This thus makes it possible to limit the consumption of the electrical energy source 12 before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service. This then makes it possible to increase the service life of the electrical energy source 12.

[0083] [Fig.4] represents a third example of embodiment of the device 1 for putting into electronic equipment service 15.

[0084] In this third embodiment, the switching element 5 is in the form of an electronic lock 5C. The term "electronic lock" (or "latch" according to the commonly used expression of Anglo-Saxon origin) means a logic circuit provided with several inputs and at least one output and the output of which depends on the signals applied to the inputs. Furthermore, advantageously in the case of an electronic lock, the output of the latter maintains the logic state in which it was placed, even after the disappearance of the signals applied to the inputs.

[0085] As can be seen in [Fig.4], the electronic lock 5C here comprises three inputs E1, E2, E3 and two outputs S1, S2.

[0086] In the standby state, the electronic lock 5C is powered by the electrical energy source 12, for example between the input El and the output S2. In this standby state, since the radio communication element 3 is inactive, the input E3 is not activated. The electronic lock 5C is therefore here in a blocked state.

[0087] In the activation state, activation of the radio communication element 3 activates the input E3. Activation of this input E3 causes the logic flip-flop of the output SL. The electronic lock 5C is then activated, which allows the electronic equipment 15 to be put into service.

[0088] The switching element 5C according to this third example here has a reversible or irreversible operation.

[0089] The use of the electronic lock as a switching element is particularly advantageous because it makes it possible to limit the leakage current before switching on. service of the electronic equipment 15. Indeed, before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service, only the electronic lock induces a leakage current. The latter is here between 500 nanoamperes and 1 microampere for example. This thus makes it possible to limit the consumption of the electrical energy source before the electronic equipment 15 is put into service. This then makes it possible to increase the lifespan of the electrical energy source 12.

[0090] Optionally, as can be seen in Figures 1 to 4, the commissioning device 1 may comprise a communication link 9 between the radio communication element 3 and the electronic equipment 15.

[0091] This communication link 9 is configured to implement a transmission of a radio control signal between the radio communication element 3 and the electronic equipment 15. In other words, this communication link 9 makes it possible to establish a direct communication between the radio communication element 3 and the electronic equipment 15.

[0092] In practice, this communication link 9 makes it possible, for example, to verify that commissioning has taken place and that the electronic equipment 15 is operational. It also makes it possible to implement time-stamping operations in order, in particular, to store (in the storage device) the date and time of commissioning of the electronic equipment.

[0093] Optionally, the commissioning device may comprise an electrical energy recovery and storage module. This electrical energy recovery and storage module is configured to ensure that the switching element switches to the activation state when this activation state requires high electrical energy (for example to melt the fuse element or to short-circuit the diode). This electrical energy recovery and storage module then ensures that the switching element can be switched to its activation state, even if the received radio signal does not have high power.

[0094] Finally, optionally, the commissioning device may also comprise an electrical voltage increase module. This electrical voltage increase module is configured to increase the voltage of the electrical signal when the voltage required to reach the activation state of the switching element is high (for example to melt the fuse element or to short-circuit the diode). This electrical voltage increase module then makes it possible to ensure that the switching element can be put into its activation state, even if the received radio signal does not have a high power.

[0095] Alternatively, the switching element may be an electromechanical switch such as, for example, an electromechanical relay.

[0096] Alternatively, the switching element may be a dedicated electronic component such as a solid-state relay, an SPST switch, or a transistor. The switching element may also be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS).

[0097] In an alternative embodiment of the example shown in [Fig. 4], the device may comprise a reversibility link (not shown) between the switching element and the electronic equipment. This reversibility link is configured to allow the switching element to be returned to its standby state, from the electronic equipment. Indeed, after it has been put into service, the electronic equipment can control the return of the switching element to its standby state. This reversibility link may for example be used during the manufacture of the electronic equipment, when it has been verified that the latter is actually operational (but that it has not yet been put into service). In other words, this reversibility link may be used during a test to verify the operation of the electronic equipment, in the factory, during its manufacture.

[0098] The present invention also relates to a method for commissioning the electronic equipment 15 using the device 1 described previously.

[0099] In practice, this commissioning process is for example implemented in the factory, at the time of manufacture of the electronic equipment.

[0100] [Fig. 10] represents, in the form of a flowchart, an example of a method for commissioning the electronic equipment 15 by the electrical energy source 12.

[0101] Prior to the implementation of this commissioning method, the electronic equipment 15 is in a so-called “ultra-low consumption” mode. This means either that the electronic equipment 15 is switched off or that it is in a standby state in which no task associated with this electronic equipment is implemented. In this second case, only the electronic functions specifically used for commissioning the electronic equipment 15 are, for example, powered. Alternatively, the electronic equipment has zero electrical energy consumption.

[0102] In any case, before implementing the commissioning method, the electrical consumption of the electrical energy source 12 is limited (only a possible residual leakage current can be observed but this residual leakage current is negligible in comparison with the electrical consumption of the electronic equipment 15).

[0103] As shown in [Fig.10], the method then begins with step E2. During this step, an external entity (not shown) transmits a radio signal Sradio to the device 1.

[0104] This radio signal Sradio is for example emitted on the basis of a radio-identification technology (or RFID for "Radio frequency identification" according to the acronym of Anglo-Saxon origin commonly used). It may be a question of an ultra high frequencies (or UHF for "Ultra high frequency") or high frequencies (HF for "high frequencies"). Alternatively, the radio signal can be transmitted on the basis of near-field communication (or NFC for "Near-Field Communication") technology.

[0105] In practice, the external entity is, for example, a dedicated electronic entity. This is, for example, a smartphone.

[0106] In step E4, the radio communication element 3, via its receiver 3A, receives the radio signal Sradio transmitted in step E2.

[0107] The commissioning method then continues in step E6 during which the radio communication element 3 converts the received radio signal Sradio into an electrical signal Seiec. The generated electrical signal Seiec is then transmitted to the switching element 5 (step E8).

[0108] This electrical signal Seiec is then received by the switching element 5, in step E10. This reception of the electrical signal Seiec then causes the switching element 5 to switch from its standby state to its activation state.

[0109] According to a first exemplary embodiment, the switching element 5 is formed by the fuse element 5A (visible in [Fig.2]). In this case, in step E10, the received electrical signal causes the fuse element 5A to melt. More particularly, the electrical signal Seiec is associated with sufficient corresponding electrical energy, for example 10 mW, to allow the fuse element 5A to melt. This melted state of the fuse element 5A corresponds to the activation state of the switching element 5 within the meaning of the present invention.

[0110] Once the fuse element 5A is open (i.e. melted), the transistor 7 then switches to a conductive state so as to enable the electronic equipment 15 to be powered.

[0111] According to a second exemplary embodiment, the switching element 5 is formed by the diode 5B. In this case, in step E10, the electrical signal Seiec causes the short-circuiting of the diode 4. More particularly, the electrical signal Seiec has an electrical voltage greater than an avalanche voltage of the diode 4. The avalanche voltage is for example of the order of a few volts or of the order of ten volts. This avalanche voltage then makes it possible to short-circuit the diode 4, which corresponds to the activation state of the switching element 5 within the meaning of the invention. The switching element 5 is thus in a state allowing the electronic equipment 15 to be powered.

[0112] According to a third embodiment, the switching element 5 is formed by the electronic lock 5C. In this example, in the standby state (therefore before step E10), the input El and the output S2 of the electronic lock 5C are activated. In step E10, the reception of the electrical signal Seiec causes the activation of the input E3. This activation then causes the logic flip-flop of the output SL. The electronic lock 5C is then activated.

[0113] This logic flip-flop of the electronic lock 5C corresponds to the activation state of the switching element 5 within the meaning of the invention. The switching element 5 is thus in a state such as to allow the electronic equipment 15 to be powered.

[0114] Whatever the embodiment, at the end of step E10, the switching element 5 is in its activation state. It should be noted here that in the three exemplary embodiments presented, the activation state of the switching element 5 is irreversible (that is to say that here, when it is observed, it is not possible to return the switching element to its standby state).

[0115] In any case, the switching element 5 placed in its switching state makes it possible, during step E12, to put the electronic equipment 15 into service. Indeed, the activation state of the switching element 5 makes it possible to establish the electrical connection between the electrical energy source 12 and the electronic equipment 15. In other words, in step E12, the electrical energy source 12 supplies the electronic equipment 15 (and therefore allows it to be put into service). This supply of the electronic equipment 15 then makes it possible to implement the associated electronic function.

[0116] Thus, advantageously according to the invention, the electronic equipment is put into service remotely by means of radio signals. The commissioning is therefore not done by activating a mechanical member. This makes the device, and in particular the electronic equipment, more robust because it is less sensitive to mechanical disturbances. This makes it possible to preserve the integrity of the entire device.

[0117] Furthermore, before this commissioning, when the electronic equipment is in an ultra-low consumption state, this makes it possible to preserve the capacity of the electrical energy source by limiting the discharge current (of the electrical energy source) consumed to a negligible value.

[0118] This source of electrical energy then begins to power the electronic equipment only when, following reception of the radio signal, the switching element passes into its activation state (then allowing the electronic equipment to be powered). Thus, the commissioning method according to the invention makes it possible to preserve the source of electrical energy during storage of the electronic equipment, before the latter becomes operational.

[0119] Optionally, the method may comprise a control step E14. This control step E14 makes it possible to verify that commissioning has taken place and that the electronic equipment 15 is operational. This is implemented, for example, by transmitting a control radio signal making it possible to establish the communication. direct communication between the radio communication element 3 and the electronic equipment 15. A response signal emitted by the electronic equipment 15 makes it possible, for example, to confirm its commissioning.

[0120] This control step E14 also makes it possible to implement time-stamping operations in order in particular to store (in the storage device) the date and time of commissioning of the electronic equipment.

[0121] In an alternative embodiment involving the commissioning device provided with the electronic lock, the method may comprise a step of placing the switching element on standby (represented by a dotted arrow in [Fig. 10] looping around step E12). This standby step is initiated on the command of the electronic equipment. Indeed, after its commissioning, the electronic equipment may command the switching element to return to its standby state. This standby step may for example be implemented during the manufacture of the electronic equipment, when it has been verified that the latter is actually operational (but that it has not yet been put into service). In other words, this step of placing the switching element on standby may be implemented during a test to verify the operation of the electronic equipment, in the factory, during its manufacture.Alternatively, this standby step is initiated by the radio communication element 3.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (1) for commissioning electronic equipment (15) powered by an electrical energy source (12), the commissioning device (1) comprising: - electronic equipment (15) configured to implement an electronic function, - an electrical energy source (12) configured to power at least the electronic equipment (15), - a radio communication element (3) configured to receive a radio signal (Srddio), and - a switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C) configured to receive the radio signal (Sradio) and commission the electronic equipment (15) by powering said electronic equipment (15) by the electrical energy source (12) so as to implement the associated electronic function.

2. A commissioning device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the radio communication element (3) is further configured to convert the received radio signal (Sradio) into a generated electrical signal (Seiec), the switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C) being configured to receive the electrical signal (Seiec) generated by the radio communication element (3) and implement said power supply of the electronic equipment (15).

3. A commissioning device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C) is configured to enable power supply to the electronic equipment (15) when said switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C) is in an activated state.

4. A commissioning device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching element (5, 5A) comprises a fuse element (5A).

5. A commissioning device (1) according to claim 4 taken in dependence on claim 3, wherein the activation state of the switching element (5, 5A) corresponds to the melting of the fuse element (5A).

6. A commissioning device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching element (5, 5B) comprises a diode (5B).

7. Device (1) for commissioning according to claim 6 taken in the dependence of claim 3, wherein the activation state of the switching element (5, 5B) corresponds to a short-circuit state of the diode (5B).

8. A commissioning device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching element (5, 5C) comprises an electronic lock (5C).

9. A commissioning device (1) according to claim 8 taken in dependence on claim 3, wherein the activation state of the switching element (5, 5C) corresponds to a switching state of the electronic lock (5C).

10. Method for commissioning electronic equipment (15) powered by an electrical energy source (12), the method comprising steps of: - transmission, by an external entity, of a radio signal (Sradio) to the electronic equipment (15), - reception of the radio signal (Sradio) transmitted by a radio communication element (3), - conversion, by the radio communication element (3), of the received radio signal (Sradio) into a generated electrical signal (Seiec), - reception of the generated electrical signal (Seiec) by a switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C), and - commissioning, via the switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C), the electronic equipment (15) by powering said electronic equipment (15) with the electrical energy source (12) so as to implement the associated electronic function.

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein, before the commissioning step, a step of placing the switching element (5, 5A, 5B, 5C) in an activation state following receipt of the generated electrical signal (Seiec) is provided, so as to commission the electronic equipment (15).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, the switching element (5, 5A) being a fusible element (5A), the activation state of the switching element (5, 5A) corresponds to the melting of the fusible element (5A).

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, the switching element (5, 5B) being a diode (5B), the activation state of the switching element (5, 5B) corresponds to a short-circuit state of the diode (5B).

14. The method of claim 11, wherein, the switching element (5, 5C) being an electronic lock (5C), the activation state of the switching element (5, 5C) corresponds to a toggle state of the electronic lock (5C).

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