Vehicle electrical system with two shared overcurrent protection devices and method of generating an error code

Abstract

A vehicle system (10, 10') is disclosed comprising a first and a second overcurrent protection device (f1, f2), two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3), and a control arrangement (21). Each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3) comprises a first power supply connection (c1, c1', c1'') electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the first overcurrent protection device (f1), and a second power supply connection (c2, c2', c2'') electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the second overcurrent protection device (f2). The control arrangement (21) is configured to generate an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections (c1, c1', c1'') or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections (c2, c2', c2''). The present disclosure further relates to a method (100) of generating an error code for a vehicle system (10, 10'), a computer program, a computer-readable medium (200), a control arrangement (21), and a vehicle (2).

Description

[0001] Vehicle System, Method of Generating an Error Code, Control

[0002] Arrangement, and Vehicle

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle system comprising a first and a second overcurrent protection device, two or more electronic modules, and a control arrangement. The present disclosure further relates to a method of generating an error code for a vehicle system, a computer program, a computer-readable medium, a control arrangement configured to generate an error code for a vehicle system, and a vehicle.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Modern vehicles often incorporate several safety-critical electronic modules, such as electronic modules for electronic braking systems, steering control systems, and the like. To ensure the vehicle’s safety and reliability, it is important that the power supply to these electronic modules remains uninterrupted, particularly in situations where continuous operation is safety-critical.

[0007] For certain low-priority devices, such as low-consumption devices within the cabin, a shared fuse may be used. If a fault causes this fuse to trip, the resulting loss of all connected devices is typically acceptable, as their functions are not safety-critical. However, to ensure the reliability of each safety-critical module, these modules are typically equipped with dual power supply connections. In this setup, each power connection of the modules is electrically connected to an electric power supply via a dedicated fuse. In this manner, the safety-critical modules can remain operational even if the power supply to one of the power supply connections fails.

[0008] This redundancy increases the system's fault tolerance, ensuring that critical functions of the vehicle are less likely to be disrupted. However, this approach has the drawback of requiring a large number of connections and fuses. For systems with dual power connections, the fuse and connection requirements double compared to single-feed systems, adding complexity and increasing the space required for these components within the vehicle’s electrical architecture.

[0009] Another related problem is that troubleshooting in electrical vehicle systems of vehicles can be complex and costly. With an increasing number of interconnected electronic modules, identifying faults often requires extensive diagnostic procedures. Electrical systems in vehicles are becoming more intricate and pinpointing the specific cause of a failure can demand both time and advanced diagnostic tools. Moreover, the above-mentioned solution of equipping safety-critical modules with dual power connections and dedicated fuses increases system reliability but also adds complexity. That is, the additional connections and fuses may complicate troubleshooting and isolating issues may become more timeconsuming and costly. Consequently, the process of diagnosing and repairing faults in these systems not only incurs costs but also risks prolonged downtime, affecting the vehicle’s overall availability and efficiency.

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to overcome, or at least alleviate, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. The object is achieved by the subject-matter of the appended independent claim(s).

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a vehicle system comprising a first and a second overcurrent protection device, two or more electronic modules, and a control arrangement. Each of the two or more electronic modules comprises a first power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the first overcurrent protection device, and a second power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the second overcurrent protection device. The control arrangement is configured to individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections of each of the two or more electronic modules and generate an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections.

[0013] In this manner, a vehicle system is provided having conditions for significantly simplifying troubleshooting of the vehicle system, reducing the physical footprint and installation complexity of the vehicle system, and ensuring that repairs can be conducted quickly and efficiently without compromising the functionality or operability of the vehicle system.

[0014] That is, since each of the two or more electronic modules comprises a first power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the first overcurrent protection device, and a second power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the second overcurrent protection device, the overall number of overcurrent protection devices, such as fuses, required in the system can be reduced. Unlike configurations where each power supply connection would need its own dedicated overcurrent protection device, this setup allows multiple electronic modules to share two overcurrent protection devices. As a result, this setup lowers both the physical footprint of the protection components and the installation complexity within the electrical architecture. Additionally, by minimising the total number of overcurrent protection devices and connections, the vehicle system simplifies troubleshooting and repairs, as fewer components need to be inspected or replaced, allowing for a more efficient maintenance process and potentially shorter repair times.

[0015] Furthermore, since the control arrangement is configured to generate an error code within the first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections, a more user- friendly vehicle system is provided because the control arrangement can pinpoint problems caused by erroneous wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices. Accordingly, another system or device of the vehicle, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the first category, determine that a fault has occurred in wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices, rather than a fault, trip, or issue in either the first or second overcurrent protection device.

[0016] In this manner, unnecessary maintenance checks can be minimized, and repairs to the vehicle system can be conducted more quickly and efficiently. Moreover, it can enhance the overall reliability of the vehicle system, reduce downtime, and support more precise troubleshooting.

[0017] Accordingly, a vehicle system is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0018] Optionally, the error code within the first category is indicative of the identity of the first power supply connections within the proper subset of the first power supply connections or the identity of the second power supply connections within the proper subset of the second power supply connections. Thereby, more precise troubleshooting of the vehicle system can be performed, which may minimize unnecessary maintenance checks and allow for quicker and more efficient repairs. This is because another system or device of the vehicle, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the first category, determine the identity of the first power supply connections or the identity of the second power supply connections to which wiring or contacts are likely faulty. Optionally, the control arrangement is configured to generate an error code within a second category if a voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connection of each of the two or more electronic modules or in the second power supply connection of each of the two or more electronic modules. Thereby, even more precise troubleshooting of the vehicle system can be performed, which may further minimize unnecessary maintenance checks and allow for even quicker and more efficient repairs. This is because another system or device of the vehicle, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the second category, determine that a fault, trip, or issue has likely occurred in the first overcurrent protection device or in the second overcurrent protection device.

[0019] Optionally, the error code within the second category is indicative of whether the voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connections of each of the two or more electronic modules or in the second power supply connection of each of the two or more electronic modules. Thereby, even more precise troubleshooting of the vehicle system can be performed, which may further minimize unnecessary maintenance checks and allow for even quicker and more efficient repairs. This is because another system or device of the vehicle, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the second category, determine the identity of the overcurrent protection device in which a fault, trip, or issue has likely occurred.

[0020] Optionally, each of the first and a second overcurrent protection devices is a fuse. Thereby, efficient and cost-effective overcurrent protection devices are provided.

[0021] Optionally, each of the two or more electronic modules is an electronic control unit. Thereby, a vehicle system is provided having conditions for significantly simplifying troubleshooting of the vehicle system, reducing the physical footprint and installation complexity of the vehicle system, and ensuring that repairs can be conducted quickly and efficiently without compromising the functionality or operability of the electronic control units.

[0022] Optionally, the vehicle system comprises a voltage drop detection assembly, wherein the control arrangement is configured to individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections of each of the two or more electronic modules using the voltage drop detection assembly, and wherein the voltage drop detection assembly is formed by individual parts comprised in each of the two or more electronic modules. Thereby, voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections of each of the two or more electronic modules can be efficiently monitored in a decentralized manner.

[0023] Optionally, the vehicle system comprises a control system configured to receive error codes generated by the control arrangement, and wherein the control system is configured to perform at least one of the following actions in response to receiving an error code within the first category from the control arrangement:

[0024] - store the error code, or data indicative thereof, in a memory,

[0025] - output a notification in a driver environment of the vehicle,

[0026] - output the error code, or data indicative thereof, in the driver environment of the vehicle, and

[0027] - impose operational limitations on the vehicle based on the error code, such as initiating a safe stop of the vehicle.

[0028] Thereby, a more user-friendly vehicle system is provided having conditions for notifying a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, about potential error and faults of the vehicle system.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a method of generating an error code for a vehicle system, wherein the method is performed by a control arrangement, and wherein the vehicle system comprises a first and a second overcurrent protection device, two or more electronic modules, and the control arrangement. Each of the two or more electronic modules comprises a first power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the first overcurrent protection device, and a second power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the second overcurrent protection device. The method comprises the steps of:

[0030] - individually monitoring voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections of each of the two or more electronic modules, and

[0031] - generating an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections.

[0032] In this manner, a method is provided having conditions for significantly simplifying troubleshooting of the vehicle system, reducing the physical footprint and installation complexity of the vehicle system, and ensuring that repairs can be conducted quickly and efficiently without compromising the functionality or operability of the vehicle system. That is, since the method comprises the step of generating an error code within the first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections, problems caused by erroneous wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices can be pinpointed. Accordingly, another system or device of the vehicle, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the first category, determine that a fault has occurred in wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices, rather than a fault, trip, or issue in either the first or second overcurrent protection device.

[0033] In this manner, unnecessary maintenance checks can be minimized, and repairs to the vehicle system can be conducted more quickly and efficiently. Moreover, it can enhance the overall reliability of the vehicle system, reduce downtime, and support more precise troubleshooting.

[0034] Accordingly, method is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0035] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a control arrangement of a vehicle, cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. Since the computer program comprises instructions to cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program is provided which provides conditions for overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0036] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a computer- readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a control arrangement of a vehicle, cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. Since the computer-readable medium comprises instructions to cause the control arrangement to carry out the method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable medium is provided which provides conditions for overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above- mentioned drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved. According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a control arrangement configured to generate an error code for a vehicle system, wherein the vehicle system comprises a first and a second overcurrent protection device, and two or more electronic modules. Each of the two or more electronic modules comprises a first power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the first overcurrent protection device, and a second power supply connection electrically connected to an electric power supply via the second overcurrent protection device. The control arrangement is configured to individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections of each of the two or more electronic modules, and generate an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections.

[0037] In this manner, a control arrangement is provided having conditions for significantly simplifying troubleshooting of the vehicle system, reducing the physical footprint and installation complexity of the vehicle system, and ensuring that repairs can be conducted quickly and efficiently without compromising the functionality or operability of the vehicle system.

[0038] That is, since the control arrangement is configured to generate an error code within the first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections, problems caused by erroneous wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices can be pinpointed. Accordingly, another system or device of the vehicle, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the first category, determine that a fault has occurred in wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices, rather than a fault, trip, or issue in either the first or second overcurrent protection device.

[0039] In this manner, unnecessary maintenance checks can be minimized, and repairs to the vehicle system can be conducted more quickly and efficiently. Moreover, it can enhance the overall reliability of the vehicle system, reduce downtime, and support more precise troubleshooting. Accordingly, control arrangement is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

[0040] It will be appreciated that the various embodiments described for the method are all combinable with the control arrangement as described herein. That is, the control arrangement according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure may be configured to perform any one of the method steps of the method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0041] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is achieved by a vehicle comprising a vehicle system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure or a control arrangement according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure. Since the vehicle comprises a vehicle system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure or a control arrangement according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved

[0042] Optionally, the vehicle is a heavy wheeled vehicle, such as a truck or a bus. Thereby, a heavy wheeled vehicle is provided having at least some of the above-mentioned advantages.

[0043] Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.

[0044] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Various aspects of the present disclosure, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle according to some embodiments,

[0047] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a vehicle system of the vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1 ,

[0048] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a vehicle system according to some further embodiments, Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a method of generating an error code for a vehicle system, and

[0049] Fig. 5 illustrates a computer-readable medium.

[0050] DETAILED DESCRIPTION Aspects of the present disclosure will now be described more fully. Like reference signs refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity.

[0051] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 2 according to some embodiments. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 is a truck, i.e. , a type of heavy wheeled vehicle, as well as a type of heavy commercial vehicle. According to further embodiments, the vehicle 2, as referred to herein, may be another type of heavy or lighter type of manned or unmanned vehicle for land- or water-based propulsion such as a lorry, a construction vehicle, a tractor, a bus, a car, a ship, a boat, or the like.

[0052] The vehicle 2 comprises a propulsion system 30 configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2 via wheels 27 of the vehicle 2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the propulsion system 30 comprises an electric machine 12 for providing motive power to the vehicle 2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the electric machine 12 is configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2 via a transmission 33 and wheels 27 of the vehicle 2. The electric machine 12 may also be referred to as an electric propulsion machine, an electric motor, an electric propulsion motor, or the like. The vehicle 2 in Fig. 1 is schematically depicted as comprising one electric machine 12. However, the propulsion system 30 of the vehicle 2 may comprise two or more electric machines 12 each configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2.

[0053] According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 comprises a propulsion battery 11. The propulsion battery 11 is configured to provide electricity to the electric machine 12 of the propulsion system 30 of the vehicle 2. The vehicle 2 further comprises power electronics 14 configured to regulate the transfer of electricity between the electric machine 12 and the propulsion battery 11. The propulsion battery 11 may comprise a number of rechargeable battery cells, such as lithium-ion battery cells, lithium polymer battery cells, nickel-metal hydride battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, solid-state battery, or the like.

[0054] The vehicle 2 may comprise one or more further propulsion batteries arranged at different locations on the vehicle 2 than depicted in Fig. 1. Each propulsion battery 11 may comprise a number of battery layers each comprising a number of battery modules, wherein each battery module may comprise a number of rechargeable battery cells. According to embodiments herein, the propulsion battery 11 has a nominal voltage within the so-called Voltage Class B, usually abbreviated VCB, namely a nominal voltage equal to, or higher than, 60 volts. The wording propulsion battery 11, as referred to herein, may encompass one battery pack, one layer of battery cells, or one battery module according to the above.

[0055] According to the illustrated embodiments, the propulsion system 30 of the vehicle 2 is a pure electrical propulsion system. The wording “pure electrical propulsion system” means that the propulsion system 30 comprises one or more electric machines as the only means of providing propulsion power to the vehicle 2. However, according to further embodiments, the propulsion system 30 of the vehicle 2 may comprise an internal combustion engine configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2 in addition to one or more electric propulsion machines 12, as indicated above, or as an alternative to the one or more electric propulsion machines 12. The propulsion system 30 may also be referred to as a hybrid electric powertrain in embodiments in which the propulsion system 30 comprises the combination of one or more electric machines and an internal combustion engine.

[0056] According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 is a wheeled vehicle comprising a number of wheels 27, 27’. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1, the vehicle 2 comprises two driven wheels 27 which constitute rear-wheels of the vehicle 2. The vehicle 2 further comprises two non-driven wheels 27’, which according to the illustrated embodiments constitute front-wheels of the vehicle 2. In other words, in these embodiments, the electric machine 12 is configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2 via the driven wheels 27 of the vehicle 2. However, according to further embodiments, the vehicle 2 may comprise another configuration of driven and non-driven wheels.

[0057] In Fig. 1 , the vehicle 2 is illustrated as positioned in an intended use position on a flat surface 51 supporting the vehicle 2. As seen in Fig. 1 , the wheels 27, 27’ of the vehicle 2 abut against the flat surface 51 when the vehicle 2 is positioned in the intended use position thereon. The number of wheels 27, 27’ of the vehicle 2 is supported relative to a chassis 40 of the vehicle 2 via wheel axles. According to some embodiments, the vehicle 2 may comprise a wheel suspension system resiliently suspending the wheels 27, 27’ of the vehicle 2 relative to the chassis. The chassis 40 of the vehicle 2 serves as a structural framework that supports other components and systems of the vehicle 2, such as the propulsion system 30 and a cab 45 of the vehicle 2.

[0058] That is, as is seen in Fig. 1, according to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 comprises a cab 45. According to the illustrated embodiments, the cab 45 is resiliently suspended relative to the chassis 40. The cab 45 accommodates an occupant compartment 55. The occupant compartment 55 is arranged to accommodate one or more vehicle occupants, such as a driver and possibly one or more passengers. According to the illustrated embodiments, the occupant compartment 55 also comprises a driver environment of the vehicle 2. The term "driver environment” refers to the area within the vehicle 2 where a driver operates and controls the vehicle 2. The driver environment typically includes the driver's seat, steering wheel, pedals, dashboard, and other control interfaces and displays that the driver may use to manage functions of the vehicle 2.

[0059] The vehicle 2 further comprises a vehicle system 10. As is further explained in detail below, the vehicle system 10 may also be referred to as electric vehicle system.

[0060] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates the vehicle system 10 of the vehicle 2 illustrated in Fig. 1. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, if not indicated otherwise.

[0061] The vehicle system 10 comprises an electric power supply Ps. According to embodiments herein, the electric power supply Ps has a nominal voltage within the so-called Voltage Class A, usually abbreviated VGA, with a nominal voltage below 60 volts. The electric power supply Ps may include or constitute a terminal of a battery, a contact of an electric generator, or another type of supply point within an electric system of the vehicle 2.

[0062] The vehicle system 10 further comprises a first and a second overcurrent protection device f 1 , f2. According to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first and second overcurrent protection devices f 1 , f2 is a fuse. The fuse may for example be a blade fuse, glass tube fuse, ceramic tube fuse, cartridge fuse, or a resettable fuse. However, according to some further embodiments, one or both of the first and second overcurrent protection devices f 1 , f2 may be another type of overcurrent protection device than a fuse, such as a circuit breaker, or a semiconductor-based overcurrent protection device.

[0063] Moreover, according to the embodiments depicted in Fig. 2, the vehicle system 10 comprises three electronic modules e1 , e2, e3. In some places below, these are referred to as a first electronic module e1 , a second electronic module e2, and a third electronic module e3. The three electronic modules e1 , e2, e3 are also schematically illustrated in Fig. 1. The wording “electronic module” as used herein is intended to encompass a range of components capable of processing, controlling, or monitoring functions within the vehicle system, including, but not limited to, control units, sensors, communication interfaces, or actuators. Each electronic module e1 , e2, e3 may be configured to perform specific functions that contribute to the overall operation of the vehicle system 10, and / or of the vehicle 2. The vehicle system 10 may comprise two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3. The embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, which shows three electronic modules e1, e2, e3, is provided as an illustrative example only. The vehicle system 10 may, accordingly, include a different number of electronic modules e1 , e2, e3 than three, such as two, four, five, six, and so on. For this reason, the three electronic modules e1 , e2, e3 illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are in some places below referred to as the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3.

[0064] According to embodiments herein, each of the two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3 comprises a first power supply connection c1 , cT, c1” electrically connected to the electric power supply Ps via the first overcurrent protection device f1 , and a second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” electrically connected to the electric power supply Ps via the second overcurrent protection device f2. This may also be expressed as that each of the two or more electronic modules, e1, e2, e3, is configured with dual power supply connections: a first power supply connection, c1, cT, d ”, which is electrically connected to the electric power supply Ps through the first overcurrent protection device f 1 , and a second power supply connection, c2, c2’, c2”, which is electrically connected to the electric power supply Ps via the second overcurrent protection device f2.

[0065] According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 comprises an internal power unit Ip, Ip’, Ip” electrically connected to both the first and second power supply connection c1, c2, cT, c2’, d ”, c2” of the electronic module e1, e2, e3. The internal power unit Ip, Ip’, Ip” is configured to receive electrical energy from each of the first and second power supply connection c1 , c2, cT, c2’, d ”, c2”of the electronic module e1, e2, e3 during default, non-faulty operation of the vehicle system 10. This dual connection setup ensures that each electronic module e1, e2, e3 can maintain power continuity even in the event of a fault, trip, or issue in one the first or second overcurrent protection devices f 1 , f2, which enhances the fault tolerance of the vehicle system 10 and operational reliability of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3.

[0066] The vehicle system 10 further comprises a control arrangement 21. The control arrangement 21 is configured to individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections c1, cT, d ”, c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3, and generate an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”. A voltage drop in a proper subset of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” indicates that a fault has occurred in wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connection c1, cT, c1 ”, c2, c2’, c2” and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices f 1 , f2, rather than a fault, trip, or issue in one of the first or second overcurrent protection device f 1 , f2.

[0067] Accordingly, by generating an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”, another system or device of the vehicle 2, and / or a user of the vehicle, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the first category, determine that a fault has occurred in wiring or contacts between a number of power supply connections c1, cT, d ”, c2, c2’, c2” and one of the first and second overcurrent protection devices f 1 , f2, rather than a fault, trip, or issue in one of the first or second overcurrent protection devices f1 , f2.

[0068] In this manner, unnecessary maintenance checks can be minimized, and repairs to the vehicle system 10 can be conducted more quickly and efficiently. Moreover, it can enhance the overall reliability of the vehicle system 10, reduce downtime, and support more precise troubleshooting.

[0069] The term proper subset means a subset of a defined first set that includes some, but not all, elements of the first set, i.e. the first set is larger than the proper subset of the first set. In this context, a proper subset of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” refers to a selection / set of the first power supply connections c1 , cT, c1” that includes at least one, but not all, of the full set of first power supply connections c1 , cT, c1 ”. Likewise, a proper subset of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” refers to a selection / set of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” that includes at least one, but not all, of the full set of second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”. In this context, the full set of first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” means all first power supply connections c1 , cT, c1” of the two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3. Likewise, in this context, the full set of second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” means all second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” of the two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3.

[0070] As an example, according to these definitions and based on the example embodiment illustrated in Fig. 2, an error code within the first category is generated in case a voltage drop is detected in one or two of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” or in one or two of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”. The error code within the first category may be indicative of the identity of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” within the proper subset of the first power supply connections c1, cT, d” or the identity of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” within the proper subset of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”. In this manner, more precise troubleshooting of the vehicle system 10 can be performed, which may minimize unnecessary maintenance checks and allow for quicker and more efficient repairs. This is because another system or device of the vehicle 2, and / or a user of the vehicle 2, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the first category, determine the identity of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” or the identity of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” to which wiring or contacts are likely faulty.

[0071] According to some embodiments, the control arrangement 21 is configured to generate an error code within a second category if a voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3 or in the second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3. A voltage drop detected in the first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 or in the second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 indicates that a fault, trip, or issue has occurred in one of the first or second overcurrent protection device f 1 , f2. Accordingly, by generating an error code within a second category if this is detected, another system or device of the vehicle 2, and / or a user of the vehicle 2, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the second category, determine that a fault, trip, or issue has likely occurred in the first overcurrent protection device f1 or in the second overcurrent protection device f2.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the error code within the second category may be indicative of whether the voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 or in the second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3. In this manner, another system or device of the vehicle 2, and / or a user of the vehicle 2, service personnel, or the like, may, upon receiving the generated error code within the second category, determine the identity of the overcurrent protection device f1 , f2 in which a fault, trip, or issue has likely occurred.

[0073] According to the illustrated embodiments, each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 is an electronic control unit. The term electronic control unit, as used herein, means a device within the vehicle system 10 being configured to monitor, control, or regulate one or more specific functions or systems within the vehicle 2. This may include processing signals, executing programmed instructions, and communicating with other component or systems. According to further embodiments, one or more of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 may be another type of electronic module than an electronic control unit, such as, for example, an electric steering motor, a sensor module, an actuator module, or other component responsible for specific functions within the vehicle system 10.

[0074] According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, the vehicle system 10 comprises a voltage drop detection assembly 5, wherein the control arrangement 21 is configured to individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections c1, cT, d”, c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 using the voltage drop detection assembly 5. As can be seen in Fig. 2, in these embodiments, the voltage drop detection assembly 5 is formed by individual parts d1, d2, dT, d2’, d1 ”, d2” comprised in each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3. In other words, each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 comprises one part d1, dT, d1” for monitoring voltage drops in the first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” thereof, and one part d2, d2’, d2” for monitoring voltage drops in the second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” thereof. These parts d1 , d2, dT, d2’, d1 ”, d2” may also be referred to as diagnostic modules, voltage drop diagnostic modules, or the like, of the electronic modules e1 , e2, e3.

[0075] Each of these parts d1, d2, dT, d2’, d1”, d2” of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 may comprise a voltage sensor for monitoring the voltage at the respective power supply connection c1, c2, cT, c2’, d ”, c2”. These voltage sensors may continuously monitor the voltage levels and may be configured to detect deviations from a nominal voltage range. Alternatively, voltage drops can be detected by measuring the difference between an input voltage at the electric power supply Ps and the voltage at each power supply connection c1 , cT, d ”, c2, c2’, c2”. As a further alternative, or in addition, voltage drops may be detected by monitoring for a drop in electrical current through the respective power supply connection c1, c2, cT, c2’, d ”, c2”. Such detections of a drop in electrical current may be performed by current sensors included in the parts d1 , d2, dT, d2’, d1 ”, d2” of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3. The data collected by these sensors can then be processed by the control arrangement 21 to determine if a significant voltage drop has occurred in one or more of the power supply connections c1, cT, d”, c2, c2’, c2”.

[0076] According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, the control arrangement 21 is illustrated as a separate unit configured to communicate with the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 and the individual parts d1 , d2, dT, d2’, d1 ”, d2” comprised in each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3. However, according to further embodiments, the control arrangement 21, as referred to herein may comprise the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3, and / or the individual parts d1, d2, dT, d2’, d1”, d2” of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3.

[0077] According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, the vehicle system 10 comprises a control system 20 configured to receive error codes generated by the control arrangement 21. The control system 20 may be configured to perform at least one of the following actions in response to receiving an error code within the first category from the control arrangement 21: store the error code, or data indicative thereof, in a memory, output a notification in a driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2, output the error code, or data indicative thereof, in the driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2, and impose operational limitations on the vehicle 2 based on the error code, such as initiating a safe stop of the vehicle 2.

[0078] Likewise, the control system 20 may be configured to perform at least one of the following actions in response to receiving an error code within the second category from the control arrangement 21: store the error code, or data indicative thereof, in a memory, output a notification in a driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2, output the error code, or data indicative thereof, in the driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2, and impose operational limitations on the vehicle 2 based on the error code, such as initiating a safe stop of the vehicle 2.

[0079] By storing the error code, or data indicative thereof, in a memory, the control system 20 can generate a record of the fault, enabling later retrieval and analysis. This allows users and service personnel to identify issues thereby facilitating efficient troubleshooting of the vehicle system 10.

[0080] The control system 20 may be configured to output the notification in the driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2 by outputting a visual, audible, and / or haptic signal in the driver environment 55. The outputted signal may be indicative of the category of the error code. Visual signals may include warning lights or messages displayed on a screen. Audible alerts may include beeps, sounds, and / or spoken messages. Haptic signal may for example comprise haptic feedback provided through a steering wheel or seat of the vehicle 2.

[0081] The control system 20 may be configured to impose operational limitations on the vehicle 2 based on the error code by initiating a safe stop of the vehicle 2, which may involve gradually reducing speed, limiting acceleration, and / or deactivating certain functions to ensure the vehicle reaches a safe and controlled stop. As an alternative, or in addition, the operational limitations imposed by the control system 20 may include other measures, such as preventing of engine restart after the vehicle is safely stopped.

[0082] According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, the vehicle system 10 comprises an electrical distribution box Ell, which includes the first and second overcurrent protection devices f 1 , f2. In these embodiments, the vehicle system 10 also comprises a contact member n1 inserted into a socket of the electrical distribution box Ell. The contact member n1 comprises a splice s1 that branches the connection to the first overcurrent protection device f1 into two conductors. One of these conductors is connected to the first power supply connection c1 of the first electronic module e1. The other of these conductors extends from the contact member n1 at the electrical distribution box Ell to a splice sT, where it branches further into two conductors, one of which is connected to the first power supply connection cT of the second electronic module e2 and the other of which is connected to the first power supply connection c1” of the third electronic module e3.

[0083] Moreover, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, each of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 are electrically connected to the second overcurrent protection device f2 in the electrical distribution box Ell via spliced conductors only, i.e. , conductors comprising the splices s2 and s2’ indicated in Fig. 2, without any contact member. The purpose of the different connection versions shown in Fig. 2 is to illustrate various plausible methods for electrically connecting each first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” to the first overcurrent protection device f1 and each second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” to the second overcurrent protection device f2.

[0084] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a vehicle system 10’ according to some further embodiments.

[0085] As indicated in Fig. 1, the vehicle 2 may comprise a vehicle system 10’ according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3. The vehicle system 10’ according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3 comprises the same features, functions, and advantages as the vehicle system 10 explained with reference to Fig. 2, with some differences detailed below. For reasons of brevity and clarity, only the differences are explained in detail below.

[0086] According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3, each first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 is electrically connected to the first overcurrent protection device f1 via an external connector split unit n2. In this context, the term external connector split unit n2 means that the connector split unit n2 is arranged external to, i.e. , at a distance from, the electrical distribution box Ell. Moreover, according to these embodiments, all second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2” of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 are interconnected via a so-called daisy chain connection. A daisy chain connection, also known as a series connection or cascade connection, refers to a wiring method in which each device is connected sequentially, one after the other, in a linear chain. In this configuration, each second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” is linked to the next, creating a single path for electrical flow between the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”. This approach can minimize wiring complexity and can reduce the number of individual connections to the second overcurrent protection device f2.

[0087] Like in Fig. 2, the purpose of the different connection methods shown in Fig. 2 is to illustrate various plausible methods for electrically connecting each first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” to the first overcurrent protection device f1 and each second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” to the second overcurrent protection device f2.

[0088] According to embodiments herein, the vehicle system 10, 10’ may utilize any one of, or combination of, the connection methods illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, or any other combination of connection methods not depicted in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. In other words, the vehicle system 10, 10’ may utilize any single connection method illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, any combination of connection methods illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, or a combination of connection methods not shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3.

[0089] Each error code within the first and second category may be represented by a unique identifier that conveys information about the type and location of the fault. This identifier could take various forms, such as numeric, alphanumeric, symbolic, and / or encoded data formats. Moreover, the error code could contain data about the affected component, fault severity, and possibly also the time of detection. Fig. 4 schematically illustrates a method 100 of generating an error code for a vehicle system of a vehicle. The vehicle may be a vehicle 2 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 1, and the vehicle system 10 may be a vehicle system 10 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 or a vehicle system 10’ according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 3. Therefore, below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 4, if not indicated otherwise.

[0090] The method is a method 100 of generating an error code for a vehicle system 10, 10’, wherein the method 100 is performed by a control arrangement 21, and wherein the vehicle system 10, 10’ comprises an electric power supply Ps, a first and a second overcurrent protection device f 1 , f2, two or more electronic modules e1 , e2, e3, and the control arrangement 21. Each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 comprises a first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” electrically connected to the electric power supply Ps via the first overcurrent protection device f 1 , and a second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” electrically connected to the electric power supply Ps via the second overcurrent protection device f2. The method comprises the steps of: individually monitoring 110 voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections c1, cT, d”, c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3, and generating 120 an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections c1, cT, c1” or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections c2, c2’, c2”.

[0091] According to some embodiments, the method 100 comprises the step of: generating 130 an error code within a second category if a voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connection c1, cT, c1” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3 or in the second power supply connection c2, c2’, c2” of each of the two or more electronic modules e1, e2, e3.

[0092] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the vehicle system 10, 10’ comprises a control system 20 configured to receive error codes generated by the control arrangement 21 , and wherein the method 100 comprises the steps of: receiving 140, in the control system 20, an error code within the first category from the control arrangement 21, and performing 150 at least one of the following steps in response to receipt of the error code within the first category: storing 151 the error code, or data indicative thereof, in a memory, outputting 152 a notification in a driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2, outputting 153 the error code, or data indicative thereof, in the driver environment 55 of the vehicle 2, and imposing 154 operational limitations on the vehicle 2 based on the error code, such as initiating a safe stop of the vehicle 2.

[0093] It will be appreciated that the various embodiments described for the method 100 are all combinable with the control arrangement 21 and / or the control system 20 as described herein. That is, the control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20, may be configured to perform any one of the method steps 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 151, 152, 153, and 154.

[0094] Fig. 5 illustrates a computer-readable medium 200 comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the computer- readable medium 200 comprises a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method 100 according to some embodiments. The computer may be comprised in the control arrangement 21 and / or in the control system 20.

[0095] One skilled in the art will appreciate that the method 100 of generating an error code for a vehicle system 10, 10’ may be implemented by programmed instructions. These programmed instructions are typically constituted by a computer program, which, when it is executed in the control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20, ensures that the control arrangement 21, and / or control system 20, carries out the desired control, such as the method steps 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 151, 152, 153, and 154 described herein. The computer program is usually part of a computer program product which comprises a suitable digital storage medium on which the computer program is stored, such as the computer- readable medium 200 illustrated in Fig. 5. In other words, the computer program product may be a computer readable medium 200 and the computer program may be stored in the computer readable medium 200.

[0096] The control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20, may comprise a computer which may take the form of substantially any suitable type of hardware or hardware / firmware device implemented using processing circuity such as, but not limited to, a processor, Central Processing Unit (CPU), a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a circuit for digital signal processing (digital signal processor, DSP), a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a System-on-Chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit, or any other device capable of electronically performing operations in a defined manner, or other processing logic that may interpret and execute instructions. The herein utilised expression “computer” may represent a processing circuitry comprising a plurality of processing circuits, such as, e.g., any, some or all of the ones mentioned above.

[0097] The control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20, may further comprise a memory unit, wherein the computer may be connected to the memory unit, which may provide the computer with, for example, stored program code and / or stored data which the computer may need to enable it to do calculations. The computer may also be adapted to store partial or final results of calculations in the memory unit. The memory unit may comprise a physical device utilised to store data or programs, i.e. , sequences of instructions, on a temporary or permanent basis. According to some embodiments, the memory unit may comprise integrated circuits comprising silicon-based transistors. The memory unit may comprise e.g. a memory card, a flash memory, a USB memory, a hard disc, or another similar volatile or non-volatile storage unit for storing data such as e.g. ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable PROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), etc. in different embodiments.

[0098] The control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20, is connected to components of the vehicle 2 for receiving and / or sending input and output signals. These input and output signals may comprise waveforms, pulses, or other attributes which the input signal receiving devices can detect as information and which can be converted to signals processable by the control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20. These signals may then be supplied to the computer. One or more output signal sending devices may be arranged to convert calculation results from the computer to output signals for conveying to other parts of the vehicle's control system and / or the component or components for which the signals are intended. Each of the connections to the respective components of the vehicle 2 for receiving and sending input and output signals may take the form of one or more from among a cable, a data bus, e.g. a CAN (controller area network) bus, a MOST (media orientated systems transport) bus or some other bus configuration, or a wireless connection.

[0099] In the embodiments illustrated, the vehicle 2 comprises a control arrangement 21 and a control system 20 but might alternatively be implemented wholly or partly in two or more control arrangements, two or more control systems, or two or more control units. Control systems in modern vehicles generally comprise a communication bus system consisting of one or more communication buses for connecting a number of electronic control units (ECUs), or controllers, to various components on board the vehicle. Such a control system may comprise a large number of control units and taking care of a specific function may be shared between two or more of them. Vehicles and engines of the type here concerned are therefore often provided with significantly more control arrangements than depicted in Fig. 1 - Fig. 3, as one skilled in the art will surely appreciate.

[0100] The computer-readable medium 200 may be provided for instance in the form of a data carrier carrying computer program code for performing at least some of the method steps 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 151, 152, 153, and 154 according to some embodiments of the method 100 when being loaded into one or more computers of the control arrangement 21 , and / or the control system 20. The data carrier may be, e.g. a CD ROM disc, as is illustrated in Fig. 5, or a ROM (read-only memory), a PROM (programable read-only memory), an EPROM (erasable PROM), a flash memory, an EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), a hard disc, a memory stick, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device or any other appropriate medium such as a disk or tape that may hold machine readable data in a non- transitory manner. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the computer-readable medium 200 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a tangible electronic, magnetic, optical, infrared, electromagnetic, and / or semiconductor system, apparatus, and / or device. The computer-readable medium 200 may furthermore be provided as computer program code on a server and may be downloaded to the control arrangement 21, and / or the control system 20, remotely, e.g., over an Internet or an intranet connection, or via other wired or wireless communication systems.

[0101] It is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended independent claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended independent claims.

[0102] As used herein, the term "comprising" or "comprises" is open-ended, and includes one or more stated features, elements, steps, components, or functions but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A vehicle system (10, 10’) comprising: a first and a second overcurrent protection device (f1 , f2), two or more electronic modules (e1 , e2, e3), and a control arrangement (21), wherein each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3) comprises: a first power supply connection (c1, cT, c1”) electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the first overcurrent protection device (f1), and a second power supply connection (c2, c2’, c2”) electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the second overcurrent protection device (f2), and wherein the control arrangement (21) is configured to: individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections (c1 , cT, d ”, c2, c2’, c2”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1 , e2, e3), and generate an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections (c1, cT, c1”) or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections (c2, c2’, c2”).

2. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to claim 1, wherein the error code within the first category is indicative of the identity of the first power supply connections (c1 , cT, c1”) within the proper subset of the first power supply connections (c1, cT, c1”) or the identity of the second power supply connections (c2, c2’, c2”) within the proper subset of the second power supply connections (c2, c2’, c2”).

3. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control arrangement (21) is configured to generate an error code within a second category if a voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connection (c1, cT, c1”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3) or in the second power supply connection (c2, c2’, c2”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1 , e2, e3).

4. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to claim 3, wherein the error code within the second category is indicative of whether the voltage drop is detected in the first power supply connections (c1, cT, c1”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1 , e2, e3) or in the second power supply connection (c2, c2’, c2”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3).

5. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first and a second overcurrent protection devices (f1, f2) is a fuse.

6. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the two or more electronic modules (e1 , e2, e3) is an electronic control unit.

7. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle system (10, 10’) comprises a voltage drop detection assembly (5), wherein the control arrangement (21) is configured to individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections (c1, cT, c1 ”, c2, c2’, c2”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3) using the voltage drop detection assembly (5), and wherein the voltage drop detection assembly (5) is formed by individual parts (d1, d2, d1’, d2’, d1 ”, d2”) comprised in each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3).

8. The vehicle system (10, 10’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle system (10, 10’) comprises a control system (20) configured to receive error codes generated by the control arrangement (21), and wherein the control system (20) is configured to perform at least one of the following actions in response to receiving an error code within the first category from the control arrangement (21): store the error code, or data indicative thereof, in a memory, output a notification in a driver environment (55) of the vehicle (2), output the error code, or data indicative thereof, in the driver environment (55) of the vehicle (2), and impose operational limitations on the vehicle (2) based on the error code, such as initiating a safe stop of the vehicle (2).

9. A method (100) of generating an error code for a vehicle system (10, 10’), wherein the method (100) is performed by a control arrangement (21), and wherein the vehicle system (10, 10’) comprises: a first and a second overcurrent protection device (f1 , f2),- two or more electronic modules (e1 , e2, e3), and- the control arrangement (21), wherein each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3) comprises: a first power supply connection (c1, cT, c1”) electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the first overcurrent protection device (f1), and a second power supply connection (c2, c2’, c2”) electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the second overcurrent protection device (f2), and wherein the method comprises the steps of:individually monitoring (110) voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections (c1 , cT, c1 ”, c2, c2’, c2”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3), and generating (120) an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections (c1, cT, c1”) or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections (c2, c2’, c2”).

10. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a control arrangement (21) of a vehicle (2), cause the control arrangement (21) to carry out the method (100) according claim 9.

11. A computer-readable medium (200) comprising instructions which, when executed by a control arrangement (21) of a vehicle (2), cause the control arrangement (21) to carry out the method (100) according claim 9.

12. A control arrangement (21) configured to generate an error code for a vehicle system (10, 10’), wherein the vehicle system (10, 10’) comprises: a first and a second overcurrent protection device (f1, f2), and two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3), wherein each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3) comprises: a first power supply connection (c1 , cT, c1”) electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the first overcurrent protection device (f1), and a second power supply connection (c2, c2’, c2”) electrically connected to an electric power supply (Ps) via the second overcurrent protection device (f2), and wherein the control arrangement (21) is configured to: individually monitor voltage drops at the first and second power supply connections (c1 , cT, d ”, c2, c2’, c2”) of each of the two or more electronic modules (e1, e2, e3), and generate an error code within a first category if a voltage drop is detected in a proper subset of the first power supply connections (c1, cT, c1”) or in a proper subset of the second power supply connections (c2, c2’, c2”).

13. A vehicle (2) comprising a vehicle system (10, 10’) according to any one of the claims 1 - 8 or a control arrangement (21) according to claim 12.

14. The vehicle (2) according to claim 13, wherein the vehicle (2) is a heavy wheeled vehicle, such as a truck or a bus.

Images