Actuator Current Control with Dual-Path Fault Current Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for current regulation in actuator control in vehicles lack precise dynamic control loops due to insufficient current measurement resolution, leading to faults from unknown fault currents, especially when multiple control units drive a single actuator.
Innovation Solution
A device with integrated first and second current measuring apparatuses in the control unit allows for independent measurement and comparison of currents through high-side and low-side terminals, detecting fault currents and generating a fault signal if a predefined threshold is exceeded, ensuring accurate current regulation and fault detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple current measurement using a shunt on the voltage side is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision is insufficient for dynamic control loops
Solution Approach 1:
The current measurement is segmented into two independent measurement paths: one for measuring current I1 through the first terminal and another for measuring current I2 through the second terminal. This segmentation allows each measurement to be optimized independently, achieving high precision without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary evaluation unit that compares the two measured currents to detect fault currents. This intermediary component enables precise fault detection without requiring complex measurement circuits, as the evaluation unit processes the difference between the two measurements.
2Measurement precision
If additional electrical circuits are used for current regulation, then the measurement precision and control capability are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with multi-functionality, integrating both current measurement apparatuses and the evaluation unit within a single device. This universal design allows the control unit to perform voltage control, current measurement, and fault detection functions without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the current measurement functions for both terminals into a single integrated control unit, combining what could be separate circuits into one unified device. This merging reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the precision benefits of dual measurement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control units drive one actuator, then the adaptability and control flexibility are improved, but the reliability decreases due to unknown fault currents
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation unit provides continuous feedback by comparing the measured currents I1 and I2. This feedback mechanism enables real-time detection of fault currents, allowing the system to maintain reliability even when multiple control units drive a single actuator, as any deviations are immediately identified and can be corrected.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling a current of an actuator, including: at least one control unit having a first terminal; a first switch; a second terminal; and a second switch for controlling a flow of current through the actuator via the first terminal and the second terminal independently of one another; a first current measuring apparatus for measuring a first current through the first terminal; and a second current measuring apparatus for measuring a second current through the second terminal; in which the first current measuring apparatus and the second current measuring apparatus are integrated into the at least one control unit so that fault currents can be acquired. Also described are a related electronic control unit, a commercial vehicle, and a method.