Adaptive Sensor Interface for Engine Control Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine control computers require hardware interface modifications based on the type of sensor used, making it impossible to change the sensor type over the vehicle's lifespan without modifying the hardware.
Innovation Solution
A method and hardware interface that automatically detect and configure for either voltage-source or current-source sensors by switching transistors and resistors to select appropriate impedance, allowing for adaptive sensor type detection and configuration without hardware modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hardware interface is modified to support a specific sensor type, then the sensor coupling reliability is improved, but the adaptability to different sensor types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware interface dynamically changes its electrical characteristics (impedance levels) based on the detected sensor type. The system transitions from a static interface design to a dynamic one that can adapt its output impedance to match the requirements of either voltage-source or current-source sensors, thereby maintaining reliable coupling with different sensor types without physical modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface modifies its electrical parameters (specifically impedance) to accommodate different sensor types. By changing the impedance level according to the detected sensor type, the system ensures optimal signal coupling and measurement accuracy for both voltage-source and current-source sensors, resolving the contradiction between reliability for a specific type and adaptability to multiple types.
2Measurement precision
If the hardware interface is customized for a specific sensor type, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware interface is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting both voltage-source and current-source sensors through a single unified interface. The system uses software-controlled impedance adjustment to achieve measurement precision comparable to dedicated interfaces, while avoiding the need for multiple physical interface configurations, thus reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects the sensor type and self-configures the appropriate impedance level without requiring manual intervention or complex external configuration. This self-service capability simplifies the user interface and reduces the complexity of system integration while maintaining high measurement precision for the detected sensor type.
3Manufacturing precision
If the sensor type is fixed at design stage, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static configuration fixed at manufacturing to a dynamic configuration that can be changed during operation. The hardware interface can dynamically adjust its characteristics to match different sensor types, allowing users to replace sensors without requiring precise reconfiguration or specialized installation procedures, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining manufacturing precision through automated detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of the sensor type upon connection, automatically determining the appropriate configuration before actual measurement begins. This preliminary action ensures that the interface is properly configured for the specific sensor type, maintaining measurement precision equivalent to fixed installations while enabling flexible sensor replacement and reconfiguration by the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automatically detecting a sensor coupled to an electronic computer including steps of detecting said sensor and steps of configuring a hardware interface.