ADC Signal Object Control for Event-Triggered Pin Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern engine control systems face challenges in efficiently utilizing limited analog input pins due to the need for precise and timely conversion of analog sensor values into digital formats, leading to inefficiencies in sampling and processing, particularly when dealing with composite signals that require varying sample rates and priorities.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method and apparatus that utilize signal objects and command queues to manage analog-to-digital conversion, allowing for dynamic sampling and conversion of analog input values based on trigger events, priorities, and sample windows, enabling flexible and efficient handling of composite signals by associating multiple signals with a single analog input pin and using signal objects to specify unique triggers, priorities, and sample rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple analog input pins are sampled and converted with varying sample rates and priorities, then the precision and timeliness of digital conversion is improved, but the resource utilization efficiency deteriorates due to limited analog input pins
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the analog input pins into multiple groups, where each group is associated with a specific signal object and can be sampled independently. This allows different groups to have different sample rates and priorities, enabling precise control over which pins are sampled at which rates without wasting resources on all pins uniformly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different sample rates and sampling configurations for different groups of analog input pins based on their specific requirements. High-priority pins can be sampled at higher rates while low-priority pins are sampled at lower rates, optimizing resource utilization according to local needs rather than applying a uniform sampling strategy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more analog input pins are sampled and converted, then the comprehensive monitoring capability is improved, but the system complexity increases due to managing multiple sample rates and priorities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces signal objects as intermediary entities that manage groups of analog input pins. Each signal object acts as a mediator between the ADC system and multiple analog pins, handling the complexity of grouping, sample rate configuration, and priority management. This abstraction layer simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing the management logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal signal object structure that can handle multiple analog input pins with different characteristics through a single unified interface. The signal object methodology provides a multi-functional framework that manages grouping, sampling, conversion, and priority handling in a standardized way, reducing system complexity despite increased monitoring capability.
3Productivity
If signal objects are used to manage analog input pins with grouping and priorities, then the resource utilization efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the signal object structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses signal objects as software copies or representations of analog input pin groups. Instead of creating separate hardware management structures for each pin, the system creates software-based signal objects that mirror the pin configurations and management requirements. This virtualization approach improves resource utilization without requiring additional physical hardware complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for detecting an event and sampling first value from a pin in response to the event. For example, the event is identified by a signal object of a plurality of signal objects stored in a memory. Each signal object of the plurality of signal objects identifies a single analog input pin and a trigger.