Cable Set Testing Synchronization Using Control and Response Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing cable sets, particularly in decentralized systems, face challenges with synchronization due to the large number of individual connections, leading to significant time investment and complexity, especially in software-based solutions, and high costs in hardware-based solutions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using a control signal and a response signal for synchronization, where the control signal initiates a test sequence and the response signal confirms completion, allowing simultaneous execution of test steps across multiple modules with minimal data transmission, utilizing a simple hardware-based approach.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software-based synchronization solutions are used, then synchronization capability is provided, but time investment and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-based synchronization with a hardware-based electrical signal system. Test modules have dedicated input/output connections that directly receive control signals and send response signals through wired connections, eliminating the need for complex software communication protocols and data packet exchanges.
Solution Approach 2:
Each test module autonomously responds to control signals by automatically generating response signals based on its own test results. The modules self-coordinate through the signal exchange mechanism without requiring centralized software control or inter-module communication protocols.
2Speed
If hardware-based synchronization solutions are used, then synchronization speed improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent test modules, each with dedicated control and response signal connections. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple modules while maintaining simple individual module designs, avoiding the need for complex centralized hardware control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control signal and response signal lines serve multiple functions: they provide synchronization timing, transmit control commands, and carry test results simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the number of dedicated hardware components needed compared to systems with separate signal paths for each function.
3Reliability
If decentralized testing is implemented, then defect detection capability improves, but synchronization difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each test module sends response signals back to other modules and the control unit, providing immediate feedback about test results. This feedback mechanism enables all modules to synchronize their operations and coordinate defect detection across the entire cable set without requiring complex pre-coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit provides control signals to all test modules in advance to prepare them for simultaneous operation. This preliminary signaling ensures that all decentralized modules are ready to execute their test functions at the correct moment, enabling coordinated defect detection across the system.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to the invention, a central test unit (8) and several test modules (6) are provided for testing a cable set (2). Several successive test sequences (PS) are performed via these modules according to a predetermined test program (P). The several test modules (6) each initiate a predetermined test step in a synchronized manner. A control signal (S, S1, S2) and at least one response signal (A, A1, A2) are present at the test unit (8) and the several test modules (6). The following steps are performed: a) To start a test sequence (PS), the test unit (8) provides the control signal as a start signal (S1), so that the control signal (S1) is present at the test modules (6), via which the test sequence (PS) is started. b) After receiving the start signal (S1), each test module (6) initiates a modification of the at least one response signal.so that a modified response signal (A2) is present at the test unit (8), c) the respective test module (6) performs the test step assigned to it in the respective test sequence (PS), d) after performing the assigned test step, the respective test module (6) initiates a further modification of the response signal (A2), e) the test unit (8) checks the at least one response signal (A, A1, A2) to determine whether all test modules (6) have initiated a further modification of the response signal (A2), f) the test unit (8) considers the test sequence (PS) to be completed when all test modules (6) have modified the response signal (A2) again, g) the test unit (8) then preferably starts another test sequence (PS), proceeding again according to steps a) to f).