Central Bus Guardian Fault Detection via Scheduled Test Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Central Bus Guardians (CBGs) in communications networks, especially in automotive systems, can introduce errors instead of preventing them if faulty, and existing testing methods fail to detect such faults effectively, affecting the robustness of safety-critical communications.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for testing communications networks with CBGs involve supplying a communications schedule and transmitting test data between connected buses, with a test controller determining faulty conditions based on data reception according to the schedule, enabling detection of CBG errors and connectivity issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a CBG is used to improve robustness of data communications, then communication reliability is improved, but the CBG itself may become a source of errors and introduce faults into the system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary testing actions by transmitting test data packets through the CBG before normal operations to detect potential faults. The test controller proactively sends scheduled test packets to verify CBG functionality, preventing undetected faults from affecting safety-critical communications during actual operation.
2Device complexity
If existing testing methods are used, then system complexity is kept low, but faulty conditions of the CBG cannot be detected effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the testing function into a dedicated test controller that operates independently from the CBG and communications nodes. This separate testing entity transmits specific test data packets through the CBG, allowing precise fault detection without requiring complex integration into the existing communication infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary test controller that mediates between the CBG and the testing process. This intermediary component manages test packet transmission, timing, and analysis, providing accurate fault detection capabilities while maintaining a clear separation between operational and testing functions.
3Reliability
If test data is transmitted between different buses connected to the CBG, then connectivity issues can be detected, but the testing process requires precise scheduling and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic test packet transmission with predetermined schedules. The test controller sends test data packets at specific intervals and times through different buses connected to the CBG, creating a rhythmic testing pattern that simplifies coordination and timing management while ensuring comprehensive connectivity verification.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for testing a communications network having a central bus guardian (CBG) to detect a faulty condition associated with the CBG are described. In one embodiment, a method for testing a communications network having a CBG to detect a faulty condition associated with the CBG includes supplying a communications schedule to the CBG, causing test data to be transmitted between different buses that are connected to the CBG according to the communications schedule, and determining the faulty condition associated with the CBG based on whether or not the test data is received according to the communications schedule. Other embodiments are also described.