Coaxial Cable Fault Characterization Using Reflected Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PoC based SBD serial link protocols in automotive systems cannot accurately determine the presence, type, or location of cable faults, requiring manual troubleshooting that is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a serializer and deserializer circuitry system that automates cable fault detection by transmitting a signal across a coaxial cable and analyzing reflected signals to determine fault existence, type, and location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing PoC based SBD serial link protocols are used for cable fault detection, then manual troubleshooting is required, but this increases time consumption and costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-diagnosis by having the cable assembly automatically transmit test signals and measure reflected voltages to detect faults. The deserializer circuitry autonomously determines fault presence, type, and location without requiring external manual intervention, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining protocol simplicity and achieving rapid automated fault detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical troubleshooting processes with electronic signal-based automated detection. By using voltage measurements and signal analysis instead of physical inspection methods, the system achieves faster fault characterization while eliminating time-consuming manual intervention
2Ease of operation
If existing PoC based SBD serial link protocols are used for cable fault detection, then manual intervention is required, but this increases operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly performs self-diagnosis by autonomously transmitting test signals through the cable and analyzing the reflected voltage signals to identify faults. This self-service capability eliminates the need for expensive manual troubleshooting operations while providing comprehensive fault characterization including presence, type, and location
3Measurement precision
If automated fault detection is implemented using signal transmission and reflection analysis, then fault characterization capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deserializer circuitry is designed to perform multiple functions: normal data reception and automated fault detection. By integrating fault detection capabilities into existing deserializer circuitry rather than adding separate dedicated detection equipment, the system achieves precise fault characterization while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the cable itself as an intermediary element for fault detection. By transmitting test signals through the cable and analyzing the reflected voltage, the system leverages the cable's own physical properties to detect faults, eliminating the need for complex external testing equipment and reducing overall system complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates rapid and detailed cable fault diagnosis, reducing manual intervention and costs associated with troubleshooting.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting a signal across a coaxial cable and analyzing reflected signals to determine fault existence, type, and location
Data Source
AI summary
An example apparatus includes: controller circuitry configured to: instruct transmitter circuitry within a device to perform operations, the transmitter circuitry coupled to a cable interface terminal; responsive to the operations, instruct receiver circuitry within the device to measure a voltage, the receiver circuitry also coupled to the cable interface terminal; and determine, responsive to the measured voltage, when a fault exists on a cable that is coupled to the cable interface terminal.