Semiconductor Memory for Diesel Engine Data Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for storing engine-specific data on internal combustion engines are either unreliable, costly, or limited in data volume, such as printed labels that may not stick well or get lost, and embossing which is expensive and only suitable for small data volumes.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor-based read-only memory device is mounted on the engine with an interface for electronic access, allowing storage and retrieval of engine-specific data in a non-volatile manner, utilizing existing control devices like glow plug control units for Diesel engines, which also store data intended for engine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If engine-specific data are stored on printed labels attached to the engine, then data storage is simple and low-cost, but the labels may not stick well on oily surfaces and can be lost or torn off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical data storage methods (printed labels, embossing) with an electronic storage system using a semiconductor-based read-only memory chip. This chip is electrically connected to the engine control unit, providing reliable, permanent storage of engine-specific data without the adhesion problems of labels or the cost/limitations of embossing.
2Reliability
If engine-specific data are embossed into the engine block, then data storage is permanent and reliable, but the process is costly and suitable only for very small data volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical embossing process with an electronic semiconductor memory solution. The read-only memory chip stores engine-specific data electronically and interfaces with the engine control unit, achieving permanent reliable storage without the high costs and data volume limitations of embossing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the storage capacity parameter from the very limited data volume of embossed characters to the significantly larger storage capacity of a semiconductor memory chip, while simultaneously reducing manufacturing costs and improving ease of data updates.
3Reliability
If a separate read-only memory device is added to store engine-specific data, then data storage capacity and reliability are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the engine control unit multi-functional by integrating read-only memory capabilities into it. The control unit's existing processor and memory structure is enhanced to include a dedicated read-only memory section for storing engine-specific data, eliminating the need for a separate standalone memory device and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an internal combustion engine for vehicles on which a device is mounted and has a semiconductor-based read-only memory, which contains data which are destined to be used for a given purpose of the device, and has an interface enabling an access to the read-only memory. In addition to the data which are destined to be used for the given purpose of the device there are engine-specific data stored in non-volatile manner in the device, the engine-specific data being neither necessary nor destined for the given purpose of the device, and that the engine-specific data, too, can be read out electronically via the said interface.