Output Driver Feedback Monitoring for Terminal Fault Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Faults in output driver circuits of electronic devices, such as short circuits, open circuits, and anomalies in load impedance, are difficult to detect during normal operating modes, posing risks like collisions in automotive systems.
Innovation Solution
A feedback circuit that compares input and output signals to identify faults by monitoring voltage levels and transition times, generating error indicators, and storing them for test logic communication, allowing for fault detection even during normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional testing protocols are used to detect faults, then faults can be detected, but the system must be taken out of normal operating mode and complex test circuitry is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback circuit that continuously monitors the output signal and compares it with the input signal to detect faults. The feedback circuit includes a comparator that subtracts the input signal from the feedback signal and detects voltage level differences, enabling continuous fault detection during normal operation without requiring separate test modes or complex external testing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis by using its own operational signals for fault detection. The feedback circuit uses the actual input and output signals during normal operation to automatically detect faults, eliminating the need for external test equipment or dedicated test modes. The system monitors itself through its own signal paths.
2Productivity
If the system operates in normal mode continuously, then productivity is maintained, but faults cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback circuit operates continuously during normal system operation, continuously comparing input and output signals to detect faults. This eliminates the need to interrupt normal operation for testing, as the fault detection function runs concurrently with the primary operational function, maintaining continuous productivity while ensuring reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback circuit serves multiple functions: it provides the feedback signal for normal operation and simultaneously performs fault detection by comparing signals. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain continuous operation while continuously monitoring for faults, combining productivity and reliability in a single operational mode.
3Reliability
If output driver circuitry is monitored continuously, then fault detection is enabled, but additional circuitry and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback circuit merges the fault detection function with the existing feedback path of the operational amplifier circuit. By utilizing the existing feedback infrastructure and signal paths, the system enables continuous fault detection without adding separate dedicated monitoring circuitry, thereby minimizing additional power consumption while maintaining continuous reliability monitoring.
4Measurement precision
If complex test protocols are implemented, then fault detection accuracy is improved, but system complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or procedural test protocols with an electronic feedback-based detection system. The comparator circuit automatically detects faults by comparing voltage levels electronically, replacing the need for complex step-by-step test procedures. This substitution maintains high detection accuracy while significantly reducing system complexity and operation time.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method includes receiving a first signal at an input of a device driver included at an electronic device, the first signal representing first information. A second signal representing the first information is provided at an output of the device driver. The output of the device driver, under normal operating conditions, is coupled to an output terminal of the electronic device. A third signal at the output terminal is received at feedback circuitry of the electronic device. The feedback circuitry identifies a fault at the output terminal based on the third signal and the first signal.