Dual Control Module Relay Logic for Vehicle Component Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems lack flexibility and reliability in actuating vehicle components, as they often rely on a single control module for both control and actuation, which can lead to malfunctions and design limitations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dual-control module system where Control Module A acts as the controlling node, selectively enabling or disabling Control Module B to actuate vehicle components, using a relay and fuse configuration to prevent undesired actuations and enhance flexibility in vehicle design and manufacture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single control module is used for both control and actuation, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to potential malfunctions and lack of flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two distinct control modules: a first control module that controls the relay switch and a second control module that controls the motor actuator. This segmentation separates control functions from actuation functions, improving reliability by preventing single-point failures while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
A relay switch is introduced as an intermediary component between the control modules and the motor actuator. The relay acts as a controlled switch that the first control module can open or close to enable or disable the second control module's ability to actuate the component, providing an additional layer of safety and control.
2Reliability
If a dual control module system is implemented, then reliability and flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides control functions into two separate modules with distinct responsibilities: the first control module manages the relay switch state, and the second control module manages motor actuation. This segmentation improves reliability through functional separation while keeping each module relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay switch serves multiple functions: it acts as a safety interlock, a control signal mediator, and a power isolation device. This multi-functionality helps justify the added complexity by consolidating multiple control mechanisms into a single component.
3Reliability
If Control Module A selectively enables Control Module B via relay control, then undesired actuations are prevented, but device complexity and control signal management become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The first control module performs preliminary action by controlling the relay switch to establish or disable the electrical circuit before the second control module can actuate the motor. This preliminary control of the power pathway ensures that actuation can only occur when the first control module has explicitly permitted it, preventing unintended actuation while using simple on/off switch control.
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
This dual-module system enhances vehicle control by preventing unintended actuations, increasing design flexibility, and ensuring reliable operation of components like retractable pedals and brakes, while allowing for autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicle modes.
Implementation Method 1
send a first signal to open a relay, wherein Control Module A module is has operational criteria for controlling a component of the vehicle... closing the relay completes a circuit electrically coupling a power output of the second control module to ground via a fuse
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a first control module that meets specified operational criteria for controlling a component of a vehicle and a second control module that meets specified operational criteria for actuating the component. The first control module is arranged to send a first signal to open a relay that, when closed, electrically couples a power output of the second control module to ground via a fuse, send a second signal to cause the second control module to power a motor for actuating the component, receive a third signal indicating a completion of actuation of the component, and responsive to receiving the third signal, send a fourth signal to close the relay.