Electronic Control Unit Configuration Conversion via Automated Parameter Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for converting module configurations between different module definitions are laborious, time-consuming, and lack robustness, especially during transitions between virtual and real electronic control units or when updating basic software versions.

Innovation Solution

A method for automatically converting module configurations by comparing first and second module definition files, generating conversion program code to copy automatically convertible parameters, and creating template code for non-automatically convertible parameters, allowing for quick, simple, and robust configuration updates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual conversion methods are used to convert module configurations between different module definitions, then configuration accuracy can be maintained, but the conversion process becomes laborious and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidconversion time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic self-conversion of module configuration files between different module definitions through automated comparison and conversion processes, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining configuration accuracy through systematic parameter mapping and validation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical conversion processes with automated computer-based systems that use algorithms to compare, analyze, and convert module configuration files, substituting human labor with automated computational methods that are both faster and more precise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If all parameters are manually converted during module definition updates, then complete configuration transfer is achieved, but the process becomes excessively complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration transfer completenessVSAvoidconversion process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the conversion process into distinct phases: automated comparison of module definitions, identification of convertible parameters, automatic conversion of compatible parameters, and separate handling of non-convertible parameters. This segmentation reduces overall process complexity while maintaining complete configuration transfer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs partial automatic conversion for parameters that can be automatically transferred, while applying different processing logic to non-convertible parameters. This selective approach avoids the complexity of manually processing every single parameter while ensuring complete configuration transfer through appropriate handling of all parameter types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Productivity

If configuration parameters are reused across different software versions, then development efficiency is improved, but data compatibility issues may arise between different module definitions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevelopment efficiencyVSAvoiddata compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms that automatically compare source and target module definitions, identify compatibility issues, and adjust the conversion process accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that reused configuration parameters maintain data compatibility across different software versions while preserving development efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts conversion parameters based on the specific characteristics of the source and target module definitions. By changing conversion parameters adaptively, the system enables efficient parameter reuse across software versions while maintaining data compatibility through version-specific conversion settings

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10423571B2Method for configuring a real or virtual electronic control unit
Publication Date: 2019.09.24 DSPACE DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING & CONTROL ENGINEERING GMBH
  • US10423571B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for configuring a real or virtual electronic control unit, wherein a control unit software is executed on the control unit, and the control unit software comprises a basic software layer, the basic software layer is configured by a module configuration file by setting values of parameters, the scope of the configurable parameters being defined in a first module definition file which contains the identifiers of the configurable parameters. The first module definition file is replaced by a second module definition file, and a conversion of the first module configuration file into a second module configuration file takes place.