Universal ECU Interface Circuit Switching LCC HSD LSD Functions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automobile electronic control units (ECUs) require multiple interface circuits for different load types, leading to increased size and cost, as they lack a function for low-side on/off control circuits (LSD) and cannot switch between linear current control (LCC), high-side on/off control (HSD), and LSD functions based on connected loads.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a first switching element in a power supply path, a second switching element in a ground path, a rectifier element in a current return path, and a third switching element in the same path, allowing the ECU to selectively use LCC, HSD, and LSD functions depending on the connected load through control signal management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple interface circuits (LCC, HSD, LSD) are provided to support various load types, then the ECU can correspond to different vehicle types and load configurations, but the number of connector terminals increases and the ECU size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with various load typesVSAvoidECU size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal interface circuit that can function as LCC, HSD, or LSD depending on the connected load. The circuit uses switching elements (transistors) that can be controlled to provide different circuit configurations, allowing one physical circuit to serve multiple functional roles. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each load type, reducing ECU size while maintaining versatility across different vehicle applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface circuit employs dynamic switching capability where transistors can be turned on or off based on the detected load type. The circuit transitions between different operational states (LCC mode, HSD mode, LSD mode) depending on the connection configuration, enabling adaptive functionality rather than requiring fixed dedicated circuits for each mode

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple interface circuits (LCC, HSD, LSD) are provided to support various load types, then the ECU can correspond to different vehicle types and load configurations, but the number of connector terminals increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with various load typesVSAvoidnumber of connector terminals

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal interface circuit that can function as LCC, HSD, or LSD depending on the connected load. The circuit uses switching elements (transistors) that can be controlled to provide different circuit configurations, allowing one physical circuit to serve multiple functional roles. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each load type, reducing ECU size while maintaining versatility across different vehicle applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functionality of three separate interface circuits (LCC, HSD, LSD) into a single unified circuit design. By combining these functions and using a common set of terminals with switching control, the patent reduces the total number of connector terminals required while maintaining all necessary load interface capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If separate ECUs are used for different load types (LCC, HSD, LSD), then each load type can be controlled optimally, but the manufacturing cost and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload control performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal interface circuit that can function as LCC, HSD, or LSD depending on the connected load. The circuit uses switching elements (transistors) that can be controlled to provide different circuit configurations, allowing one physical circuit to serve multiple functional roles. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each load type, reducing ECU size while maintaining versatility across different vehicle applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the interface circuit based on the detected load type. By adjusting switching element states and control signals according to the connected load (motor generator, air conditioner compressor, power steering motor, etc.), the circuit maintains optimal control performance for each specific load while using the same physical hardware

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10981524B2Electronic control unit

Publication Date: 2021.04.20 ASTEMO LTD

AI summary

Provided is an electric control unit which is configured to switch the functions of an LCC, an HSD, and an LSD depending on a load to be connected. A power-supply-side switching element 102 is provided in a path L1 between a power supply 401 and a connector terminal 301. A ground-side switching element 106 is provided in a path L2 between a ground 402 and a connector terminal 302. A freewheeling diode 105 is provided in a path L3 connected to a connection point P1 between the power-supply-side switching element 102 and the connector terminal 301 and a connection point P2 between the ground-side switching element 106 and the connector terminal 302. A switching element 104 is provided in the path L3.