Vehicle ECU Multiplexed Protocol Data Unit Post-Build Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicle control systems face complexity in updating or adding new signals and functionalities, requiring extensive rerouting of signals and software updates, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a vehicle control system that uses multiplexed protocol data units (PDUs) with selector field values, allowing ECUs to be configured post-build to handle different signal sets and software variants, enabling flexible and backward-compatible design and implementation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional signal routing and software updates are used in vehicle control systems, then new signals and functionalities can be added, but the process requires extensive rerouting of signals and software updates which is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication protocol into protocol data units (PDUs) with distinct header and payload sections. The header contains selector fields that identify signal sets, while the payload contains the actual signal data. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple signal sets through structured data units rather than complex routing logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The ECU is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple signal sets through a single communication interface. By implementing a universal PDU processing mechanism that uses selector fields to identify different signal sets, the ECU can process various types of signals without requiring separate dedicated routing paths for each signal type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple software variants are supported for different vehicle variants, then flexibility and backward compatibility are improved, but the configuration and management of different versions becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by embedding selector field values within the PDU headers during the communication protocol design phase. These pre-configured selector fields enable the ECU to automatically identify and process the appropriate signal sets without requiring complex runtime configuration or version management logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes in the form of selector field values within PDUs to differentiate between various software variants and signal sets. By changing the selector field parameters rather than the underlying hardware or communication protocol structure, the system can support multiple software variants with a single ECU configuration.
3Productivity
If multiplexed PDUs with selector field values are used, then a single ECU hardware build can support multiple software variants, but the PDU structure and processing logic become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The PDU is segmented into distinct functional sections: header containing selector fields for identification, and payload containing the actual signal data. This segmentation allows the processing logic to first parse the header to identify the signal set type, then route to appropriate processing routines, simplifying the overall complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector field acts as an intermediary element between the communication protocol and the signal processing logic. Instead of requiring complex direct routing logic, the selector field mediates by providing a simple identification mechanism that guides the ECU to the appropriate processing routine based on the signal set type.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system includes a transmitting electronic control unit for transmitting multiplexed protocol data units. The transmitting electronic control unit is enabled to transmit first and second protocol data units with corresponding first and second selector field values. A receiving electronic control unit is in electronic communication with the transmitting electronic control unit. The receiving electronic control unit is enabled to be programmed to operate in a first mode of operation or in a second mode of operation. The receiving electronic control unit is enabled to receive and process the first protocol data unit based on receipt of the first selector field value when operating in the first mode of operation and is enabled to receive and process the second protocol data unit based on receipt of the second selector field value when operating in the second mode of operation.