Engine Control Computer Short-Circuit Signal Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combustion engine control systems in motor vehicles are disrupted by short-circuits between the power supply link and the communication link, leading to malfunction and potentially unsafe degraded modes.
Innovation Solution
A computer system for motor vehicles that includes a measurement device to detect current variations on the power supply link, allowing the system to estimate the output signal even during a short-circuit, thereby maintaining normal engine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wired communication link and wired power supply link are used to connect the sensor to the control unit, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but short-circuit risk between the two links increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the communication function and power supply function into distinct circuits. The sensor has separate communication pins (SDA, SCL) and power pins (VDD, GND), preventing interference and short-circuit risks between combined signals. This segmentation allows independent routing and protection of each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary buffering circuit between the sensor output and the control unit input. This buffering stage isolates the sensor from potential short-circuits on the communication bus, allowing the sensor to operate reliably while protecting the control unit from harmful electrical conditions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the control unit supplies power to the sensor via a separate wired link, then power supply stability is improved, but system complexity and short-circuit vulnerability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply and communication functions into a single integrated sensor module. The sensor receives both power and communication signals through its packaged structure, reducing the number of separate connections needed while maintaining stable power supply. This integration simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both sensing capability and power reception through standardized pins. This universal design allows the same component to handle multiple functions (detection and power acceptance) without requiring separate dedicated components for each function.
3Reliability
If a short-circuit occurs between the power supply link and communication link, then the sensor cannot transmit signals, but the control unit can detect the malfunction and activate degraded mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary protective measures by designing the sensor with separate power and communication circuits that are electrically isolated. This preliminary separation prevents short-circuits from occurring in the first place, eliminating the need for degraded mode activation while maintaining full functionality during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates buffering and isolation circuits that cushion against potential short-circuit conditions. These protective elements are built into the sensor design beforehand, absorbing or isolating electrical anomalies before they can propagate and cause system failures or require degraded operation modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer for a motor vehicle able to be electrically connected to a sensor of the vehicle over a wired communication link in order to receive an output signal generated by the sensor. The sensor being electrically powered by a power supply module via a wired power supply link. The computer is able to be electrically connected to a measurement device configured for measuring the variations in the electric current flowing through the wired power supply link, and it is configured for detecting a short-circuit on the wired communication link between the wired power supply link and the wired communication link, for receiving, from the measurement device, the measurements of the variations in the current flowing between the power supply module and the sensor and for estimating the output signal from the received current variation measurements.