Electronic Power Module with CAN Bus Self-Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an electronic power module that can automatically configure itself for use in various locations within a vehicle, similar to a traditional fuse, and can be integrated into a CAN bus network to provide power to electrical components while monitoring and controlling current levels to prevent overloads.
Innovation Solution
An Electronic Power Module (EPM) with a microcontroller-based circuit that receives configuration instructions and current limits via a CAN bus network, allowing it to configure driver subcircuits as H-bridge, current sourcing, or sinking outputs, and automatically shut down when current limits are exceeded, featuring a multipin connector for direct plug-in compatibility and address detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fuses are used in various locations, then the system is simple and reliable, but the system lacks automated configuration and integration with digital control networks
Solution Approach 1:
The EPM is designed as a universal module that can be deployed in multiple locations throughout the vehicle, each location having different current requirements. The module performs multiple functions: power distribution, current monitoring, CAN bus communication, and automated self-configuration. This multi-functionality allows a single module design to replace location-specific fuse boxes while providing digital network integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The EPM automatically configures itself by receiving its unique identifier through the multipin connector and then communicating with the ECU over the CAN bus to obtain configuration parameters specific to its location. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or programming of each module, allowing plug-and-play deployment throughout the vehicle.
2Ease of repair
If location-specific power modules are used, then each module can be optimized for its specific function, but spare management becomes complex and replacement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
All EPMs use the same physical module design, connector type, and communication protocol regardless of location. This universality means that a single spare module design can replace any EPM in the vehicle, eliminating the need to stock multiple location-specific module variants.
Solution Approach 2:
When an EPM is replaced, the new module automatically receives its unique identifier through the connector and self-configures by communicating with the ECU over the CAN bus. This automated configuration process eliminates manual setup time and ensures the replacement module is immediately operational with the correct parameters for its location.
3Productivity
If manual configuration is used for power modules, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but configuration time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The EPM engages in bidirectional communication with the ECU over the CAN bus. The module requests configuration parameters based on its unique identifier, and the ECU responds with the appropriate current limits and operational settings. This feedback loop ensures that the module receives accurate, location-specific configuration data automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual configuration process is replaced with automated electronic communication over the CAN bus. Instead of physically programming or manually setting parameters, the module and ECU exchange configuration data digitally, dramatically reducing configuration time while maintaining accuracy through automated parameter transmission.
4Ease of operation
If extensive wiring is used to connect power modules, then power delivery capability is sufficient, but wiring complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The EPM combines multiple functions into a single integrated module: high-current power distribution through the multipin connector, digital communication over the CAN bus, and control electronics. This consolidation reduces the overall wiring complexity compared to having separate fuse boxes and control units at each location, while maintaining sufficient power delivery capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic power module (EPM) for an agricultural vehicle is provided. The EPM is configurable by an electronic control unit (ECU) to which it is connected by way of a controller area network (CAN) bus. The CAN bus network includes a plurality of electronic control unit (ECU)s and a plurality of EPMs, wherein each of the EPMs is coupled to a corresponding ECU of the plurality of ECUs to be controlled thereby. Each EPM includes an EPM circuit having at least one microcontroller, a driver circuit and a CAN bus communication circuit. The driver circuit is coupled to the microcontroller and is configured by the microcontroller. The driver circuit has a plurality of driver subcircuits. The CAN bus communication circuit is coupled to the microcontroller configured to receive CAN bus messages that include driver configuration instructions and driver current limits from a corresponding ECU and instructions to the microcontroller. The microcontroller receives the driver configuration instructions from the CAN bus communications circuit and responsively configures the driver subcircuits according to the driver configuration instructions.