Fuse Voltage Detection Circuit for Flexible ECU Fuse Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing on-board devices require manual visual inspection to determine if a fuse has blown, limiting the placement options for the fuse due to the need for visibility.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a blown fuse detection circuit that monitors the fuse voltage between connection nodes and outputs a voltage higher or lower than a reference value based on the fuse's status, allowing for automated detection and enabling flexible fuse placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual visual inspection is used to detect blown fuses, then the fuse must be placed in a visible location, but this limits the placement freedom of the fuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection method with an automated electrical detection system. The blown fuse detection circuit uses voltage monitoring to automatically detect fuse status, substituting the mechanical/visual check with an electrical measurement system that provides automated detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a blown fuse detection circuit as an intermediary between the fuse and the detection process. This circuit includes voltage monitoring components that measure the voltage across the fuse and compare it against reference values, serving as a mediator that translates fuse status into detectable electrical signals.
2Adaptability or versatility
If automated detection is implemented, then placement freedom is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional detection circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing detection functionality only where needed - specifically monitoring the voltage across the fuse location. The detection circuit is designed to focus its monitoring capability on the critical parameter (voltage drop across fuse) rather than implementing comprehensive system-wide monitoring, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by monitoring voltage as the key parameter to detect fuse blowout. The detection circuit compares the measured voltage parameter against a reference voltage parameter to determine fuse status. This approach transforms the physical state of the fuse into an electrical parameter that can be automatically detected and processed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the fuse to be positioned freely without requiring visual inspection, enhancing the device's design flexibility and operational reliability by providing automated detection of blown fuses.
Implementation Method 1
monitor a fuse voltage between two connection nodes respectively located upstream and downstream of the fuse in a current path
Data Source
AI summary
An ECU (on-board device) includes a fuse F1 and a blown fuse detection circuit. The blown fuse detection circuit monitors a fuse voltage between two connection nodes respectively located upstream and downstream of the fuse in a current path of a current flowing from a positive electrode of a DC power supply through the fuse. The blown fuse detection circuit outputs a voltage lower than a reference voltage if the fuse voltage is lower than a voltage threshold value. The blown fuse detection circuit outputs a voltage higher than or equal to the reference voltage if the fuse voltage is higher than or equal to the voltage threshold value.