Header Connector Battery Backup for ECM Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backup battery systems for electronic control modules in vehicles require periodic replacement, access to the module housing, and connection through the wiring harness, which complicates maintenance and disconnection during storage or servicing.
Innovation Solution
A battery backup system where a rechargeable battery is housed within a recessed region of a header connector, allowing access without opening the module housing and remaining connected to the ECM independently of the wiring harness, with electric contacts for charging and power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secondary rechargeable battery is permanently placed within the ECM housing, then continuous backup power is provided, but the module seal must be broken to access the battery for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The battery is extracted from the ECM housing and relocated to the external connector. This allows the battery to be accessed and replaced by simply removing the connector, eliminating the need to break the module seal while maintaining continuous backup power through the external connection
2Ease of operation
If an external battery is connected to the harness, then the battery is easily accessible, but the backup battery is disconnected when the controller is disconnected from the harness
Solution Approach 1:
The battery connection is merged with the connector assembly rather than being separate via the harness. The battery is positioned within the connector housing and connects directly to the ECM through the connector's electrical contacts, ensuring the backup power remains connected even when the main harness is disconnected
3Reliability
If a backup battery system is implemented, then uninterrupted power is provided, but additional compartments or housing modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves multiple functions: it provides the main electrical connection between the harness and ECM, houses the backup battery, and provides access to the battery through its removable design. This eliminates the need for separate compartments or housing modifications dedicated solely to the battery
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 easy replacement and continuous power supply to critical components like the real-time clock without disrupting the ECM's operation, even when the harness is disconnected, simplifying maintenance and reducing the need for additional compartments.
Implementation Method 1
a backup battery disposed within a recessed region in a header connector for the electronic control module
Implementation Method 2
the connector plug disposed over the battery so as to shield the battery
Data Source
AI summary
A battery backup system for providing uninterrupted power to components within a vehicle electronic control module (ECM). The backup system comprises a header connector with a recessed region for the battery. A connector plug is plugged into the header connector over the battery to cover the battery and shield the battery. The backup battery is disposed within the recessed region in contact with electrical contacts extending from the housing of the ECM, the electrical contacts providing a connection between the backup battery and an electronic component needing a backup power supply. Additional terminals on the connector plug can be used to provide power to the backup battery. The backup battery can be in a closed circuit with the electronic component, or the backup battery circuit can be switched to form a closed circuit with the electronic component when the electronic component no longer receives power from the primary power source.