Interface Devices with Shared Test Signal Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional interface devices require separate test connections to access internal signals, increasing complexity, manufacturing time, and costs, especially for automotive Ethernet applications.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus and method allow for the temporary output of internal signals, such as test signals, via existing connection devices, eliminating the need for additional test connections by configuring interface devices to transmit both useful and internal signals through a shared connection, utilizing Ethernet standards and internal signal connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate test connections are provided to access internal signals, then testing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is designed to serve dual purposes: it functions as a standard connection device for normal operation and as a test signal output connection when needed. The first interface device can output internal test signals from the second interface device through this shared connection device, eliminating the need for separate dedicated test connections and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full testing capability.
2Reliability
If separate test connections are provided to access internal signals, then testing capability is improved, but manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing the connection device to handle both normal operation and test signal output functions, the manufacturing process is simplified. The same connection infrastructure serves multiple purposes, reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby decreasing overall manufacturing time while preserving complete testing functionality.
3Reliability
If separate test connections are provided to access internal signals, then testing capability is improved, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is engineered to perform multiple functions: it serves as a standard connection during normal operation and as a test signal output path when required. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated test connections, reducing component count, simplifying manufacturing processes, and lowering overall costs while maintaining complete testing and certification capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a plurality of interface devices. The plurality of interface devices each include a first connection device for connecting to a transmission medium. A first interface device of the plurality of interface devices is configured to at least temporarily output at least a first signal, for example a test signal, of at least one second interface device of the plurality of interface devices via its first connection device.