Interface Module Emulated Sensor Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Control devices face challenges in effectively checking the operability and sensor data processing of interface modules, particularly in ensuring communication integrity and redundancy for release decisions, without relying on actual sensor values.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using permanently stored sensor values emulated by the interface module, transmitted via SPI mode, allowing the processor to test the interface module's functionality, communication, and redundancy paths, while suppressing actual sensor data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If actual sensor values are transmitted during checking, then the interface module can be tested with real data, but the processor cannot verify its own algorithm and safety thresholds independently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by creating emulated sensor values that replicate the structure and format of actual sensor data. These copied values allow the processor to test its algorithm and safety threshold verification independently, without needing actual sensor inputs. The emulated values serve as test doubles that enable comprehensive system testing while maintaining data structure integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the interface module suppresses actual sensor data transmission, then emulated values can be used for testing, but real sensor data cannot be monitored during the test
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by preparing and storing emulated sensor values in advance within the interface module. These pre-prepared test values are ready to be transmitted when testing is required, allowing the system to switch between real and emulated data modes seamlessly. This preliminary preparation enables independent processor testing without requiring actual sensor connections during the test phase.
3Reliability
If comprehensive testing of processor algorithm and safety thresholds is performed, then system reliability is improved, but the complexity of the testing procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the processor to perform self-testing using emulated sensor values provided by the interface module. The processor can independently verify its own algorithm correctness and safety threshold implementation without requiring external test equipment or complex test setups. This self-testing capability reduces overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive verification.
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
This approach enables comprehensive testing of sensor data processing and communication within the control device, ensuring accurate release decisions and system integrity through emulated sensor values, even in the absence of processor functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the sensors then send their data messages via the line by digital current modulation
Data Source
AI summary
A method for checking an interface module, the interface module returning to the processor, using a second data message, stored values representing sensor values, after a request for a test by a processor using a data message. Using these firm sensor values, the processor can check the functioning of the interface module and its own algorithm. A safety module, which also picks up the sensor values, also checks its functioning with them, since the safety module is a redundant hardware path to the processor and is used as a plausibility check for the release decision of means of restraint. The interface module is changed into a test mode as soon as it receives the first data message from the processor, and it then suppresses the transmission of the real sensor values which were received from connected sensors.