Redundant Isolated Pulse Transmission for Vehicle Control Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal transmission devices are prone to failure in pulse signal transmission due to faults in isolating elements, which can lead to safety issues in applications like vehicle control systems.
Innovation Solution
The device employs multiple isolating elements and a fault indication circuit to ensure reliable pulse signal transmission by providing redundant signal paths and immediate fault detection, using transformers and RS flip-flops to maintain functionality even if one isolating element fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single isolating element is used for signal transmission, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential faults in the isolating element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signal transmission function into multiple independent isolating elements (first isolating element and second isolating element), each handling separate signal paths. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability through redundancy while keeping each individual isolating element relatively simple in structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a fault indication circuit that proactively detects and signals faults in isolating elements before they cause complete system failure. The RS flip-flop circuit is pre-configured to latch fault conditions, providing advance warning and allowing for preventive maintenance or graceful degradation
2Reliability
If multiple isolating elements are used for redundant signal paths, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signal transmission system is segmented into distinct parallel paths, each with its own isolating element. This modular segmentation makes the complexity manageable by organizing it into repeating, standardized units that can be independently analyzed and maintained
Solution Approach 2:
The RS flip-flop circuit acts as an intermediary that simplifies the integration of multiple isolating elements. It automatically latches fault conditions and controls the output signal based on the state of isolating elements, reducing the complexity of coordinating multiple redundant paths
3Reliability
If redundant signal paths are implemented, then the fail-safe function is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring faults worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism through the fault indication circuit that continuously monitors the state of isolating elements and provides immediate feedback about their operational status. The RS flip-flop latches fault conditions and maintains the output signal in a safe state, providing clear feedback about system health
Solution Approach 2:
The fault indication circuit provides visual or electrical signal changes that indicate fault conditions. When a fault is detected in any isolating element, the circuit generates a distinct output signal state that is easily distinguishable from normal operation, making fault detection straightforward
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
Ensures reliable pulse signal transmission and immediate fault detection, preventing adverse effects on vehicle safety systems by maintaining control signal integrity and enabling safe operation even in the event of isolating element failure.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer configured to transmit the pulse signal from the primary circuit system to the secondary circuit system
Data Source
AI summary
For example, a signal transmission device includes a transmitter provided in a primary circuit system and configured to generate a transmission signal according to an input signal; at least one first isolating element configured to constitute a first signal transmission path for transmission of the transmission signal from the primary circuit system to the secondary circuit system; at least one second isolating element configured to constitute a second signal transmission path, different from the first signal transmission path, for transmission of the transmission signal from the primary circuit system to the secondary circuit system; and a receiver provided in the secondary circuit system and configured to feed a first reception signal and a second reception signal output respectively from the first and second isolating elements to a logic circuit to generate a single output signal.