Keyless Ignition System with Diagnostic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine start systems for ground engaging vehicles are prone to excessive downtime due to single-point failures, such as key switch failures, which lack system diagnostics and feedback, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
An engine start system that includes an input device, a processing circuit, and a display, which compares information from the engine controller unit and memory to detect potential compromises, enabling a PIN request and validation process to ensure secure engine startup, eliminating the need for a physical key switch and providing diagnostic capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a key switch is used to control ignition power and engine starting, then the system is simple and easy to manufacture, but the system suffers from single-point failures causing excessive downtime and lacks diagnostic capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the key switch functionality into multiple independent electronic components: an ignition switch assembly with ignition switch, a control module with processor, memory, and output circuits. This segmentation eliminates the single-point failure of the traditional key switch by distributing functions across multiple components with backup pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through diagnostic circuits that monitor the status of ignition components and provide feedback signals to the control module. The system continuously monitors ignition switch closure, ignition relay operation, and starter relay operation, providing real-time feedback to detect and diagnose failures.
2Productivity
If a traditional key switch system is used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the system lacks diagnostic feedback leading to excessive machine downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The control module receives feedback signals from diagnostic circuits that monitor ignition system components. When a fault is detected (such as ignition switch failure or relay malfunction), the system provides diagnostic feedback to identify the specific failure mode, enabling quick repair and minimizing downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis through built-in diagnostic circuits that automatically monitor component status without requiring external intervention. The control module autonomously detects failures and provides diagnostic information, reducing the need for external diagnostic equipment and expertise.
3Loss of information
If a key switch is used for engine starting control, then the system structure is simple, but it provides no system diagnostics or feedback when failing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements comprehensive feedback through diagnostic circuits that monitor ignition switch closure, ignition relay operation, and starter relay operation. These circuits provide feedback signals to the control module, which processes the information and provides diagnostic feedback to identify specific failure modes, preventing information loss during system failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical key switch system with an electronic control system that uses electrical signals and electronic diagnostics. This substitution enables detailed diagnostic information collection and feedback, which is impossible with purely mechanical systems.
4Reliability
If a physical key switch is used, then the system is easy to operate, but it creates a single point of failure that shuts down ignition power and engine operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the starting control function into multiple independent electronic components and pathways. The ignition switch assembly, control module, and output circuits operate as separate but coordinated systems, providing redundant pathways that maintain reliability while preserving ease of operation through electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module serves multiple functions: it controls ignition power delivery, monitors system status, provides diagnostic feedback, and manages starter operation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate components, maintaining operational simplicity while enhancing reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An engine start system (22) for use with a ground engaging vehicle (10), the system (22) including an input device (26), a processing circuit (30), a display (34) and an engine controller unit (36). The input device (26) produces a signal when depressed, the signal initiates the application of electrical power to the engine start system (22). The processing circuit (30) is activated by the application of electrical power thereto. The display (34) is communicatively coupled with the processing circuit (30). The input device (26) produces another signal when depressed. The other signal is detected by the processing circuit (30) and the processing circuit (30), in response to the other signal, sends either a PIN request notice to the display (34) or a start signal to the engine controller unit (36).