Vehicle Level Converter Using One Signal Line for Tristate Output
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current level conversion systems in safety-critical automotive systems require multiple signal lines and resources to achieve three-state voltage conversions, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A tristate level converter with a first and second switch, configured to switch current paths between voltage terminals and output terminals in response to different input levels, allowing for three-state voltage conversions using only one signal line, utilizing discrete components and a drive circuit with a reference voltage unit to manage switching operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple signal lines are used for tristate level conversion, then reliable voltage conversion is achieved, but resource consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple signal line functions into a single signal line by using two switches (first and second switches) that share the same control input. This allows the single signal line to control both switches complementarily, achieving tristate output (high voltage, low voltage, or high impedance) without requiring multiple separate signal lines, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining conversion reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The single signal line serves multiple functions by controlling both the first switch and the second switch. The signal line's voltage level directly determines the state of both switches: low voltage closes the first switch, high voltage closes the second switch, and intermediate voltage opens both switches. This multi-functionality reduces the number of required signal lines while maintaining reliable level conversion
2Adaptability or versatility
If two computer ports are used for three voltage levels, then level conversion is achieved, but cost and resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two computer ports into a single computer port by using a single signal line that controls both switches. The single port provides the control voltage that simultaneously determines the state of both the first and second switches, achieving three-voltage-level output capability without requiring two separate computer ports, thus reducing device complexity and resource consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The single computer port serves multiple functions by providing control signals for both switches. The port's output voltage level universally controls the entire tristate conversion process: low voltage activates the first switch for high output, high voltage activates the second switch for low output, and intermediate voltage deactivates both switches for high impedance output
Data Source
AI summary
A level converter for a vehicle control device, including: a first voltage terminal; a second voltage terminal; at least one output terminal; an input terminal; a first switch for switching a first current path between the first voltage terminal and the at least one output terminal or one of the output terminals; and a second switch for switching a second current path between the second voltage terminal and the at least one output terminal or another of the output terminals; the first and second switches being switchable in response to different levels at the input terminal so that when a first level is present at the input terminal, the first switch is closed and the second switch is open, and so that when a second level is present, the first switch is open and the second switch is closed. Also described is a related control device, utility vehicle and method.