Vehicle Level Converter With Single-Line Tristate Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional level converters for safety-critical automotive systems require multiple signal lines and resources to achieve three-state level conversions, which is inefficient and costly, particularly for applications like ABS, EBS, and ESP systems.
Innovation Solution
A tristate level converter design using a single signal line, employing two switches and a control circuit with a reference voltage unit, allowing for complementary switching between three voltage levels without both switches being closed simultaneously, thereby achieving three distinct voltage states using discrete components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple signal lines are used for three-state level conversion, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple signal lines into a single signal line by using two switches (first and second switches) that are controlled by the same input signal. The switches operate in complementary fashion to achieve three-state output (high level, low level, high-impedance) using only one input connection, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability through the switching mechanism
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple computer ports are used for level conversion, then three voltage levels can be achieved, but resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single computer port universal by using it to control two switches that together provide three-state output capability. The single input connection can generate high level, low level, and high-impedance states at the output, making the port multi-functional and eliminating the need for separate ports for each voltage level, thereby reducing resource consumption
3Productivity
If two switches are used with a single signal line, then resource efficiency is improved, but the risk of simultaneous closure causing short circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing the control logic so that the first and second switches operate in complementary fashion - when one switch is closed, the other is automatically open. This preventive design ensures that both switches cannot be closed simultaneously, eliminating the short circuit risk before it can occur while maintaining resource efficiency
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 solution enables cost-effective, resource-efficient three-state level conversions using a single signal line, allowing for flexible output voltage levels and aiding in testing and monitoring of analog signals and power amplifiers, while preventing short circuits through current measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The first switch is configured to switch a first current path between the first voltage connection and the at least one output connection
Implementation Method 2
The second switch is configured to switch a second current path between the second voltage connection and the at least one output connection
Data Source
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AI summary
A level converter for a vehicle control device comprises: a first voltage connection (110), a second voltage connection (120), an output connection (OUT) and an input connection (IN). In addition, the level converter comprises a first switch (S1) for switching a first current path between the first voltage connection (110) and the output connection (OUT), and a second switch (S2) for switching a second current path between the second voltage connection (120) and the output connection (OUT). The first switch (S1) and the second switch (S2) can be switched in response to different levels at the input connection (IN) in such a way that, when a first level is present at the input connection (IN), the first switch (S1) is closed and the second switch (S2) is open and, when a second level is present, the first switch (S1) is open and the second switch (S2) is closed.