MCU CAN Signal Remapping Without an External Transceiver
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of a CAN transceiver in traditional MCUs increases the cost of electronic devices due to its high expense, necessitating a cost-effective alternative for signal conversion and reception in CAN communication.
Innovation Solution
A microcontroller unit (MCU) is equipped with a CAN controller, digital signal remapping circuit, and comparator to convert transmission and reception signals internally, eliminating the need for an external CAN transceiver by generating and processing CAN signals directly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a CAN transceiver is used for signal conversion, then signal transmission capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the CAN transceiver functions into the MCU by integrating a digital signal remapping circuit and differential signal interface directly within the MCU. This combines the previously separate CAN controller and transceiver components into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for external transceivers and reducing overall device cost while maintaining signal transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The MCU is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both the CAN controller and transceiver functions within the same device. The digital signal remapping circuit enables the MCU to perform both control and signal conversion tasks, allowing a single component to fulfill multiple roles that previously required separate dedicated components
2Reliability
If signal conversion is performed externally via CAN transceiver, then signal integrity is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces device complexity by merging the CAN transceiver functionality into the MCU's internal architecture. The digital signal remapping circuit and differential signal interface are integrated within the MCU, eliminating external transceiver components and simplifying the overall system structure while preserving signal integrity through controlled differential signaling
3Adaptability or versatility
If CAN transceiver is integrated, then communication functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent improves communication functionality while reducing manufacturing cost by integrating the CAN transceiver functions directly into the MCU. The digital signal remapping circuit enables differential signaling capability within the MCU, providing full CAN communication functionality without requiring separate external transceiver components, thereby reducing part count and assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The enhanced MCU design provides universal communication functionality by incorporating both CAN controller and transceiver capabilities in a single device. This multi-functional approach allows the MCU to handle various communication protocols and signal types internally, reducing the need for additional external components and lowering overall manufacturing costs
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 reduces costs by integrating signal conversion within the MCU, allowing for high-speed CAN communication without the need for an external transceiver, thus maintaining signal integrity and compliance with CAN specifications.
Implementation Method 1
The comparator receives signals from the third pin and the fourth pin for comparison, to generate a received signal CANRX in digital form
Implementation Method 2
The digital signal remapping circuit remaps the transmission signal into a first chip output signal and a second chip output signal
Data Source
AI summary
A microcontroller unit (MCU) with a controller area network (CAN) function. The MCU provides a CAN controller for the CAN function, to generate a transmission signal (CANTX) in digital form. The MCU also has a digital signal remapping circuit inside, which remaps the CANTX signal into a first chip output and a second chip output. The MCU has a first pin that outputs the first chip output to drive a differential positive signal line (CANH) of the CAN function. The MCU has a second pin that outputs the second output to drive a differential negative signal line (CANL) of the CAN function.