Modular Control Module Signal Identification for Vehicle Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control modules for motor vehicles require complex, application-specific configurations and are not easily adaptable by commercial vehicle manufacturers, limiting their flexibility and maintenance simplicity.
Innovation Solution
A control module with modular signal inputs, outputs, and a central memory that assigns signal identification numbers for clear signal processing and management, allowing interchangeable functional units and easy configuration through a user-friendly system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control modules are configured specifically for each application by the manufacturer, then application-specific functionality is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is divided into modular functional units that can be independently selected and combined. Each functional unit corresponds to a specific application function, allowing the system to be configured by assembling appropriate modules rather than designing custom configurations from scratch, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal control module platform is provided with standardized interfaces and a common processing architecture. Multiple functional units can be integrated into this universal platform, enabling the same base module to serve multiple applications through modular additions rather than requiring application-specific custom modules.
2Productivity
If control modules are fixedly configured by the manufacturer, then production efficiency is improved, but adaptability by commercial vehicle manufacturers is eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The control module transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Functional units can be added, removed, or swapped after manufacturing, allowing the module to adapt to different application requirements without requiring complete redesign or reconfiguration during production.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is pre-configured with a universal platform and standardized interfaces during manufacturing, preparing it for future adaptability. This preliminary setup enables commercial vehicle manufacturers to easily add or modify functional units after installation without requiring complex reconfiguration processes.
3Reliability
If control modules require complex application-specific configuration, then functionality is optimized for each application, but ease of operation and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control module incorporates self-configuration capabilities where functional units automatically detect their own parameters and establish connections to the central processing unit. This eliminates the need for complex manual configuration by operators, reducing operational complexity while maintaining application-specific functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes diagnostic and monitoring functions that provide feedback on the operational status of functional units and connections. This enables automatic detection and adjustment of configuration issues, simplifying operation and maintenance while ensuring reliable application-specific performance.
4Ease of manufacture
If control modules are designed with fixed configuration, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but maintenance simplicity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is segmented into independent functional units that can be individually replaced or serviced without affecting other components. This modular architecture simplifies maintenance by allowing technicians to quickly identify and replace faulty units rather than diagnosing and repairing complex integrated systems, while the standardized modular design keeps manufacturing costs controlled.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a control module for use in motor vehicles, comprising a plurality of signal inputs, a plurality of signal outputs, a central storage unit which is connected to at least one functional unit for further processing incoming signals. A signal identification number can be assigned to the at least one signal coming into the central storage unit such that the signal can be identified and further used by the at least one functional unit. The at least one functional unit can be exchanged in a modular manner. The invention additionally relates to a system for configuring the control module, to a method for using the control module, and to a motor vehicle control unit comprising the control module.