Monitor Output Monitoring via Colored Test Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing monitoring systems for data processing units are complex and require multiple components to check the data transfer and monitor output, with limited ability to detect errors in color representation, which can lead to safety-relevant issues.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that utilize a single component to monitor a data processing unit by continuously outputting a sequence of colored test signals on the monitor evaluation area, detected by an optical sensor, allowing for the evaluation of correct color representation, data transfer, and system functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are used to monitor data processing unit, then monitoring reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple monitoring functions (data transfer monitoring, color representation monitoring, timing monitoring) into a single integrated monitoring device that uses one optical sensor to detect all test signals. This merging approach maintains comprehensive monitoring reliability while significantly reducing device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate monitoring components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical sensor in the monitoring device serves multiple functions: detecting color test signals, verifying timing sequences, and validating data transfer integrity. This multi-functionality allows the device to monitor various aspects of the data processing unit without requiring separate specialized components for each monitoring task.
2Measurement precision
If color channels are monitored separately, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the monitoring of individual color channels into a single integrated optical sensor detection system. The sensor detects the complete color sequence (red, green, blue) simultaneously, and the evaluation unit analyzes each channel's timing and color accuracy, achieving precise color representation monitoring without separate monitoring devices for each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring device uses periodic color test signals that cycle through red, green, and blue channels in a fixed sequence. The optical sensor detects this periodic color sequence, and the evaluation unit verifies timing accuracy and color correctness by comparing detected signals against expected periodic patterns, enabling precise color monitoring through temporal sequencing rather than separate spatial monitoring.
3Reliability
If watchdog triggers regularly to check system status, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring where the optical sensor continuously detects color test signals as they are output by the data processing unit, rather than triggering periodic watchdog checks. The evaluation unit continuously analyzes the detected signals for timing accuracy and color correctness, eliminating gaps in monitoring and reducing overall time loss by maintaining constant surveillance without interrupting the system operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The data processing unit itself generates the color test signals as part of its normal operation, and the single optical sensor automatically detects and validates these signals without requiring external intervention or periodic triggering. The system monitors itself through the integrated test signal output and optical detection, eliminating the need for separate watchdog timers to periodically check system status.
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
The solution enables comprehensive monitoring of data processing units, including correct color representation, with a single component, reducing complexity and enhancing the detection of errors, thereby improving system reliability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
at least one optical sensor for detecting test signals being associated with an evaluation area of the monitor
Data Source
AI summary
On account of their reasonable costs and versatility, conventional processing units are frequently used for a wide variety of tasks. However, if these tasks are also safety-critical, it is necessary to check the operation of the processing units. This concerns in particular the monitor output of the processing unit, but not just for touchscreen applications. If an error results in representation of an incorrect image on the monitor and a faulty command is thus input via the touchscreen, this may lead to safety-critical situations. For this purpose, known systems use so-called watchdogs, which cyclically test the processing unit but not the monitor output. Additional testing of the monitor is known, but complicated.The invention therefore provides that a sequence of colored test signals is continuously output on an evaluation area of the monitor; this system is also known as an evaluation unit. The evaluation unit continuously checks this sequence and reports when there is a deviation from the sequence, or then restarts the processing unit. Since, due to the test signal sequence being known on both sides, it is not necessary to coordinate the evaluation unit with the processing unit, such a check may take place in a much easier and more cost-effective manner. In addition, due to the use of a color sensor, each individual color channel may also be tested.