On-Board Data Backup for Programmable Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for commercial trucks require manual reentry of programmable parameters and accumulation register data into replacement electronic control modules, which is error-prone and lacks continuity.
Innovation Solution
A data storing and transfer system using the SAE J1939 protocol to automatically backup and restore programmable parameters and accumulation register data between on-board electronic control modules, ensuring redundancy and reliability through periodic data exchange during engine operation and shutdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual reentry of programmable parameters and accumulation register data is used, then data can be transferred to replacement modules, but data entry errors occur and continuity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic copying of programmable parameters and accumulation register data from failed modules to replacement modules through the data link. The system creates exact digital copies of the data blocks, eliminating manual reentry and ensuring data accuracy. The copying process includes parameter data blocks and accumulation register data blocks, which are automatically transferred and restored in the replacement module.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting module failures, retrieving backup data from the data link, and restoring parameters without external intervention. The control modules autonomously manage their own data recovery processes, including detecting parameter defaults, initiating recovery routines, and validating restored data integrity.
2Reliability
If backup data is stored in multiple locations, then redundancy and reliability are increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data link as an intermediary storage medium that maintains backup copies of parameter data and accumulation register data from multiple modules. This centralized intermediary approach provides redundancy without requiring complex peer-to-peer backup architectures. The data link acts as a mediator that facilitates automatic data recovery while simplifying the overall storage management complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If automatic data transfer is implemented, then data entry errors are prevented, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing universal SAE J1939 communication protocol already standard in heavy-duty vehicle networks. By utilizing this established multi-functional protocol for both normal module communication and backup data recovery, the system achieves automatic accurate data transfer without introducing separate specialized communication protocols. The data link uses standard message formats and communication routines already present in the vehicle's network infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method provides for transferring back-up data between on-board electronic modules of a vehicle. The presence of default parameters is sensed at a first electronic module during a running of the vehicle engine for an engine cycle. The current engine cycle accumulation register data is stored for the engine cycle in the first electronic module. A parameter and accumulation register data recovery routine is run wherein parameters and accumulation register data for the first electronic module are recovered from memory in the second electronic module on the vehicle and restored in the memory of the first electronic module. The information is transferred using SAE J1939 protocol. The first electronic module can be an engine control unit and the second electronic module can be a body controller. During a parameter and data back-up routine periodically run, the first electronic module stores current parameters and accumulation register data into memory of the second electronic module that will serve as back-up parameter and accumulation register data storage in the event the first module loses such parameters and accumulation register data.