Pressure Sensor Signal Evaluation With In-Operation Test Injection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems require shutdown for functional checks during operation, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A method for monitoring a sensor system in operation that includes a sensor element and a signal path with an amplifier, where a chopper signal is used for signal processing, and a test signal is injected and extracted to evaluate the system without shutting it down.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a functional check is performed on the sensor system, then the correctness of the signal path can be verified, but the sensor system must be shut down which reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by injecting a test signal into the sensor system before actual measurement to verify the signal path functionality. The test signal is processed through the same signal path as the measurement signal, allowing functional verification without requiring system shutdown. This enables the system to check its own functionality in advance during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system performs self-diagnosis by processing a test signal through its own signal path using the same amplifier and filtering components. The system evaluates its own functional correctness by comparing the processed test signal against expected values, enabling autonomous functional verification without external intervention or shutdown.
2Productivity
If the sensor system operates continuously without shutdown, then operational efficiency is maintained, but functional correctness cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic functional verification by repeatedly injecting test signals at defined intervals during normal operation. The test signal processing occurs periodically alongside measurement signal processing, allowing continuous operational monitoring without interrupting the sensor system's primary function. This periodic checking ensures functional correctness is verified while maintaining continuous operation.
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
Enables continuous monitoring of the sensor system without the need for shutdown, improving operational efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a chopper signal is used for signal processing
Implementation Method 2
amplifier having an input and an output
Implementation Method 3
a test signal is injected and extracted to evaluate the system without shutting it down
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method evaluate signals from one or more Wheatstone bridges. The requirements of ISO 26262 are taken into account by mixing a test signal with the measurement signal before amplification and before analog-to-digital conversion. After amplification and analog-to-digital conversion, the measurement signal and the test signal are unmixed again. If the test signal does not meet the expectation, the amplifier and/or the analog-to-digital converter is determined to be faulty.