PSI5 Connection Unit Fault Detection via Hardware Self-Test
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Software-controlled cross-coupling tests for detecting faults in connecting lines between electronic components are time-consuming and complex, particularly in automotive engineering where thorough safety checks are required before vehicle operation.
Innovation Solution
A hardware-based method using algorithms programmed in non-volatile memory within connection units to apply and monitor test signals across two-wire lines, detecting overcoupling and storing error values in registers, allowing for efficient fault detection without relying on software-controlled commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If software-controlled cross-coupling tests are used to detect faults in connecting lines, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-controlled test execution with a hardware-based self-test mechanism. Connection units contain integrated test circuits that automatically generate test signals and detect faults without software intervention, substituting the mechanical/software control system with an autonomous hardware system that executes tests in parallel, dramatically reducing test time while maintaining detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The connection units perform self-diagnostics by generating their own test signals and evaluating their own connecting lines. Each connection unit autonomously tests its connections to peripheral units without requiring external software control, enabling the system to self-verify its integrity and reducing the time burden on the central control unit
2Measurement precision
If software-controlled cross-coupling tests are used to detect faults in connecting lines, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex software control logic with simplified hardware circuits integrated into each connection unit. The test signal generation, routing control, and fault detection are implemented as dedicated hardware logic rather than software algorithms, reducing the computational burden on the central processor and simplifying the overall control architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the fault detection functionality into independent modules distributed across multiple connection units. Each connection unit contains its own test signal generator and evaluation circuitry, segmenting the monolithic software-controlled system into autonomous hardware modules that operate independently and in parallel, reducing central control complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If software-controlled commands are used to execute tests, then adaptability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures test signal routes and evaluation logic in hardware before operation is needed. Connection units have dedicated circuits ready to immediately generate and evaluate test signals without requiring software setup or configuration at runtime, enabling instant fault detection when operational readiness is required
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
Significantly reduces the time and complexity of fault detection in connecting lines, enabling quicker operational readiness of control units with PSI5 interfaces, especially in vehicle technology by automating error detection and reducing software load.
Implementation Method 1
outputting a start signal from the control unit to a first one of the terminal units to start detecting the error
Implementation Method 2
Application of a test signal to an interface of a first one of the connection units, wherein the application of the test signal is monitored and/or controlled by a first algorithm
Implementation Method 3
Detection of overcoupling of the test signal to an interface of a second connection unit
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method (200) for detecting at least one fault (125, 126, 127) in connecting lines (120) between a plurality of electronic connecting units (117a-c) and a plurality of peripheral units (130) which are independent of one another, wherein the connecting unit (117a-c) is controlled via an algorithm which is programmed into a control unit (115) in a volatile manner, and wherein the connecting lines (120) between the peripheral units (130a-c) and the connecting units (117) are each executed by means of at least one two-wire line. The method (200) comprises a step of outputting (210) a start signal from the control unit (115) to a first (130a) of the connecting units (117a) in order to start the detection of the fault (125). The method (200) also comprises a step of applying (220) a test signal to an interface (140a) of a first of the connecting units (117a), wherein the application of the test signal is monitored and/or controlled by a first algorithm (160a) programmed in the first connecting unit (117a) in a non-volatile manner. The method (200) also comprises a step of detecting (230) an over-coupling of the test signal to an interface (140b) of a second connecting unit (117b) and storing a fault value representing the over-coupling in a first register (170b), wherein the detection and storage of the fault value are monitored and/or controlled by a second algorithm (160b) programmed into the second connecting unit (117b) in a non-volatile manner. Finally, the method (200) comprises a step of reading out (240) the at least one fault value by the control unit (110) at least from the first register (170b), in order to detect the fault in the connecting lines (120) between the first connecting unit (117a) and the plurality of peripheral units (130).