Redundant PWM Throttle Control With Relay-Based Failover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles require redundant throttle controllers to prevent dangerous vehicle movements due to competing PWM control signals, while existing systems may cause sudden jerking or loss of control, posing safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A system with a manual and automated throttle control system, including a primary and backup throttle controller, each with relays and processors to manage PWM signals, ensuring safe and coordinated engine control through failover mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple automated throttle controllers are implemented for redundancy, then system reliability is improved, but competing PWM control signals may cause dangerous vehicle movements
Solution Approach 1:
A relay circuit acts as an intermediary between multiple automated throttle controllers and the throttle actuator. The relay receives PWM signals from both primary and backup controllers, processes them through OR logic, and outputs a single coordinated control signal to the throttle, preventing competing signals from causing dangerous movements
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements failover mechanisms that prepare backup controllers in advance. When the primary controller fails, the backup controller is already positioned to take over control through the relay circuit, cushioning against the harmful effects of controller failure before they can manifest as dangerous vehicle movements
2Reliability
If redundant throttle controllers are used to prevent control loss, then safety is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple automated throttle controllers (primary and backup) are merged into a single control pathway through the relay circuit. The relay combines their output signals using OR logic, allowing redundancy to be implemented without creating separate, complex control pathways for each controller
Solution Approach 2:
The relay circuit serves multiple functions: it receives PWM signals from both primary and backup controllers, processes these signals through OR logic, coordinates failover between controllers, and outputs a single control signal to the throttle actuator. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite having redundant controllers
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for providing redundant pulse-width modulation (PWM) throttle control. The system includes a manual throttle controller configured to generate a manual PWM throttle control signal, and an automated throttle control system. The automated throttle control system includes a plurality of automated throttle controllers, each of which being configured to independently control a throttle of a vehicle, and each including a processor configured to generate and output an automated PWM throttle control signal, a first double pole double throw (DPDT) relay that, when engaged, is configured to receive and output the manual PWM throttle control signal, and a second DPDT relay, configured to receive and output the automated PWM throttle control signal to an engine, when the second DPDT relay is engaged; and receive and output the manual PWM throttle control signal to the engine, when the DPDT relay is disengaged.