Sensor Device Abnormality Classification for Electric Power Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor devices can only output a single type of abnormality signal, limiting the ability to notify the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of specific issues within the sensor, and do not allow for reliable continuation of signal output during certain abnormal conditions.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with multiple sensor elements and an integrated controller that classifies abnormalities through digital signal processing, allowing for distinct output signals indicating different types of abnormalities and controlling the output based on detected issues, enabling the ECU to perform appropriate actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If only one kind of abnormality is output as a voltage signal indicative of abnormal range, then the sensor can output abnormality information to the ECU, but information other than abnormality information cannot be output
Solution Approach 1:
The output signal is segmented into multiple independent components: a sensor signal carrying detection data and an abnormality signal carrying abnormality information. This segmentation allows each component to serve its specific function independently, enabling the sensor to output both measurement data and diagnostic information simultaneously through the same communication interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The output signal structure is designed to be universal, capable of carrying multiple types of information (sensor detection values and abnormality indicators) through a single communication interface. The signal format can adapt to different operating conditions, providing both normal measurement data and abnormality notifications without requiring separate communication channels.
2Reliability
If the output signal is stopped when internal abnormality is detected, then the ECU can be notified of the abnormal condition, but the ability to continue monitoring and detecting is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The output signal is divided into sensor signal and abnormality signal components. The sensor signal continues to carry detection data even when abnormalities are detected, while the abnormality signal separately communicates the abnormal condition status. This segmentation enables the system to maintain continuous monitoring capability while simultaneously notifying the ECU of abnormal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The abnormality signal provides feedback information to the ECU about the sensor's operating status. This feedback mechanism allows the ECU to be informed of abnormal conditions without interrupting the sensor's continuous detection and signal output functions, enabling ongoing monitoring despite the presence of abnormalities.
3Device complexity
If a single voltage signal is used for abnormality indication, then the communication is simple, but the ECU cannot distinguish between different types of abnormalities
Solution Approach 1:
The abnormality information is segmented into distinct signal components with specific characteristics. Different abnormality types are encoded through variations in the abnormality signal (such as different voltage ranges or signal patterns), allowing the ECU to distinguish between various abnormal conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall communication structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the output signal carry different types of information with distinct characteristics. The sensor signal portion carries measurement data with specific voltage ranges, while the abnormality signal portion carries diagnostic information with different voltage characteristics. This local differentiation enables the ECU to identify and classify different abnormality types based on the specific signal characteristics.
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 the ECU to accurately classify and respond to various abnormal conditions within the sensor device, ensuring reliable operation and continued functionality even during temporary abnormalities, thereby enhancing vehicle safety and maintenance efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor element detects a physical quantity about a detection object
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device includes two sensor parts and an ECU. An output division of one of the two sensor parts stops output of an output signal when a detected internal abnormality is a first abnormality. Further, when the detected internal abnormality is a second abnormality that is different from the first abnormality, the output division controls an abnormality signal to take a value indicative of the second abnormality. An abnormality determiner determines either of a signal obtainment abnormality or the first abnormality of the sensor part when the output signal is not obtained from the one of the sensor parts, or determines the second abnormality of the one of the sensor parts when the obtained output signal includes the abnormality signal having a value indicative of the second abnormality. Such determination, thus, enables the abnormality determiner to classify an abnormality caused in the sensor parts.