Autonomous Vehicle Sensor Interface With Single Data-Power Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for autonomous vehicles require two connectors for each sensor, one for power and one for data, which increases bulk, limits placement options, and introduces reliability issues due to multiple failure points.
Innovation Solution
A data-power interface that combines power and data into a single connector for each sensor, providing an elevated voltage, allowing for high-power delivery at lower currents, reducing line losses, and enabling more flexible sensor placement and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate connectors are used for each sensor (one for power, one for data), then reliable power delivery and data transmission can be achieved, but the sensor footprint increases and placement options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power delivery and data transmission functions into a single connector interface. The data-power interface integrates multiple conductors that simultaneously carry power signals and data signals, eliminating the need for separate power and data connectors. This merging reduces the sensor footprint while maintaining both power delivery and data transmission capabilities through a unified connection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector is designed to perform multiple functions: it delivers elevated power voltage, transmits data bidirectionally, and provides grounding. This multi-functional interface replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated connectors for each function, thereby reducing overall connector count and sensor mounting area while preserving all necessary connection capabilities.
2Reliability
If two separate connectors are used for each sensor, then distinct power and data connections can be established, but the system complexity and number of failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated connector. Instead of having separate power connectors and data connectors, the system uses one unified data-power interface that handles both power delivery and data communication. This reduces the total number of connectors and potential failure points while maintaining distinct functional pathways within the single interface.
Solution Approach 2:
Within the single connector, the patent segments power conductors and data conductors into distinct pathways. This internal segmentation allows independent routing and management of power and data signals while presenting a unified external interface. The segmentation occurs at the conductor level rather than requiring separate connectors, thus reducing complexity while maintaining functional separation.
3Loss of energy
If elevated voltage is provided to sensors for high-power delivery, then power efficiency improves, but safety concerns and electrical regulation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from standard automotive levels to an elevated voltage level for power delivery to sensors. This parameter change enables high-power delivery with reduced current, thereby minimizing line losses and improving overall power efficiency. The system incorporates voltage regulation capabilities to manage the elevated voltage safely and effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The data-power interface acts as an intermediary between the power source and the sensor. It incorporates voltage regulation and current management functions that safely handle the elevated voltage, providing controlled power delivery to the sensor while protecting against electrical hazards. This intermediary component manages the complexity of elevated voltage operation while enabling its benefits.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single combined connector is used for data and power, then sensor placement flexibility increases, but the connector design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power and data connection functions into a single integrated connector, which reduces the space required at the sensor mounting location. This unified interface allows greater flexibility in sensor placement since fewer separate connection points are needed, enabling installation in locations where space is constrained or routing is more challenging.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a universal interface that handles multiple functions (power delivery, data transmission, grounding) through a single connection point. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall system architecture and enables more versatile sensor placement options, as the single connector can be routed more easily than multiple separate connectors would require.
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
This configuration reduces sensor footprint, increases placement options, enhances reliability by minimizing failure points, and facilitates efficient routing, particularly suitable for various vehicle models and post-factory installations.
Implementation Method 1
The data-power interface includes power conductors to provide the elevated voltage from the time sensitive network switch to the sensors
Implementation Method 2
The time sensitive network switch is configured to receive the sensor data and the time sensitive network switch is also configured to receive an elevated voltage
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A system for an autonomous vehicle includes an array of sensors, a time sensitive network switch, and a data-power interface. The array of sensors is configured to capture one or more objects in an external environment of the autonomous vehicle and generate sensor data based on the captured one or more objects. The time sensitive network switch is configured to receive the sensor data. The data-power interface separately couples at least two of the sensors in the array to the time sensitive network switch. The data-power interface includes power conductors, a first data conductor, and a second data conductor. The power conductors provide the elevated voltage from time sensitive network switch to sensors in the array to power the sensors and the first data conductor and a second data conductor are configured to provide a high-speed vehicle communication link between time sensitive network switch and sensors.