Sensor Interface Module Parasitic Resistance Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems face variability issues due to parasitic resistances introduced by connectors and wiring, which can lead to indistinguishable signals from connected and disconnected sensors, affecting the reliability and accuracy of resistance-based sensing systems, particularly in vehicle engine control systems.
Innovation Solution
A sensor interface module with a circuit that includes connectors with opposite genders, reducing parasitic effects by providing a lower output impedance and using a sensor bias circuit with input conditioning and filtering to generate a stable output signal, thereby minimizing the impact of variability in connectors and wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If standard connectors and wiring are used in sensor systems, then the system is simple to implement, but parasitic resistances cause signal variability and reduce measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor interface module is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor and the control system. This module contains a circuit that compensates for parasitic resistances and provides signal conditioning, thereby improving measurement accuracy without requiring changes to the basic connector and wiring structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameters of the signal path by using a circuit with specific impedance characteristics. The circuit is designed to have low output impedance and appropriate input impedance to minimize the impact of parasitic resistances, thereby improving signal accuracy while maintaining standard connectors.
2Measurement precision
If parasitic resistances are reduced through better connectors and wiring, then measurement accuracy improves, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than attempting to eliminate parasitic resistances through expensive precision wiring and connectors, the patent introduces a sensor interface module as a mediator that electronically compensates for these resistances. This approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while achieving high measurement accuracy through circuit-based compensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of parasitic resistances into a benefit by using them as part of a measurement bridge circuit. The interface module is designed to measure and compensate for these resistances, turning what was previously a source of error into a quantifiable parameter that can be corrected.
3Stability of the object's composition
If signal conditioning and filtering circuits are added to reduce variability, then signal stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions including signal conditioning, filtering, impedance matching, and compensation are merged into a single integrated sensor interface module. This consolidation provides stable signals while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate circuits or components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor interface module is designed as a universal interface that can work with multiple sensor types and provides multiple functions (signal conditioning, filtering, compensation) through a single device, thereby improving signal stability without proportionally increasing system complexity.
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
The solution enhances the reliability and accuracy of resistance-based sensors by reducing the effect of parasitic resistances, allowing for better differentiation between connected and disconnected sensors and extending the useful life of existing control systems by making them more tolerant to variations.
Implementation Method 1
Existing sensor systems face variability issues due to parasitic resistances introduced by connectors and wiring
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, comprising a housing; a first connector coupled to the housing and having a first plurality of contacts; a second connector coupled to the housing and having a second plurality of contacts; and a circuit electrically connected to at least one of the first contacts and at least one of the second contacts. The circuit is encapsulated within the housing. The circuit is configured to generate an output signal in response to a resistance sensed at the at least one of the first contacts.