Synchronized Transient Injection for In-Line Sensor Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor devices in safety-critical applications lack effective, non-intrusive diagnostic capabilities that can perform fast and reliable diagnostics without disrupting the primary sensing function, especially in high-speed systems with complex signal processing chains.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system with a transient signal generator and coupling element that allows seamless integration of diagnostic checks within the signal processing chain, using a transient signal synchronized with the synchronization signal to detect errors and calibrate the system without interrupting normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional diagnostic methods are used in high-speed sensor systems, then diagnostic coverage can be comprehensive, but the diagnostic process interrupts normal sensing operation and causes significant downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by continuously passing a test signal through the signal processing chain in the background during normal operation. This allows the diagnostic system to have diagnostic data ready in advance without interrupting the sensing function, resolving the contradiction between comprehensive diagnostics and operational continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by running the diagnostic test signal path parallel to the normal sensing signal path. Both signals are processed simultaneously through the same processing chain, ensuring that diagnostic operations continue without interrupting the primary sensing function.
2Loss of time
If diagnostic checks are performed frequently in high-speed systems, then error detection speed improves, but the time available for main sensing function is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing diagnostic checks at specific synchronization points in the high-speed system operation. The test signal is injected periodically at defined intervals that do not conflict with the primary sensing measurements, allowing fast error detection while preserving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic system performs preliminary validation of the signal processing chain using a known test signal before actual sensing measurements are taken. This preliminary action ensures that the measurement system is functioning correctly without requiring time during the actual measurement process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sensor system complexity increases to include multiple sensing elements and signal processing chains, then measurement capability improves, but diagnostic difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complex signal processing chain into distinct processing stages, each with its own test signal injection point. This allows diagnostics to be performed on individual segments independently, making fault identification in complex multi-element systems more manageable while preserving overall sensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary test signal as a mediator to probe the signal processing chain. This known test signal acts as an intermediary that interacts with each processing stage in a predictable way, enabling systematic diagnosis of complex systems without requiring direct observation of internal processing states.
4Reliability
If diagnostic signals are injected into the signal processing chain, then error detection capability improves, but the sensor's primary measurement function may be interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the diagnostic function by separating the test signal path from the sensing signal path while maintaining parallel processing. The test signal is injected at a point that allows it to traverse the processing chain independently, enabling error detection without the diagnostic signal interfering with the integrity of the primary sensor measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic test signal is injected periodically at synchronization points rather than continuously, allowing the sensor to deliver uninterrupted measurement data during the primary sensing intervals. This periodic injection maintains measurement signal integrity while providing regular diagnostic checks.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a sensor system for safety-critical applications comprising at least one sensor device, which includes a sensor for measuring a physical parameter and generating a corresponding signal, a signal processing chain for processing this signal, and an interface for handling an external synchronization signal. The device also features a transient signal generator that produces a transient and a coupling element for introducing the transient signal into the signal processing chain's input such that the transient signal which is coupled to the signal processing chain has a predetermined relation with the synchronization signal. This configuration allows for the detection of errors within the sensor device and/or calibration of the sensor system by measuring the time difference between the synchronization signal and the detection moment of the transient signal.