Sonar Signal Verification via Controller Feedback Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sonar systems lack a method to confirm whether signals have been transmitted correctly after software updates, especially when different sonar configurations or modulation methods are used, which can lead to uncertainties in target detection and vehicle control operations.
Innovation Solution
A signal control apparatus comprising an interface for connecting at least one sonar, a controller that executes software for controlling transmission signals, and a software updater that compares the controlled transmission signals with received signals to verify their correctness, using a comparison analysis mode to determine if assumed waveforms have been transmitted, even across different sonar configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If software is updated to support new communication methods or different sonar configurations, then adaptability and communication flexibility are improved, but reliability of signal transmission is worsened because there is no verification method to confirm correct signal transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the reception signal is fed back to the controller for comparison with the transmission signal. This closed-loop verification system allows the controller to confirm whether the transmission signal was correctly sent and received, thereby maintaining reliability even after software updates. The feedback path enables automatic verification without requiring manual testing or external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter comparison between transmission and reception signals to verify correct operation. By monitoring signal parameters (such as waveform characteristics, frequency, amplitude) before and after transmission, the system can detect deviations caused by software update errors. This parameter-based verification approach allows flexible adaptation to different sonar configurations while ensuring signal integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different sonar configurations or modulation methods are used, then versatility of the sonar system is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring signal correctness is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal verification mechanism that works across different sonar configurations and modulation methods. The controller's comparison function is designed to be configuration-agnostic, accepting various transmission and reception signal formats. This universal approach allows the system to verify signal correctness regardless of whether pulse modulation, frequency modulation, or other methods are used, or whether single or multiple sonars are deployed.
3Device complexity
If no signal verification method is implemented, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information about transmission correctness occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service verification system where the sonar system verifies its own signal transmission using its existing components. The controller itself performs the comparison between transmission and reception signals without requiring external verification equipment. This self-verification approach minimizes additional hardware complexity while preventing information loss about transmission correctness. The system uses its own reception capability to verify its own transmission, creating an elegant self-contained solution.
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 solution allows for reliable confirmation of signal transmission, ensuring accurate target detection and vehicle control operations by verifying the correctness of signals received by sonars, even when software is updated or sonar configurations differ, thereby enhancing the reliability of sonar systems in vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
sonar 410 transmits data of a detected target to integrated ECU 420
Implementation Method 2
transmission/reception element 414 is drives to transmit ultrasound
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a signal control apparatus that includes: an interface to which at least one sonar is connectable; a controller that executes software for controlling a transmission signal transmitted from the at least one sonar; and a software updater that updates the software. The controller compares the transmission signal, which is controlled by executing the updated software, with a reception signal received by one of the at least one sonar.