Time-Based Network Node Control for MCU Failure Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Ethernet networks in automotive applications rely on a Master Control Unit (MCU) for network node control, which can lead to system failures and safety issues when the MCU is unavailable due to unavailability or malfunction.
Innovation Solution
A network node configured to operate autonomously without MCU intervention, using a time-based system to store conditions and corresponding commands in memory regions, allowing it to determine and respond to situations independently, such as detecting MCU unavailability and performing necessary actions like braking or steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a Master Control Unit (MCU) is used to control network nodes, then centralized control and simplified node design are achieved, but system reliability deteriorates when the MCU becomes unavailable or malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control functionality into two segments: centralized control for normal operation (MCU) and distributed control for failure scenarios (individual network nodes). Each node is equipped with autonomous control capabilities including local memory for storing control logic and processors for executing control decisions, allowing the system to segment control authority based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring network nodes with autonomous control capabilities, including storing control logic, safety parameters, and operational instructions in local memory before failures occur. This allows nodes to immediately assume control without waiting for MCU recovery, ensuring continuous safe operation.
2Reliability
If network nodes operate autonomously without MCU intervention, then system reliability improves during MCU unavailability, but device complexity increases due to additional control logic and memory requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing network nodes that can perform multiple functions: they operate as simple controlled devices during normal MCU operation and transform into autonomous control units when the MCU fails. The same hardware infrastructure (processors, memory, communication interfaces) serves both operational modes, reducing the need for separate dedicated failure-response components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling network nodes to autonomously detect MCU unavailability, assess system state using locally stored safety parameters, and execute appropriate control actions without external assistance. Nodes monitor communication with the MCU and independently initiate failover procedures when failures are detected.
3Adaptability or versatility
If control logic is stored in memory regions with headers and payloads, then flexible condition-based control is achieved, but information storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control information into structured memory regions with distinct headers containing condition parameters and payloads containing control actions. This segmentation allows efficient storage by only allocating memory for specific condition-response pairs that are actually needed, rather than storing complete control programs for all possible scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by organizing memory storage to contain only the specific control logic and parameters relevant to each node's function and the particular failure scenarios it must handle. Each node's memory is customized with locally relevant safety parameters and control instructions rather than storing universal control data for all possible failure modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for operating a network node in a multi-node network having one or more Master Control Units (MCUs) configured to control network nodes when the one or more MCUs are available. The aspects include, in one or more memory regions of the network node having a header and a payload: storing one or more conditions in the header, storing one or more commands in the payload associated with the one or more conditions, and configuring at least one of the one or more conditions to comprise using a time base of the network node, the time base including a starting timestamp and a programmable period time T. The aspects further include, in a control device of the network node: determining, according to the time base, whether a condition stored in a header of a selected region occurs, and performing a node control action based on the determining.