Ultrasonic Sensor Diagnostics During the Measurement Cycle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diagnostic methods for ultrasonic sensors are not optimal, requiring separate measurement cycles for diagnostics, which can introduce delays and may not accurately reflect the actual operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
Integrate a diagnostic phase into the operating cycle of ultrasonic sensors, using a significantly reduced amplitude excitation signal to check the functionality of the oscillating element and reception path, maintaining the same configuration parameters as the previous measurement phase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate measurement cycles are used for diagnostics, then the diagnostic function can be performed, but measurement delays are introduced and the actual operating conditions are not accurately reflected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the diagnostic measurement with the regular measurement cycle by integrating a diagnostic phase into the pause phase between excitation and reception phases. This merging allows diagnostic functions to be performed simultaneously with normal operation, eliminating separate measurement cycles and their associated delays while maintaining diagnostic accuracy through the use of reduced-amplitude excitation signals that do not interfere with regular measurements.
2Productivity
If diagnostic phase is integrated into operating cycle, then measurement continuity is maintained, but configuration parameter changes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic diagnostic measurements within the operating cycle by utilizing the pause phase between excitation and reception phases. The diagnostic excitation signal is applied periodically at predetermined intervals during normal operation, allowing continuous measurement without requiring permanent configuration changes. The system switches to diagnostic mode temporarily during the pause phase and then returns to normal measurement mode, maintaining measurement continuity while managing configuration complexity through time-based separation of functions.
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
Ensures continuous and reliable operation by detecting brief disturbances and errors without interrupting the measurement sequence, optimizing diagnostic efficiency and reducing the need for additional configuration changes.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically controllable oscillating element (electroacoustic transducer, also called transducer and in this case ultrasonic transducer)
Implementation Method 2
the oscillating element of the at least one ultrasonic sensor is excited to emit an ultrasonic signal
Implementation Method 3
the oscillating element is excited by potential ultrasonic echo signals and an electrical measurement signal thereby generated by the oscillating element
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for operating an ultrasonic sensor is proposed, wherein, in an operating cycle following the end of the measurement, a diagnostic procedure is performed in which the oscillating element of the ultrasonic sensor is weakly excited while maintaining all configuration settings of the ultrasonic sensor. This process is preferably carried out after each measurement so that malfunctions or impending malfunctions of the ultrasonic sensor can be detected in a timely manner for each measurement.