Ultrasonic Sensor Secondary Mode Functional Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for functional testing of ultrasonic sensors in motor vehicles require a separate test mode, which disrupts driver assistance functions and is not feasible during ongoing operation, especially at low speeds or under conditions like icing or heavy soiling, leading to delays and unavailability of driver assistance systems.
Innovation Solution
The method involves controlling the ultrasonic sensor to emit signals at a secondary mode frequency, allowing reflection by surfaces around the vehicle, and classifying transmission paths as functional if the reflected signal is received by the same or another sensor, enabling concurrent functional testing with normal operation without disrupting driver assistance functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If functional testing is carried out using a separate test mode with altered signal duration and amplitude, then the ultrasonic sensor can be tested for functionality, but driver assistance functions are not available during testing and significant delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ultrasonic sensor's operating modes by using different frequency modes (fundamental mode for distance measurement, secondary mode for functional testing). This allows the sensor to perform both distance measurement and functional testing simultaneously without interference, eliminating the need to switch between test mode and operational mode, thus resolving the contradiction between testing capability and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of operation by utilizing the secondary mode frequency of the ultrasonic sensor for functional testing, while maintaining the fundamental mode for distance measurement. This dimensional separation in frequency space allows both functions to operate concurrently without interfering with each other, eliminating the trade-off between testing and availability.
2Reliability
If functional testing is performed during ongoing operation, then sensor functionality can be maintained, but testing is only possible during time periods when driver assistance functions do not need to be available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the operational timeline and frequency usage by implementing separate fundamental mode and secondary mode operations. This allows functional testing to occur during any time period including when driver assistance functions are active, as the secondary mode testing does not interfere with fundamental mode distance measurement operations, thereby resolving the contradiction between continuous reliability and operational adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
By operating in the secondary mode frequency dimension during functional testing while maintaining fundamental mode for distance measurement, the system enables testing during all operational periods without restricting adaptability to specific time windows, thus resolving the contradiction between sensor reliability and operational versatility.
3Productivity
If the ultrasonic sensor emits signals at secondary mode frequency for testing, then functional testing can be performed concurrently with normal operation, but the emitted signal has different characteristics than during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency spectrum into fundamental mode for distance measurement and secondary mode for functional testing. This segmentation allows both functions to operate concurrently without interference, as each function uses a distinct frequency band, thereby achieving high productivity while maintaining measurement precision through dedicated frequency channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the frequency dimension to separate testing operations from measurement operations. By employing the secondary mode frequency for testing while maintaining fundamental mode for distance measurement, the system achieves concurrent operations without compromising measurement precision, as each function operates in its own frequency dimension.
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 approach allows for continuous availability of driver assistance functions during testing, as it does not require a separate test mode, and can be performed independently of the vehicle's location, reducing downtime and maintaining functionality even under adverse conditions like icing or heavy soiling.
Implementation Method 1
the ultrasonic sensor emits an ultrasonic signal having a frequency of a secondary mode of the ultrasonic sensor, the ultrasonic signal is reflected by a surface in the region around the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
The distance of the obstruction from the vehicle is determined based on the propagation time of the signal
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for functional testing of an ultrasonic sensor on a motor vehicle, the ultrasonic sensor is controlled in such a way that it emits an ultrasonic signal having a frequency of a secondary mode of the ultrasonic sensor, the ultrasonic signal is reflected by a surface in the region around the vehicle, and at least one transmission path or one transmitting unit of the ultrasonic sensor is classified as functional if the reflected signal is received by the ultrasonic sensor itself or by another ultrasonic sensor on the motor vehicle.