Vehicle Signal Conversion for Multi-Protocol Equipment Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high costs associated with using analog-type communication protocols in special equipment vehicles and the challenge of integrating diverse vehicle functions into special equipment vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A signal conversion device and method that converts vehicle signals into protocols usable by special equipment controllers, allowing customization and reducing production costs by integrating a signal conversion device within the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If analog-type communication protocols are used in special equipment vehicles, then compatibility with legacy systems is maintained, but production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protocol conversion device as an intermediary component that translates between analog communication protocols (CAN, LIN) and modern digital protocols (Ethernet, USB, Bluetooth). This mediator enables legacy vehicle systems to communicate with contemporary special equipment controllers without requiring expensive analog protocol infrastructure, thus reducing production costs while maintaining compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol conversion device dynamically changes communication parameters such as data transmission rate, signal format, and protocol type based on the requirements of different electronic devices. By adapting these parameters, the system can use cost-effective digital protocols for new equipment while maintaining compatibility with legacy analog systems, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and manufacturing cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vehicle models are supported with different protocols, then customization flexibility increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol conversion device is designed with multi-functionality to support multiple communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet, USB, Bluetooth, WiFi) simultaneously. This universal design allows a single device to handle protocol conversion for various vehicle models and electronic devices, providing customization flexibility without requiring separate conversion devices for each protocol, thereby controlling system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its communication protocol based on the connected electronic device. The protocol conversion device automatically detects the required protocol and configures itself accordingly, enabling flexible customization for different vehicle models and special equipment without manual intervention or complex hardwired configurations, thus managing system complexity effectively.
3Ease of manufacture
If protocol conversion functionality is integrated into the vehicle, then production costs are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol conversion functionality is merged with the vehicle's existing communication infrastructure, specifically integrating the conversion device into the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port. This consolidation allows the protocol conversion features to be added without requiring separate dedicated hardware components, reducing overall system complexity while achieving cost-effective multi-protocol support for special equipment vehicles.
Data Source
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AI summary
A signal conversion device includes a communication circuit and a processor. The processor may convert a first signal into a second signal using at least one of a first protocol, a second protocol different from the first protocol, or any combination thereof, by receiving the first signal using the first protocol from a vehicle through the communication circuit. The processor may also transmit the second signal to an electronic device connected to the vehicle.