Vehicle Signal Identification with Measurement Unit Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle signaling systems, such as COVESA VSS, are limited in conveying multiple units of measurement for signals, leading to potential misinterpretation and incompatibility with different regional preferences or OEM specifications.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution extends the identification of signals in vehicle signaling systems to include an indication of the measurement unit, allowing for multiple units to be conveyed. This is achieved by appending units as separate entities, modifying signal names to include units, or using separators with enumerated lists of units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single unit of measurement is specified for each signal (as in COVESA VSS), then the system maintains simplicity and standardization, but it cannot accommodate different regional preferences or OEM specifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal identification into multiple hierarchical levels: the base signal identifier (e.g., Vehicle.Speed) and separate unit identifiers (e.g., MPH, KM_HR). This segmentation allows the system to maintain a clean base structure while adding unit information as distinct, separable elements that can be independently selected based on regional or OEM requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to signal identification by introducing unit identifiers as a separate hierarchical level. Instead of embedding units within the signal name (which would complicate the base structure), units are added as a distinct dimension in the identification hierarchy, allowing multiple units to coexist without interfering with the core signal identification.
2Reliability
If multiple units of measurement are conveyed for each signal, then compatibility across different regions and OEMs is enhanced, but the risk of misinterpretation increases without clear specification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the receiving entity is explicitly informed of the unit used through the unit identifier in the signal identification. This creates a closed-loop communication system where the sender specifies the unit and the receiver confirms understanding by using the same unit identifier, eliminating ambiguity and preventing misinterpretation.
Solution Approach 2:
The unit identifier acts as an intermediary element between the signal value and the receiving entity. Instead of the receiver having to infer or guess the unit from the signal name or context, the unit identifier serves as a clear mediator that explicitly bridges the gap, ensuring accurate interpretation without adding complexity to the core signal transmission.
3Loss of information
If the signal identification is extended to include measurement units, then unit communication becomes explicit and unambiguous, but the existing signal structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal signal identification structure that can accommodate multiple units through a standardized hierarchical format. The same base signal identifier (e.g., Vehicle.Speed) can be paired with different unit identifiers (MPH, KM_HR, M_S) following a consistent naming convention, making the system multi-functional while maintaining structural universality and reducing the need for separate signal definitions for each unit.
Data Source
AI summary
A method at a computing device, the method including sending a request for information to a second entity; and receiving a response providing the information, the response further specifying the unit that the information is provided in. The measurement unit may be appended as a separate branch for a signal, a name for a signal, using a separator for the signal, or a combination thereof.