Vehicle Subsystem Control via Local Remote Parameter Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle subsystem control systems require redundant signal processing paths and multiple microprocessors to verify user input signals, increasing costs, especially in safety-critical applications like braking systems in heavy commercial vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A control system that compares separate measurements of a universal parameter transmitted along one signal path with its measurement along a different signal path to validate command signals, eliminating the need for redundant processing paths and multiple microprocessors by using a 'local' and 'remote' control system hierarchy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant signal processing paths and multiple microprocessors are used to verify user input signals, then functional safety standards are met, but system cost increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the verification function from the command signal path and implements it separately through parameter monitoring. Instead of duplicating the entire signal processing path, only the parameter verification is separated and transmitted through an independent channel, reducing complexity while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a parameter signal as an intermediary that indirectly verifies the integrity of the command signal. Rather than directly comparing multiple command signals, the system uses parameter measurements as a mediator to detect potential faults in the signal transmission path
2Reliability
If multiple microprocessors are deployed for signal verification, then signal validity is confirmed, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The verification function is extracted from the main signal processing path and implemented through separate parameter monitoring. This allows validation to be performed with minimal additional components rather than requiring multiple full microprocessors
Solution Approach 2:
The parameter sensor serves multiple functions: it monitors environmental conditions for operational purposes and simultaneously provides verification data for signal validity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated verification components
Data Source
AI summary
A control system and method for controlling a vehicle subsystem are provided. The control system includes a remote parameter sensor configured to generate a remote parameter signal indicative of a value of a universal parameter associated with an environment in which a vehicle is operating. The system further includes a local parameter sensor configured to generate a local parameter signal indicative of the value of the universal parameter and a local controller. The controller is configured to receive the local parameter signal along a first signal path, receive the remote parameter signal and a command signal configured for controlling a function of the vehicle subsystem along a second signal path, compare the local and remote parameter signals and implement the function of the vehicle subsystem responsive to the command signal if the remote parameter signal meets a predetermined condition relative to the local parameter signal.