Programmable Vehicle Switch Interface for Multi-ECU Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicles require a universal control switch to manage multiple electronic control units (ECUs) with different hardware and software components, necessitating a single interface and common communication protocol to efficiently control various subsystems.
Innovation Solution
A smart switch device comprising a programmable controller with a display and a switching box connected via a CAN bus system, allowing for customizable button functions and outputs to control ECUs, with options for programming via USB, Bluetooth, or PC configuration tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate hardware components and control interfaces are used for different ECUs, then each subsystem can be controlled independently, but the overall system complexity increases and requires multiple interfaces and communication protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control switch that can control multiple different ECUs through a single interface. The switch device includes a microcontroller that can communicate with various ECUs using a common communication protocol, eliminating the need for separate control interfaces for each ECU. This multi-functional approach allows one switch to perform the roles of multiple dedicated switches while maintaining the ability to control diverse electronic subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separate control functions into a single integrated switch device. The control switch merges the functionality of multiple dedicated switches, knobs, and controllers into one unified device that can manage lighting systems, audio systems, climate control, and other vehicle subsystems through a single interface and common communication bus.
2Reliability
If each subsystem uses different software components and communication protocols, then each subsystem can operate independently, but integration and unified control become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The microcontroller in the switch device is designed to support multiple communication protocols simultaneously, allowing it to communicate with different ECUs using their native protocols while providing unified control. This enables the single switch interface to manage diverse subsystems without requiring separate control software for each protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The control switch acts as an intermediary device between the user and multiple ECUs with different communication protocols. The microcontroller translates user inputs into the appropriate protocol-specific commands for each ECU, mediating between the unified user interface and the diverse subsystem communication requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a smart switch devices for vehicle subsystems or electronic control units (ECUs). One embodiment of a smart switch comprises a programmable interface and a main switch box that may be controlled using the interface.