Vehicle Power Switch Self-Test for Overload and Short-Circuit Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smart power switches for vehicles lack reliability in detecting and responding to overloads and short circuits, which is critical for the safety and performance of autonomous driving systems.
Innovation Solution
A solid state power switch device with a built-in self-test module that controls a switch element to perform a self-test sequence, measures current, and compares it with threshold values to detect failures, enabling the switch to open in case of overload or short circuits, and includes a diagnostic unit to report test results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing smart power switches rely on switch element behavior as a smart fuse, then the device structure remains simple, but the reliability and detection capability for overload and short circuit fail to meet autonomous driving safety requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-test module that performs preliminary testing of the switch element before normal operation. The self-test sequence activates the switch element in a controlled manner to verify its functionality, detecting potential failures before they occur during actual power supply operations, thereby proactively ensuring reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The switch control unit incorporates a built-in self-test module that enables the device to automatically test and monitor its own switch element. This self-service mechanism continuously verifies the switch element's health status without requiring external testing equipment, maintaining high reliability while managing complexity through integrated design
2Measurement precision
If the switch element operates without continuous monitoring, then the device complexity is reduced, but the detection precision for overload and short circuit conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The self-test module establishes a feedback loop that continuously monitors the switch element's operational state. By comparing actual switch behavior against expected parameters during self-test sequences, the system precisely detects deviations indicating overload or short circuit conditions, enabling accurate real-time monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial monitoring by focusing self-test efforts on critical switch element parameters during specific test phases. Rather than continuously monitoring all possible parameters, the system performs targeted measurements during self-test sequences, achieving sufficient detection precision while limiting complexity through selective monitoring
3Reliability
If a self-test sequence is implemented to verify switch element functionality, then the reliability improves, but the response time and productivity of the power supply system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-test sequence operates periodically rather than continuously, activating at predetermined intervals or under specific conditions. This periodic execution verifies switch element reliability while minimizing interference with normal power supply operations, balancing thorough testing with system productivity requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The self-test module performs preliminary verification of switch element functionality before critical failures occur. By conducting routine self-tests during non-critical periods, the system ensures reliability is maintained while preventing unexpected failures that would cause greater productivity loss
4Loss of information
If the switch element is designed to act as a smart fuse, then the device complexity is minimized, but the ability to provide diagnostic information and report failures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The self-test module incorporates feedback mechanisms that detect switch element status and communicate diagnostic information to external systems. Through status indicators and failure reporting, the system provides comprehensive diagnostic data about switch health, failure modes, and test results, eliminating information loss while managing complexity through structured communication protocols
Data Source
AI summary
A solid state power switch device comprises a switch unit comprising at least one switch element configured to provide power supply to a load of a vehicle while the switch element is in close state; a switch control unit in communication with the switch unit, and configured to control in open/close state the switch element; the switch control unit comprising a built in self-test module of the switch element configured to control a self-test sequence of the switch element and to check failure/success of the self-test sequence of the switch element such that the switch unit is self-tested.