Vehicle Wireless Sensor Power Management via Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless sensor systems for vehicles face challenges in continuous data collection without increasing power supply costs, as they often require dedicated batteries that complicate device configurations and can lead to onboard battery power loss.
Innovation Solution
A configuration where power is supplied from the onboard battery to the data collection device, using a secondary cell charged only when the ignition is on, and employing a mode controller to transition between normal and sleep modes to conserve power, allowing continuous data collection without a dedicated battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If a dedicated battery is used to supply power to the data collection device, then continuous data collection can be maintained even when the engine is stopped, but the device configuration becomes complicated and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply function into the existing onboard battery system rather than using a dedicated battery. The data collection device shares the onboard battery power source with other vehicle systems, eliminating the need for a separate power supply unit and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining continuous operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The onboard battery is utilized for multiple purposes including powering the data collection device, other vehicle systems, and the engine starting function. This multi-functional use of the existing battery eliminates the need for a dedicated battery specifically for data collection, simplifying the overall system configuration.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a dedicated battery is used to supply power to the data collection device, then continuous data collection can be maintained even when the engine is stopped, but power loss of the onboard battery occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The data collection device operates in periodic cycles, alternating between active data collection mode and low-power sleep mode. During normal operation, data is collected and transmitted periodically. When the engine is stopped, the device enters sleep mode to minimize power consumption, thus preventing onboard battery power loss while still maintaining the capability for continuous data collection over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The power consumption of the data collection device is dynamically adjusted based on engine status. When the engine is running, the device operates at full power for continuous data collection. When the engine is stopped, the device automatically reduces power consumption by entering sleep mode, thereby adapting to available power resources and preventing battery depletion.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If signal lines are arranged between sensors and data collection device, then data can be collected continuously, but worker effort and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection of signal lines with wireless communication technology. Sensors transmit data wirelessly to the data collection device using radio frequency communication, eliminating the need for physical wire routing between components. This substitution dramatically reduces installation time and worker effort while maintaining continuous data collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (radio frequency transmission medium) between sensors and the data collection device. This intermediary enables data transfer without direct physical connections, simplifying the installation process by eliminating complex signal line routing while ensuring continuous data flow from sensors to the collection device.
Data Source
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AI summary
There are provided: a first communication device; a second communication device that communicates wirelessly with the first communication device; and a state detector that outputs state data indicating a state of a predetermined installation place. The first communication device includes: a storage; and a data controller that selectively executes a transmitting operation to transmit the state data to the second communication device and a storing operation to store the state data in the storage. The second communication device includes a signal generator that generates a stop notification signal notifying that the second communication device in operation stops an operation, and stops the operation after transmitting the stop notification signal to the first communication device. The data controller executes the transmitting operation before the stop notification signal is transmitted from the second communication device, and executes the storing operation after the stop notification signal is transmitted from the second communication device.