Wireless Airbag Control via CANbus Slave Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic actuating systems lack a wireless, remotely operable solution for controlling single or bi-directional airbags, particularly in systems with multiple airbags, which limits selective deployment and retraction capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A wireless CANbus airbag control system utilizing a central master electronic control module that communicates wirelessly with slave modules equipped with RF transceivers, central processing units, microprocessors, CAN controllers, and sensors to coordinate the operation of airbags, allowing for prioritized control messages and efficient communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a wireless remotely operable system is used to control airbags, then the complexity of wiring harnesses is reduced and operational flexibility is enhanced, but the reliability of control communication may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a microprocessor-based control system with CANbus communication protocol as an intermediary between the wireless RF command and the airbag actuation system. This intermediary layer processes commands, validates data integrity, and coordinates the timing signals needed for reliable airbag deployment, thereby maintaining system reliability while enabling wireless operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the microprocessor monitors the status of airbags, sensor inputs, and communication signals. This feedback loop allows the system to detect and correct communication errors, verify proper actuation, and maintain reliable control despite the wireless transmission medium.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple airbags are controlled selectively, then operational versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent slave nodes, each responsible for a specific airbag. Each slave node contains its own microprocessor and CANbus interface, allowing individual control of each airbag while using a standardized communication protocol. This segmentation enables selective deployment of any combination of airbags without requiring a completely different control architecture for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a universal control architecture where identical slave node modules can control different types of airbags (single-acting or dual-acting) depending on the mechanical implementation. The CANbus communication protocol and microprocessor-based control logic provide a universal interface that handles multiple airbags with varying functions through a single standardized system design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual-acting airbags with opposed chambers are used, then bi-directional operation capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system extracts the complexity of bi-directional control by separating the inflation and deflation control functions into independent control pathways. The microprocessor-based slave node independently manages the inflation valve and deflation valve circuits, allowing dual-acting airbags to be controlled through the same wireless interface without requiring complex mechanical modifications to the airbag units themselves.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless airbag control system includes a central master electronic control module having an RF transceiver. One or more slave nodes are provided, each slave node being associated with an airbag that is mounted to perform an operating function with respect to a mechanical device. Each slave node further includes an RF transceiver, a central processing unit and a CAN controller. Two-way communication is shared between the slave nodes and the master electronic control module on a prioritized message basis.