US20130099575A1 - Power distribution system - Google Patents
Power distribution system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130099575A1 US20130099575A1 US13/589,341 US201213589341A US2013099575A1 US 20130099575 A1 US20130099575 A1 US 20130099575A1 US 201213589341 A US201213589341 A US 201213589341A US 2013099575 A1 US2013099575 A1 US 2013099575A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- power
- cell
- load
- distribution system
- node
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 31
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 claims description 12
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 40
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 21
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 17
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 15
- 238000007726 management method Methods 0.000 description 14
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 11
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000003491 array Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000011156 evaluation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 241001417501 Lobotidae Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000000872 buffer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003139 buffering effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229940084430 four-way Drugs 0.000 description 2
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000013468 resource allocation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000011664 signaling Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000007858 starting material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001594 aberrant effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006399 behavior Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012512 characterization method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008602 contraction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013078 crystal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003467 diminishing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052736 halogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 150000002367 halogens Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007935 neutral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000010355 oscillation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001902 propagating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005201 scrubbing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012163 sequencing technique Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012384 transportation and delivery Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
- H02J4/00—Circuit arrangements for mains or distribution networks not specified as ac or dc
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B9/00—Safety arrangements
- G05B9/02—Safety arrangements electric
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B19/00—Programme-control systems
- G05B19/02—Programme-control systems electric
Definitions
- a control system is a device or set of devices to manage, command, direct or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems.
- logic or sequential controls and feedback or linear controls.
- fuzzy logic which attempts to combine some of the design simplicity of logic with the utility of linear control.
- control system may be applied to the essentially manual controls that allow an operator to, for example, close and open a hydraulic press, where the logic requires that it cannot be moved unless safety guards are in place.
- An automatic sequential control system may trigger a series of mechanical actuators in the correct sequence to perform a task. For example various electric and pneumatic transducers may fold and glue a cardboard box, fill it with product and then seal it in an automatic packaging machine.
- a control loop including sensors, control algorithms and actuators, is arranged in such a fashion as to try to regulate a variable at a setpoint or reference value.
- An example of this may increase the fuel supply to a furnace when a measured temperature drops.
- PID controllers are common and effective in cases such as this.
- Control systems that include some sensing of the results they are trying to achieve are making use of feedback and so can, to some extent, adapt to varying circumstances.
- Open-loop control systems do not directly make use of feedback, but run only in pre-arranged ways.
- Traditional wiring solutions include, for example, fuse panels with wiring harness kits. These kits are used, for example, with vehicles in order to provide a fixed architecture. Typically, a fuse panel facilitates all power distribution and a selection of switches provide flexibility in the wiring approach. Customers are therefore able to reduce costs up front. However, due to the fixed nature of the wiring, the systems are not easily modified after installation. As a result, this type of wiring solution incurs high installed costs, high capacity switches, no inherent circuit buffering, no ability for “smart” diagnostic and monitoring, no inherent user interface and no inherent RF control capability.
- VEC VEC
- DUAL-VEC Smart VEC
- Other wiring solutions include VEC, DUAL-VEC, Smart VEC and other similar devices. These solutions are 3 dimensional metallic matrices where the interconnections are presented to the manufacturer for hard “programming” at the manufacturers site (the interconnects are welded together). These assignments create connections between the primary source of DC power, a fuse or relay (switching element) and an output terminal. This “programming” is permanent and inherently limited in several ways, as follows:
- a system including an interface module to control and monitor the system; a plurality of power cells which act as a point of power delivery and monitor environmental variables that effect function and reliability; a radio frequency transmitter and receiver to manage nodes distributed across the plurality of power cells; a maintenance module presenting information requests to be forwarded to the plurality of power cells; and a communication bus for distribution of data throughout the system.
- a system including an input device produces a voltage output which activates the system; a decoder buffers an active state of an input derived from the voltage output from the input device; a processor enables the decoder based on the state of input from the input device, and compares a current state of the decoder to a previous state of input from the input device of an array stored in the processor, to validate a state change; and a processor array decodes and associates the validated state change with predefined functions.
- a method for interfacing devices including producing a voltage output which activates the system; buffering an active state of an input derived from the voltage output from the input device; enabling the decoder based on the state of input from the input device; comparing a current state of the decoder to a previous state of input from the input device of an array stored in the processor, to validate a state change; and decoding and associating the validated state change with predefined functions.
- FIG. 1 shows an exemplary architecture of the system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of the system of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of the system with complimentary power cells.
- FIG. 4 shows an exemplary master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5 shows another exemplary master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6 shows an exemplary framework of processing data in the master cell of the system in the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 7 a and 7 b show an exemplary power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8 shows an exemplary processing framework of the master cell in connection with the present disclosure.
- FIG. 9 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 10 shows an exemplary processing framework of the power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 11 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 show an exemplary architecture of the system according to the present disclosure.
- the system includes a device functioning in the role as a Master Cell, and other devices, such as Power Cells functioning in the role as the point of power distribution in the system.
- a mutual interface for the Cell elements is, for example, a physical and electrical standard for a Controller Area Network (“CAN”) serial data-bus.
- the master cell is typically one per system, and functions as the primary governing element.
- the cell also acts as an interface for analog devices, such as switches, to the digital world. Numerous control inputs are provided for each system, which enables the master cell to control and coordinate all intra-cell communications and messaging.
- the system allows numerous power cells for each master cell installed in the system, and a single power cell can provide, for example, numerous protected power MOSFET output nodes.
- Each power cell is individually addressable, and is able to monitor environmental variables that effect function and reliability.
- the cells are autonomous in function for both normal and failed communication states, and a physical interface allows direct control over failed intelligent elements.
- Another element in the system is the RF Transmitter and Receiver Sub-System. This Sub-System provides, for example, 900 Mhz RF management of numerous nodes distributed across any number of power cells. There is no restriction as to how the control points are distributed or how many nodes can be assigned to any cell.
- the system may also include an LCD Maintenance Module or Sub-System which provides utility to the operator(s) of a system in allowing information requests to be forwarded to any power cell in the System, and to then display the responses to those requests on the LCD display.
- the responses characterize, for example, environmental and node-state information to the operator.
- a communications bus such as the industry standard CAN bus electrical interface with proprietary data protocol, allows simple expansion or contraction of the physical bus.
- FIG. 4 shows an exemplary master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- the master cell is constructed based on a centralized computing element (such as a microcontroller) operating, for example, at 18432000 Hz.
- the crystal frequency should preferably be selected to mitigate baud-rate errors in data transmission over the CAN bus.
- the master cell microcontroller is in-circuit programmable through, for example, a pin header on the PCB. This allows for field-programmability of the master cell.
- Analog devices are interfaced to the microcontroller through, for example, a TVS diode protected tri-state data-bus.
- the hardware can accommodate numerous binary inputs, or, from various single ended inputs, or various double ended analog inputs.
- the analog interface may be custom to the application, and may or may not require additional signal conditioning to allow interface to the master cell analog to digital converter.
- the analog to digital converter is referenced against, for example, a precision voltage source. Depending on the application, both SA and SD converters will be available.
- the power supply for the master cell is provided by the intra-cell cabling through, for example, a primary TVS diode protected, filtered linear voltage regulator.
- the system typically functions to a primary input voltage of 5.2 volt for the logic elements in the system, and the power paths are redundant and are sourced from each power cell in a preferred embodiment so as to mitigate the risk of a single point of failure.
- the power-supply can be managed, for example, by a pair of MOSFETs and a redundant charge-pump circuit that supplies control voltage to the MOSFETS.
- the power supply on the cells is intelligently managed in the preferred embodiment by the microcontroller and independent microcontroller watch-dog chip. In the event of an internal software error, or an SCR condition on the substrate of the microcontroller, the power supply will shut itself off and then restart, clearing the condition on the microcontroller substrate or software induced error. This feature protects the system even in 6-sigma events.
- the master cell carries the single fixed end of the CAN bus architecture and electrical interface, as depicted in FIG. 4 .
- the opposing end of the CAN bus is terminated through connectors (such as a DB-9) on the “last” power cell in the system.
- the CAN physical interface takes place through, for example, standard DB-9 connectors and preferably utilizes redundant pairs of wires to mitigate failure do to the loss of a single wire connection.
- the master cell carries two independent interfaces for optional system features, as illustrated for example in FIG. 5 : (1) RF Interface—This interface allows the attachment of an RF receiver cell to the master cell, as depicted in FIG. 5 . This feature enables any master cell to distribute RF functionality throughout the multi-node system. The RF cell, in its preferred embodiment, is automatically recognized when attached to the system. (2) Maintenance Module—This interface allows the attachment of a maintenance cell to the master cell. This cell provides an LCD display and control buttons to allow a user to interrogate any power cell in the system for specific environmental or node state information. The maintenance module cell is configured, in the preferred embodiment, to be automatically recognized when attached to the system.
- FIG. 6 shows an exemplary framework of processing data in the master cell of the system in the present disclosure.
- the software that manages the functions on the master cell includes the following components: Hardware decode, Analog “real-world” factors management, Communications, Error detection, Resource allocation request (Cell assignments, Cell—Node personality storage and assignment), RF Cell—interface and management, and Maintenance Cell—interface and management.
- Hardware decode The software manages the decode of unique hardware addresses assigned to the various interfaces to the system.
- the unique addresses are presented sequentially to allow the tri-state data-bus to interface “N” number of inputs to a single, preferably 8 bit, data bus.
- the address scan of the optional modules performs pattern matching to determine if the RF or maintenance cell(s) are present. This pattern matching allows otherwise missing peripherals to be brought “on-line” dynamically.
- the software is optimized to perform this hardware decode function at the fastest rate possible, as allowed by the target processor.
- Analog “real-world” factors management The software evaluates the incoming analog signals for possible spurious or unstable analog conditions. The purpose of this evaluation is to mitigate the risk of such spurious or unstable analog information from propagating into the system power nodes. Time domain and state “scrubbing” methods are performed prior to a state change being allowed into the resource allocation or communications sections of the software.
- Communications software manages the construction, transmission, reception and error detection of communications processes.
- the data packet structure includes elements that address each of the following areas.
- the communications data is transmitted simultaneously to cells in the system.
- Localized cell software does a preliminary check before processing the content of the packet as:
- Error detection (communications): A mathematical evaluation of the data that is included in the packet is constructed and sent along with the packet. This information, when compared with the packet received on the target system, allows detection of transmission errors or other data corruption, thus allowing for appropriate decision on the fate of the packet.
- FIG. 9 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the master cell in connection with the present disclosure.
- the processing engine itself is depicted, for example, in FIG. 6 .
- each of the major class of cell, power and master are designed as processing engines without a fixed personality.
- Each of these software engines has, at its disposal, resources (properties, methods and events) that it can assemble in any combination, dynamically, to perform a specific type of task in a specific way. That is, a system with the software engines in-place and functional would not perform any task until the desired functions are determined and assigned as personality profiles to operate the MOSFET nodes on the power cell.
- These dynamically assembled personalities can be assigned to any of the MOSFET nodes on the power cell.
- a node can be running the headlights in a Fire Truck and in the next moment be operating a PWM controlled hydraulic motor without physical changes to the system itself. Operation works as follows: Internal to the software structure on the master cell is a (6) dimension (40) element array that includes the potential personality profile for each node on each cell that could potentially be in the system. It should be noted that the 6 ⁇ 40 master cell is exemplary in nature. The dimension and element array numbers can be increased or decreased as necessary. For example, on a full-featured system, the array would be (6) dimensions with (100) elements in each dimension. These array structures are field programmable, and stored in memory, preferably in EEPROM.
- the array structures are therefore protected from any loss of system power, and would include the details of the job a node(s) will do, the cell it is on and how that job will be accomplished (all of which may be custom defined by the user/customer).
- the array dimensions construct are coded classes of functions that act as primary directives when evaluated by the target cell. Message classes allow layered processing so that messages can be evaluated and processed in the least number of CPU cycles, improving system performance.
- the information is then assembled into the data packet structure listed above, along with synchronism information, and is ready to transmit to the target cell.
- the software in a preferred embodiment, maintains a special (7) dimension, (8) character array to manage the coded data transmissions and receptions. This array acts as the “clearing house” for data movement into or out-of all cells.
- personality traits include:
- the instruction is executed on CELL #1 and NODE #4.
- ” symbol instructs the processor to build a single control word from these two elements.
- the personality trait of the function in this example, is to execute automotive 4-Way flashers.
- 10 represents the multiple of the base timing to use. For example, a value of 1 would mean 100 ms. A value of 10 is (10*100 ms) or 1 second between pattern elements being applied to the outputs on the cell.
- This instruction refers to the “type” of Power Cell that the instruction can be executed on. Commands are “typed” to a specific model of Power Cell so as to manage resource and power requirements safely. If an instruction is coded and sent to the wrong type of Cell Type, the cell will reject the command.
- the instruction for example, is executed on CELL #1 and NODE_NONE since this is a control pair and the nodes are assigned as element 3 in the control word.
- ” symbol tells the processor to build a single control word from these two elements.
- the personality to execute is for ON/OFF type of switch for each specified output. This personality type allows a single input node on a Master Cell to manage multiple output nodes on a Power Cell. Additionally there will be a 100 ms delay between each output being cycled on or off.
- the first node set manages nodes 1-8.
- the example tells Power Cell 1 to turn nodes 1,2, and 5 ON.
- the first node set manages nodes 9-10.
- the example tells Power Cell 1 to turn nodes 9 and 10 ON.
- a Windows based interface that will allow any user/customer to easily and simply configure the attributes of their system.
- the software will provide a GUI displaying, for example, a cell and cell-node map that will represent the configuration required in their application.
- the software will have a feature that allows storage and retrieval of stored profiles that will allow efficient programming of multiple cell systems or mass production of multiple systems. Additional application hardware will allow the user interface to perform actual programming of the hardware.
- FIGS. 7 a and 7 b show an exemplary power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure.
- the power cell microcontroller is in-circuit programmable through a, preferably 7, pin header on the PCB. This allows for field-programmability of the power cell.
- Analog devices are interfaced to the microcontroller through, for example, an array of bipolar op-amps acting as low power drivers for 10 high-power, extremely low loss (Rds-On value) N-Channel MOSFETS acting as high-side drivers.
- Each MOSFET is capable of supplying greater than 20 DC amps/node with a dissipation factor significantly less than 1 watt/MOSFET.
- the driver circuits are inherently frequency limited to eliminate the possibility of high-frequency oscillations.
- the MOSFETS are inherently capable of billions of cycles of use with no inherent failure mechanism, such as would be exhibited in any electromechanical system.
- the architecture used in the application of the MOSFETS allows a single 5 kW TVS diode to protect all 10 output MOSFETS from environmental electrical anomalies such as load-dump.
- the integrated analog to digital converter is referenced against a precision voltage source, and is used to monitor three critical parameters associated with the longevity of the MOSFET output stages. Those monitored environmental factors are:
- the primary power for the power cell is provided by the primary DC source in the application, which is also used to power the loads.
- the regulated, linear, 12 Volt and 5 Volt power supplies are protected by a primary 5 Kw TVS diode.
- the system will continue to function to a primary input voltage of 5.2 volt for the logic elements and approximately 11.5 volts for the charge pump circuits.
- the power paths are multi-redundant and are supplied, preferably, through (4), (14) gauge TXL wire.
- the power cell exhibits an extraordinary watt density/cubic inch of space capacity due to the extremely low channel resistance of the application MOSFETS.
- each power cell node is rated to deliver approximately 23 amps of continuous DC power and brief (500 ms or less) periods of up to 100 amps of DC current.
- the total capacity of any individual power cell is 100 DC amps continuous over the temperature range of ⁇ 85 to +125 Degrees Centigrade.
- Each MOSFET node in addition to the intelligent factors management of those nodes, can also be protected by an ATC style replaceable “Mini-Fuse”.
- each MOSFET node is designed to diagnose the locally attached electrical load and state of the “Mini Fuse,” and indicate the state of the circuit load and fuse condition. This indication is presented, for example, to the user with 3 discrete states of a discrete LED/node indicator. Those states are:
- the power supply operates the microcontroller and logic circuits, and is intelligently managed by the microcontroller and independent microcontroller watch-dog chip. In the event of an internal software error, or an SCR condition on the substrate of the microcontroller, the power supply will shut itself off within 200 ms and then restart, clearing the condition on the microcontroller substrate or software induced error. This feature protects the system, for example, even in 6-sigma events.
- the power cell carries a receptacle and plug connection for the uncommitted end of the CAN bus architecture and electrical interface.
- This opposing end of the CAN bus is terminated through connectors (for example, DB-9) on the “last” power cell in the system.
- the CAN physical interface takes place, for example, through standard DB-9 connectors and utilizes redundant pairs of wires to mitigate failure do to the loss of a single wire connection.
- the CAN bus in a preferred embodiment, is protected on each cell with a special TVS diode array to mitigate bus failure caused by electrical transients.
- the power cell has an interface that allows direct control over the MOSFET outputs in the event of a failure of the intelligent elements in the system. This allows for circumvention of failure that would otherwise render the system as useless.
- Two mechanical and electrical headers are provided on the power cell PCB to allow for attachment of simple external switches to manually operate the nodes. When operated in this state there is no personality features, in place managing the node. The node becomes a simple ON-OFF device which is the most basic, and therefore reliable, control state possible.
- a TRUE BCD mechanical switch provides address selection for the power cell to allow for its existence one of many power cells in the system.
- Two power cells can exist at the same system address and provide any level of redundancy that is required in the system.
- Two (or more) power cells can also be set to supply power to any electrical load as an on-line, real-time backup.
- FIG. 11 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the power cell in connection with the present disclosure.
- each of the cell, power and master is designed as processing engines without a fixed personality.
- Each of these software engines has, at its disposal, resources (properties, methods and events) that it can allocate, in any combination, dynamically, to perform a specific type of task in a specific way. For example, a system delivered with the software engines in-place and functional will not perform until the desired functions are determined and assigned as personality profiles to operate the MOSFET nodes on the power cell.
- These dynamically assembled personalities can be assigned to any of numerous MOSFET nodes on the power cell.
- a node can be running the headlights in a Fire Truck and in the next moment be operating a PWM controlled hydraulic motor without physical changes to the system. Operation of the system in this embodiment is as follows. Internal to the software structure on the Power Cell are the following arrays that provide the utility to create and dynamically allocate the (properties, methods and events) to give the MOSFET output nodes their ad-hoc configurability:
- the array dimensions construct are coded classes of functions that act as primary directives when evaluated by the target power cell.
- the message classes allow layered processing so that messages can be evaluated and processed in the least number of CPU cycles, improving system performance.
- the actions taken on the packet construct is the opposite of what takes place on the master cell.
- the packet In the power cell the packet is de-constructed, analyzed for correctness and used to dynamically allocate the properties, methods and events to successfully manage the nodes personality profile, in application.
- the sub-system provides, for example, a RF (preferably 900 Mhz) management of up to 15 overall nodes distributed across any number of power cells. There is no restriction as to how the 15 control points are distributed or how many nodes can be assigned to any Cell.
- the functions of the transmitter and receiver pair are a functional analog to those functions included within the master cell. The single point of difference is that the switch closures that instruct the power cells to do their jobs are issued over a radio link. Both the transmitter and receiver are configured to carry “activity” indicators that provide visual feedback to the operator or user of the system that all functions are taking place as “expected”. Additionally, provisions may be made for the receiver to be “pluggable” into a specially configured socket on the master cell PCB.
- the master cell can automatically recognize the presence of the RF sub-system and create a communications link between the two elements.
- the features of the receiver are nearly identical to the master controller.
- the identical control arrays exist and construct data packets in the same format as the master controller.
- the difference is that the software in the receiver constructs finished packets, and then passes them to the master cell for subsequent transmission.
- the transmitter software encodes a unique MAC address that is included within each of the radio modules and uses that address as a preamble to every transmission. On initial use, the transmitter is “taught” to the receiver. This process registers the unique MAC address in the EEPROM memory of the receiver to allow unique “pairing” relationships to exist between a transmitter and receiver combination.
- a receiver sub-system can “learn” several transmitters, which give the ability to control up to numerous independent nodes using an RF interface. All of the dynamic allocation and re-assignment that are features of the master cell are also present in the RF Receiver sub-system.
- the features of the transmitter are an analog to the switch inputs provided for on the master cell. The difference is that switch closures (keyboard on remote) are relayed to the RF Receiver sub-system for subsequent processing by the receiver.
- the keyboard is scanned in a unique manner that allows any of the switch closures to be detected with the execution of only 2 instruction of the processor, in a preferred embodiment.
- the transmitter software encodes a unique MAC address that is included within each of the radio modules, and uses that address as a preamble to each transmission. On initial use, the transmitter is “taught” to the receiver. This process registers the unique MAC address in the EEPROM memory of the receiver to allow a unique “pairing” relationship to exist between a transmitter and receiver combination.
- a receiver sub-system can “learn” up several transmitters, which give the ability to control numerous independent nodes using an RF interface.
- This sub-system provides utility to the operator(s) of the system in allowing information requests to be forwarded to the any power cell in the system, and to display the responses to those requests on an LCD display.
- the responses characterize environmental and node-state information to the operator.
- Software that manages the LCD display is preferably included in the master cell, but may be stored in other areas.
Abstract
Description
- This Application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/141,624, entitled, “System And Method For Interfacing Devices”, filed Jun. 18, 2008, which is a non-provisional application claiming priority to and the benefit of provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/945,275, filed Jun. 20, 2007, each of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference and relied upon.
- A control system is a device or set of devices to manage, command, direct or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems. There are two common classes of control systems, with many variations and combinations: logic or sequential controls, and feedback or linear controls. There is also fuzzy logic, which attempts to combine some of the design simplicity of logic with the utility of linear control. Some devices or systems are inherently not controllable.
- The term “control system” may be applied to the essentially manual controls that allow an operator to, for example, close and open a hydraulic press, where the logic requires that it cannot be moved unless safety guards are in place. An automatic sequential control system may trigger a series of mechanical actuators in the correct sequence to perform a task. For example various electric and pneumatic transducers may fold and glue a cardboard box, fill it with product and then seal it in an automatic packaging machine.
- In the case of linear feedback systems, a control loop, including sensors, control algorithms and actuators, is arranged in such a fashion as to try to regulate a variable at a setpoint or reference value. An example of this may increase the fuel supply to a furnace when a measured temperature drops. PID controllers are common and effective in cases such as this. Control systems that include some sensing of the results they are trying to achieve are making use of feedback and so can, to some extent, adapt to varying circumstances. Open-loop control systems do not directly make use of feedback, but run only in pre-arranged ways.
- Traditional wiring solutions include, for example, fuse panels with wiring harness kits. These kits are used, for example, with vehicles in order to provide a fixed architecture. Typically, a fuse panel facilitates all power distribution and a selection of switches provide flexibility in the wiring approach. Customers are therefore able to reduce costs up front. However, due to the fixed nature of the wiring, the systems are not easily modified after installation. As a result, this type of wiring solution incurs high installed costs, high capacity switches, no inherent circuit buffering, no ability for “smart” diagnostic and monitoring, no inherent user interface and no inherent RF control capability.
- Other wiring solutions include VEC, DUAL-VEC, Smart VEC and other similar devices. These solutions are 3 dimensional metallic matrices where the interconnections are presented to the manufacturer for hard “programming” at the manufacturers site (the interconnects are welded together). These assignments create connections between the primary source of DC power, a fuse or relay (switching element) and an output terminal. This “programming” is permanent and inherently limited in several ways, as follows:
-
- 1. The 3 dimensional metallic matrix has a fixed 1 to 1 relationship between the input (control) and output (power distribution) and it's protection (fuse) and control (relay) element.
- 2. The 3 dimensional metallic matrix prohibits the arrangements of input and output control circuitry to exist on discrete connectors. Input control and output must be mixed on the same connectors which can increase the complexity of control and distribution wiring.
- 3. No VEC type solution is expandable without adding additional control circuit wiring.
- 4. Every control wire must travel from the switching element to the physical VEC device.
- 5. Control circuitry is limited to electromechanical relays
- In one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is a system, including an interface module to control and monitor the system; a plurality of power cells which act as a point of power delivery and monitor environmental variables that effect function and reliability; a radio frequency transmitter and receiver to manage nodes distributed across the plurality of power cells; a maintenance module presenting information requests to be forwarded to the plurality of power cells; and a communication bus for distribution of data throughout the system.
- In another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is a system, including an input device produces a voltage output which activates the system; a decoder buffers an active state of an input derived from the voltage output from the input device; a processor enables the decoder based on the state of input from the input device, and compares a current state of the decoder to a previous state of input from the input device of an array stored in the processor, to validate a state change; and a processor array decodes and associates the validated state change with predefined functions.
- In still another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is a method for interfacing devices, including producing a voltage output which activates the system; buffering an active state of an input derived from the voltage output from the input device; enabling the decoder based on the state of input from the input device; comparing a current state of the decoder to a previous state of input from the input device of an array stored in the processor, to validate a state change; and decoding and associating the validated state change with predefined functions.
- Additional features and advantages are described herein, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the Figures.
-
FIG. 1 shows an exemplary architecture of the system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of the system of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of the system with complimentary power cells. -
FIG. 4 shows an exemplary master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5 shows another exemplary master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 6 shows an exemplary framework of processing data in the master cell of the system in the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 7 a and 7 b show an exemplary power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8 shows an exemplary processing framework of the master cell in connection with the present disclosure. -
FIG. 9 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 10 shows an exemplary processing framework of the power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 11 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 show an exemplary architecture of the system according to the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the system includes a device functioning in the role as a Master Cell, and other devices, such as Power Cells functioning in the role as the point of power distribution in the system. A mutual interface for the Cell elements is, for example, a physical and electrical standard for a Controller Area Network (“CAN”) serial data-bus. The master cell is typically one per system, and functions as the primary governing element. The cell also acts as an interface for analog devices, such as switches, to the digital world. Numerous control inputs are provided for each system, which enables the master cell to control and coordinate all intra-cell communications and messaging. The system allows numerous power cells for each master cell installed in the system, and a single power cell can provide, for example, numerous protected power MOSFET output nodes. Each power cell is individually addressable, and is able to monitor environmental variables that effect function and reliability. The cells are autonomous in function for both normal and failed communication states, and a physical interface allows direct control over failed intelligent elements. Another element in the system is the RF Transmitter and Receiver Sub-System. This Sub-System provides, for example, 900 Mhz RF management of numerous nodes distributed across any number of power cells. There is no restriction as to how the control points are distributed or how many nodes can be assigned to any cell. In addition to the elements illustrated inFIG. 1 , the system may also include an LCD Maintenance Module or Sub-System which provides utility to the operator(s) of a system in allowing information requests to be forwarded to any power cell in the System, and to then display the responses to those requests on the LCD display. The responses characterize, for example, environmental and node-state information to the operator. Finally, a communications bus, such as the industry standard CAN bus electrical interface with proprietary data protocol, allows simple expansion or contraction of the physical bus. - Master Cell Hardware
-
FIG. 4 shows an exemplary master cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. The master cell is constructed based on a centralized computing element (such as a microcontroller) operating, for example, at 18432000 Hz. The crystal frequency should preferably be selected to mitigate baud-rate errors in data transmission over the CAN bus. The master cell microcontroller is in-circuit programmable through, for example, a pin header on the PCB. This allows for field-programmability of the master cell. - Analog devices are interfaced to the microcontroller through, for example, a TVS diode protected tri-state data-bus. The hardware can accommodate numerous binary inputs, or, from various single ended inputs, or various double ended analog inputs. The analog interface may be custom to the application, and may or may not require additional signal conditioning to allow interface to the master cell analog to digital converter. The analog to digital converter is referenced against, for example, a precision voltage source. Depending on the application, both SA and SD converters will be available.
- The power supply for the master cell is provided by the intra-cell cabling through, for example, a primary TVS diode protected, filtered linear voltage regulator. The system typically functions to a primary input voltage of 5.2 volt for the logic elements in the system, and the power paths are redundant and are sourced from each power cell in a preferred embodiment so as to mitigate the risk of a single point of failure. The power-supply can be managed, for example, by a pair of MOSFETs and a redundant charge-pump circuit that supplies control voltage to the MOSFETS. The power supply on the cells is intelligently managed in the preferred embodiment by the microcontroller and independent microcontroller watch-dog chip. In the event of an internal software error, or an SCR condition on the substrate of the microcontroller, the power supply will shut itself off and then restart, clearing the condition on the microcontroller substrate or software induced error. This feature protects the system even in 6-sigma events.
- The master cell carries the single fixed end of the CAN bus architecture and electrical interface, as depicted in
FIG. 4 . The opposing end of the CAN bus is terminated through connectors (such as a DB-9) on the “last” power cell in the system. The CAN physical interface takes place through, for example, standard DB-9 connectors and preferably utilizes redundant pairs of wires to mitigate failure do to the loss of a single wire connection. - The master cell carries two independent interfaces for optional system features, as illustrated for example in
FIG. 5 : (1) RF Interface—This interface allows the attachment of an RF receiver cell to the master cell, as depicted inFIG. 5 . This feature enables any master cell to distribute RF functionality throughout the multi-node system. The RF cell, in its preferred embodiment, is automatically recognized when attached to the system. (2) Maintenance Module—This interface allows the attachment of a maintenance cell to the master cell. This cell provides an LCD display and control buttons to allow a user to interrogate any power cell in the system for specific environmental or node state information. The maintenance module cell is configured, in the preferred embodiment, to be automatically recognized when attached to the system. - Master Cell Software
-
FIG. 6 shows an exemplary framework of processing data in the master cell of the system in the present disclosure. The software that manages the functions on the master cell includes the following components: Hardware decode, Analog “real-world” factors management, Communications, Error detection, Resource allocation request (Cell assignments, Cell—Node personality storage and assignment), RF Cell—interface and management, and Maintenance Cell—interface and management. - Hardware decode: The software manages the decode of unique hardware addresses assigned to the various interfaces to the system. The unique addresses are presented sequentially to allow the tri-state data-bus to interface “N” number of inputs to a single, preferably 8 bit, data bus. The address scan of the optional modules performs pattern matching to determine if the RF or maintenance cell(s) are present. This pattern matching allows otherwise missing peripherals to be brought “on-line” dynamically. The software is optimized to perform this hardware decode function at the fastest rate possible, as allowed by the target processor.
- Analog “real-world” factors management: The software evaluates the incoming analog signals for possible spurious or unstable analog conditions. The purpose of this evaluation is to mitigate the risk of such spurious or unstable analog information from propagating into the system power nodes. Time domain and state “scrubbing” methods are performed prior to a state change being allowed into the resource allocation or communications sections of the software.
- Communications: Communications software manages the construction, transmission, reception and error detection of communications processes. The data packet structure includes elements that address each of the following areas.
- Packet Structure:
-
- Recognition and Synchronization
- Cell address routing
- Node address routing
- Message Classification
- Message Classification amenders
- Message Parameters
- Message Parameter amenders
- Cell (Node) state
- Error management
- Suffix (end of packet notification)
- The communications data is transmitted simultaneously to cells in the system. Localized cell software does a preliminary check before processing the content of the packet as:
-
- Recognition and Synchronization elements are evaluated for correctness;
- Element count and suffix components are evaluated for correctness; and
- The entire packet is compared against the Error Management elements.
- On success:
- The header address is compared against the localized address assigned to the cell; and
- The cell, node, message classification, message classification amenders, message parameter and message parameter amenders are disassembled and evaluated against a 10 dimension array that allocates resources, assigns methods and schedules events to manage a single node.
- On failure:
- The packet is discarded and changes are not allowed to take place on the intended cell or node.
- Error detection (communications): A mathematical evaluation of the data that is included in the packet is constructed and sent along with the packet. This information, when compared with the packet received on the target system, allows detection of transmission errors or other data corruption, thus allowing for appropriate decision on the fate of the packet.
- The Processing Engine
-
FIG. 9 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the master cell in connection with the present disclosure. The processing engine itself is depicted, for example, inFIG. 6 . In the software of the system, each of the major class of cell, power and master, are designed as processing engines without a fixed personality. Each of these software engines has, at its disposal, resources (properties, methods and events) that it can assemble in any combination, dynamically, to perform a specific type of task in a specific way. That is, a system with the software engines in-place and functional would not perform any task until the desired functions are determined and assigned as personality profiles to operate the MOSFET nodes on the power cell. These dynamically assembled personalities can be assigned to any of the MOSFET nodes on the power cell. - As an example, a node can be running the headlights in a Fire Truck and in the next moment be operating a PWM controlled hydraulic motor without physical changes to the system itself. Operation works as follows: Internal to the software structure on the master cell is a (6) dimension (40) element array that includes the potential personality profile for each node on each cell that could potentially be in the system. It should be noted that the 6×40 master cell is exemplary in nature. The dimension and element array numbers can be increased or decreased as necessary. For example, on a full-featured system, the array would be (6) dimensions with (100) elements in each dimension. These array structures are field programmable, and stored in memory, preferably in EEPROM. The array structures are therefore protected from any loss of system power, and would include the details of the job a node(s) will do, the cell it is on and how that job will be accomplished (all of which may be custom defined by the user/customer). In the array dimensions construct are coded classes of functions that act as primary directives when evaluated by the target cell. Message classes allow layered processing so that messages can be evaluated and processed in the least number of CPU cycles, improving system performance.
- A simplified form of the details below is as follows:
- 1) Dimension-0 this is the CELL that the switch function is assigned to:
- Any switch can be assigned to any cell, there is no fixed relationship between any switch and the job that it will do or where that job will be performed.
- 2) Dimension-1 this is the NODE that the switch function is assigned to:
- Any switch can be assigned to any node on any cell.
- 3) Dimension-2 this is the PERSONALITY-TYPE of the node:
- Any node can assume the functional personality that is appropriate to the task and the man/machine interface, there is no fixed functionality.
- 4) Dimension-3 this is a TIME or FREQUENCY function/action amendment:
- These elements act to amend the basic functionality as defined in
Dimension 2.
- These elements act to amend the basic functionality as defined in
- 5) Dimension-4 this is a TIME, FREQUENCY or DIRECTION function/action amendment:
- These elements act to further amend the traits assigned in
Dimension 2.
- These elements act to further amend the traits assigned in
- These directives include the fundamental class of a transmitted packet:
-
-
- Message Class is a Configuration Command to define the personality of a Cell-Node
- Message Class is a Request for Information or Status
- Message Class is a Response to Request for Information or Status
- Message Class is a System Wide Broadcast
- How the message is to be routed:
-
-
- Target Cell ID
- Amenders determine target Cell Class (Master-Power)
- Target Node ID
- Target Cell ID
- How the output node is to be configured initially:
-
-
- Target Node State when directive is enforced
- The personality traits the node should exhibit:
- 1) MESSAGE CLASSIFICATION AMENDERS (personality)
-
- a) TRACK (default state): the output node tracks the state of the input switch as sent from the master.
- b) TRACK-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then the output node tracks the state of the input switch as sent from the master.
- c) MOMENTARY: the node is a timed output measured in a time base of milliseconds as the smallest unit.
- d) MOMENTARY-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then produces a timed output measured in a time base of milliseconds as the smallest unit.
- e) TOGGLE: the output toggles ON/OFF with alternate states of the input.
- f) TOGGLE-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then a steady state that toggles ON/OFF with alternate states of the input switch device.
- g) TIMED: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then the output node will remain on for a predetermined number of seconds using a time base of 1 second as the smallest unit.
- h) TIMED-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then the output node will remain on for a predetermined number of seconds using a time base of 1 second as the smallest unit.
- i) TURN ALL OUTPUTS OFF: Turn all the output nodes on this cell OFF, basically an EMERGENCY Shutdown command.
- j) TURN All OUTPUTS ON: Simple system checkout based on a stored pattern or steady state output.
- k) PATTERN SELECTION (any custom pattern is possible): Tells the power cell that a selection is to be made for a given output NODE to produce a specific repeating pattern of ON/OFF states typically used on emergency vehicles. This can also be use to do signaling such as on a boat or ship for SOS transmission. The timing of the output pulses is associated with a programmable parameter that produces corrected patterns for various devices. The pattern and timing that would drive a large halogen bulb would be very different that driving a loudspeaker type device. The same pattern can be run on different nodes with different parameters associated with each occurrence.
- Functions that require additional discussion to determine application. Some of these will require alternative output types on the power cells and/or monitoring of some analog device on the master cell for control or feedback purposes.
-
-
- a) STEPPER UNI-POLAR: A set of (4) outputs produce step patterns.
- b) STEPPER BIPOLAR: A set of (4) outputs produce step patterns.
- c) SERVO: A set of outputs produces output and feedback patterns.
- d) PWM: A set of outputs produces PWM rates or patterns.
- These are the “settings” associated with the personality of the node like time or PWM frequency.
-
- MESSAGE PARAMETERS
- USAGE (Depends Messaging and Node Configuration)
-
Condition 1—BYTE 1 defines a Timed action -
Condition 2—BYTE 1 defines a Momentary action -
Condition 3—BYTE 1 defines a Stepper Motor Action -
Condition 4—BYTE 1 defines a PWM Action -
Condition 5—BYTE 1 defines a SERVO Motor Action -
Condition 5—BYTE 1 defines the selection of a Power Cell STORED PATTERN
- MESSAGE PARAMETERS
- These have the ability to further amend the basic parameters or add additional features
-
- MESSAGE PARAMETER AMENDERS
-
Condition 1—BYTE 1 defines a Timed action -
Condition 2—BYTE 1 defines a Momentary action -
Condition 3—BYTE 1 defines a Stepper Motor Direction -
Condition 4—BYTE 1 defines a PWM Duty Cycle -
Condition 5—BYTE 1 defines a SERVO Motor Action
-
- MESSAGE PARAMETER AMENDERS
- Error check is by necessity last.
-
- ERROR CHECK BYTE: The mathematical form of all the above information is used by the target cell to check the integrity of the data transmission and validate it's contents.
- The information is then assembled into the data packet structure listed above, along with synchronism information, and is ready to transmit to the target cell. The software, in a preferred embodiment, maintains a special (7) dimension, (8) character array to manage the coded data transmissions and receptions. This array acts as the “clearing house” for data movement into or out-of all cells.
- Additional examples of personality traits (functions) include:
- 4 Way Flashers:
- To program a cell with this particular function, the following instruction may be used:
-
-
CELL —1|NODE —4, - NODE_FOUR_WAY,
- 2,//this is the pattern array to process
- 10,//this is the multiple of the base timing to use
- ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23
-
-
CELL —1|NODE —4, - For this particular exemplary function, the instruction is executed on
CELL # 1 andNODE # 4. The “|” symbol instructs the processor to build a single control word from these two elements. - NODE_FOUR_WAY,
- The personality trait of the function, in this example, is to execute automotive 4-Way flashers.
- “2” represents the pattern array to process. Patterns are custom to an application and are referred to by their numerical value before use.
- “10” represents the multiple of the base timing to use. For example, a value of 1 would mean 100 ms. A value of 10 is (10*100 ms) or 1 second between pattern elements being applied to the outputs on the cell.
- ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE_23
- This instruction refers to the “type” of Power Cell that the instruction can be executed on. Commands are “typed” to a specific model of Power Cell so as to manage resource and power requirements safely. If an instruction is coded and sent to the wrong type of Cell Type, the cell will reject the command.
- Push On/Off Ign/St Start Button:
- To program a cell with this particular function, the following instruction may be used:
-
-
CELL —1|NODE_NONE, - NODE_PUSH_ON_OFF,
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —9, -
NODE_PAIR_ID —5, - ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23
-
-
CELL —1|NODE_NONE, -
- This instruction is executed on
CELL # 1 and NODE_NONE since this is a control pair and the nodes are assigned aselement 3 in the control word. - The “|” symbol tells the processor to build a single control word from these two elements.
- This instruction is executed on
- NODE_PUSH_ON_OFF,
-
- The personality (function) to execute is for a PUSH/ON-PISH/OFF type of starter button on, for example, an automobile. A “NODE PAIR” is established in the instruction which defines which outputs on the target Power Cell will be used to manage the functions. In execution, the Power Cell software evaluates various possible states of the output nodes to manage the sequencing of the starter motor and ignition power.
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —5, -
- The node pair are the IDs of the nodes that will perform the:
- Start Function
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —9, - The node pair are the IDs of the nodes that will perform the:
- Ignition Function
- ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23
-
- This is the “type” of Power Cell that the instruction and can be executed on. Instructions are “typed” to a specific model of Power Cell so as to manage resource and power requirements safely. If a command is coded and sent to the wrong type of Cell Type, the cell will reject the command.
- Multi-Node
- To program a cell with this particular function, the following instruction may be used:
-
CELL —1|NODE_NONE, - NODE_MULTI_NODE,
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —0 -
NODE_PAIR_ID —2|NODE_PAIR_ID —5, -
NODE_PAIR_ID —8|NODE_PAIR_ID —9, - ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23
-
-
CELL —1|NODE_NONE: -
- The instruction, for example, is executed on
CELL # 1 and NODE_NONE since the control pair and the nodes are assigned aselement 3 in the control word. The “|” symbol informs the processor to build a single control word from these two elements.
- The instruction, for example, is executed on
- MULTI_NODE:
-
- The personality to execute is for an ON/OFF type of switch. This personality type allows, for example, a single input node on a Master Cell to manage multiple output nodes on a Power Cell.
- NODE SET 1:
-
- The first node set manages nodes 1-8.
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —0|NODE_PAIR_ID —2|NODE_PAIR_ID—5: -
- The example tells
Power Cell 1 to turnnodes
- The example tells
- NODE SET 2:
-
- The first node set manages nodes 9-10.
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —8|NODE_PAIR_ID—9: -
- The example tells
Power Cell 1 to turnnodes
- The example tells
- ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23:
- The “type” of Power Cell that the instruction can be executed on. Instructions are “typed” to a specific model of Power Cell so as to manage resource and power requirements safely. If an instruction is coded and sent to the wrong type of Cell Type, the cell will reject the command.
- Multi-Node-Delayed
-
- To program a cell with this particular function, the following instruction may be used:
-
CELL —1|NODE_NONE, - NODE_MULTI_NODE_DELAYED,
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —0|NODE_PAIR_ID —2|NODE_PAIR_ID —5, -
NODE_PAIR_ID —8|NODE_PAIR_ID —9, - ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23
-
- To program a cell with this particular function, the following instruction may be used:
-
CELL —1|NODE_NONE: - The instruction, for example, is executed on
CELL # 1 and NODE_NONE since this is a control pair and the nodes are assigned aselement 3 in the control word. The “|” symbol tells the processor to build a single control word from these two elements. - NODE_MULTI_NODE_DELAYED:
- The personality to execute is for ON/OFF type of switch for each specified output. This personality type allows a single input node on a Master Cell to manage multiple output nodes on a Power Cell. Additionally there will be a 100 ms delay between each output being cycled on or off.
- NODE SET 1:
- The first node set manages nodes 1-8.
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —0|NODE_PAIR_ID —2|NODE_PAIR_ID—5: - The example tells
Power Cell 1 to turnnodes - NODE SET 2:
- The first node set manages nodes 9-10.
-
NODE_PAIR_ID —8|NODE_PAIR_ID—9: - The example tells
Power Cell 1 to turnnodes - ISIS_POWER_CELL_TYPE—23
- This is the “type” of Power Cell upon which the instruction can be executed. Instructions are “typed” to a specific model of Power Cell so as to manage resource and power requirements safely. If an instruction is coded and sent to the wrong type of Cell Type, the cell will reject the command.
- User—Customer Programming of Cells
- In an exemplary application of the system, there will be a Windows based interface that will allow any user/customer to easily and simply configure the attributes of their system. The software will provide a GUI displaying, for example, a cell and cell-node map that will represent the configuration required in their application. The software will have a feature that allows storage and retrieval of stored profiles that will allow efficient programming of multiple cell systems or mass production of multiple systems. Additional application hardware will allow the user interface to perform actual programming of the hardware.
- Internet Interface
- In an exemplary application of the system, there will be a Windows based interface that will allow for the remote management and programming of master cells using the Internet. This software and application hardware will allow off-site management of the cell personalities for customers who wish this type of service or to bring expert knowledge to an application from a remote location.
- Power Cell—Hardware
-
FIGS. 7 a and 7 b show an exemplary power cell in connection with the system of the present disclosure. The power cell microcontroller is in-circuit programmable through a, preferably 7, pin header on the PCB. This allows for field-programmability of the power cell. - MOSFET Interface
- Analog devices are interfaced to the microcontroller through, for example, an array of bipolar op-amps acting as low power drivers for 10 high-power, extremely low loss (Rds-On value) N-Channel MOSFETS acting as high-side drivers. Each MOSFET is capable of supplying greater than 20 DC amps/node with a dissipation factor significantly less than 1 watt/MOSFET. The driver circuits are inherently frequency limited to eliminate the possibility of high-frequency oscillations. The MOSFETS are inherently capable of billions of cycles of use with no inherent failure mechanism, such as would be exhibited in any electromechanical system.
- The architecture used in the application of the MOSFETS allows a single 5 kW TVS diode to protect all 10 output MOSFETS from environmental electrical anomalies such as load-dump.
- Environmental Monitoring
- The integrated analog to digital converter is referenced against a precision voltage source, and is used to monitor three critical parameters associated with the longevity of the MOSFET output stages. Those monitored environmental factors are:
-
- NOTE: all environmental set points are configurable to meet application need.
- 1—Primary system voltage is measured to be sure that loads are not applied to a battery that is functionally dead, and that the primary voltage is high enough to allow the voltage doubling charge-pump circuits to provide adequate drive voltage to prevent catastrophic failure of the MOSFET devices.
- 2—Charge pump voltage is monitored to be sure that the voltage levels presented to the MOSFET gate drivers is adequate so as to prevent under-drive biasing the MOSFET into the linear region as driven into a low resistance load causing catastrophic failure of the MOSFET.
- 3—Localized temperature is monitored to prevent damage to integrated circuits in the event of severely elevated temperatures potentially caused by an event such a vehicle fire. The cutoff temperature is also set to prevent system runaway in a situation of elevated temperatures.
- Primary Power Supplies
- The primary power for the power cell is provided by the primary DC source in the application, which is also used to power the loads. In one embodiment, the regulated, linear, 12 Volt and 5 Volt power supplies are protected by a primary 5 Kw TVS diode. The system will continue to function to a primary input voltage of 5.2 volt for the logic elements and approximately 11.5 volts for the charge pump circuits. The power paths are multi-redundant and are supplied, preferably, through (4), (14) gauge TXL wire.
- Electrical and Environmental Characterization
- The power cell exhibits an extraordinary watt density/cubic inch of space capacity due to the extremely low channel resistance of the application MOSFETS. In one preferred embodiment, each power cell node is rated to deliver approximately 23 amps of continuous DC power and brief (500 ms or less) periods of up to 100 amps of DC current. In this case, the total capacity of any individual power cell is 100 DC amps continuous over the temperature range of −85 to +125 Degrees Centigrade. Some power de-rating is necessary near the limits of the integrated circuits operating temperatures as specified by the manufacturer of the integrated circuits.
- In other cases, where devices of interest exist to satisfy, for example, a military temperature range; those devices are use in the Power Cell circuitry.
- Each MOSFET node, in addition to the intelligent factors management of those nodes, can also be protected by an ATC style replaceable “Mini-Fuse”.
- Load Fault Indication
- A unique feature is that each MOSFET node is designed to diagnose the locally attached electrical load and state of the “Mini Fuse,” and indicate the state of the circuit load and fuse condition. This indication is presented, for example, to the user with 3 discrete states of a discrete LED/node indicator. Those states are:
-
- 1—LED is OFF: this active state indicates that the electrical load attached to the MOSFET node is capable of completing the circuit when the power is applied and that the ATC “Mini Fuse” is intact and operational.
- 2—LED at 25% brightness: this active state indicates that the electrical load is not capable of supporting current flow, or that the fuse protecting the circuit has open circuited.
- 3—LED 100% brightness: this active state indicates that the MOSFET is conducting electrical current and delivering the current to the protecting “Mini Fuse” and associated electrical load.
- 4—Additionally, the LED is positioned in such a way as to illuminate the body of the “Mini Fuse” to aid in its location and replacement under minimum lighting conditions.
- Intelligent Logic Power Supply Management
- The power supply operates the microcontroller and logic circuits, and is intelligently managed by the microcontroller and independent microcontroller watch-dog chip. In the event of an internal software error, or an SCR condition on the substrate of the microcontroller, the power supply will shut itself off within 200 ms and then restart, clearing the condition on the microcontroller substrate or software induced error. This feature protects the system, for example, even in 6-sigma events.
- CAN Connectivity
- The power cell carries a receptacle and plug connection for the uncommitted end of the CAN bus architecture and electrical interface. This opposing end of the CAN bus is terminated through connectors (for example, DB-9) on the “last” power cell in the system. The CAN physical interface takes place, for example, through standard DB-9 connectors and utilizes redundant pairs of wires to mitigate failure do to the loss of a single wire connection. The CAN bus, in a preferred embodiment, is protected on each cell with a special TVS diode array to mitigate bus failure caused by electrical transients.
- Failure “Proof” Interface
- The power cell has an interface that allows direct control over the MOSFET outputs in the event of a failure of the intelligent elements in the system. This allows for circumvention of failure that would otherwise render the system as useless. Two mechanical and electrical headers are provided on the power cell PCB to allow for attachment of simple external switches to manually operate the nodes. When operated in this state there is no personality features, in place managing the node. The node becomes a simple ON-OFF device which is the most basic, and therefore reliable, control state possible.
- Cell—Node Addressing and Redundancy
- A TRUE BCD mechanical switch provides address selection for the power cell to allow for its existence one of many power cells in the system. Two power cells can exist at the same system address and provide any level of redundancy that is required in the system. Two (or more) power cells can also be set to supply power to any electrical load as an on-line, real-time backup.
- Power Cell Software
- The Processing Engine—
FIG. 11 shows an exemplary flow of the processing engine for managing the power cell in connection with the present disclosure. In the software of the system, each of the cell, power and master, is designed as processing engines without a fixed personality. Each of these software engines has, at its disposal, resources (properties, methods and events) that it can allocate, in any combination, dynamically, to perform a specific type of task in a specific way. For example, a system delivered with the software engines in-place and functional will not perform until the desired functions are determined and assigned as personality profiles to operate the MOSFET nodes on the power cell. These dynamically assembled personalities can be assigned to any of numerous MOSFET nodes on the power cell. - In an exemplary application using the system, a node can be running the headlights in a Fire Truck and in the next moment be operating a PWM controlled hydraulic motor without physical changes to the system. Operation of the system in this embodiment is as follows. Internal to the software structure on the Power Cell are the following arrays that provide the utility to create and dynamically allocate the (properties, methods and events) to give the MOSFET output nodes their ad-hoc configurability:
-
- NOTE: Any array element listed is dynamically configurable to meet user/customer need.
- CUSTOMER PATTERN ARRAY (preferably EEPROM based)—This array manages resources associated with customer based custom pattern generation for the MOSFET outputs. Any pattern can be created to satisfy any need. For example, an “SOS” pattern may be coded into the an array in the evaluation power cell.
- NODE—CUSTOMER PATTERN ARRAY (preferably RAM based)—Used to manage the application of customer supplied custom patterns.
- COM FAILURE STATE ARRAY (preferably EEPROM based)—This array holds that default states that should be adopted by each MOSFET output node in the event of a communications failure. There are 3 default states that can be chosen by the customer.
- PACKET BUFFER ARRAY (preferably RAM Based)—This array manages all communications inbound or outbound from the cell.
- NODE—SOFT START TIMER ARRAY (preferably RAM based)—Used to manage assignment of the soft-start method as it applies to usage on a specific node.
- NODE—TIMED PROPERTIES ARRAY (preferably RAM based)—Used to manage the application of timing elements associated with node management.
- NODE—SOFT START TOGGLE STATE ARRAY (preferably RAM based)—Used to manage the application of customer application of soft-start as applies to the toggle method.
- NODE—PROPERTIES ARRAY (preferably RAM based)—(4) dimensions, (10) elements is the primary array where the personality features for each cell are assembled, coordinated, managed and executed. It should be noted that the number of dimensions and elements can be changed.
- ARRAY LOCATION—The array structures are field programmable, and stored in memory, preferably EEPROM. The array structures are therefore protected from any loss of system power, and would include the details of features like Communications Failure Management and Customer Pattern generation. Other elements of the control arrays are preferably held in RAM as to be configured ad-hoc during execution of the application.
- TERMINATION OF FUNCTION—When a switch is turned on/off the master controller, that is affecting a specific node on a specific power cell, that node on that cell is returned to a neutral (no personality attribute) state. This mitigates the risk of an aberrant node enforcing an unexpected state on the output MOSFET nodes on a given power cell. A fresh copy of the node attributes is installed in the control arrays each time a node is instructed to turn on, by the master controller.
- In the array dimensions construct are coded classes of functions that act as primary directives when evaluated by the target power cell. The message classes allow layered processing so that messages can be evaluated and processed in the least number of CPU cycles, improving system performance.
- The actions taken on the packet construct is the opposite of what takes place on the master cell. In the power cell the packet is de-constructed, analyzed for correctness and used to dynamically allocate the properties, methods and events to successfully manage the nodes personality profile, in application.
- The simplified form of the details below is as follows:
- 1) Dimension-0 this is the CELL that the switch function is assigned to:
- Any switch can be assigned to any cell, there is no fixed relationship between any switch and the job that it will do or where that job will be performed.
- 2) Dimension-1 this is the NODE that the switch function is assigned to:
- Any switch can be assigned to any node on any cell.
- 3) Dimension-2 this is the PERSONALITY-TYPE of the node:
- Any node can assume the functional personality that is appropriate to the task and the man/machine interface, there is no fixed functionality.
- 4) Dimension-3 this is a TIME or FREQUENCY function/action amendment:
- These elements act to amend the basic functionality as defined in
Dimension 2.
- These elements act to amend the basic functionality as defined in
- 5) Dimension-4 this is a TIME, FREQUENCY or DIRECTION function/action amendment:
- These elements act to further amend the traits assigned in
Dimension 2.
- These elements act to further amend the traits assigned in
- These directives include the fundamental class of a transmitted packet:
-
-
- Message Class is a Configuration Command to define the personality of a Cell-Node
- Message Class is a Request for Information or Status
- Message Class is a Response to Request for Information or Status
- Message Class is a System Wide Broadcast
- How the message is to be routed:
-
-
- Target Cell ID
- Amenders determine target Cell Class (Master—Power)
- Target Node ID
- Target Cell ID
- How the output node is to be configured initially:
-
-
- Target Node State when directive is enforced
- The personality traits the node should exhibit:
- 1) MESSAGE CLASSIFICATION AMENDERS (personality)
-
- a) TRACK (default state): the output node tracks the state of the input switch as sent from the master.
- b) TRACK-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then the output node tracks the state of the input switch as sent from the master.
- c) MOMENTARY: the node is a timed output measured in a time base of milliseconds as the smallest unit.
- d) MOMENTARY-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then produces a timed output measured in a time base of milliseconds as the smallest unit.
- e) TOGGLE: the output toggles ON/OFF with alternate states of a switch.
- f) TOGGLE-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then a steady state that toggles ON/OFF with alternate states of the input switch.
- g) TIMED: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then the output node will remain on for a predetermined number of seconds using a time base of 1 second as the smallest unit.
- h) TIMED-SOFT-START: the node produces a 50% PWM output for 500 ms then the output node will remain on for a predetermined number of seconds using a time base of 1 second as the smallest unit.
- i) TURN ALL OUTPUTS OFF: Turn all the output nodes on this cell OFF, basically an EMERGENCY Shutdown command.
- j) TURN All OUTPUTS ON: Simple system checkout based on a stored pattern or steady state output.
- k) PATTERN SELECTION (any custom pattern is possible): Tells the power cell that a selection is to be made for a given output NODE to produce a specific repeating pattern of ON/OFF states typically used on emergency vehicles. This can also be use to do signaling such as on a boat or ship for SOS transmission.
- Functions that require additional discussion to determine application. Some of these will require alternative output types on the power cells and/or monitoring of some analog device on the master cell for control or feedback purposes.
-
-
- a) STEPPER UNI-POLAR: A set of (4) outputs produce step patterns.
- b) STEPPER BIPOLAR: A set of (4) outputs produce step patterns.
- c) SERVO: A set of outputs produces output and feedback patterns.
- d) PWM: A set of outputs produces PWM rates or patterns.
- These are the “settings” associated with the personality of the node like time or PWM frequency.
-
- MESSAGE PARAMETERS
- USAGE (Depends Messaging and Node Configuration)
-
Condition 1—BYTE 1 defines a Timed action -
Condition 2—BYTE 1 defines a Momentary action -
Condition 3—BYTE 1 defines a Stepper Motor Action -
Condition 4—BYTE 1 defines a PWM Action -
Condition 5—BYTE 1 defines a SERVO Motor Action -
Condition 5—BYTE 1 defines the selection of a Power Cell STORED PATTERN
- MESSAGE PARAMETERS
- These have the ability to further amend the basic parameters or add additional features
-
- MESSAGE PARAMETER AMENDERS
-
Condition 1—BYTE 1 defines a Timed action -
Condition 2—BYTE 1 defines a Momentary action -
Condition 3—BYTE 1 defines a Stepper Motor Direction -
Condition 4—BYTE 1 defines a PWM Duty Cycle -
Condition 5—BYTE 1 defines a SERVO Motor Action
-
- MESSAGE PARAMETER AMENDERS
- Error check is by necessity last.
-
- ERROR CHECK BYTE: The mathematical form of all the above information is used by the target cell to check the integrity of the data transmission and validate it's contents.
- RF Transmitter—Receiver Sub-System—Hardware
- The sub-system provides, for example, a RF (preferably 900 Mhz) management of up to 15 overall nodes distributed across any number of power cells. There is no restriction as to how the 15 control points are distributed or how many nodes can be assigned to any Cell. The functions of the transmitter and receiver pair are a functional analog to those functions included within the master cell. The single point of difference is that the switch closures that instruct the power cells to do their jobs are issued over a radio link. Both the transmitter and receiver are configured to carry “activity” indicators that provide visual feedback to the operator or user of the system that all functions are taking place as “expected”. Additionally, provisions may be made for the receiver to be “pluggable” into a specially configured socket on the master cell PCB. The master cell can automatically recognize the presence of the RF sub-system and create a communications link between the two elements.
- RF Receiver Sub-System—Software
- The features of the receiver are nearly identical to the master controller. The identical control arrays exist and construct data packets in the same format as the master controller. The difference is that the software in the receiver constructs finished packets, and then passes them to the master cell for subsequent transmission. The transmitter software encodes a unique MAC address that is included within each of the radio modules and uses that address as a preamble to every transmission. On initial use, the transmitter is “taught” to the receiver. This process registers the unique MAC address in the EEPROM memory of the receiver to allow unique “pairing” relationships to exist between a transmitter and receiver combination. A receiver sub-system can “learn” several transmitters, which give the ability to control up to numerous independent nodes using an RF interface. All of the dynamic allocation and re-assignment that are features of the master cell are also present in the RF Receiver sub-system.
- RF Transmitter Sub-System—Hardware
- The features of the transmitter are an analog to the switch inputs provided for on the master cell. The difference is that switch closures (keyboard on remote) are relayed to the RF Receiver sub-system for subsequent processing by the receiver. The keyboard is scanned in a unique manner that allows any of the switch closures to be detected with the execution of only 2 instruction of the processor, in a preferred embodiment.
- RF Transmitter Sub-System—Software
- The transmitter software encodes a unique MAC address that is included within each of the radio modules, and uses that address as a preamble to each transmission. On initial use, the transmitter is “taught” to the receiver. This process registers the unique MAC address in the EEPROM memory of the receiver to allow a unique “pairing” relationship to exist between a transmitter and receiver combination. A receiver sub-system can “learn” up several transmitters, which give the ability to control numerous independent nodes using an RF interface.
- LCD Maintenance Sub-System
- This sub-system provides utility to the operator(s) of the system in allowing information requests to be forwarded to the any power cell in the system, and to display the responses to those requests on an LCD display. The responses characterize environmental and node-state information to the operator. Software that manages the LCD display is preferably included in the master cell, but may be stored in other areas.
- It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages.
Claims (22)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/589,341 US20130099575A1 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2012-08-20 | Power distribution system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US94527507P | 2007-06-20 | 2007-06-20 | |
US12/141,624 US8248984B2 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2008-06-18 | System and method for interfacing devices |
US13/589,341 US20130099575A1 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2012-08-20 | Power distribution system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/141,624 Continuation US8248984B2 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2008-06-18 | System and method for interfacing devices |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130099575A1 true US20130099575A1 (en) | 2013-04-25 |
Family
ID=40162167
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/141,624 Expired - Fee Related US8248984B2 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2008-06-18 | System and method for interfacing devices |
US13/589,341 Abandoned US20130099575A1 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2012-08-20 | Power distribution system |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/141,624 Expired - Fee Related US8248984B2 (en) | 2007-06-20 | 2008-06-18 | System and method for interfacing devices |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US8248984B2 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2009064416A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101639686B (en) |
DE (1) | DE102008029204A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160164295A1 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2016-06-09 | Cyboenergy, Inc. | Smart And Grid-Flexible Power Inverters |
CN110543133A (en) * | 2019-07-29 | 2019-12-06 | 苏州博田自动化技术有限公司 | safe and reliable remote control system and method for crawler walking |
US11258267B1 (en) | 2018-08-22 | 2022-02-22 | Cyboenergy, Inc. | Off-grid solar system with assisted AC power |
US11273776B2 (en) * | 2017-01-31 | 2022-03-15 | HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA | Device, system, process for the configuration of the device, process for operation of the system, computer program product and computer-readable medium for the electrical control of a plurality of real electric consumers of a motor vehicle |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
NZ756727A (en) | 2011-10-28 | 2022-12-23 | Teva Pharmaceuticals Australia Pty Ltd | Polypeptide constructs and uses thereof |
CN103336486B (en) * | 2012-12-19 | 2015-11-18 | 惠州市亿能电子有限公司 | A kind of battery modules address distribution method of battery energy storage system |
US11117975B2 (en) | 2013-04-29 | 2021-09-14 | Teva Pharmaceuticals Australia Pty Ltd | Anti-CD38 antibodies and fusions to attenuated interferon alpha-2B |
CA2888742C (en) | 2013-09-23 | 2015-09-15 | Jason G. Tatge | Farming data collection and exchange system |
US10042413B2 (en) * | 2014-07-21 | 2018-08-07 | Asco Power Technologies, L.P. | Methods and systems for multiple bus generator and load control |
SG11201703251TA (en) | 2014-10-29 | 2017-05-30 | Teva Pharmaceuticals Australia Pty Ltd | INTERFERON α2B VARIANTS |
CN106156381B (en) * | 2015-04-02 | 2019-07-05 | 台湾积体电路制造股份有限公司 | The parameter determination method and device of array of semiconductor devices |
Citations (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4942571A (en) * | 1987-09-08 | 1990-07-17 | Bergmann Kabelwerke Ag | On-board network for motor vehicles |
US5752047A (en) * | 1995-08-11 | 1998-05-12 | Mcdonnell Douglas Corporation | Modular solid state power controller with microcontroller |
US5956247A (en) * | 1992-10-26 | 1999-09-21 | Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc. | Reducing input signal levels to a microprocessor |
US6459171B1 (en) * | 2000-07-21 | 2002-10-01 | Arraycomm, Inc. | Method and apparatus for sharing power |
US6473839B1 (en) * | 1993-11-24 | 2002-10-29 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Device for exchanging data and process for operating it |
US20040019929A1 (en) * | 1998-12-04 | 2004-01-29 | Falco Saverio Carl | Aromatic amino acid biosynthetic enzymes |
US20040199297A1 (en) * | 2003-02-27 | 2004-10-07 | Schaper Scott R. | Generator controller |
US6832135B2 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2004-12-14 | Yingco Electronic Inc. | System for remotely controlling energy distribution at local sites |
US6841979B2 (en) * | 2001-05-22 | 2005-01-11 | Powerdsine, Ltd. | Power distribution with digital current control |
US7049938B2 (en) * | 2001-10-04 | 2006-05-23 | The Yokohama Rubber Company, Ltd. | Intra-vehicle LAN system combining electric power supply |
US20060111855A1 (en) * | 2004-11-19 | 2006-05-25 | Marine Cybernetics As | Test method and system for dynamic positioning systems |
US7103760B1 (en) * | 2001-07-16 | 2006-09-05 | Billington Corey A | Embedded electronic device connectivity system |
US20080074856A1 (en) * | 2006-09-13 | 2008-03-27 | Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Forderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V. | Electronic Subassembly |
US20080215208A1 (en) * | 2005-05-03 | 2008-09-04 | Jim Carlson | System and Method for Interfacing with a Control Network of a Vehicle |
US20080272962A1 (en) * | 2007-05-02 | 2008-11-06 | Beam Networks Ltd | Wireless area network compliant system and method using a phase array antenna |
US20080303353A1 (en) * | 2007-06-08 | 2008-12-11 | Wenjiang Yu | Network-based aircraft secondary electric power distribution system |
US20090210594A1 (en) * | 2006-08-04 | 2009-08-20 | Alistair Crone Bruce | Bus interconnect device and a data processing apparatus including such a bus interconnect device |
Family Cites Families (43)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3952209A (en) | 1974-09-09 | 1976-04-20 | International Telephone And Telegraph Corporation | Electrical system for automotive vehicles and the like |
US5175484A (en) | 1988-09-26 | 1992-12-29 | Power Beat International, Ltd. | Electrical power distribution |
JPH0630505A (en) | 1992-01-31 | 1994-02-04 | Fuji Electric Co Ltd | Electric system for electric automobile |
GB9304132D0 (en) | 1993-03-01 | 1993-04-14 | Tunewell Transformers Ltd | Improvements in or relating to an electrical arrangement |
US5615080A (en) | 1993-03-17 | 1997-03-25 | Yazaki Corporation | Meter module, connecting device thereof, wiring harness protector, and connecting device of instrument wiring harness |
US5504655A (en) | 1994-06-10 | 1996-04-02 | Westinghouse Electric Corp. | Electric vehicle power distribution module |
US5587890A (en) | 1994-08-08 | 1996-12-24 | Cooper Industries, Inc. | Vehicle electric power distribution system |
ES2111470B1 (en) | 1995-08-07 | 1998-11-01 | Mecanismos Aux Ind | ELECTRONIC INTEGRATION IN BOXES OF SERVICES. |
US5643693A (en) | 1995-10-30 | 1997-07-01 | Yazaki Corporation | Battery-mounted power distribution module |
FR2743342B1 (en) | 1996-01-05 | 1998-02-13 | Smh Management Services Ag | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER IN A MOTOR VEHICLE, IN PARTICULAR HYBRID PROPULSION |
JP3234861B2 (en) | 1996-06-13 | 2001-12-04 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Vehicle power supply device and centralized wiring device |
US6163082A (en) | 1996-06-13 | 2000-12-19 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Power supplying apparatus for a vehicle and an intensive wiring apparatus |
US5742781A (en) * | 1996-08-09 | 1998-04-21 | Hitachi America, Ltd. | Decoded instruction buffer apparatus and method for reducing power consumption in a digital signal processor |
US5795193A (en) | 1996-10-23 | 1998-08-18 | Yazaki Corporation | Power distribution box with busbar having bolt retaining means |
US5949148A (en) | 1997-07-18 | 1999-09-07 | Wagner; William F. | D.C. power distribution and fuse panel unit |
GB2329075B (en) | 1997-09-08 | 2002-01-23 | Delco Electronics Europ Gmbh | Electrical distribution system |
JP3850530B2 (en) | 1997-10-21 | 2006-11-29 | 富士重工業株式会社 | Vehicle motion control device |
US6226305B1 (en) | 1997-11-06 | 2001-05-01 | Mcloughlin John E. | Apparatus multiplexing system |
FI113420B (en) | 1997-11-14 | 2004-04-15 | Iws Internat Inc Oy | Intelligent control device for vehicle power distribution |
JP3248480B2 (en) | 1998-01-22 | 2002-01-21 | 住友電装株式会社 | Distribution box |
US5990573A (en) | 1998-02-04 | 1999-11-23 | The Whitaker Corporation | Power and signal distribution for automotive electronics using area and feature modules |
US6420797B1 (en) | 1998-02-19 | 2002-07-16 | Robert Edward Steele | Electrical/electronic system architecture |
US6150734A (en) | 1998-03-10 | 2000-11-21 | Delphi Technologies, Inc. | Electrical distribution system |
DE19829150A1 (en) | 1998-06-30 | 2000-01-13 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | Method and device for energy distribution in a motor vehicle |
US6280253B1 (en) | 1999-04-22 | 2001-08-28 | Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for selectively connecting electrical circuits and components |
US6227914B1 (en) | 1999-06-07 | 2001-05-08 | Monster Cable Products, Inc. | Power distribution block assembly for accommodating multiple gauge wires |
DE69937847T2 (en) | 1999-06-09 | 2008-12-11 | Lear Automotive (EEDS) Spain, S.L., Valls | DISTRIBUTION BOX FOR VEHICLES WITH TWO NETWORKS WITH TWO DIFFERENT SUPPLY VOLTAGES AND VEHICLE WITH SUCH A DISTRIBUTION BOX |
US6471020B1 (en) | 2000-04-01 | 2002-10-29 | Jose A. L. Hernandez | Electrical current generating/distribution system for electric vehicles |
CN1155161C (en) * | 2000-05-08 | 2004-06-23 | 华为技术有限公司 | Tebo code decoder and its decoding method |
JP2002125307A (en) | 2000-10-16 | 2002-04-26 | Sumitomo Wiring Syst Ltd | Electrical connection box |
FI115426B (en) | 2000-12-22 | 2005-04-29 | Iws Int Oy | Intelligent fuse box for vehicle power distribution system |
US7007179B2 (en) | 2001-02-08 | 2006-02-28 | Honeywell International Inc. | Electric load management center |
US7020790B2 (en) | 2001-02-08 | 2006-03-28 | Honeywell International Inc. | Electric load management center including gateway module and multiple load management modules for distributing power to multiple loads |
US6839785B2 (en) * | 2001-03-21 | 2005-01-04 | Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc. | System for and method of interfacing expansion modules with programmable logic controllers (PLC) |
DE10121962A1 (en) | 2001-05-05 | 2002-11-07 | Vb Autobatterie Gmbh | Energy management system for motor vehicle on-board electrical system controls energy distribution taking into account current generation, storage, consumption component efficiencies |
US6538400B2 (en) | 2001-05-08 | 2003-03-25 | Meritor Light Vehicle Technology, Llc | Control system for an electric motor |
JP2004072907A (en) | 2002-08-06 | 2004-03-04 | Sumitomo Wiring Syst Ltd | Electric junction box |
DE10249437A1 (en) | 2002-10-24 | 2004-06-24 | Daimlerchrysler Ag | Arrangement of a power generation system in an electric vehicle and method for assembling or installing the power generation system in the electric vehicle |
US6865134B2 (en) * | 2003-06-30 | 2005-03-08 | Intel Corporation | Charge recycling decoder, method, and system |
CN1255770C (en) * | 2003-06-30 | 2006-05-10 | 大唐微电子技术有限公司 | Hierarchy tree set partition image coding decoding method based of digital signal processor |
KR100516513B1 (en) | 2004-02-19 | 2005-09-26 | 타이코에이엠피 주식회사 | An assembling method and junction box for vehicles |
US7406370B2 (en) | 2004-08-24 | 2008-07-29 | Honeywell International Inc. | Electrical energy management system on a more electric vehicle |
US7075273B2 (en) | 2004-08-24 | 2006-07-11 | Motorola, Inc. | Automotive electrical system configuration using a two bus structure |
-
2008
- 2008-06-18 US US12/141,624 patent/US8248984B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2008-06-19 DE DE200810029204 patent/DE102008029204A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2008-06-19 JP JP2008160960A patent/JP2009064416A/en active Pending
- 2008-06-19 CN CN200810175691.3A patent/CN101639686B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2012
- 2012-08-20 US US13/589,341 patent/US20130099575A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4942571A (en) * | 1987-09-08 | 1990-07-17 | Bergmann Kabelwerke Ag | On-board network for motor vehicles |
US5956247A (en) * | 1992-10-26 | 1999-09-21 | Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc. | Reducing input signal levels to a microprocessor |
US6473839B1 (en) * | 1993-11-24 | 2002-10-29 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Device for exchanging data and process for operating it |
US5752047A (en) * | 1995-08-11 | 1998-05-12 | Mcdonnell Douglas Corporation | Modular solid state power controller with microcontroller |
US20040019929A1 (en) * | 1998-12-04 | 2004-01-29 | Falco Saverio Carl | Aromatic amino acid biosynthetic enzymes |
US6459171B1 (en) * | 2000-07-21 | 2002-10-01 | Arraycomm, Inc. | Method and apparatus for sharing power |
US6841979B2 (en) * | 2001-05-22 | 2005-01-11 | Powerdsine, Ltd. | Power distribution with digital current control |
US6832135B2 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2004-12-14 | Yingco Electronic Inc. | System for remotely controlling energy distribution at local sites |
US7103760B1 (en) * | 2001-07-16 | 2006-09-05 | Billington Corey A | Embedded electronic device connectivity system |
US7049938B2 (en) * | 2001-10-04 | 2006-05-23 | The Yokohama Rubber Company, Ltd. | Intra-vehicle LAN system combining electric power supply |
US20040199297A1 (en) * | 2003-02-27 | 2004-10-07 | Schaper Scott R. | Generator controller |
US20060111855A1 (en) * | 2004-11-19 | 2006-05-25 | Marine Cybernetics As | Test method and system for dynamic positioning systems |
US20080215208A1 (en) * | 2005-05-03 | 2008-09-04 | Jim Carlson | System and Method for Interfacing with a Control Network of a Vehicle |
US20090210594A1 (en) * | 2006-08-04 | 2009-08-20 | Alistair Crone Bruce | Bus interconnect device and a data processing apparatus including such a bus interconnect device |
US20080074856A1 (en) * | 2006-09-13 | 2008-03-27 | Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Forderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V. | Electronic Subassembly |
US20080272962A1 (en) * | 2007-05-02 | 2008-11-06 | Beam Networks Ltd | Wireless area network compliant system and method using a phase array antenna |
US20080303353A1 (en) * | 2007-06-08 | 2008-12-11 | Wenjiang Yu | Network-based aircraft secondary electric power distribution system |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160164295A1 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2016-06-09 | Cyboenergy, Inc. | Smart And Grid-Flexible Power Inverters |
US9899841B2 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2018-02-20 | Cyboenergy, Inc. | Smart and grid-flexible power inverters |
US11273776B2 (en) * | 2017-01-31 | 2022-03-15 | HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA | Device, system, process for the configuration of the device, process for operation of the system, computer program product and computer-readable medium for the electrical control of a plurality of real electric consumers of a motor vehicle |
US11258267B1 (en) | 2018-08-22 | 2022-02-22 | Cyboenergy, Inc. | Off-grid solar system with assisted AC power |
CN110543133A (en) * | 2019-07-29 | 2019-12-06 | 苏州博田自动化技术有限公司 | safe and reliable remote control system and method for crawler walking |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN101639686A (en) | 2010-02-03 |
DE102008029204A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 |
US8248984B2 (en) | 2012-08-21 |
CN101639686B (en) | 2014-06-04 |
US20090006815A1 (en) | 2009-01-01 |
JP2009064416A (en) | 2009-03-26 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8248984B2 (en) | System and method for interfacing devices | |
US20190023205A1 (en) | Electronic system for controlling coach resources | |
US20190366872A1 (en) | Vehicular power supply system | |
CN105242608B (en) | Entire car controller and its control method | |
US7957868B2 (en) | Electronic power module for an agricultural vehicle | |
US20040078126A1 (en) | Control or regulation system | |
CN114347930A (en) | Vehicle body control system based on zone controller | |
CN103229459B (en) | Operation support apparatus, electronic installation, electronic control unit and control system | |
JPH03207298A (en) | Operation controlling method for electric load and high reliability control system | |
US7176585B2 (en) | Power distribution web node and power management process | |
CN114435279A (en) | Vehicle area controller, vehicle control system and vehicle | |
US7093050B2 (en) | Control arrangement | |
EP1356352B1 (en) | Control arrangement based on can-bus technology | |
CN105774590A (en) | Battery management system and electric vehicle | |
US9517682B2 (en) | Device and method for controlling an electric radiator of an automotive ventilating, heating and/or air-conditioning system | |
US20210014082A1 (en) | In-vehicle network system | |
CN215681907U (en) | Vehicle power supply redundancy system and vehicle | |
CN205661397U (en) | Electric power source distribution device and vehicle based on intelligence electrical apparatus device panel | |
CN114211963B (en) | Relay control device, battery management system and electric automobile | |
KR100513670B1 (en) | Method for control room lamp of bus using Lonworks and IPS | |
CN209237237U (en) | Output control circuit, control panel and fire-fighting system | |
DE102021104794A1 (en) | MODULAR FRONT LIGHT LED DRIVER NOTIFICATION SYSTEM | |
CN111016831A (en) | Vehicle energy control device | |
JP2023060408A (en) | vehicle system | |
CN115766388A (en) | CAN communication circuit, control method thereof and vehicle |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: I SQUARED LLC, ARIZONA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:LOUBIER, CHRISTOPHER;REEL/FRAME:037739/0135 Effective date: 20090602 |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: EXAMINER'S ANSWER TO APPEAL BRIEF MAILED |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: ON APPEAL -- AWAITING DECISION BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: BOARD OF APPEALS DECISION RENDERED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: NOTICE OF APPEAL FILED |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: APPEAL BRIEF (OR SUPPLEMENTAL BRIEF) ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: EXAMINER'S ANSWER TO APPEAL BRIEF MAILED |
|
STCV | Information on status: appeal procedure |
Free format text: ON APPEAL -- AWAITING DECISION BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |