WO2019168605A1

WO2019168605A1 - Remote communication control system

Info

Publication number: WO2019168605A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/014214
Authority: WO
Inventors: III Robert L. BURDIC
Original assignee: Cummins Inc
Current assignee: Cummins Inc
Priority date: 2018-02-28
Filing date: 2019-01-18
Publication date: 2019-09-06
Anticipated expiration: 2020-08-28

Abstract

A system is provided for controlling a communication operation between a control unit (28) and a computing device (44). The system includes a communication reset connector (48) configured to operatively connect the control unit (28) and the computing device (44). The communication reset connector (48) includes a reset switch (56) configured to remotely perform a temporary power interrupt on the computing device (44) for a predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device (44). The system further includes a reset control unit (50) configured to control a power interrupt operation of the reset switch (56) based on a data traffic amount between the computing device (44) and the control unit (28).

Description

REMOTE COMMUNICATION CONTROL SYSTEM

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present disclosure is related to and claims priority to US Provisional

Application No. 62/636,436, entitled“REMOTE COMMUNICATION CONTROL SYSTEM,” filed on February 28, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to control systems for computing devices, and more specifically to a communication control system for remotely resetting a connected computing device.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] A conventional control system operatively coupled to an internal combustion engine includes an engine control system, commonly referred to as an engine control module (ECM) or an engine control unit (ECU), and uses various sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. For example, the ECU functions as a main computer for a vehicle and monitors the engine’s performance and drivability functions during operation. Thus, the ECU performs an important role to diagnose and detect any malfunctions or faults related to the vehicle. Typically, the ECU proactively generates one or more fault codes that can alert a user or other systems of such malfunctions or faults before the vehicle is affected by them. During manufacturing of the vehicle, the ECU is tested, using a production test system, such as a manufacturing tool application, to confirm whether the ECU is functioning properly.

[0004] To perform the testing of the ECU, the production test system is operatively coupled to the ECU using a connector, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable. During testing, sporadic communication failures can often occur between the production test system and the ECU. Currently, such communication failures are recovered by manually rebooting the production test system by recycling electrical power of the production test system. For example, the user can manually reset the production test system by turning it off and subsequently turning it back on after a few seconds, or repeatedly unplugging and plugging the USB cable to the production test system in an attempt to reinitiate a communication channel to the ECU. However, these manual steps can cause unnecessary delays and increased operating costs during a manufacturing process of the vehicle. Accordingly, it is desirable to develop an enhanced communication control system that eliminates or alleviates one or more operational disadvantages described above.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system for controlling a communication operation between a control unit and a computing device, and includes a communication reset connector configured to operatively connect the control unit and the computing device. The communication reset connector includes a reset switch configured to remotely perform a temporary power interrupt on the computing device for a predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device.

[0006] In one example, the predetermined time period is less than or equal to approximately 500 milliseconds.

[0007] In another example, the reset switch is a mechanical reply toggle switch configured for manually activating the temporary power interrupt.

[0008] In yet another example, the communication reset connector is at one end communicably connected to the computing device and is at another end communicably connected to a datalink adapter. In a variation, the datalink adapter is communicably connected to the control unit via a data link.

[0009] In still another example, the system further includes a reset control unit configured to control a power interrupt operation of the reset switch based on a data traffic amount between the computing device and the control unit. In a variation, the reset control unit initiates the power interrupt operation of the reset switch for a predetermined time period to reset the computing device. In another variation, the reset control unit is a programmable logic controller configured to generate a power interrupt command in real time based on the data traffic amount.

[0010] In a further example, the control unit includes at least one of: an engine control unit, a fuel control unit, a transmission control unit, and an exhaust gas recirculation control unit. [0011] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a communication reset connector is provided, and includes a first end configured to operatively connect to a datalink adapter, a second end configured to operatively connect to a computing device for allowing data communication between the computing device and the datalink adapter, and a plurality of communication lines comprising a first line configured for transmission of electrical power from a power source, a second line configured for transmission of at least one positive data signal, a third line configured for transmission of at least one negative data signal, and a fourth line configured to prevent an electrical buildup. The first line includes a first terminal proximate to the first end, and a second terminal proximate to the second end. The first line is disconnectable between the first and second terminals, wherein the first line is used to control a power interrupt operation between the computing device and the datalink adapter.

[0012] In one example, the first line includes a first power output port electrically connected to the first terminal, and a second power output port electrically connected to the second terminal. In a variation, the first line is operatively connectable to a reset control unit using the first power output port and the second power output port, the reset control unit configured to control the power interrupt operation between the computing device and the datalink adapter. In another variation, the reset control unit comprises a first power input port configured to receive power from the first terminal, and a second power input port configured to transmit power to the second terminal. In yet another variation, the reset control unit is electrically connected to a reset switch configured to remotely perform a temporary power interrupt on the computing device for a predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device.

[0013] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of performing a temporary power interrupt operation is provided. The method includes monitoring a data traffic between a computing device and a control unit, detecting a minimal data traffic condition indicating a potential communication failure between the computing device and the control unit, generating a power interrupt command in response to detecting the minimal data traffic condition, and initiating the temporary power interrupt operation for a predetermined time period to reset the computing device. [0014] In one example, the method further includes using a reset switch configured to remotely perform the temporary power interrupt operation on the computing device for the predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device.

[0015] In another example, the method further includes continuing the temporary power interrupt operation for less than or equal to approximately 500 milliseconds. In a variation, the method further includes using a reset control unit configured to control the temporary power interrupt operation of the reset switch based on a data traffic amount between the computing device and the control unit. In another variation, the method further includes including in the reset control unit a programmable logic controller configured to generate the power interrupt command in real time based on the data traffic amount. In yet another variation, the method further includes satisfying the minimal data traffic condition when the data traffic amount is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0016] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The above-mentioned and other features of this disclosure and the manner of obtaining them will become more apparent and the disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an internal combustion engine system having an engine control unit connected to a communication control system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the communication control system shown in

FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; [0020] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a communication reset connector used by the communication control system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0021] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of exemplary power interrupt operation performed by the communication control system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] While the present disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention, however, is not to limit the present disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the present disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0023] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the present disclosure is practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments can be utilized and that structural changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0024] FIG. 1 shows an illustrative internal combustion engine system 10 of a vehicle including an engine 12 and a fueling system 14. Exemplary vehicles include land mobile machines, railed vehicles, marine vehicles, aircraft, spacecraft, or any motored machines that drive forces for movement. In this example, engine 12 is a fuel injection engine operated by liquid or gaseous fuel, such as gasoline, diesel, or gas (e.g., LPG). Other suitable types of engines using gaseous fuels, such as liquefied hydrogen, propane, or other pressurized fuels, are also contemplated to suit different applications. In fuel injected engines, fuel is supplied to cylinders 16 using one or more injectors 18 in accordance with a signal provided by a controller 20. Although six cylinders 16 are shown in FIG. 1, any number of cylinders is contemplated to suit different applications.

[0025] In this example, fueling system 14 includes a fuel flow control unit 22 configured to control a fuel flow and an amount of fuel supplied from a fuel tank 24 to injectors 18. Engine 12 includes intake manifold 30 receiving fuel from fuel tank 24 via injectors 18, cylinders 16 to combust fuel, and an exhaust manifold 32 receiving combustion gases from cylinders 16 and supplying the combusted gases to a charging subsystem 34 as desired. In this example, a fuel rail pressure sensor 36 monitors a pressure level in an inlet fuel rail 38 and reports a pressure reading to an engine control unit (ECU) 28. A location of fuel rail pressure sensor 36 varies depending on applications, and the location can be any suitable position along inlet fuel rail 38 between fuel tank 24 and engine 12. For example, fuel rail pressure sensor 36 is attached to inlet fuel rail 38 to generate a fuel rail pressure signal for feedback control of fuel rail pressure by ECU 28.

[0026] In FIG. 1, controller 20 includes ECU 28 operable to produce control signals on one or more of signal paths 40 to control the operation of one or more corresponding suitably positioned engine components, such as fueling system 14. For example, ECU 28 controls directly each injector 18 via signal paths 40. For each injector 18, ECU 28 generates a drive current that has a duration equal to a desired on-time, and the start of the current command is associated with a desired start of injection (i.e., injection timing). One or more engine systems related the engine load, such as engine torque or horsepower, and other engine parameters, such as an engine speed or revolution per minute (RPM), are also controlled by ECU 28 for regulating operation of engine system 10. ECU 28 is in communication with a controller area network (CAN) or other serial bus systems for communicating with various components and sensors on engine 12 and/or within the vehicle.

[0027] In the illustrative embodiment, ECU 28 is operatively connected to a communication control system 42 configured to control a communication operation between ECU 28 and a computing device 44. For example, computing device 44 is a manufacturing tool that diagnoses various functions of ECU 28. It is contemplated that communication control system 42 can be connected to other control systems including, but not limited to, a fuel injection control system, a transmission control system, an exhaust gas recirculation control system, a variable-geometry turbocharger control system, or any other control systems, to suit different applications. In one embodiment, communication control system 42 is at one end communicably coupled to ECU 28 via a communication link 46, and at another end is communicably coupled to computing device 44 via a communication reset connector 48. Detailed descriptions of communication control system 42 and communication reset connector 48 are provided below in paragraphs related to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0028] FIG. 2 shows an illustrative communication control system 42 including communication reset connector 48 and an optional reset control unit (RCU) 50. In this example, communication reset connector 48 is configured to operatively connect ECU 28 and computing device 44 using a datalink adapter 52 via a data link 54. For example, data link 54 is a standard society of automotive engineers (SAE) J1939 vehicle bus used for communication and diagnostics among vehicle components. Datalink adapter 52 provides communication services, such as downloads and uploads of data, for different datalink layers to access one or more vehicle data channels. In one example, datalink adapter 52 simultaneously supports multiple CAN connections and different communication protocols.

[0029] In one embodiment, communication reset connector 48 includes a reset switch 56 configured to remotely perform a temporary power interrupt on datalink adapter 52 and computing device 44 for a predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in computing device 44. An exemplary predetermined time period is less than or equal to approximately 500 milliseconds. In the illustrated embodiment, reset switch 56 is a mechanical reply toggle switch having a push button (not shown). For example, a user can manually activate reset switch 56 for about 500 milliseconds to remotely perform the temporary power interrupt on datalink adapter 52 and thus reset computing device 44. Consequently, this power interrupt initiates a new communication session at a start of a test cycle for computing device 44. Thus, it is advantageous that computing device 44 is reset without having to reinstall relevant drivers or rearrange configuration settings.

[0030] In another embodiment, communication control system 42 includes reset control unit (RCU) 50 configured to automatically control a power interrupt operation of reset switch 56 based on a data traffic amount on datalink 54 between computing device 44 and ECU 28. For example, RCU 50 continuously monitors the data traffic amount on datalink 54, and when RCU 50 detects no or minimal data traffic on datalink 54, RCU 50 automatically initiates the power interrupt operation of reset switch 56 for a predetermined time period to reset datalink adapter 52 and computing device 44. In one embodiment, RCU 50 is a programmable logic controller (PLC) configured to generate a power interrupt command in real time based on an amount of data traffic on datalink 54 between computing device 44 and ECU 28. Other suitable devices, such as digital controllers, are also contemplated to suit different applications.

[0031] FIG. 3 shows an illustrative communication reset connector 48 connected to

RCU 50. In the illustrated embodiment, communication reset connector 48 includes a first end 58 configured to operatively connect to datalink adapter 52, and a second end 60 configured to operatively connect to computing device 44 for allowing data communication between computing device 44 and datalink adapter 52. In one embodiment, communication reset connector 48 includes a plurality of communication lines 62, 64, 66, and 68. For example, a first or power line 62 used for transmission of electrical power. In one example, the power line refers to a wire that provides a positive voltage (e.g., +5 volts) from a power source. A second or positive data line 64 is included in communication reset connector 48 to be used for transmission of positive data signals. A third or negative data line 66 is included in communication reset connector 48 to be used for transmission of negative data signals. A fourth or ground line 68 is also included in communication reset connector 48 to be used as a ground wire that prevents an electrical buildup and provides a neutral reservoir for such energy to exit.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, power line 62 includes a first terminal 70 proximate to first end 58 of communication reset connector 48, and a second terminal 72 proximate to second end 60 of communication reset connector 48, such that power line 62 is disconnected between first and second terminals 70, 72. A first power output port 74 is electrically connected to first terminal 70, and a second power output port 76 is electrically connected to second terminal 72. RCU 50 includes a first power input port 78 configured to receive power from first terminal 70, and a second power input port 80 configured to transmit power to second terminal 72. Thus, when RCU 50 is electrically connected to reset switch 56, RCU 50 can control the power interrupt operation of reset switch 56 as described above. Although RCU 50 is shown as a separate unit from communication reset connector 48, RCU 50 can be an integral part of communication reset connector 48. In another example, RCU 50 is communicably connected to computing device 44 through a communication port, or can be a component of computing device 44. Other suitable arrangements and interface cables carrying a power line, such as 4-position terminal strips, are also contemplated to suit the application. [0033] FIG. 4 shows an illustrative method of performing the temporary power interrupt operation of reset switch 56 using RCU 50 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be described with reference to FIGS. 1-3. However, any suitable structure can be employed. Although sub-blocks 402-408 are illustrated, other suitable sub-blocks can be employed to suit different applications. It should be understood that the blocks within the method can be modified and executed in a different order or sequence without altering the principles of the present disclosure.

[0034] In operation, at block 402, RCU 50 monitors the data traffic on datalink 54 between computing device 44 and ECU 28. At block 404, RCU 50 detects a minimal data traffic condition on datalink 54 indicating a potential communication failure between computing device 44 and ECU 28. For example, when an amount of data traffic on datalink 54 is less than a predetermined threshold, the minimal data traffic condition is satisfied. At block 406, RCU 50 generates a power interrupt command in response to detecting the minimal data traffic condition. At block 408, RCU 50 initiates the temporary power interrupt operation of reset switch 56 for a predetermined time period (e.g., 500 milliseconds) to reset datalink adapter 52 and computing device 44. Blocks 402-408 can be repeated as desired.

[0035] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Further, the following description is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. As used herein, the term“unit” or“module” refers to, be part of, or include an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor or microprocessor (shared, dedicated, or group) and/or memory (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable components that provide the described functionality. Thus, while this disclosure includes particular examples and arrangements of the units, the scope of the present system should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner.

[0036] Furthermore, while the above description describes hardware in the form of a processor executing code, hardware in the form of a state machine, or dedicated logic capable of producing the same effect, other structures are also contemplated. Each unit or component can be operated as a separate unit from ECU 28, and other suitable combinations of sub-units are contemplated to suit different applications. Also, although the units are illustratively depicted as separate units, the functions and capabilities of each unit can be implemented, combined, and used in conjunction with/into any unit or any combination of units to suit different applications. For example, datalink adapter 52 and communication control system 42 can be combined and executed as a standalone system.

[0037] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. For example, it is contemplated that features described in association with one embodiment are optionally employed in addition or as an alternative to features described in associate with another embodiment. The scope of the present disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A system for controlling a communication operation between a control unit (28) and a computing device (44), comprising:

a communication reset connector (48) configured to operatively connect the control unit (28) and the computing device (44), and including a reset switch (56) configured to remotely perform a temporary power interrupt on the computing device (44) for a predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device (44).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the predetermined time period is less than or equal to approximately 500 milliseconds.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the reset switch (56) is a mechanical reply toggle switch configured for manually activating the temporary power interrupt.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the communication reset connector (48) is at one end communicably connected to the computing device (44) and is at another end communicably connected to a datalink adapter (52).

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the datalink adapter (52) is communicably connected to the control unit (28) via a data link (54).

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a reset control unit (50) configured to control a power interrupt operation of the reset switch (56) based on a data traffic amount between the computing device (44) and the control unit (28).

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the reset control unit (50) initiates the power interrupt operation of the reset switch (56) for a predetermined time period to reset the computing device (44).

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the reset control unit (50) is a programmable logic controller (20) configured to generate a power interrupt command in real time based on the data traffic amount.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the control unit (28) includes at least one of: an engine (12) control unit (28), a fuel control unit (28), a transmission control unit (28), and an exhaust gas recirculation control unit (28).

10. A communication reset connector (48) comprising: a first end (58) configured to operatively connect to a datalink adapter (52);

a second end (60) configured to operatively connect to a computing device (44) for allowing data communication between the computing device (44) and the datalink adapter (52); and

a plurality of communication lines (62, 64, 66, 68) comprising a first line (62) configured for transmission of electrical power from a power source, a second line (64) configured for transmission of at least one positive data signal, a third line (66) configured for transmission of at least one negative data signal, and a fourth line (68) configured to prevent an electrical buildup; wherein the first line (62) comprises a first terminal (70) proximate to the first end (58), and a second terminal (72) proximate to the second end (60), the first line being disconnectable between the first and second terminals (70, 72), wherein the first line (62) is used to control a power interrupt operation between the computing device (44) and the datalink adapter (52).

11. The communication reset connector of claim 10, wherein the first line (62) includes a first power output port (74) electrically connected to the first terminal (70), and a second power output port (76) electrically connected to the second terminal (72).

12. The communication reset connector of claim 11, wherein the first line (62) is operatively connectable to a reset control unit (50) using the first power output port (74) and the second power output port (76), the reset control unit (50) configured to control the power interrupt operation between the computing device (44) and the datalink adapter (52).

13. The communication reset connector of claim 12, wherein the reset control unit (50) comprises a first power input port (78) configured to receive power from the first terminal (70), and a second power input port (80) configured to transmit power to the second terminal (72).

14. The communication reset connector of claim 12, wherein the reset control unit (50) is electrically connected to a reset switch (56) configured to remotely perform a temporary power interrupt on the computing device (44) for a predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device (44).

15. A method of performing a temporary power interrupt operation, comprising:

monitoring a data traffic between a computing device (44) and a control unit (28);

detecting a minimal data traffic condition indicating a potential communication failure between the computing device (44) and the control unit (28); generating a power interrupt command in response to detecting the minimal data traffic condition; and

initiating the temporary power interrupt operation for a predetermined time period to reset the computing device (44).

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising using a reset switch (56) configured to remotely perform the temporary power interrupt operation on the computing device (44) for the predetermined time period without losing configuration settings saved in the computing device (44).

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising continuing the temporary power interrupt operation for less than or equal to approximately 500 milliseconds.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising using a reset control unit (50) configured to control the temporary power interrupt operation of the reset switch (56) based on a data traffic amount between the computing device (44) and the control unit (28).

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising including in the reset control unit (50) a programmable logic controller configured to generate the power interrupt command in real time based on the data traffic amount.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising satisfying the minimal data traffic condition when the data traffic amount is less than a predetermined threshold.