DE102019103222B3 - Device for auto-configuration of automotive ultrasonic sensors on different data buses in different applications and corresponding method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a circuit (IC) for controlling one or more ultrasound transducers and / or one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or one or more ultrasound receivers. The circuit (IC) has means in order to be able to carry out a likewise claimed method in order to recognize whether it is either in one of the applications from a first set of applications. The first set of applications comprises at least two applications and / or three applications and / or four applications of application I and application II and application III and application IV. The circuit (IC) also has said means for using the to be able to recognize also claimed method whether it is instead in one of the applications from a second set of applications, the second set of applications comprising at least one application and / or two applications of application V and application VI.

Description

Generic term

The invention relates to a method for configuring an ultrasonic sensor for use in a circuit (IC) and the associated circuits (IC).

General introduction

Current integrated circuits for the control of ultrasound transducers (TR) in automotive ultrasound systems usually only have one communication interface (e.g. a LIN bus interface, but other BUS systems are also conceivable) to transfer data between a higher-level control unit ( exchange ECU) and one or more ultrasonic sensors. In this case, the ECU functions as a bus master and is responsible for both communication and processing of the individual ultrasound measurements at the system level.

There are also ultrasound systems in which the individual sensors communicate with each other and process the data. LIN communication or another BUS protocol can also be used here. A specially selected sensor takes on (partial) tasks of the classic control unit and communicates already evaluated results or controls only one loudspeaker / buzzer in order to signal the distance to an obstacle to the driver.

1 shows in 1a as a block diagram such an ultrasound system as a block diagram based on a LIN bus system according to the state of the art which is common today.

1 shows in 1b as a block diagram, such an ultrasound system as a block diagram based on a LIN bus system that is common today with an undefined private bus between the individual sensors (bus nodes) according to the prior art. The standard LIN bus is only between the control unit (ECU) and the first sensor (sensor 1 ) utilized.

1 shows in 1c as a block diagram, such an ultrasound system as a block diagram based on a LIN bus system that is common today with an undefined private bus between the individual sensors (bus nodes) according to the prior art. In contrast to 1a and 1b the system in 1c not via its own bus master (ECU). Rather, one of the sensors, preferably the sensor, takes over 1 , this role. This typically includes a small computer that takes on this role and can send a warning message to the driver via a signaling device (buzzer / loudspeaker).

The applications previously described 1 to 3rd of the 1 have different requirements for a data bus interface or the control of the signaling device (buzzer / loudspeaker), so that these different applications cannot be realized with an identical sensor (ultrasonic sensor circuit + sensor PCB [Printed Circuit Board]).

From the DE 10 2017 118 565 A1 a method for operating a sensor arrangement in a motor vehicle based on a DSI protocol is known, in which the master control unit determines which of two applications it is in.

From the US 2019/0 041 504 A1 a five-port parking radar system is known. The technical teaching of US 2019/0 041 504 A1 discloses a so-called "hostless" parking radar system, in which a sensor by coding via two connections has a detection & contro module that can be used in a wired-or connection to operate a buzzer. Although mentioned US 2019/0 041 504 A1 that a sensor can act as a bus master for subsequent sensors, but it leaves open how such a sensor can recognize whether it is the first sensor as a bus node subordinate to a bus master with the address 1 is in a star-shaped bus system or whether it should act as a bus master for subsequent bus nodes in a private data bus system with simultaneous contact with a higher-level control computer. No such signaling is provided. Another disadvantage of US 2019/0 041 504 A1 is that the sensor connections intended for coding the address position in a narrow application form must be able to drive the buzzer / loudspeaker for acoustic signaling. This increases the transistor area. This increase in the transistor area and thus the cost of a corresponding integrated circuit is the main problem US 2019/0 041 504 A1 .

From the US 2006/0 273 927 A1 an obstacle detection device is known in which an indicator circuit takes over the address determination. The indicator circuit is connected to the bus.

task

The object of the proposal is therefore to specify a method for configuring an ultrasonic sensor for use in a circuit (IC) and to describe the associated circuit (IC). This object is achieved by a device according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 2.

Solution of the task

Using a second communication interface and addressing options via a freely programmable digital combined input and output connection, hereinafter referred to as GPIO or GPIO pin, in an integrated sensor circuit, hereinafter referred to as sensor IC, the above-mentioned applications and tasks can be performed realize with only one sensor construction type with one sensor. This simplifies the logistics for the users of such a sensor and lowers the manufacturing costs due to economies of scale. The individual applications are only realized using different cable harnesses for the electrical connection of the sensors.

In the sensor IC itself, the various applications are controlled by flexible software and / or logic, whereby the detection in which application and at which position the sensor is in the wiring harness by cleverly querying the interfaces and the GPIOs after switching on and or reset and / or after a special request by a signal or a higher-level system and / or by a timer. This refers to the individual sensor and / or the system.

The skillful query of the interfaces and GPIOs is characterized in that they can measure the current voltage level at the respective connection of the sensor IC against a reference potential, typically ground (GND), detect a change in the voltage value and / or recognize a sent protocol.

A device according to the invention is in 2nd shown.

A suitable ultrasound sensor IC is provided with two standard-compliant interfaces (interface 1 , Interface 2nd ) and one or more GPIOs. For example, one of the interfaces can be a LIN bus interface.

• - Supply Hierbei handelt es sich um einen Funktionsblock, der typischerweise einen Spannungsregler oder dergleichen für die Versorgung des ICs mit elektrische Energie umfasst.
• - Logic Hierbei handelt es sich bevorzugt um einen digitalen Schaltungsblock für die Funktion des IC, das Abarbeiten der Protokolle, die Signalverarbeitung, die Auswertung der Ultraschall-Messungen usw.
• - Transmitter Hierbei handelt es sich um einen Sender zur Ansteuerung eines beispielhaften Ultraschall-Transducers (TR) oder Ultraschallsenders.
• - Receiver Hierbei handelt es sich um einen Empfänger zum Empfang der Signale des beispielhaften Ultraschall-Transducers (TR) oder eines Ultraschallempfängers
• - Interface 1 Hierbei handelt es sich bevorzugt um eine Datenschnittstelle, die bevorzugt primär zur Kommunikation mit einem übergeordneten Steuergerät eingesetzt wird.
• - Interface 2 Hierbei handelt es sich bevorzugt um eine Datenschnittstelle, die bevorzugt primär zur Kommunikation mit den anderen Sensoren eingesetzt wird.
• - GPIOs Hierbei handelt es sich um freiprogrammierbare kombinierte Ein- und Ausgangsanschlüsse, die bevorzugt primär zur Adressierung der Sensoren verwendet werden.

2nd shows a corresponding sensor as a very schematic image of function blocks. Such a sensor can comprise further blocks, which are not shown for the sake of simplicity. The sensor IC (IC) preferably contains the following blocks:

• - Supply This is a function block that typically includes a voltage regulator or the like for supplying the IC with electrical energy.
• - Logic This is preferably a digital circuit block for the function of the IC, processing the protocols, signal processing, evaluating the ultrasound measurements, etc.
• - Transmitter This is a transmitter for controlling an exemplary ultrasound transducer (TR) or ultrasound transmitter.
• - Receiver This is a receiver for receiving the signals of the exemplary ultrasound transducer (TR) or an ultrasound receiver
• - interface 1 This is preferably a data interface, which is preferably used primarily for communication with a higher-level control unit.
• - interface 2nd This is preferably a data interface, which is preferably used primarily for communication with the other sensors.
• - GPIOs These are freely programmable combined input and output connections, which are primarily used primarily for addressing the sensors.

The first interface (Interface 1 ) is the primary data interface to the vehicle's data network. A standard automotive-qualified data interface type is typically used here. For example, it is particularly preferred to use a LIN interface here. This interface (interface 1 ) in the case of a LIN interface can be used as a low-side driver to control a loudspeaker / buzzer.

The second interface (Interface 2nd ) connects the other sensors to each other if a selected sensor is already connected via its first interface (interface 1 ) communicates with the vehicle's data network. Compared to the first interface (interface 1 ) is the second interface (Interface 2nd ) around a private, local interface, so that a standard interface (e.g. a LIN interface) or an interface type with reduced requirements can be used here.

If the second interface (Interface 2nd ) not used for communication, it can also be used as an additional GPIO pin and / or for address assignment.

In this arrangement, the GPIO pins are primarily used to address the sensors, regardless of whether only the first interface (interface 1 ) or both interfaces (interface 1 , Interface 2nd ) be used. Addressing is preferably carried out either by connecting the individual GPIOs to GND in the connector (if necessary using a pull-up resistor and / or a current source in the sensor) or by a daisy chain connection from the GPIO-out of the current sensor to the GPIO-in of the next sensor.

• - Mit ECU (Steuergerät / übergeordnetes Rechnersystem)
  • ◯ Anwendung I: Standard LIN-Datenbus mit Pin-Kodierung der Busknotenadresse des Sensors über Verbindungsmuster von drei Pins zu dem Bezugspotenzial (GND)
  • ◯ Anwendung II: Standard LIN-Datenbus mit einer Ermittlung der Busknotenadresse des Sensors über ein Daisy-Chain-Verfahren
• - Der erste Sensor ersetzt die ECU (Steuergerät / übergeordnetes Rechnersystem)
  • ◯ Anwendung III: Der erste Sensor (Sensor 1) überträgt bereits verarbeitete Daten an die ECU und ersetzt die ECU gegenüber den nachfolgenden Sensoren wobei eine Pin-Kodierung der Busknotenadresse des Sensors über Verbindungsmuster von drei Pins zu dem Bezugspotenzial (GND).
  • ◯ Anwendung IV: Der erste Sensor (Sensor 1) überträgt bereits verarbeitete Daten an die ECU und ersetzt die ECU gegenüber den nachfolgenden Sensoren, wobei die Ermittlung der Busknotenadresse des Sensors über ein Daisy-Chain-Verfahren erfolgt.
  • ◯ Anwendung V: Der erste Sensor steuert einen Lautsprecher / Buzzer und ersetzt die ECU gegenüber den nachfolgenden Sensoren wobei eine Pin-Kodierung der Busknotenadresse des Sensors über Verbindungsmuster von drei Pins zu dem Bezugspotenzial (GND).
  • ◯ Anwendung VI: Der erste Sensor steuert einen Lautsprecher / Buzzer und ersetzt die ECU gegenüber den nachfolgenden Sensoren, wobei die Ermittlung der der Busknotenadresse des Sensors über ein Daisy-Chain-Verfahren erfolgt.

According to the invention, it was recognized that with these sensors according to the 2nd (IC, PCB and a 6-pin connector) among others the following applications can be realized:

• - With ECU (control unit / higher-level computer system)
  • ◯ Application I: Standard LIN data bus with pin coding of the bus node address of the sensor via connection pattern of three pins to the reference potential (GND)
  • ◯ Application II: Standard LIN data bus with a determination of the bus node address of the sensor using a daisy chain method
• - The first sensor replaces the ECU (control unit / higher-level computer system)
  • ◯ Application III: The first sensor (sensor 1 ) transmits already processed data to the ECU and replaces the ECU with the subsequent sensors. A pin coding of the bus node address of the sensor via connection patterns of three pins to the reference potential (GND).
  • ◯ Application IV: The first sensor (sensor 1 ) transmits data that has already been processed to the ECU and replaces the ECU with the subsequent sensors, with the bus node address of the sensor being determined using a daisy chain method.
  • ◯ Application V: The first sensor controls a loudspeaker / buzzer and replaces the ECU compared to the subsequent sensors. A pin coding of the bus node address of the sensor via connection patterns of three pins to the reference potential (GND).
  • ◯ Application VI: The first sensor controls a loudspeaker / buzzer and replaces the ECU compared to the subsequent sensors, whereby the bus node address of the sensor is determined using a daisy chain method.

The invention is not limited to this. Instead of auto-addressing via daisy chain, other auto-addressing methods can also be used. The stress explicitly extends to this.

Application I: Standard LIN data bus, addressing via pin coding

In the example of 3rd the sensors are supplied with electrical energy via the VCC line (VCC) and the GND line (GND). The electrical energy of the VCC line and the GND line is provided by the bus master, the ECU. The ECU is the bus master of the LIN data bus (LIN). A BCM (Body Control Module) can also be used instead of the ECU. These three lines (VCC, GND, LIN) are in the application example of 3rd connected to each sensor. The structure of the sensors corresponds to that 2nd . The labeling of the blocks was compared to the 2nd deleted. The blocks have remained the same in the images of the sensors.

The circuits of the 3rd are shown again in the following table. sensor Interface 2 GPIO1 GPIO2 1 - - - 2nd - - GND 3rd - GND - 4th - GND GND 5 GND - - 6 GND - GND 7 GND GND - 8th GND GND GND

As can easily be seen, the address in the example is the 1 by means of the cable harness and the second interface (interface 2nd ) of the sensors, the first GPIO pin (GPIO1) and the second GPIO pin (GPIO2) of the respective sensor ICs.

3 input pins of the sensor IC are therefore required for the address assignment on the LIN bus. In this application the second interface (Interface 2nd ) and two additional GPIOs of the respective sensor ICs are used for this address assignment. All 3rd Pins (interface 2nd , GPIO1, GPIO2) use an internal pull-up and are therefore at a high level when not connected. The coding is carried out by connecting to a low level by means of connection to the reference potential (GND). The input circuits of these three connection pins (interface 2nd , GPIO1, GPIO2) determine via a respective voltage measurement after switching on and / or resetting and / or on request, for example by software command or by wired signaling and / or cyclically, for example controlled by a timer and / or triggered by a watchdog timer the voltage value of the respective connection. Depending on the external wiring, different bus node addresses are assigned for the sensors.

Application II: Standard LIN, addressing via daisy chain auto addressing

As an alternative to address assignment using the connector coding (GPIOs), the GPIOs can also be configured in a daisy chain configuration 4th be connected.

The supply voltage (Supply), the data bus (LIN) and the reference potential line (GND) are provided by the bus master (ECU) or the BCM and are connected to each sensor.
(See also 4th )

1. 1. Alle GPIO-Eingänge verwenden einen internen Pull-Up. Sofern kein anderer Pegel eingeprägt ist, liegen damit alle GPIO-Anschlüsse (GPIO1, GPIO2) aller Sensoren auf einer logischen 1.
2. 2. Der erste GPIO-Anschluss (GPIO1) eines nachfolgenden Sensors ist immer mit dem zweiten GPIO-Anschluss (GPIO2) eines vorausgehenden Sensors verbunden.
3. 3. Der erste Sensor (Sensor 1) hat keinen vorausgehenden Sensor. Sein erster GPIO-Anschluss ist daher nicht verbunden und liegt daher immer auf einer logischen 1.
4. 4. Jeder Sensor ohne gültige Busknotenadresse treibt seinen zweiten GPIO-Eingang (GPIO2) auf eine logische 0.
5. 5. Alle ersten GPIO-Anschlüsse (GPIO1) nachfolgender Sensoren detektieren dann diese logische 0.
6. 6. Nur der erste Sensor (Sensor 1) detektiert an seinem ersten GPIO-Anschluss eine logische 1, da ihm kein Sensor vorausgeht, der seinen ersten GPIO-Anschluss (GPIO1) auf den logischen Wert 0 zwingt.
7. 7. Dieser erste Sensor (Sensor 1) erkennt hierdurch, dass er der am weitesten vorne in der Kette der Sensoren liegende Sensor ohne gültige Busknotenadresse ist. Bietet der Busmaster (ECU) nun mittels eines speziellen Busbefehls eine Busknotenadresse zur Vergabe an, so übernimmt der erste Sensor (Sensor 1) diese angebotene Busknotenadresse als gültige Busknotenadresse und setzt seinen zweiten GPIO-Anschluss (GPIO2) auf eine logische 1.
8. 8. Von den Sensoren ohne gültige Busknotenadresse detektiert nun nur der zweite Sensor (Sensor 2) an seinem ersten GPIO-Anschluss eine logische 1, da ihm kein Sensor ohne ungültige Busknotenadresse vorausgeht, der seinen ersten GPIO-Anschluss (GPIO1) auf den logische 0 zwingt.
9. 9. Dieser zweite Sensor (Sensor 2) erkennt hierdurch, dass er der am weitesten vorne in der Kette der Sensoren liegende Sensor ohne gültige Busknotenadresse ist. Bietet der Busmaster (ECU) nun mittels eines speziellen Busbefehls eine Busknotenadresse zur Vergabe an, so übernimmt der zweite Sensor (Sensor 2) diese angebotene Busknotenadresse als gültige Busknotenadresse und setzt seinen zweiten GPIO-Anschluss (GPIO2) auf eine logische 1.
10. 10. Dieser und die folgenden Sensoren wiederholen die Schritte 8 und 9 in analoger Weise bis alle Sensoren adressiert sind.

For the bus node address assignment on the data bus (LIN), the GPIOs of the sensors of the network are connected in series in a daisy chain configuration. With regard to the process of assigning addresses, the German utility model application
DE 20 2018 006 079 U1 and the disclosure US 2017/0 083 468 A1 referred. Orientation on the data bus is important for the discussion of address assignment. Sensors that are located closer to the bus master (ECU) in the data bus are “in front” of those sensors that are located further from the bus master (ECU) in the data bus than the aforementioned sensors. In this sense, the latter two sensors mentioned are placed "after" or "following" the first sensors in the data bus. In this sense, the first named sensors are placed "before" or "before" the second named sensors in the data bus. The fully automatic assignment of the bus node addresses then takes place as follows:

1. 1. All GPIO inputs use an internal pull-up. If no other level is impressed, all GPIO connections (GPIO1, GPIO2) of all sensors are on a logical 1.
2. 2. The first GPIO connector (GPIO1) of a subsequent sensor is always connected to the second GPIO connector (GPIO2) of a preceding sensor.
3. 3. The first sensor (sensor 1 ) has no previous sensor. His first GPIO connection is therefore not connected and is therefore always on a logical 1.
4. 4. Each sensor without a valid bus node address drives its second GPIO input (GPIO2) to a logical 0.
5. 5. All first GPIO connections (GPIO1) of subsequent sensors then detect this logical 0.
6. 6. Only the first sensor (sensor 1 ) detects a logical 1 on its first GPIO connection, since it is not preceded by a sensor that sets its first GPIO connection (GPIO1) to the logical value 0 forces.
7. 7. This first sensor (sensor 1 ) thereby recognizes that it is the sensor furthest ahead in the chain of sensors without a valid bus node address. If the bus master (ECU) now uses a special bus command to offer a bus node address, the first sensor (sensor 1 ) this offered bus node address as a valid bus node address and sets its second GPIO connection (GPIO2) to a logical 1.
8. 8. Of the sensors without a valid bus node address, only the second sensor (sensor 2nd ) a logical 1 on its first GPIO connection, since no sensor without an invalid bus node address precedes it, which forces its first GPIO connection (GPIO1) to logical 0.
9. 9. This second sensor (sensor 2nd ) thereby recognizes that it is the sensor furthest ahead in the chain of sensors without a valid bus node address. If the bus master (ECU) now uses a special bus command to offer a bus node address, the second sensor (sensor 2nd ) this offered bus node address as a valid bus node address and sets its second GPIO connection (GPIO2) to a logical 1.
10. 10. This and the following sensors repeat the steps 8th and 9 in an analogous manner until all sensors are addressed.

The addressing order can, as the expert will recognize, also from the last sensor (sensor 8th in 4th ) to the first sensor (sensor 1 ) are reversed. In that case, the bus master (ECU) can receive a signal via the first GPIO connection (GPIO1) of the first sensor that the first sensor (sensor 1 ) has received a valid bus node address and the chain of sensors is thus fully addressed.

This configuration of the 4th or the reverse configuration described enables, in contrast to the application described above, the assignment of any number of sensors. Their number goes far beyond the number described in the section "Application I".

Application III: The first sensor is the bus master of a private data bus and is connected to the ECU via a standard interface, addressing via GPIO address coding

We refer to the 5 .

In this application, the "intelligence" of the ultrasonic sensor system lies in the first sensor (sensor 1 ). This means that the first sensor takes on the role of the bus master for the subsequent sensors in the data bus.

In the example of 5 are the positions and thus the respective bus node address of the second sensor (sensor 2nd ), the third sensor (sensor 3rd ), and the fourth sensor (sensor 4th ) again via the presence or absence of a connection between the first GPIO connection (GPIO1) and the reference potential line (GND) and the presence or absence of a connection between the second GPIO connection (GPIO2) and the reference potential line (GND). In the example of 5 are the GPIO connections of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) is not connected, which means that it can recognize its role as bus master. This sensor can perform its task as bus master of the private data bus, but also via a data word via its first data bus interface (interface 1 ) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) receive.

The first sensor (Sensor1) uses its first data bus interface 1 ) as a data bus interface for a standard data interface to communicate with a higher-level control unit (ECU). The standard data interface is preferably a LIN bus interface for a LIN data bus (LIN).

The first sensor (Sensor1) uses its second data bus interface 2nd ) as bus master interface for the subsequent private data bus. The private data bus can correspond to another data bus standard if the second data bus interface of the first sensor (Sensor1) can be configured according to this standard.

The first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are with their first data bus interface (interface 1 ) connected to the private data bus. The private data bus can correspond to another data bus standard if the first data bus interface (interface 1 ) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensor can also be configured according to this standard.

The first interface of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) acts as a LIN interface to the BCM

The second interface of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) serves as a local bus interface to the following sensors and acts as a master for the following sensors

The identification of the bus node addresses in the private data bus of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) Subsequent sensors of the private data bus are again carried out using the coding as described in Section I via the GPIO connections (GPIO1, GPIO2) of the sensors. In the example of 5 the second data interface (Interface 2nd ) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are not used. In principle, however, as in the example of "Application I", it can also be used to assign the bus addresses for the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors of the private data bus can be used.

Application IV: The first sensor is the bus master of a private data bus and is connected to the ECU via a standard interface, addressing via daisy chain address coding

We refer to the 6 .

In this application, the "intelligence" of the ultrasonic sensor system is again in the first sensor (sensor 1 ). This means that the first sensor takes on the role of the bus master for the subsequent sensors in the data bus.

In the example of 6 the positions and thus the respective bus node address of the second sensor (sensor 2nd ), the third sensor (sensor 3rd ), and the fourth sensor (sensor 4th ) again via the daisy chain connecting chain of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) following sensors. The daisy chain between the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are again produced as in application II by respective connections between the first GPIO connector (GPIO1) of a subsequent sensor and the second GPIO connector (GPIO2) of the preceding sensor. In the example of 6 is the second GPIO connector (GPIO2) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) with the first GPIO connector (GPIO1) of the second sensor (sensor 2nd ) connected. The addressing of the private data bus takes place here, as already described in the description of application II, preferably from the last sensor of the chain of sensors placed furthest behind all other sensors, to the first sensor (sensor 1 ). As a result, the first sensor in its role as bus master of the private data bus can recognize that all sensors on the private data bus have successfully received a valid bus node address. The procedure described in section "Application II" for address assignment applies here in an analogous manner and is therefore not repeated here in the interest of the compactness of the description. In the example of 6 is the first GPIO connector (GPIO1) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) is not connected, which means that it can recognize its role as bus master.

The first sensor (Sensor1) uses its first data bus interface 1 ) as a data bus interface for a standard data interface to communicate with a higher-level control unit (ECU). The standard data interface is preferably a LIN bus interface for a LIN data bus (LIN).

The first sensor (Sensor1) uses its second data bus interface 2nd ) as bus master interface for the subsequent private data bus. The private data bus can be another Data bus standard if the second data bus interface of the first sensor (Sensor1) can be configured according to this standard.

The first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are with their first data bus interface (interface 1 ) connected to the private data bus. The private data bus can correspond to another data bus standard if the first data bus interface (interface 1 ) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensor can also be configured according to this standard.

The first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are with their second data bus interface (interface 2nd ) not connected.

Application V: The first sensor is the bus master of a private data bus and controls a loudspeaker / buzzer, addressing via GPIO address coding

We refer to the 7 .

This application V is very similar to the previous application III.

In this application, the "intelligence" of the ultrasonic sensor system lies in the first sensor (sensor 1 ). This means that the first sensor takes on the role of the bus master for the subsequent sensors in the data bus.

The first sensor (sensor 1 ) does not report the system result to a higher-level control unit (ECU), but uses its first data interface (interface 1 ) as a low-side driver for driving a speaker / buzzer.

The first sensor (sensor 1 ) The following sensors of the private data network are provided with a bus node address for the private data bus using the pin coding method and a suitable cable harness, analogous to applications I and III, by connecting your first GPIO connection (GPIO1) and your second GPIO connection ( Evaluate GPIO2).

The identification of the bus node addresses in the private data bus of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) Subsequent sensors of the private data bus are carried out again using the coding as described in section "Application I" and in section "Application III" via the GPIO connections (GPIO1, GPIO2) of the sensors. In the example of 7 the second data interface (Interface 2nd ) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are not used, but in principle they can also be used for assigning the bus addresses for the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors of the private data bus can be used. Of course, it can also be used for other applications.

Application VI: The first sensor is the bus master of a private data bus and controls a loudspeaker / buzzer, addressing via daisy chain address coding

We refer to the 8th .

This application VI is very similar to the previous application V.

In this application, the "intelligence" of the ultrasonic sensor system lies in the first sensor (sensor 1 ). This means that the first sensor takes on the role of the bus master for the subsequent sensors in the data bus.

The first sensor (sensor 1 ) does not report the system result to a higher-level control unit (ECU) but uses its first data interface 1 ) as a low-side driver for driving a speaker / buzzer.

The bus node address of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors of the private data network are determined again using the daisy chain connection chain, analogous to applications II and IV.

In the example of 8th the second data interface (Interface 2nd ) of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors are not used. However, it can of course be used for other applications.

Method of recognizing the present application

The method according to the invention of the present application of applications I to VI by the sensor IC of a sensor now proceeds as follows (see 9 ):

Step 1

In a first step ( 1 ) the sensor IC is reset to an initial state. This can be done, for example, after switching on and / or after receiving a reset command via a reset line that is not available in the case of a 6-pin connection, or as a data bus command. Resetting by means of safety logic, for example a watchdog timer, is also conceivable.

After resetting ( 1 ) drives the first data interface (interface 1 ) of the sensor IC does not check the corresponding first connection of the sensor IC, but can preferably examine this first connection of the sensor IC for logic levels in the function of a data input.

After resetting ( 1 ) drives the second data interface (interface 2nd ) of the sensor IC does not check the corresponding second connection of the sensor IC, but can preferably examine this second connection of the sensor IC for logic levels in the function of a data input.

After resetting ( 1 ), the first GPIO connection (GPIO1) of the sensor IC does not drive the corresponding third connection of the sensor IC, but can preferably examine this third connection of the sensor IC for logic levels in the function of a data input.

After resetting ( 1 ) the second GPIO connection (GPIO2) of the sensor IC does not drive the corresponding fourth connection of the sensor IC, but can preferably examine this fourth connection of the sensor IC for logic levels in the function of a data input.

The first connection of the sensor IC, if it is not overwritten from the outside by a low-resistance logic 0, is pulled to a logic 1 with a high resistance by an internal first pull circuit of the sensor IC.

If it is not overwritten by a low-impedance logic 0 from the outside, the second connection of the sensor IC is pulled to a logic 1 with a high resistance by an internal second pull circuit of the sensor IC.

If the third connection of the sensor IC is not overwritten by a low-resistance logic 0, an internal third pull circuit of the sensor IC pulls the logic 1 to a high resistance.

If the fourth connection of the sensor IC is not overwritten by a low-resistance logical 0, an internal fourth pull circuit of the sensor IC pulls the logical 1 to a high resistance.

step 2

The sensor IC drives with its second interface (interface 2nd ) a logic 0 and waits for a predetermined time Δt after the reset. During this time, the sensor IC configures its first data interface 1 ) as a data interface of a first data bus standard, for example as a LIN interface.

case 2a) : During this time Δt, the sensor IC observes the transmission of a first predefined data word or a first predefined sequence of predefined data words at its first data interface (interface 1 ), the sensor IC recognizes that it is in a configuration of applications I or II or as the first sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) is in one of the other applications III or IV. From this, the sensor IC can recognize that it is with its first data interface (Interface 1 ) is connected to a higher-level computer system. In this case, the sensor IC waits for a further command from the ECU by means of a second predetermined data word and / or a second predetermined sequence of predetermined data words which tell the sensor IC which of the applications I to IV is present.

case 2 B) : In the time Δt, the sensor IC observes no transmission of the first predefined data word or the first predefined sequence of predefined data words at its first data interface (interface 1 ) and a permanent logical 0, the sensor IC recognizes that it is the next sensor IC in a private data bus following the first sensor (sensor 1 ) is in one of the applications V or VI.

case 2c) : In the time Δt, the sensor IC observes no transmission of the first predefined data word or the first predefined sequence of predefined data words at its first data interface (interface 1 ) and a permanent logical 1, the sensor IC recognizes that it is the first sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) is in one of the applications V or VI.

step 3rd (only for applications I to IV)

In the case 2a The control computer (ECU) uses a second predetermined data word and / or a second predetermined sequence of predetermined data words as a third step, preferably to indicate which of the applications I to IV is present.

In the cases 2 B and 2c the sensor IC (IC) of the first sensor (Sensor1) notifies the sensor ICs (IC) of the subsequent sensors that they are in an application V or VI.

step 4th (only for application I)

In the case of application I, all sensor ICs of all sensors therefore have the information that application I is present. Each sensor IC of the overall system then checks the logic levels on its second data interface (interface 2nd ) and on its first GPIO connector (GPIO1) and on its second GPIO connector (GPIO2). Based on the three data bit values determined, each sensor IC then calculates its individual bus node address based on a predetermined algorithm. An exemplary algorithm can be: 4 * bit value on the second data interface (interface 1 ) + 2 * bit value on the first GPIO connector (GPIO1) + bit value on the second GPIO connector (GPIO2).

step 5 (only for application II)

In the case of application II, all sensor ICs of all sensors thus have the information that application II is present. Addressing can take place from the last sensor to the first sensor or vice versa. The procedure for assigning the bus node addresses described in the "Application II" section above is used in this step 5 executed so that at the end of this step 5 all sensor ICs of the sensors have a valid bus node address.

step 6 (only for application III)

In the case of application III, only the first sensor (sensor 1 ) the information that application III is available. The step 6 therefore serves to send a message to the other sensors that their first data interface is to be reconfigured from a configuration according to the first data bus standard to a new configuration according to the private data bus protocol.

For this purpose, the first sensor IC sends the first sensor (sensor 1 ) a predetermined data message in the protocol of the first data bus standard, for example in accordance with the LIN protocol. This data message preferably includes information about which of the applications III to IV is present and that the sensor ICs receiving this data message are sent to the first sensor (sensor 1 ) are the following sensors.

After receiving this predetermined data message, the sensor ICs configure the first sensor (sensor 1 ) following sensors their first data interface (interface 1 ) according to the protocol of the private data bus and determine your bus node address within the private data bus using the GPIO procedure, as described in the section "Application III".

step 7 (only for application IV)

In the case of application IV, only the first sensor (sensor 1 ) the information that application IV is available. The step 7 therefore serves to send a message to the other sensors that their first data interface is to be reconfigured from a configuration according to the first data bus standard to a new configuration according to the private data bus protocol.

For this purpose, the first sensor IC sends the first sensor (sensor 1 ) a predetermined data message in the protocol of the first data bus standard, for example in accordance with the LIN protocol. This data message preferably includes information about which of the applications III to IV is present and that the sensor ICs receiving this data message are sent to the first sensor (sensor 1 ) are the following sensors.

After receiving this predetermined data message, the sensor ICs configure the first sensor (sensor 1 ) following sensors your first data interface (interface 1 ) in accordance with the protocol of the private data bus and determine your bus node address within the private data bus using the daisy chain method, as described in the section "Application IV".

step 8th (only for applications V and VI)

In the case 2c of the step 2nd only has the first sensor (sensor 1 ) the information that application V or application VI is present. The step 8th therefore serves to send a message to the other sensors that their first data interface is to be reconfigured from a configuration according to the first data bus standard to a new configuration according to the private data bus protocol.

Step 9

To do this sends in one step 9 the first sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) a predetermined fourth data message in the protocol of the first data bus standard, for example in accordance with the LIN protocol. This fourth data message includes information that one of the applications V or VI is present and that the sensor ICs receiving this data message are from the first sensor (sensor 1 ) of the following sensors.

Step 10

A first option in the form of a step 10 is that after receiving this predetermined fourth data message, the sensor ICs of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) following sensors their first data interface (interface 1 ) configure according to the protocol of the private data bus.

After receiving this predetermined fourth data message, the sensor ICs initiate the first sensor (sensor 1 ) following sensors their first data interface (interface 1 ) in any case for an address determination according to the daisy chain method.

Step 11

Detected in one step 11 the sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) after a second time period Δt ₂ no change from a logical 0 to a logical 1 at its second GPIO connection (GPIO2), then there is no daisy chain connection.

Step 12

The sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) in one step 12th then the sensor ICs of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors that it is an application V. Then the procedure for assigning the bus node addresses described in section "Application V" is carried out.

Step 13

Detected in one step 13 the sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) but after a second time period Δt ₂ a change from a logical 0 to a logical 1 at its second GPIO connection (GPIO2), there is a daisy chain connection.

By means of a predetermined sixth data message, the sensor IC of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) in this step 13 then the sensor ICs of the first sensor (sensor 1 ) subsequent sensors that it is an application VI. The procedure for assigning the bus node addresses described in the section "Application VI" is then carried out.

Emergency signaling

If the first sensor (sensor 1 ) has a signaling option that is not described here, he can issue an error message if, for example, the initialization of the bus system fails. For example, in the event of such an error, it can emit a predefined pattern of ultrasound signals.

The circuit (IC) can also be used to control one or more ultrasound transducers (TR) and / or one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or one or more ultrasound receivers, the circuit then typically being provided with one or the other to form a plurality of ultrasound transducers (TR) and / or the one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or the one or more ultrasound receivers in the sense of this disclosure. The sensor and / or the circuit (IC) can have several, but at least two, states. The circuit (IC) typically has means, depending on the at least two states, for emitting signals and / or error signals via the one or more ultrasound transducers (TR) and / or via the one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or commands via the to receive one or more ultrasound receivers. Such a circuit (IC) preferably has means, for example the first data interface 1 ) for data transmission of measurement results to a higher-level device (ECU) by means of a data connection, for example a LIN bus. The circuit (IC) then preferably issues an error message as a signal and / or error signal via the one ultrasonic transducer (TR) or several ultrasonic transducers (TR) and / or via the one ultrasonic transmitter or several ultrasonic transmitters if the data connection is faulty and / or is interrupted.

Summary

The invention thus relates to a circuit (IC) for controlling an ultrasound transducer (TR) and / or an ultrasound transmitter and / or an ultrasound receiver. It is typically provided, inter alia, with a first connection and with a second connection and with a third connection and with a fourth connection and with a first interface (interface 1 ) and with a second interface (Interface 2nd ) and with a first GPIO interface (GPIO1) and with a second GPIO interface (GPIO2). According to the invention, the circuit is intended to be used in a first application I and a second application II and a third application III and a fourth application IV and a fifth application V and a sixth application VI in order to be able to represent the necessary production flexibility. The first interface (Interface 1 ) is connected to the first connection of the circuit (IC). The first interface (Interface 1 ) can be operated according to a first data bus protocol and / or as a digital input and / or as a low-side driver. The first interface (Interface 1 ) is operated as a digital input after a reset of the circuit (IC). The reset can take place, for example, after switching on, by a signal or by software command or by a circuit part. The circuit (IC) is set up and intended to carry out a method which comprises at least the following steps, possibly also in a different order, a preferred order being described here. It should also be pointed out that here, if necessary, several steps in 10 are combined to form an overall step with the same reference symbol. The same reference number is then used for the different names of the sub-steps.

A first step ( 20 ) is the resetting of the circuit (IC) and the resulting high-resistance distortion of the input potential of the first interface (interface 1 ) on a logical 1. This first step ( 20 ) also includes configuring the first interface (Interface 1 ) according to the first data bus protocol and the configuration of the second interface (interface 2nd ) according to the first data bus protocol.

It follows as a second step ( 21st ) waiting the circuit (IC) for a first time .DELTA.t that the first circuit (IC) via the first interface (interface 1 ) a first predetermined data message by overwriting the high-resistance 1 at the input of its first interface (interface 1 ) receives.

• Für den Fall (23), dass der Schaltkreis (IC) über seine erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) eine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft empfangen hat, die eine erste „Anwendung I“ signalisiert, folgt als Schritt (23) die Durchführung eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines GPIO-Verfahrens durch den Schaltkreis (IC) zur Ermittlung einer gültigen Busknotenadresse für den Schaltkreis (IC).
• Für den Fall (24), dass der Schaltkreis (IC) über seine erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) eine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft empfangen hat, die eine zweite „Anwendung II“ signalisiert, folgt als Schritt (24) die Durchführung eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens durch den Schaltkreis (IC) im Zusammenwirken mit den anderen Sensor-ICs des Datenbussystems zur Ermittlung einer gültigen Busknotenadresse für den Schaltkreis.
• Für den Fall (25), dass der Schaltkreis (IC) über seine erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) eine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft empfangen hat, die eine dritte „Anwendung III“ mit Signalisierung einer Positionierung als erster Sensor (Sensor 1) signalisiert, folgt als Schritt (25) die Weitersignalisierung einer Anwendung III an die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der in der Datenbuskette nachfolgenden Sensoren mittels der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) und die Signalisierung (25) an die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der in der Datenbuskette nachfolgenden Sensoren mittels der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2), dass sie eine Positionierung als nachfolgender Sensor (Sensor 1) besitzen. Außerdem erfolgt in diesem Fall die Konfiguration (25) der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.
• Für den Fall (26), dass der Schaltkreis (IC) über seine erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) eine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft empfangen hat, die eine dritte „Anwendung III“ mit Signalisierung (26) einer Positionierung als nachfolgender Sensor signalisiert, folgt als Schritt (26) die Durchführung eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines GPIO-Verfahrens durch die Schaltung (IC) zur Ermittlung einer gültigen Busknotenadresse für die Schaltung (IC). Außerdem erfolgt in diesem Fall (26) bevorzugt eine Konfiguration der ersten Schnittstelle (Interface 1) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.
• Für den Fall (27), dass der Schaltkreis (IC) über seine erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) eine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft empfangen hat, die eine vierte „Anwendung IV“ mit Signalisierung (27) einer Positionierung als erster Sensor (Sensor 1) signalisiert, folgt als Schritt (27) die Signalisierung einer Anwendung IV an die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der in der Datenbuskette nachfolgenden Sensoren mittels der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) und die Signalisierung (27) an die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der in der Datenbuskette nachfolgenden Sensoren mittels der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2), dass sie eine Positionierung als nachfolgender Sensor (Sensor 1) besitzen. In diesem Fall (27) folgt bevorzugt auch eine Konfiguration der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.
• Für den Fall (28), dass der Schaltkreis (IC) über seine erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) eine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft empfangen hat, die eine dritte „Anwendung IV“ mit Signalisierung (28) einer Positionierung als nachfolgender Sensor signalisiert, folgt als Schritt (28) die Durchführung eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens zur Ermittlung einer gültigen Busknotenadresse für die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der nachfolgenden Sensoren und ggf. die Konfiguration (28) der ersten Schnittstelle (Interface 1) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.
• Falls (29) über die erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) des Schaltkreises (IC) keine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft in diesem ersten Zeitraum Δt empfangen wird und der logische Pegel am Eingang der ersten Schnittstelle (Interface 1) in dieser ersten Zeit Δt eine logische 1 war, was einem Schritt (8) der 9 entspricht, folgt jedoch statt dessen die Durchführung einer Signalisierung (29) einer Mitteilung „Anwendung V oder VI“ in einem Schritt (29) an die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der in der Datenbuskette nachfolgenden Sensoren mittels der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) und eine Signalisierung (29) an die nachfolgenden Sensor-ICs der in der Datenbuskette nachfolgenden Sensoren mittels der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2), dass sie eine Positionierung als nachfolgender Sensor (Sensor 1) besitzen. Dadurch starten die Sensor-ICs der nachfolgenden Sensoren den Versuch, über eine vorhandene oder nichtvorhandene Daisy-Chain-Kette eine Autoadressierung durchzuführen (30). Ist die Daisy-Chain-Kette nicht vorhanden, muss dieses Verfahren naturgemäß fehlschlagen, woran zwischen der Anwendung V und der Anwendung VI unterschieden werden kann (31).
• Falls (31) nach einem zweiten Zeitraum Δt₂ im Rahmen eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens keine Signalisierung an den Schaltkreis (IC) über die erfolgreiche Durchführung dieses Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens erfolgt, muss es sich um eine Anwendung V handeln. Daher erfolgt dann die Signalisierung (31) einer Anwendung V an die Sensor-ICs der dieser Schaltung (IC) nachfolgenden Sensoren. Außerdem erfolgt dann ggf. noch die Konfiguration (31) der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.
• Falls (31) innerhalb des zweiten Zeitraums Δt₂ im Rahmen dieses Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens eine Signalisierung an den Schaltkreis (IC) über die erfolgreiche Durchführung dieses Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens erfolgt ist muss es sich um eine Anwendung VI handeln. Daher erfolgt dann bevorzugt die Signalisierung (31) einer Anwendung VI an die Sensor-ICs der dieser Schaltung (IC) nachfolgenden Sensoren. Außerdem erfolgt dann ggf. noch die Konfiguration (31) der zweiten Schnittstelle (Interface 2) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.
• Falls (32) über die erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) der Schaltung (IC) keine erste vorbestimmte Datenbotschaft in jener ersten Zeit Δt empfangen wird und der logische Pegel am Eingang der ersten Schnittstelle (Interface 1) in der ersten Zeit Δt eine logische 0 war, besitzt das Datenbussystem keinen Busmaster (ECU). In dem Fall muss es sich um eine Anwendung V oder VI handeln und die Schaltung (IC) ist nicht an der Busposition des ersten Sensors (Sensor 1). Bevorzugt, aber nicht notwendigerweise wird auf die Signalisierung „Anwendung V oder VI“ durch den ersten Sensor gewartet. Es folgt spätestens nach der Signalisierung „Anwendung V oder VI“ durch den ersten Sensor (Sensor 1) der Schritt des Versuchs der Durchführung (33) eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines Daisy-Chain-Verfahrens zur Ermittlung einer gültigen Busknotenadresse. Falls (34) dann nach einem zweiten Zeitraum Δt₂ die Signalisierung einer Anwendung V über die erste Schnittstelle (Interface 1) vom ersten Sensor (Sensor 1) empfangen wird, erfolgt die Durchführung (34) eines Autoadressierungsverfahrens mittels eines GPIO-Verfahrens zur Ermittlung einer gültigen Busknotenadresse. Außerdem erfolgt eine Konfiguration (34) der ersten Schnittstelle (Interface 1) entsprechend einem zweiten Datenbusprotokoll, wenn dies nicht gleich dem ersten Datenbusprotokoll ist.

If the circuit (IC) has its first interface (Interface 1 ) in one step ( 22 ) receives the first predetermined data message in this first time Δt, it carries out the following steps:

• In the case ( 23 ) that the circuit (IC) via its first interface (Interface 1 ) has received a first predetermined data message, which signals a first “application I”, follows as step ( 23 ) the circuit (IC) carries out an auto-addressing method using a GPIO method to determine a valid bus node address for the circuit (IC).
• In the case ( 24th ) that the circuit (IC) via its first interface (Interface 1 ) has received a first predetermined data message, which signals a second “application II”, follows as step ( 24th ) Carrying out an auto-addressing process by means of a daisy chain process by the circuit (IC) in cooperation with the other sensor ICs of the data bus system to determine a valid bus node address for the circuit.
• In the case ( 25th ) that the circuit (IC) via its first interface (Interface 1 ) has received a first predetermined data message, which a third "application III" with signaling a positioning as the first sensor (sensor 1 ) signals, follows as step ( 25th ) the further signaling of an application III to the subsequent sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors in the data bus chain by means of the second interface (interface 2nd ) and the signaling ( 25th ) to the subsequent sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors in the data bus chain using the second interface (interface 2nd ) that it is positioning as a subsequent sensor (sensor 1 ) own. In this case, the configuration ( 25th ) of the second interface (Interface 2nd ) according to a second data bus protocol if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.
• In the case ( 26 ) that the circuit (IC) via its first interface (Interface 1 ) has received a first predetermined data message, which a third “application III” with signaling ( 26 ) signals a positioning as the following sensor, follows as a step ( 26 ) Carrying out an auto-addressing process by means of a GPIO process by the circuit (IC) to determine a valid bus node address for the circuit (IC). In this case, 26 ) preferably configures the first interface (interface 1 ) according to a second data bus protocol if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.
• In the case ( 27 ) that the circuit (IC) via its first interface (Interface 1 ) has received a first predetermined data message which contains a fourth “application IV” with signaling ( 27 ) positioning as the first sensor (sensor 1 ) signals, follows as step ( 27 ) the signaling of an application IV to the subsequent sensor ICs of the sensors downstream in the data bus chain by means of the second interface (interface 2nd ) and the signaling ( 27 ) to the subsequent sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors in the data bus chain using the second interface (interface 2nd ) that it is positioning as a subsequent sensor (sensor 1 ) own. In this case ( 27 ) a configuration of the second interface (interface 2nd ) according to a second data bus protocol if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.
• In the case ( 28 ) that the circuit (IC) via its first interface (Interface 1 ) has received a first predetermined data message, which a third “application IV” with signaling ( 28 ) signals a positioning as the following sensor, follows as a step ( 28 ) performing an auto-addressing process using a daisy chain process to determine a valid bus node address for the subsequent sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors and, if necessary, the configuration ( 28 ) of the first interface (interface 1 ) according to a second data bus protocol if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.
• If ( 29 ) via the first interface (Interface 1 ) of the circuit (IC) no first predetermined data message is received in this first time period Δt and the logic level at the input of the first interface (interface 1 ) in this first time Δt was a logical 1, which corresponds to a step ( 8th ) of the 9 corresponds, but instead the signaling is carried out ( 29 ) a communication "application V or VI" in one step ( 29 ) to the subsequent sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors in the data bus chain using the second interface (interface 2nd ) and signaling ( 29 ) to the subsequent sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors in the data bus chain using the second interface (interface 2nd ) that it is positioning as a subsequent sensor (sensor 1 ) own. As a result, the sensor ICs of the subsequent sensors start the attempt to carry out auto-addressing via an existing or non-existent daisy chain (30). If the daisy chain is not available, it must this procedure naturally fails, and a distinction can be made between application V and application VI (31).
• If ( 31 ) after a second time period Δt ₂ in the context of an auto-addressing method using a daisy chain method, if there is no signal to the circuit (IC) that this auto-addressing method has been successfully carried out using a daisy chain method, it must be an application V. Therefore, the signaling then takes place ( 31 ) an application V to the sensor ICs of the sensors following this circuit (IC). The configuration may then also take place ( 31 ) of the second interface (Interface 2nd ) according to a second data bus protocol if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.
• If ( 31 ) Within the second time period Δt ₂ within the scope of this auto addressing method using a daisy chain method, signaling to the circuit (IC) that the auto addressing method has been successfully carried out using a daisy chain method has to be an application VI. The signaling is then preferably carried out ( 31 ) an application VI to the sensor ICs of the sensors following this circuit (IC). In addition, the configuration may then also take place ( 31 ) of the second interface (Interface 2nd ) according to a second data bus protocol if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.
• If ( 32 ) via the first interface (Interface 1 ) the circuit (IC) does not receive a first predetermined data message in that first time Δt and the logic level at the input of the first interface (interface 1 ) was a logical 0 in the first time Δt, the data bus system has no bus master (ECU). In this case it must be an application V or VI and the circuit (IC) is not at the bus position of the first sensor (sensor 1 ). The signal "application V or VI" is preferably, but not necessarily, waited for by the first sensor. It follows at the latest after the signaling "Application V or VI" by the first sensor (sensor 1 ) the step of trying to carry out ( 33 ) an auto addressing method using a daisy chain method to determine a valid bus node address. If ( 34 ) then after a second period of time Δt ₂ the signaling of an application V via the first interface (interface 1 ) from the first sensor (sensor 1 ) is received, it is carried out ( 34 ) an auto addressing method using a GPIO method to determine a valid bus node address. There is also a configuration ( 34 ) of the first interface (interface 1 ) according to a second data bus protocol, if this is not the same as the first data bus protocol.

Very generally, the invention thus relates to a circuit (IC) for controlling one or more ultrasound transducers (TR) and / or one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or one or more ultrasound receivers, the circuit (IC) having means, for example a small one Computer system with a memory and an internal data bus on which, for example, the first data interface (interface 1 ), and the second data interface (Interface 2nd ) and the first GPIO connector (GPIO1) and the second GPIO connector (GPIO2) are connected in order to be able to carry out a method to detect whether it is either in one of the applications from a first set of applications. The first set of applications comprises at least two applications and / or three applications and / or four applications of application I and application II and application III and application IV. By means of said method, the circuit (IC) can then also recognize whether it is instead in one of the applications from a second set of applications, the second set of applications comprising at least one application and / or two applications of Application V and Application VI.

The corresponding method for execution in this circuit (IC) for controlling one or more ultrasound transducers and / or one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or one or more ultrasound receivers is characterized in that the method has steps to recognize whether the circuit (IC) is either in one of the applications from a first set of applications, the first set of applications being at least two applications and / or three applications and / or four applications I and II and III and III and the application IV, or whether it is instead in one of the applications from a second set of applications, the second set of applications comprising at least one application and / or two applications of Application V and Application VI.

advantage

Such a circuit and the associated method enable, at least in some implementations, the possibility of using the circuit (IC) with the same sensor PCB flexibly in different applications, where it is configured independently. This enables a potential customer to reduce the number of different structures and the associated production logistics, which leads to cost savings.

The advantages are not limited to this.

Figure list

• 1 shows data bus systems from the prior art. (Description above in the text)
• 2nd shows a sensor according to the invention with a claimed circuit (IC), the circuit (IC) is shown in simplified form as a block diagram.
• 3rd shows a data bus system as a block diagram according to application I with sensors accordingly 2nd , with the labeling of the sensors according to 2nd was omitted for simplification.
• 4th shows a data bus system as a block diagram according to application II with sensors accordingly 2nd , with the labeling of the sensors according to 2nd was omitted for simplification.
• 5 shows a data bus system as a block diagram according to application III with sensors accordingly 2nd , with the labeling of the sensors according to 2nd was omitted for simplification.
• 6 shows a data bus system as a block diagram according to application IV with sensors accordingly 2nd , with the labeling of the sensors according to 2nd was omitted for simplification.
• 7 shows a data bus system as a block diagram according to application V with sensors accordingly 2nd , with the labeling of the sensors according to 2nd was omitted for simplification.
• 8th shows a data bus system as a block diagram according to application VI with sensors accordingly 2nd , with the labeling of the sensors according to 2nd was omitted for simplification.
• 9 shows an exemplary process flow for a data bus system.
• 10 shows the claimed process steps that take place within a sensor IC (description under summary).

The figures are referred to in the text.

List of cited writings

• DE 10 2017 118 565 A1 ,
• DE 20 2018 006 079 U1 ,
• US 2019/0 041 504 A1 ,
• US 2012/0 083 468 A1 ,
• US 2019/0 941 504 A1

Claims (2)

Circuit (IC) for controlling one or more ultrasound transducers (TR) and / or one or more ultrasound transmitters and / or one or more ultrasound receivers, characterized in that - That the circuit (IC) is intended to be used as a device part of an ultrasonic sensor (sensor 1 to sensor 8) within an ultrasonic sensor system with a plurality of ultrasonic sensors (sensor 1 to sensor 8) and the ultrasound sensors (sensor 1 to sensor 8) of the ultrasound sensor system are intended to be connected to a common data bus (LIN, private data bus) via a first data interface (interface 1) or a second data interface (interface 2), that the circuit (IC) has means to be able to carry out a method for recognizing whether it is either in an application from a first set of applications, - the first set of applications comprising Application I and Application II and Application III and Application IV, in which the circuit (IC), if it is a device part of the first ultrasonic sensor (sensor 1), is connected to a control unit (ECU) via the first data interface (Interface I) of the circuit (IC), - or whether it is instead in one application from a second set of applications, the second set of applications comprises application V and application VI, - In which the circuit (IC), when it is a device part of the first ultrasonic sensor (sensor 1), drives a loudspeaker / buzzer by means of its first data interface (interface I) and - In which the circuit (IC) is not connected to a control unit (ECU) via the first data interface (Interface 1) or the second data interface (Interface 2). Method for execution in a circuit (IC) for controlling one or more ultrasonic transducers (TR) and / or one or more ultrasonic transmitters and / or one or more ultrasonic receivers - The circuit (IC) is intended to be used as a device part of an ultrasonic sensor (sensor 1 to sensor 8) within an ultrasonic sensor system with a plurality of ultrasonic sensors (sensor 1 to sensor 8) and the ultrasonic sensors (sensor 1 to sensor 8) of the ultrasonic sensor system are intended to be connected to a common data bus (LIN, private data bus) via a first data interface (interface 1) or a second data interface (interface 2), characterized by that the method has steps to recognize whether the circuit (IC) is either in an application from a first set of applications, - the first set of applications comprising Application I and Application II and Application III and Application IV, in which the circuit (IC), if it is a device part of the first ultrasonic sensor (sensor 1), is connected to a control unit (ECU) via the first data interface (Interface I) of the circuit (IC), - or whether the circuit (IC) is instead in an application from a second set of applications, - the second set of applications comprising application V and application VI, - In which the circuit (IC), when it is a device part of the first ultrasonic sensor (sensor 1), drives a loudspeaker / buzzer by means of its first data interface (interface I) and - In which the circuit (IC) is not connected to a control unit (ECU) via the first data interface (interface 1) or the second data interface (interface 2).

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