JP2010530131A - Measurement and interface modules, devices of such modules, and methods for connecting these modules - Google Patents

Abstract

  The invention relates to a measurement and interface module (10), an arrangement of modules of this type (10, 10 ') and a method for connecting these modules. In this case, the module (10) has at least one casing (11), which casing (11) has a first coupling device, which on the one hand is a first coupling device. A hook-shaped projection (20) and a pivotable locking lid (21) on the other side. The projection (20) and the lid (21) in the open position (OP) And a receiving part for locking and fastening the measurement and interface module (10 ') separate from the interface module (10).

Description

  The invention relates to a measurement and interface module according to claims 1, 15 and 16, an arrangement of modules of this type, and a method for connecting such modules.

  In the development and optimization of vehicle systems, it is necessary to adapt the adjustment or control functions implemented by the controller to the respective system characteristics. For this, many values need to be measured and converted into optimization parameters or codes for individual functions in the controller. In a typical form, optimization and measurement of individual functions is performed by PC-operated tools. These tools require all data related to the system.

  These data are monitored and read by the controller via a measurement interface such as ETK (Emulator Tastkopf der Firma ETAS) and in controller communication between different vehicle buses. Is measured by This is, for example, CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), FlexRay, and MOST. Such a measurement module may further include a sensor signal input, an analog / digital or digital I / O interface. The parameters to be optimized in the controller are generally transmitted to the vehicle bus by a special protocol or by ETK. Moreover, in certain developments, additional components need to be experimentally controlled or simulated.

  FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a vehicle 1 with a rapid prototyping unit 2 for a controller function code having a plurality of expandable measurement and interface modules. In this case, the rapid prototyping unit 2 is connected in a mesh with different systems and components of the vehicle 1 for controlling the unit 2 on the one hand and for reading the measured values on the other hand. For example, in this case, measurement sensors 3, 3 ', controllers 4 and 5 and a plurality of vehicle buses 6 (FlexRay), 6' (LIN), 6 "(CAN 1) and 6" '(CAN 2) are shown. ing. Data analysis of the read measurement values is performed via the laptop computer 7. In this case, the maximum interface of such a unit 2 is 4 × ETK, 15 × CAN, 1 × MOST, 3 × FlexRay and 1 × Ethernet (Ethernet) for connecting these modules together.

  Each vehicle type component and system is significantly different in the type and number of measurement sources, so each can be easily adapted to the required inputs and outputs, and the measured values can be processed into a PC tool. A module to transfer is needed. In addition, the size of the module must be adaptable to the respective use conditions for reasons of construction space and cost. Mechanical robustness is also an important factor for such use, especially in vibration, temperature and dust.

  For this reason, different measurement and interface modules can be obtained which can be adapted to the respective use conditions in any case. This is, for example, the ETAS system ES1000, which connects different cards to the interface via a VME (Versa Module Eurocard) bus. Of course, since the VME casing provides a relatively large framework, the system cannot be optimally adapted. Moreover, such a casing type cannot be adapted to the environment. This can be noticed in particular by lack of tightness and by contamination of the contacts for plugging into another module.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION The problem of the present invention is that the number of connected modules of this type can be easily, quickly and reliably connected to other modules, avoiding damage due to environmental influences. It is to provide a measurement and interface module that does not restrict

  According to the measurement and interface module of the present invention that has solved this problem, the first connecting means has, on the one hand, a first hook-shaped protrusion and, on the other hand, a pivotable locking lid, the protrusion And the lid in the open position forms a receiving part for locking and clamping a measurement and interface module separate from the measurement and interface module.

  In this case, an important point of the measurement and interface module is that a sturdy but large frame is useless to reliably receive the module. This allows the size of the modules coupled to each other to be standardized throughout the development cycle and in a meshed system function (eg, in the future to standardize the interface between the manufacturer and its subcontractors. Generated by Autosar-Initiative (Automotive Open System Architectural-Initiative), for example, can be covered by this type of application when used as a logger module via a diagnostic interface Moreover, such a connectable module can be easily, quickly and firmly coupled with less operation, so that it can withstand external influences such as vibration in the harsh environment of a test vehicle, for example. .

  Advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention are described in the dependent claims 2 to 14.

  According to the dependent claims of the invention, an advantageous embodiment of a measurement and interface module is provided, wherein the casing resists receiving the further measurement and interface module in the first coupling means. A ridge for generating a resistance moment is provided, and the two modules are fastened to each other against the resistance moment. Such a ridge provides a particularly simple and reliable possibility to create a tightening between the two modules. For this purpose, it is not necessary to prepare a specially structured locking lid or a specially shaped protrusion. Such a specially structured locking lid or a specially shaped protrusion is expensive, but may be provided basically.

  According to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the casing has a second connecting means, the second connecting means being on the one hand a hook-like second projection and on the other hand a locking surface. And the second projection and the locking surface are provided in a receiving portion of the same type as the receiving portion of the first connecting means provided in the separate measurement and interface module. It is configured to lock and tighten. This allows the module to be coupled with two modules of the same type, thereby increasing the expandability of the stacked module.

  It is advantageous if the module is provided with a socket for electrical connection with another module. Thereby, in addition to mechanical coupling, electrical connection of the modules is also possible.

  In this case, it is advantageous if the socket is open to the outside in the open position of the locking lid and closed to the outside in the closed position of the locking lid. This protects the module and electrical connections against external adverse effects such as moisture and dirt.

  In an advantageous manner, the module has a plug for electrical connection to a complementary socket, which allows an electrical connection to a further module.

  Such a connection can be particularly easily inserted if the socket is supported by a floating caliper. In order to align the plug with respect to another module, a guide pin and a notch complementary to the guide pin can be formed in the casing of the module.

  Advantageously, the geometric loadability of such a connection formed between the modules is increased by a screw connection between the locking lid and the locking surface. Such an effect is further enhanced by the long contact surface of the hook-shaped protrusion provided on the complementary protrusion. Accordingly, these projections are preferably configured as a scissor groove (Falz).

  A particularly good expandability of the module is obtained by providing a unique voltage supply and / or temperature cooling device. This eliminates the need for large voltage supplies that need to cover the maximum current of multiple modules connected to a structure, and thus are very large or limit scalability. Due to the independent power supply and temperature cooling device, the number of connected modules is almost unlimited.

  Another advantage is obtained by the locking lid having a fixing device for coupling to the vehicle. With such a locking lid, the interface module can not only receive another module, but also a flat for bonding hook-and-loop fasteners etc. by means of a seam plate for belts or cable binders formed on the lid, for example. A flat surface can also be attached in the vehicle or on the vehicle. A stationary module of this type may additionally have a power supply plug and / or a protection circuit in order to supply energy.

  The problem mentioned at the outset is to arrange at least two measurement and interface modules of the above-mentioned type, in which the modules are coupled to one another via first and second coupling devices, in which case the first and second This is also solved by the fact that the complementary hook-like protrusions of the two connecting means mesh with each other to form a locking lid that locks to the locking surface, whereby the two modules are mechanically clamped together. The

  In such an arrangement, a particularly firm mechanical connection is obtained and the number of connected modules is not limited.

  Further, according to the method for connecting the two measurement and interface modules, which solves the above-mentioned problem, the locking lid of the first module is opened, and the hook coupling portion between the two modules is engaged, The two modules are moved relative to each other around the coupling portion, and the locking lid of the first module is fastened to the locking surface of the second module that is complementary to the locking lid. I did it.

  The advantage of the method according to the invention lies in the fact that a simplified operation is obtained in which one module can be supplemented or removed with fewer work steps. This significantly reduces the time to provide the desired measurement and / or inspection system for the controller and thus allows the vehicle to be developed more quickly and / or adapted more quickly to the vehicle.

  The measurement and interface module according to the invention is described in detail below using an example. The same part and the part which has the same effect | action are attached | subjected the same code | symbol.

1 is a schematic diagram of an automobile with a rapid prototyping unit having a plurality of known measurement and interface modules. FIG. FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the measurement and interface module according to the present invention with the locking lid in the open position. 2b is a perspective view of the measurement and interface module according to the invention shown in FIG. 2a during the connection process with another module of the same type; FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view seen from below showing details of the two modules shown in FIG. 2b to explain in detail the mechanical and electrical connection plan. FIG. 2b is a rear perspective view of the two modules shown in FIG. 2b fully locked together and clamped together. It is the perspective view which looked at the cross section seen from the side which shows the detail of the support part of a socket of the module shown to FIG. 2a. 2b is a partial perspective view showing details of guide pins and notches for aligning the plug with the module shown in FIG. 2b. FIG. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing details from below of the two modules shown in Fig. 2b, which are completely locked together and clamped together.

  FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 1 of the type mentioned at the outset with a quick prototyping unit 2 for a function code of a controller with a plurality of known measurement and interface modules. The rapid prototyping unit 2 is connected via the module to measuring sensors 3 and 3 'for example the internal combustion engine temperature and the lambda value, and safety systems such as airbags and belt tensioners for engine control. Connected to the controllers 4 and 5 for or for information entertainment packages. The other couplings consist of individual car buses 6 (Flex Ray), 6 '(LIN), 6 "(CAN 1) and 6"' (CAN 2), via these couplings. The other measured values are read. In this case, the unit 2 must be able to be flexibly expanded according to the test case and the resulting need to increase or decrease the modules, and still maintain full functionality under the rough conditions of the test vehicle. Must be a thing. Therefore, special requirements arise for the stability of the mechanical and electrical connections between the modules. In the past, such requirements have not been fully met, especially under the influence of dust and moisture.

  FIG. 2a shows a perspective view from the front of the measurement and interface module 10 according to the invention, in which the locking lid 21 of the measurement and interface module 10 is in the open position OP. A hook-like protrusion extends on the right front edge portion of the casing 11 as seen in the drawing, and this protrusion is configured as a shaving groove (Falz) in the illustrated embodiment. The module casing 11 has a round socket (not shown in detail) for connecting vehicle components on its front side. A plug 50 for connecting another module of the same type is disposed on the left side of the module 10 in the drawing.

  FIG. 2b shows a perspective view of the measurement and interface module 10 according to the invention shown in FIG. 2a during the connection process with another module 10 'of the same type. A hook-like protrusion 30 ′ extends on the left front edge of another module 10 ′, and this protrusion 30 ′ is suspended from the protrusion 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 30 'is configured as a complementary groove for the projection 20. The two modules 10 and 10 'move relative to each other about the rotation center point of the projections 20 and 30' suspended from each other by applying a torque. At this time, the locking lid 21 is located behind the module 10 '. The modules 10 and 10 'are firmly tightened against each other against the resistance of the protrusions meshing with each other. At the same time, the plug (not shown) of the module 10 ′, corresponding to the plug 50, is electrically connected to the socket of the module 10 which is released by opening the locking lid 21. The locking lid 21 is then used as a protection for the socket located below it when used for a firm mechanical connection of the modules 10 and 10 '.

  FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional perspective view from below of the two modules 10 and 10 ′ shown in FIG. 2b to explain in detail the mechanical and electrical connection design. The module 10 has first connecting means, in which the hook-like projection 20 and the locking lid 21 form a receiving part for another module 10 'in its release position OP. ing. The module 10 'has a complementary connecting device corresponding to the connecting means of the module 10, and this complementary connecting means is formed by a hook-like projection 30' and a locking surface 31 '. On the one hand, the projection 20 is suspended on the locking surface 31 ′, and on the other hand, the locking lid 21 is locked. Between the two coupling means, another module 10 'is firmly clamped to the module 10 against the resistance moment of the ridge 22a of the module 10' or the ridge 22b 'of the module 10'. In this case, the plug 50 ′ of the module 10 ′ forms an electrical connection with the socket 40 of the module 10.

  The casings 11 or 11 'of the two modules 10 and 10' have connecting means for connecting to further modules of the same type, so that an arbitrarily expandable stack module can be produced. . Therefore, on the one hand, the module 11 'is provided with another first connecting means, the receiving part of the first connecting means being formed by a projection 20' and a locking lid 21 '. Another module is fastened to this first coupling means against the resistance of the ridge 22a 'of the module 10' or the ridge 22b of another module. The module 10 on the other hand has another hook-shaped projection 30 and a locking surface 31 which are clamped in corresponding complementary receptacles. A separate plug 50 is provided on the module 10 and a separate socket 40 'is provided on the module 10' in order to connect different modules accordingly.

  The locking lids 21, 21 ′ or the casings 11, 11 ′ are optionally (additionally) provided with a fixing device, which enables the module to be quickly connected to the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer side of each of the lids 21 and 21 'has a flat surface for coupling a hook-and-loop fastener (Klettband). The fixed module 10, 10 'of this type may further include a power supply plug and / or a protection circuit for connecting the energy supply unit.

  FIG. 4 shows a rear perspective view of the two modules 10, 10 ′ shown in FIG. 2b, which are completely locked together and clamped together. By means of the locking lid 21, the casings 11, 11 'of the modules 10, 10' are mechanically firmly clamped together and at the same time an electrical connection between the plug 50 'located inside and the socket 40 (see Fig. 3). Connection is protected against external influences. On the other hand, the locking lid 21 ′ seals the casing 11 ′ and thus the inner socket 40 ′ (see FIG. 3) from the outside, so that the module 10 prevents overall vibrations. And a robust mechanical connection between 10 and 10 'and also an electrical connection. Other reinforcements of the connecting part are carried out in particularly dangerous use by the locking lid 21 being screwed into the locking surface 31 ′ (see FIG. 3) via the holes 23 and 24.

  FIG. 5 is a cutaway perspective view of the module 10 shown in FIG. 2a as seen from the side to clarify the socket support. In this case, since the socket 40 of the module 10 is supported by the floating caliper 41, the plug 50 '(see FIG. 3) guided in the socket 40 is automatically centered. At the same time, this compensates for casing tolerances and casing vibrations.

  FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing details of guide pins 70 and notches 60 for aligning plugs in modules 10 and 10 ′ shown in FIG. 2b. Such guide pins 70 are added to the casing 11 or 11 'in the form of a general plug guide projection of the docking station to center and guide the plug 50' into the bushing 40 (see FIG. 3). Can be provided inside.

  FIG. 7 is a cutaway perspective view of the two modules 10 and 10 ′ of FIG. 2b, viewed from below, completely locked together and clamped together. In this case, the compact casing shape of the modules 10 and 10 ′ provides protection of the electrical connection against dirt and moisture and also a particularly good seal of each module. This allows the illustrated connection mechanism to be used in a scalable (Hard Producible) hub product (Scalable-Hub Produkt) in the future.

  In this case, the module according to the present invention can be independently connected to a computer such as a PC. This allows the module to have its own power supply and cooling system. A corresponding slave module can be connected to another person's module, but this requires a master module to communicate with the computer. In this case, each module can have only a limited number of application interfaces and measurement inputs. However, since the modules can be connected to each other in a simple manner and very robustly, the size of the modules can be varied to suit the desired sizing or inspection (Skaling).

Claims (17)

In a measurement and interface module (10) comprising a casing (11) having a first coupling means,
The first connecting means has, on the one hand, a first hook-shaped protrusion (20) and, on the other hand, a pivotable locking lid (21), the protrusion (20) and an open position (OP And the lid (21) in the form of a receiving part for locking and tightening the measurement and interface module (10 ') separate from the measurement and interface module (10). Measurement and interface module (10).   The casing (11) has a ridge (22a) for creating a resistance moment against the reception of the further measurement and interface module (10 ') in the first coupling means. The module (10) of claim 1, wherein the two modules (10, 10 ') are clamped together against the resistance moment.   The casing (11) of the module (10) has second connecting means, which are on the one hand hook-like second protrusions (30) and on the other hand locking surfaces ( 31), and the second protrusion (30) and the locking surface (31) are provided with the module (10) on the separate measurement and interface module (10 '), 3. Module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the module (10) is configured for locking and clamping in a receptacle of the same type as the receptacle of the first coupling means.   The module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a socket (40) for electrical connection with another module (10 ').   The socket (40) is open to the outside at an open position (OP) of the locking lid (21) and closed to the outside at a closed position of the locking lid (21). Item 5. The module (10) according to item 4.   6. Module (10) according to claim 4 or 5, comprising a plug (50) for electrical connection to a complementary socket (40 ').   The module (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the socket (40) is supported by a floating caliper (41).   A guide pin (60) is provided for aligning the plug (50) with respect to a module (10 ') separate from the module (10). The module (10) described.   The module (10) of claim 8, comprising a notch (60) for receiving the complementary guide pin (60 ').   The module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a screw coupling is provided between the locking lid (21) and the locking surface (31 ').   The module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hook-shaped protrusions (20, 30) are each configured as a scribing groove.   12. Module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a unique power supply and / or temperature cooling device is provided.   The module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking lid (21) has a fixing device for coupling to a vehicle.   The module (10) according to claim 13, wherein a power supply plug and / or protective wiring is provided. 15. Arrangement comprising at least two measurement and interface modules (10, 10 ') according to any one of the preceding claims,
The modules (10, 10 ') are connected to each other via first and second connecting means, in which case complementary hook-shaped protrusions (20, 30) of the first and second connecting means. ′) Mesh with each other to form a locking lid (21) that locks to the locking surface (31 ′), whereby the two modules (10, 10 ′) are mechanically clamped together. Arrangement consisting of at least two measurement and interface modules (10, 10 '), characterized. In a method for connecting two measurement and interface modules (10, 10 '),
The locking lid (21) of the first module (10) is opened, the hook joint (29, 30 ') between the two modules (10, 10') is engaged, and the hook joint is centered. Then, the two modules (10) are moved relative to each other, and the locking lid (21) of the first module (10) is moved to a second module (complementary to the locking lid (21)). Method for connecting two measuring and interface modules (10, 10 '), characterized in that they are fastened together on the locking surface (31') of 10 ').   The method according to claim 16, wherein the locking lid (21) and the locking surface (31 ') are screwed together.

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