Universal sensor interface system and method
US6115654A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 1997 |
| Grant date | Sep 5, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01D21/02
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A universal sensor interface system that utilizes a common hardware and software interface to drive many types of sensors. A variety of stimulation signals are generated that are transmitted to a plurality of sensors. The stimulation signals cause the sensors to generate response signals in the form of parametric measurements, which are then converted into a common format. The sensor response signals are processed and output as usable inputs to a data consuming apparatus. A method of automatically determining the sensor configuration in an aircraft sensor system is also provided. During operation the host computer system or digital signal processor is programmed to analyze sensor response signals to detect sensor faults, help predict sensor failures, and determine if there has been a sensor error. The universal sensor interface system is also capable of notifying a system operator of wiring problems with a particular sensor or if a particular sensor is malfunctioning.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.