High reliability method of data processing, and controller unit

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention introduces a highly reliable method for processing data within a controller by using encoded voting and time-dependent signatures. The method ensures that multiple redundant calculations are validated through encoded voting checks before any action is taken. If discrepancies or errors are detected, potentially faulty data is either flagged for external review or triggers a fail-safe mode. This solution enables the use of commercial off-the-shelf microcontrollers for critical safety applications without the need for specialized hardware modifications.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Safety-critical industrial controllers in chemical or nuclear plants
• Automotive safety systems such as engine control units or braking systems
• Medical devices requiring high integrity data processing
• Aerospace and avionics systems for flight control and monitoring
• Railway signaling and automation
• Critical infrastructure monitoring (e.g., power grids)
• Embedded controllers in robotic or automated manufacturing lines

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly improves reliability and safety of data processing using commodity hardware
• Reduces need and cost for specialized highly-reliable hardware
• Detects both transient and permanent errors in real-time
• Allows for effective use of software redundancy and multi-core architectures
• Enables precise detection of data corruption, source tampering, and timing errors
• Supports independent verification and fail-safe mechanisms
• Minimizes computational overhead compared to alternative safety approaches

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention provides a method of data processing taking place in a controller that ensures that the voting operations taking place in the controller are reliably performed error free and a corresponding controller unit. In accordance with the present invention, the method of the invention is further characterised by the input data being characteristic for the particular application where voting occurs. Voting whether or not the incoming data is correct involves at least one of a voting comparison method, a voting average method, and checking for a difference being within a certain range. The time dependent signature is indicative of the input data being correctly transmitted or not. Voting, based on the reviewed signature characteristics is an encoded operation. The time dependent signature is indicative if the data is coming from a correct source, is indicative if there has been a modification of the input data, and is indicative of correct timing slides. Voting whether or not the incoming data is correct is performed in an encoded manner. A correct data is transmitted to be further used to actuate an actuator. The erroneous data is transmitted to be further sent to a fail safe guard.