Patents Represented by Attorney T. L. Wallace
  • Patent number: 5372410
    Abstract: An anti-lock braking system includes three integrated circuits (an integrated voltage regulator and two different microcontrollers) which perform different functions but share the tasks of detecting malfunctions and shutting down the system when malfunctions are detected. The two different microcontrollers perform different functions, have different circuitry, and execute different software. Typically, a first microcontroller receives wheel sensor signals, calculates wheel velocities and accelerations, and operates mechanical devices which control braking. A second microcontroller executes the main anti-lock braking software and determines from the velocities and accelerations when brakes should be released. All of the integrated circuits monitor each other and the other elements of the anti-lock braking system to detect malfunctions. Multiple shut down methods are provided so that a single chip failure can be safely handled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: National Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Roger L. Miller, Thomas P. Harper