Description:METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC FAULT DETECTION IN A VEHCLE LIGHTING SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure, in general, relates to vehicle lighting system. The present disclosure, particularly, relates to a method and a system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Vehicle lighting system plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and overall functionality. The vehicle lighting system incorporates a diverse array of lamps, each serving a specific purpose. The vehicle lighting system includes a plurality of head lights and a principal group of lamps. The principal group of lamps includes a plurality of tail lamps, a plurality of fog lamps, a plurality of reverse lamps, a plurality of daytime running lamps and a plurality of indicators.
[0003] Headlights are the primary forward-facing lights in the vehicle that are used for illuminating the road ahead during nighttime driving. The headlights are also important for visibility in adverse weather conditions. The tail lamps are located at the rear of the vehicle. The tail lamps serve to make the vehicle visible to drivers behind. The fog lamps are lower, extra-bright lamps that are used in foggy conditions to improve road visibility. When the vehicle is put in reverse, reverse lamp come on to provide illumination behind the vehicle for safe backing up. The daytime running lamps are low-intensity lights that automatically turn on when the vehicle is in operation, enhancing visibility during daylight hours to reduce the risk of accidents.
[0004] The telltales on the speedometer only indicate the on/off status of the headlamps and the primary group of lights. The current system cannot provide information regarding whether the headlights and primary lights are actually functioning correctly or if there are any malfunctions. This situation leads to the following outcomes:
• Drivers will only become aware of malfunctions when they activate the lamps. This reactive approach doesn't allow drivers to address issues proactively, increasing the risk of accidents during their journeys.
• In the event of malfunction in one of the high/low beam bulbs, it may cause reduced visibility when driving at night.
• Malfunction in any of the principal group of lamps is also risky and difficult to identify visually and will pose the risk of accidents.
• The driver may face safety related risks in case the headlights or principal group of lamps are on verge of a failure when the driver plans a journey to a remote area.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a method and a system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that is capable of providing location and type of malfunction in the lighting system. Further, there is a need for a method and a system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that is capable of proactively notify the driver about the possible malfunctions.

SUMMARY
[0006] This summary is provided to introduce concepts related to a method and a system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system. The concepts are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0007] The present subject matter relates to a method for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system. The method comprising monitoring, by a main controller, voltage and current of the vehicle battery and principal group of lamps, wherein the main controller monitors and stores the voltage and current values at a predetermined regular interval of time; monitoring, by a plurality of first-tier controllers, voltage, current and intensity of a plurality of head lamps, wherein the voltage, current and intensity of the plurality of head lamps are stored in the main controller at a predetermined regular interval of time; monitoring, by a plurality of second-tier controllers, intensity of a principal group of lamps, wherein the intensity of the principal group of lamps are stored in the main controller at a predetermined regular interval of time; generating, by the main controller, a Diagnostic Trouble Signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored either by the main controller or by the plurality of first-tier controllers or by the plurality of second-tier controllers; sending, by a Telematics Control module, the diagnostic trouble signal to a server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
[0008] In an aspect, the method comprises displaying visually the diagnostic trouble signal through at least one of the plurality of telltales/head units/smartphone/vehicle connected application/heads-up display and/or conveying the diagnostic trouble signal auditorily through audible alert.
[0009] In an aspect, the second-tier controllers are configured to monitor current, voltage and intensity of the principal group of lamps when the main controller is only configured to store the current value, the voltage value and the intensity value monitored by the first-tier controllers and the second-tier of controllers.
[0010] In an aspect, the first-tier controllers are configured to monitor only the intensity when the input power to the plurality of head lamps is provided through the main controller and the main controller is configured to monitor and store the voltage value and the current value provided to the plurality of head lamps at a predetermined regular interval of time.
[0011] In an aspect, a change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined by at least one of the plurality of the first-tier controllers and the plurality of the second-tier controllers for the plurality of head lamps and the principal group of lamps by determining the difference between the intensity (insta_intensity) determined after the lamps are ON and intensity when the lamps were OFF (ref_intensity).
[0012] In an aspect, the lighting system is functioning properly when the voltage (insta_voltage) determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current (insta_current) determined is between the predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and very high current threshold (current _threshold vhigh) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is greater than or equal to a predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh).
[0013] In an aspect, a short circuit is detected in the lighting system when the voltage (insta_voltage) determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), and the change in current (insta_current) determined and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) follows a predetermined current-intensity pattern as stored in main controller.
[0014] In an aspect, lamp dimming condition is detected in the lighting system when the voltage determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current determined is between the predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow) and high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is between predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow) and predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh).
[0015] In an aspect, lamp fused /open condition is detected in the lighting system when the voltage determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current determined is smaller than or equal to predetermined low current threshold (current_thresholdlow) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is smaller than or equal to predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow).
[0016] In an aspect, the functionality of lighting system is checked after ignition ON or after engine ON or through remote operation or when light switch status is changed or door lock/unlock condition or a combination of any of these triggers.
[0017] In an aspect, the false malfunction detection is avoided by ignoring the current and intensity determined during change in voltage at the time of the engine ON or cranking condition.
[0018] In an aspect, low battery voltage is detected when voltage determined at any point of time is lower than a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold) other than during engine ON or cranking condition.
[0019] In an aspect, total time period for which a lamp in the lighting system is in operation is stored in the main controller (101) and a diagnostic trouble signal is generated when the total time period approaches lamp’s expected lifespan.
[0020] In an aspect, when a malfunctioned lamp is replaced with new lamp, the new lamp’s total time span is reset and predetermined thresholds are changed.
[0021] In an aspect, the main controller generates a diagnostic trouble signal of malfunction in the current sensors and the photodiode sensor when the determination from the current sensors and the photodiode sensors are contradictory.
[0022] The present subject matter further relates to a system for automatic fault detection in vehicle lighting system. The system comprises a main controller, a plurality of first-tier controllers, and a plurality of second tier controllers. The main controller has a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The main controller is connected to a vehicle battery, a telematics control module, a plurality of head lamps and a principal group of lamps. The plurality of first-tier controllers is operatively connected with the plurality of head lamps. The plurality of first-tier controllers has a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The plurality of second tier controllers are operatively connected with the principal group of lamps. The plurality of second-tier controllers has a photodiode. The plurality of first-tier controllers is configured to monitor voltage, current and intensity of a plurality of head lamps and store the voltage, current and intensity in the main controller at a predetermined interval of time. The plurality of second-tier controllers is configured to monitor intensity of a principal group of lamps and the intensity of the principal group of lamps are stored in the main controller at a predetermined interval of time. The main controller is configured to monitor and store voltage value and current value of the vehicle battery and the principal group of lamps, and store the voltage values, current values and intensity values of the lamps at a predetermined regular interval of time, and generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the or current and intensity is monitored by the main controller or by the plurality of first-tier controllers or by the plurality of second-tier controllers. The telematics control module is configured to send the diagnostic trouble signal to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
[0023] In an aspect, the system is configured to display visually the diagnostic trouble signal through at least one of the plurality of telltales/head units/smartphone/vehicle connected application/heads-up display and/or conveyed audiotorially the diagnostic trouble signal through audible alert.
[0024] In an aspect, the principal group of lamps includes a plurality of tail lamps, a plurality of fog lamps, a plurality of reverse lamps, a plurality of daytime running lamps and a plurality of indicators.
[0025] In an aspect, the second-tier controllers have a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor to monitor current, voltage and intensity of light of the principal group of lamps when the current sensors and the voltage sensors are operatively connected but not included in the main controller.
[0026] In an aspect, the first-tier controllers have only a photodiode when the input power to the plurality of head lamps is provided through the main controller and the voltage sensor and current sensor of the main controller monitors and stores the voltage value and the current value of the plurality of head lamps at a predetermined regular interval of time.
[0027] To further understand the characteristics and technical contents of the present subject matter, a description relating thereto will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the drawings are illustrative only but not used to limit the scope of the present subject matter.
[0028] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0029] The illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and processes that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
[0030] FIG. 1a illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with first embodiment of the present subject matter;
[0031] FIG. 1b illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with second embodiment of the present subject matter;
[0032] FIG. 1c illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with third embodiment of the present subject matter;
[0033] FIG. 1d illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with fourth embodiment of the present subject matter;
[0034] FIG. 2a illustrates a flow chart of the method 200a for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement first exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0035] FIG. 2b illustrates a flow chart of the method 200b for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement first exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0036] FIG. 2c illustrates a flow chart of the method 200c for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement third and fourth exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0037] FIGs. 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d illustrates a flow charts depicting the method performed by the system for various states of the lamps of the vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] A few aspects of the present disclosure are explained in detail below with reference to the various figures. Example implementations are described to illustrate the disclosed subject matter, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of equivalent variations of the various features provided in the description that follows.

EXEMPLARY IMPLEMENTATIONS
[0040] While the present disclosure may be embodied in various forms, there are shown in the drawings, and will hereinafter be described, some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated. Not all of the depicted components described in this disclosure may be required, however, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components from those expressly described in this disclosure. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components may be made without departing from the scope of the claims as set forth herein.
[0041] Some embodiments of this invention, illustrating all its features, will be discussed in detail.
[0042] The techniques described below may be implemented using one or more computer programs executed on (or executable by) a programmable computer including any combination of any number of the following: a controller, a sensor, a storage medium readable and/or writable by the controller (including for example volatile and non-volatile memory and/or storage elements), plurality of inputs units, plurality of output devices and networking devices.
[0043] Any content disclosed herein may be implemented, for example, in one or more content structures tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Embodiments of the invention may store such content in such content structure(s) and read such content from such content structure(s).
[0044] The present disclosure provides a method and a system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system.
[0045] FIG. 1a illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with first embodiment of the present subject matter. The system 100a comprises a main controller 101, a plurality of first-tier controllers 102a, a plurality of second-tier controllers 103a and a telematics control module 104. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a holds same rank in the system 100a. The term “first-tier” and “second-tier” is used to differentiate between the controller’s category. The system 100a is configured to trigger when either one of the following triggering conditions occurs:
• After the ignition is ON
• After the engine is ON
• If the ignition is OFF, then the system can be triggered via Remote Operation
• When the light switch status change from OFF to ON or vice versa
• When the door is locked or unlocked
• Any combination of one or more triggers above
[0046] The main controller 101 is configured to monitors ignition status, engine status, lamp switch statuses, door lock/unlock status. It should be noted that the system 100a can be triggered by any other condition also as the user/driver may configure. The system 100a trigger conditions can be changed by the user/driver as per their convenience.
[0047] The main controller 101 is operatively connected to a vehicle battery 105, the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a, the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a and a telematics control module 104. In an aspect of the invention, the telematics control module 104 is part of the main controller 101 or vice versa. Further, the telematics control module 104 is operatively connected to the vehicle battery 105.
[0048] The main controller 101 has a current sensor and a voltage sensor 101a. The current sensor and the voltage sensor 101a of the main controller 101 is configured to monitor the voltage and current of the vehicle battery 105 and principal group of lamps 107. The main controller 101 is further configured to operatively communicate with the plurality of head lamps 106 through the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a. The main controller 101 is configured to operatively communicate with the principal group of lamps 107 through the plurality of second-tier controllers103a. The main controller 101 is configured to operatively communicate with the telematics control module 104. In an aspect, the principal group of lamps 107 includes a plurality of tail lamps 107a, a plurality of fog lamps 107b, a plurality of reverse lamps 107c, a plurality of daytime running lamps 107d and a plurality of indicators 107e.
[0049] In this embodiment, the plurality of head lamps 106 is operatively connected to the vehicle battery 105 and the plurality of head lamps 106 are directly taking power input from the vehicle battery 105. The principal group of lamps 107 are connected to the vehicle battery 105 through the main controller 101. Accordingly, the power input to the principal group of lamps 107 is provided through the main controller 101.
[0050] The plurality of first-tier controllers 102a is coupled with the plurality of head lamps 106. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102a has a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the head lamps 106. The plurality of head lamps 106 are further operatively connected to the vehicle battery 105. Thus, the plurality of head lamps 106 directly takes power input from the vehicle battery 105. Further, the plurality of head lamps 106 is operatively connected to the main controller 101. The main controller 101 is configured to receive the current, voltage and intensity data determined by the first-tier controller 102a and store the same.
[0051] The plurality of second-tier controllers 103a is coupled with a principal group of lamps 107. The plurality of second-tier controllers 103a has a photodiode. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the principal group of lamps 107. The principal group of lamps 107 are further operatively connected to the main controller 101. Thus, the principal group of lamps 107 takes power input from the main controller 101. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to receive the intensity data determined by the second-tier controller 103a and store the same.
[0052] The main controller 101 is configured to monitor and store the voltage values and current values of the vehicle battery 105 and the principal group of lamps 107 at a predetermined regular interval of time. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to store the voltage, current and intensity data monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a for the plurality of head lamps 106 at a predetermined regular interval of time. Furthermore, the main controller 101 is configured to store the intensity data monitored by the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a for the principal group of lamps at a predetermined regular interval of time. Furthermore, the main controller 101 is configured to store the total time period for which a lamp in the lighting system is in operation.
[0053] The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored by the main controller 101 or by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a or by the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a based on the predetermined thresholds of the current and intensity for the plurality of head lamps 106 and the principal group of lamps 107 stored in the main controller 101. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when the total time period of any of the lamps in the lighting system approaches its expected lifespan. In this way, the system 100a pro-actively indicate the driver/user the time to change the lamps of the vehicle lighting system.
[0054] The main controller 101 is also operatively connected to the telematics control module 104. The telematics control module 104 is configured to receive the diagnostic trouble signal from the main controller 101 and send the same to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
[0055] There are many ways through which the indication of malfunction could be provided to the driver/user. In an aspect, the malfunction indication can be communicated to the driver/user through a mobile app or SMS. The mobile app can also access the information stored in the server, so that the driver/user can keep track of the health of the vehicle lighting system. In an aspect, the indication of malfunction can be provided by visually displaying the diagnostic trouble signal through at least one of the plurality of telltales/head units/smartphone/vehicle connected application/heads-up display. Further, the indication of malfunction can be provided by conveying the diagnostic trouble signal auditorily through audible alert.
[0056] The main controller 101 is configured to store the threshold values for voltage, current and intensity for the plurality of head lamps 106 and the principal group of lamps 107. All thresholds are configurable online/offline by OEM/dealer/user as per convenience/accuracy requirements. The threshold values can be same or different for different types of lamps. For instance, the threshold values for intensity and current for the head lamps 106 may be different from the threshold values for intensity and current for the tail lamps 107a. However, the threshold values for voltage for the plurality of head lamps 106 and principal group of lamps 107 will be same. In addition, a predetermined regular interval of time is stored in the main controller 101. Monitored values from the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a are stored in the main controller 101 at the predetermined regular interval of time.
[0057] When a malfunctioned lamp is replaced with new lamp, the total time span of new lamp is reset and predetermined thresholds of current and intensity related to the new lamp are changed based on the configuration of the new lamp.
[0058] The problem with monitoring the intensity around a lamp is that the determination of intensity value depends on the already existing intensity around the lamps (due to sunlight and other surrounding factors). Thus, the monitoring of intensity of the lamps with accuracy is a problem. In the proposed system 100a, instead of taking into consideration the exact intensity around a lamp, a change in intensity is determined. The change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined as:
intensity_delta = insta_intensity - ref_intensity
wherein the insta_intensity is the value of intensity after the lamps are ON and ref_intensity is the intensity when the lamps are OFF.
[0059] The voltage sensors in the main controller 101 and the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a are configured to monitor the voltage supplied to the lamps along with the voltage dips occurs during the ignition/engine ON condition is in order. Accordingly, the voltage, current and intensity values during the ignition/engine ON condition are ignored to avoid incorrect fault indication. In an aspect, an outlier algorithm is used to ignore the voltage, current and intensity values during the ignition/engine ON condition. When the voltage is stabilized after the ignition/engine ON condition and the voltage is greater than the predetermined voltage threshold (insta_voltage ≥ voltage_threshold), then the current and intensity values of corresponding time period is considered for fault detection in vehicle lighting system.
[0060] Vehicle Lighting System is Working Properly: The vehicle lighting system is functioning properly when the voltage monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold). Further, the current monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is between a predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and a predetermined very high current threshold (current _threshold vhigh). Furthermore, the change in intensity (intensity_delta) monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a for their respective lamps, is greater than or equal to a predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh). When the lamps in the vehicle lighting system works within these limits, the system 100a confirms that the vehicle lighting system is working properly.
[0061] Short Circuit in Vehicle Lighting System: There is a short circuit in the at least one lamp of the vehicle lighting system when the voltage monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold). Further, the current monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is greater than a predetermined very high current threshold (current _threshold vhigh). The main controller 101 checks pattern of current and intensity for sudden transition of current and intensity values from very high to very low value (current value at any point of time above very high threshold and suddenly below than low current threshold and similarly the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is above high intensity threshold and suddenly lower than low intensity threshold).When the main controller 101 these conditions and matches it with current-intensity variations in short circuit of lamps (as stored in main controller 101), the system confirms that a short circuit is detected in the vehicle lighting system. The short circuit in the vehicle lighting system is localized (which lamp is short-circuited) by detecting the location of the plurality of the first-tier controllers and the plurality of second-tier controllers that is currently detecting the above-mentioned conditions.
[0062] Lamp Dimming Condition in the Vehicle Lighting System: There is a light dimming condition in the at least one lamp of the vehicle lighting system when the voltage monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold). Further, the current monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is between a predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow) and a predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh). Furthermore, the change in intensity (intensity_delta) monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a for their respective lamps, is between a predetermined low intensity threshold(intensitylow) and a predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh). When the main controller 101, any of the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and any of the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a monitors these conditions, the system 100a confirms that a light dimming condition is detected in the vehicle lighting system. The light dimming condition in the vehicle lighting system is localized (which lamp is dimly lit) by detecting the location of the plurality of the first-tier controllers 102a and/or the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a that is currently detecting the above-mentioned conditions.
[0063] Lamp Fused / Open Condition in the Vehicle Lighting System: There is a light fused condition in the at least one lamp of the vehicle lighting system when the voltage monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold). Further, the current monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is lower than or equal to a predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow). Furthermore, the change in intensity (intensity_delta) monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a for their respective lamps, is lower than a predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow). When the main controller 101, any of the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a and any of the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a monitors these conditions, the system 100a confirms that a light fused condition is detected in the vehicle lighting system. The light fused condition in the vehicle lighting system is localized (which lamp is fused) by detecting the location of the plurality of the first-tier controllers 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a that is currently detecting the above-mentioned conditions.
[0064] Current Sensors or Photodiodes are Malfunctioning: There is a malfunction in the current sensors of the main controller 101 and the plurality of first tier controllers 102a or a malfunction in the photodiodes of the plurality of first-tier controller 102a and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a when the current and intensity monitored by these sensors are contradictory.
[0065] The system 100a is also capable of monitoring the health of the vehicle battery 105. When the voltage monitored at any point of time, by the main controller 101 and the first-tier of controllers 102a for their respective lamps, is lower than a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the system 100 confirms that the vehicle battery 105 voltage is low.
[0066] FIG. 1b illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with second embodiment of the present subject matter. In this embodiment, the plurality of head lamps 106 is not operatively connected to the vehicle battery 105. The power input from the vehicle battery 105 is provided to the plurality of head lamps 106 through the main controller 101. The main controller 101 which is provided with the current sensor and the voltage sensor is configured to monitor the current and voltage supplied to the plurality of head lamps 106 as well as to the principal group of lamps 107. Accordingly, the plurality of first-tier controllers 102b is only provided with photodiode. Thus, in this embodiment, the plurality of first-tier controllers 102b and the plurality of second tier controllers 103b are identical. The plurality of first tier-controllers 102b are configured to monitor the intensity of the plurality of head lamps 106 and store the intensity value in the main controller 101 at predetermined regular interval of time. The plurality of second tier-controllers 103b are configured to monitor the intensity of the principal group of lamps 107 and store the intensity value in the main controller 101 at predetermined regular interval of time.
[0067] The main controller 101 is configured to store the total time period for which a lamp in the lighting system is in operation.
[0068] The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current is monitored by the main controller 101 and when abnormality in the intensity is monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102b and/or the second-tier controllers 103b based on the predetermined thresholds of the current and intensity for the plurality of head lamps 106 and the principal group of lamps 107 stored in the main controller 101.
[0069] The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when the total time period of any of the lamp in the lighting system approaches its expected lifespan. In this way, the system 100b pro-actively indicate the driver/user the time to change the lamps of the vehicle lighting system.
[0070] The main controller 101 is also operatively connected to the telematics control module 104. The telematics control module 104 is configured to receive the diagnostic trouble signal from the main controller 101 and send the same to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
[0071] The generation of the diagnostic trouble signal and indication of the diagnostic trouble signal to the user/driver is similar as discussed for the first embodiment in FIG. 1a. The detection of functioning/malfunctioning conditions of the vehicle lighting system, such as, properly working condition, short circuit condition, lamp dimming condition, lamp fuse condition, lamp circuit open condition and sensors/photodiode malfunctioning condition based on the predetermined voltage, current and intensity thresholds stored in the main controller 101 is same as discussed for the first embodiment in FIG. 1a.
[0072] FIG. 1c illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with third embodiment of the present subject matter. In this embodiment, the plurality of head lamps 106 is not operatively connected to the vehicle battery 105. The power input from the vehicle battery 105 is provided to the plurality of head lamps 106 through the main controller 101. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102c is provided with photodiode, current sensor and voltage sensor. Similarly, the plurality of second-tier controllers 103c is provided with a photodiode, current sensor and voltage sensor. Thus, in this embodiment, the plurality of first-tier controllers 102c and the plurality of second tier controllers 103c are identical. The plurality of first tier-controllers 102c are configured to monitor the current, voltage and intensity of the plurality of head lamps 106 and store the current value, the voltage value and the intensity value in the main controller 101 at predetermined regular interval of time. The plurality of second tier-controllers 102c are configured to monitor the current, voltage and intensity of the principal group of lamps and store the current value, the voltage value and the intensity value in the main controller 101 at predetermined regular interval of time. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the main controller 101 is only configured to store the current value, the voltage value and the intensity value of the plurality of head lamps 106 and the principal group of lamps 107 and the monitoring operation is performed by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102c and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103c.
[0073] The main controller 101 is also configured to store the total time period for which a lamp in the lighting system is in operation.
[0074] The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102c and/or the second-tier controllers 103c based on the predetermined thresholds of the current and intensity for the plurality of head lamps 106 and the principal group of lamps 107 stored in the main controller 101.
[0075] The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when the total time period of any of the lamp in the lighting system approaches its expected lifespan. In this way, the system 100c pro-actively indicate the driver/user the time to change the lamps of the vehicle lighting system.
[0076] The main controller 101 is also operatively connected to the telematics control module 104. The telematics control module 104 is configured to receive the diagnostic trouble signal from the main controller 101 and send the same to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system. The generation of the diagnostic trouble signal and indication of the diagnostic trouble signal to the user/driver is similar as discussed for the first embodiment in FIG. 1a and the second embodiment in FIG. 1b. The detection of functioning/malfunctioning conditions of the vehicle lighting system, such as, properly working condition, short circuit condition, lamp dimming condition, lamp fuse condition, lamp circuit open condition and sensors/photodiode malfunctioning condition based on the predetermined voltage, current and intensity thresholds stored in the main controller 101 is same as discussed for the first embodiment in FIG. 1a and second embodiment in FIG. 1b.
[0077] FIG. 1d illustrates an exemplary system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system in accordance with fourth embodiment of the present subject matter. The embodiment is similar to the third embodiment but the power input from the vehicle battery 105 is provided directly to the plurality of head lamps 106.
[0078] The generation of the diagnostic trouble signal and indication of the diagnostic trouble signal to the user/driver is similar as discussed for the first embodiment in FIG. 1a, second embodiment in FIG. 1b and third embodiment in FIG. 1c. The detection of functioning/malfunctioning conditions of the vehicle lighting system, such as, properly working condition, short circuit condition, lamp dimming condition, lamp fuse condition, lamp circuit open condition and sensors/photodiode malfunctioning condition based on the predetermined voltage, current and intensity thresholds stored in the main controller 101 is same as discussed for the first embodiment in FIG. 1a, second embodiment in FIG. 1b and third embodiment in FIG. 1c.
[0079] FIG. 2a illustrates a flow chart of the method 200a for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement first exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0080] At block 202a, the method 200a includes monitoring voltage and current of the vehicle battery 105 by the main controller 101. The main controller 101 has a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The current sensor and the voltage sensor 101a of the main controller 101 is configured to monitor the voltage and current of the vehicle battery 105 and the principal group of lamps 107. The main controller 101 is further configured to store the voltage and current values at a predetermined regular interval of time.
[0081] At block 204a, the method 200a includes monitoring voltage, current and intensity of the plurality of head lamps 106 by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102a is coupled with a plurality of head lamps 106. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102a has a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the head lamps 106. The main controller 101 is configured to receive the current, voltage and intensity data determined by the first-tier controller 102a and store the same.
[0082] At block 206a, the method 200a includes monitoring intensity of the principal group of lamps 107 by the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a. The plurality of second-tier controllers 103 is coupled with a principal group of lamps 107. For each of the lamps 107a, 107b, 107c, 107d, 107e in the principal group of lamps 107, a corresponding second-tier controller 103 is provided. The plurality of second-tier controllers 103a has a photodiode. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the lamps 107a, 107b, 107c, 107d, 107e. The principal group of lamps 107 are further operatively connected to the main controller 101. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to receive the intensity data determined by the second-tier controllers 103a and store the same.
[0083] At block 208a, the method 200a includes generating, by the main controller 101, a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored. The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored by the main controller 101 or by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102a or by the plurality of second-tier controllers 103a. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when the total time period of any of the lamp in the lighting system approaches its expected lifespan. In this way, the system 100a pro-actively indicate the driver/user the time to change the lamps of the vehicle lighting system.
[0084] At block 210a, the method 200a includes sending the diagnostic trouble signal to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system by the telematics control module 104. The telematics control module 104 is configured to receive the diagnostic trouble signal from the main controller 101 and send the same to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
[0085] Description related to FIG. 1a has already discussed, in detail, the monitoring conditions related to various states of lamps of the vehicle lighting system. The method 200a works in the same way as already discussed for the system 100a.
[0086] FIG. 2b illustrates a flow chart of the method 200b for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement second exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0087] At block 202b, the method 200b includes monitoring voltage and current of the vehicle battery 105 by the main controller 101. The main controller 101 has a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The current sensor and the voltage sensor 101a of the main controller 101 is configured to monitor the voltage and current of the vehicle battery 105, the plurality of head lamps 106 and the principal group of lamps 107. The main controller 101 is further configured to store the voltage and current values at a predetermined regular interval of time.
[0088] At block 204b, the method 200b includes monitoring intensity of the plurality of head lamps 106 by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102b. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102b is coupled with a plurality of head lamps 106. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102b has a photodiode. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the head lamps 106. The main controller 101 is configured to receive the intensity data determined by the first-tier controller 102b and store the same.
[0089] At blocks 206b, 208b and 210b the method 200b includes same steps as performed at blocks 206a, 208a and 210a of the method 200a.
[0090] Description related to FIG. 1a has already discussed, in detail, the monitoring conditions related to various states of lamps of the vehicle lighting system. The method 200b works in the same way as already discussed for the system 100b.
[0091] FIG. 2c illustrates a flow chart of the method 200c for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement third and fourth exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0092] At block 202c, the method 200c includes monitoring voltage, current and intensity of the plurality of head lamps 106 by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102c. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102c is coupled with a plurality of head lamps 106. The plurality of first-tier controllers 102c has a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the head lamps 106. The main controller 101 is configured to receive the current, voltage and intensity data determined by the first-tier controller 102c and store the same.
[0093] At block 204c, the method 200c includes monitoring intensity, current and voltage of the principal group of lamps 107 by the plurality of second-tier controllers 103c. The plurality of second-tier controllers 103c is coupled with a principal group of lamps 107. For each of the lamps 107a, 107b, 107c, 107d, 107e in the principal group of lamps 107, a corresponding second-tier controller 103c is provided. The plurality of second-tier controllers 103c has a photodiode, current sensor and voltage sensor. The photodiode is configured to determine the intensity of light around the lamps 107a, 107b, 107c, 107d, 107e. The principal group of lamps 107 are further operatively connected to the main controller 101. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to receive the intensity, current and voltage data determined by the second-tier controllers 103c and store the same.
[0094] At block 206c, the method 200c includes storing the voltage, current and intensity values in the main controller 101 as monitored by the plurality of first-tier 102c controllers and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103c.
[0095] At block 208c, the method 200c includes generating, by the main controller 101, a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored. The main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored by the plurality of first-tier controllers 102c or by the plurality of second-tier controllers 103c. Further, the main controller 101 is configured to generate a diagnostic trouble signal when the total time period of any of the lamp in the lighting system approaches its expected lifespan.
[0096] At block 210c, the method 200c includes sending the diagnostic trouble signal to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system by the telematics control module 104. The telematics control module 104 is configured to receive the diagnostic trouble signal from the main controller 101 and send the same to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
[0097] Description related to FIG. 1a has already discussed, in detail, the monitoring conditions related to various states of lamps of the vehicle lighting system. The method 200c works in the same way as already discussed for the system 100c.
[0098] FIGs. 3a, 3b, 3c and 3d illustrates a flow charts depicting the method performed by the system for various states of the lamps of the vehicle lighting system that can be utilized to implement one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0099] Vehicle Lighting System is Working Properly: The system 100 is triggered when the ignition is ON. However, there could be other triggered also as mentioned while discussing the system 100 in FIG. 1. The photodiodes of the plurality of first-tier controllers 102 and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 are activated to capture the intensity without illumination of lamps. Subsequently, the lamps of the lighting systems are illuminated for few seconds. The current sensors in the main controller 101 and the plurality of the first-tier controllers 102 monitor the current for each lamp. For this case, the current monitored should be between the predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and the predetermined very high current threshold (current _threshold vhigh). Intensity around each lamp is captured by the corresponding plurality of first-tier controllers 102 or the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 in lamp ON condition. Change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined by the controller. For this case, change in intensity (intensity_delta) is greater than or equal to predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh). Lamps of the lighting system is turned OFF unless the driver/user has turned ON the lights manually.
[00100] Short Circuit in Vehicle Lighting System: The system is triggered when the ignition is ON. However, there could be other triggered also as mentioned while discussing the system 100 in FIG 1. The photodiodes of the plurality of first-tier controllers 102 and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 are activated to capture the intensity without illumination of lamps. Subsequently, the lamps of the lighting systems are illuminated for few seconds. The current sensors in the main controller 101 and the plurality of the first-tier controllers 102 monitor the current for each lamp. For this case, the current monitored is greater than a predetermined very high current threshold (current _thresholdvhigh). The main controller 101 checks pattern of current and intensity for sudden transition of current and intensity values from very high to very low value (current value at any point of time above very high threshold and suddenly below than low current threshold and similarly the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is above high intensity threshold and suddenly lower than low intensity threshold). When the main controller 101monitors these conditions and matches it with current-intensity variations, the system confirms that a short circuit is detected in the vehicle lighting system. The main controller 101 generates a diagnostic trouble signal indicating that at least one of the lamps of lighting system is short circuited and the location of said lamps are detected through the location of the first-tier controller 102a or the second-tier controller 103a.
[00101] Dimming of Lamps in Vehicle Lighting System: The system 100 is triggered when the ignition is ON. However, there could be other triggered also as mentioned while discussing the system 100 in FIG 1. The photodiodes of the plurality of first-tier controllers 102 and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 are activated to capture the intensity without illumination of lamps. Subsequently, the lamps of the lighting systems are illuminated for few seconds. The current sensors in the main controller 101 and the plurality of the first-tier controllers 102 monitor the current for each lamp. For this case, the current monitored is between a predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow) and a predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh). Intensity around each lamp is captured by the corresponding plurality of first-tier controllers 102 or the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 in lamp ON condition. Change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined by the controller. For this case, change in intensity (intensity_delta) is between a predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow) and a predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh). The main controller 101 generate a diagnostic trouble signal indicating that at least one of the lamps of lighting system is dimly lit and the location of said lamps. Lamps of the lighting system is turned OFF unless the driver/user has turned ON the lights manually.
[00102] Fused Lamps in Vehicle Lighting System: The system 100 is triggered when the ignition is ON. However, there could be other triggered also as mentioned while discussing the system 100. The photodiodes of the plurality of first-tier controllers 102 and the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 are activated to capture the intensity without illumination of lamps. Subsequently, the lamps of the lighting systems are illuminated for few seconds. The current sensors in the main controller 101 and the plurality of the first-tier controllers 102 monitor the current for each lamp. For this case, the current monitored is lower than a predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow). Intensity around each lamp is captured by the corresponding plurality of first-tier controllers 102 or the plurality of second-tier controllers 103 in lamp ON condition. Change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined by the controller. For this case, change in intensity (intensity_delta) is lower than or equal to a predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow). The main controller 101 generates a diagnostic trouble signal indicating that at least one of the lamps of lighting system is fused and the location of said lamps. Lamps of the lighting system is turned OFF unless the driver/user has turned ON the lights manually.
ADVANTAGES
[00103] The present disclosure provides a method and a system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system that is capable of providing location and type of malfunction in the lighting system. Further, the proposed method and system for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system is capable of proactively notifing the driver/user about the possible malfunctions in the lamps of the vehcile lighting system.
[00104] The above description does not provide specific details of the manufacture or design of the various components. Those of skill in the art are familiar with such details, and unless departures from those techniques are set out, techniques, known, related art or later developed designs and materials should be employed. Those in the art are capable of choosing suitable manufacturing and design details.
[00105] Further, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that several of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into other systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may subsequently be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as encompassed by the following claims.
[00106] The claims, as originally presented and as they may be amended, encompass variations, alternatives, modifications, improvements, equivalents, and substantial equivalents of the embodiments and teachings disclosed herein, including those that are presently unforeseen or unappreciated, and that, for example, may arise from applicants/patentees and others.
[00107] It will be appreciated that variants of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A method (200a) for automatic fault detection in a vehicle lighting system, the method (200a) comprises:
monitoring (202), by a main controller (101), voltage and current of the vehicle battery (105) and principal group of lamps (107), wherein the main controller (101) monitors and stores the voltage and current values at a predetermined regular interval of time;
monitoring (204), by a plurality of first-tier controllers (102a), voltage, current and intensity of a plurality of head lamps (106), wherein the voltage, current and intensity of the plurality of head lamps (106) are stored in the main controller (101) at a predetermined regular interval of time;
monitoring (206), by a plurality of second-tier controllers (103a), intensity of a principal group of lamps (107), wherein the intensity of the principal group of lamps (107) are stored in the main controller (101) at a predetermined regular interval of time;
generating (208), by the main controller (101), a Diagnostic Trouble Signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored either by the main controller (101) or by the plurality of first-tier controllers (102a) or by the plurality of second-tier controllers (103a);
sending (210), by a Telematics Control module (104), the diagnostic trouble signal to a server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method comprises displaying visually the diagnostic trouble signal through at least one of the plurality of telltales/head units/smartphone/vehicle connected application/heads-up display and/or conveying the diagnostic trouble signal auditorily through audible alert.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second-tier controllers (103c, 103d) are configured to monitor current, voltage and intensity of the principal group of lamps (107) when the main controller (101) is only configured to store the current value, the voltage value and the intensity value monitored by the first-tier controllers (102c, 102d) and the second-tier of controllers (103c, 103d).
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first-tier controllers (102b) are configured to monitor only the intensity when the input power to the plurality of head lamps 106 is provided through the main controller (101) and the main controller (101) is configured to monitor and store the voltage value and the current value provided to the plurality of head lamps (106) at a predetermined regular interval of time.
5. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined by at least one of the plurality of the first-tier controllers (102a, 102b, 102c, 102d) and the plurality of the second-tier controllers (103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) for the plurality of head lamps (106) and the principal group of lamps (107) by determining the difference between the intensity (insta_intensity) determined after the lamps are ON and intensity when the lamps were OFF (ref_intensity).
6. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lighting system is functioning properly when the voltage (insta_voltage) determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current (insta_current) determined is between the predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and very high current threshold (current _threshold vhigh) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is greater than or equal to a predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh).
7. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a short circuit is detected in the lighting system when the voltage (insta_voltage) determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), and the change in current (insta_current) determined and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) follows a predetermined current-intensity pattern as stored in main controller 101.
8. The method(200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein lamp dimming condition is detected in the lighting system when the voltage determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current determined is between the predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow) and high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is between predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow) and predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh).
9. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein lamp fused /open condition is detected in the lighting system when the voltage determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current determined is smaller than or equal to predetermined low current threshold (current_thresholdlow) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is smaller than or equal to predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow).
10. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the functionality of lighting system is checked after ignition ON or after engine ON or through remote operation or when light switch status is changed or door lock/unlock condition or a combination of any of these triggers.
11. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the false malfunction detection is avoided by ignoring the current and intensity determined during change in voltage at the time of the engine ON or cranking condition.
12. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein low battery voltage is detected when voltage determined at any point of time is lower than a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold) other than during engine ON or cranking condition.
13. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein total time period for which a lamp in the lighting system is in operation is stored in the main controller (101) and a diagnostic trouble signal is generated when the total time period approaches lamp’s expected lifespan.
14. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 11, wherein when a malfunctioned lamp is replaced with new lamp, the new lamp’s total time span is reset and predetermined thresholds are changed.
15. The method (200a) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the main controller (101) generates a diagnostic trouble signal of malfunction in the current sensors and the photodiode sensor when the determination from the current sensors and the photodiode sensors are contradictory.
16. A system (100a) for automatic fault detection in vehicle lighting system, the system (100a) comprising:
a main controller (101) having a current sensor and a voltage sensor, wherein the main controller (101) is connected to a vehicle battery (105), a telematics control module (104), a plurality of head lamps (106) and a principal group of lamps (07);
a plurality of first-tier controllers (102a) operatively connected with the plurality of head lamps (106), wherein the plurality of first-tier controllers (102a) has a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor; and
a plurality of second-tier controllers (103a) operatively connected with the principal group of lamps (107), wherein the plurality of second-tier controllers (103a) has a photodiode;
wherein the plurality of first-tier controllers (102a) is configured to monitor voltage, current and intensity of a plurality of head lamps (106) and store the voltage, current and intensity in the main controller (101) at a predetermined interval of time;
wherein the plurality of second-tier controllers (103a) is configured to monitor intensity of a principal group of lamps (107) and the intensity of the principal group of lamps (107) are stored in the main controller (101) at a predetermined interval of time;
wherein the main controller (101) is configured to monitor and store voltage value and current value of the vehicle battery (105) and the principal group of lamps (107), and store the voltage values, current values and intensity values of the lamps at a predetermined regular interval of time, and generate a diagnostic trouble signal when abnormality in the current and intensity is monitored by the main controller (101) or by the plurality of first-tier controllers (102a) or by the plurality of second-tier controllers (103a);
the telematics control module (104) is configured to send the diagnostic trouble signal to the server indicating the location and type of malfunction in the lighting system.
17. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the system is configured to display visually the diagnostic trouble signal through at least one of the plurality of telltales/head units/smartphone/vehicle connected application/heads-up display and/or conveyed audiotorially the diagnostic trouble signal through audible alert.
18. The system (100) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the principal group of lamps (107) includes a plurality of tail lamps (107a), a plurality of fog lamps (107b), a plurality of reverse lamps (107c), a plurality of daytime running lamps (107d) and a plurality of indicators (107e).
19. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the second-tier controllers (103c, 103d) has a photodiode, a current sensor and a voltage sensor to monitor current, voltage and intensity of light of the principal group of lamps (107) when the current sensors and the voltage sensors are operatively connected but not included in the main controller (101).
20. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the first-tier controllers (102b) has only a photodiode when the input power to the plurality of head lamps (106) is provided through the main controller (101) and the voltage sensor and current sensor of the main controller (101) monitors and stores the voltage value and the current value of the plurality of head lamps (106) at a predetermined regular interval of time.
21. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein a change in intensity (intensity_delta) is determined by the plurality of the first-tier controllers (102a, 102b, 102c, 102d) and the plurality of the second-tier controllers (103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) for the plurality of head lamps (106) and the principal group of lamps (107) by determining the difference between the intensity (insta_intensity) determined after the lamps are ON and intensity when the lamps were OFF (ref_intensity).
22. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the lighting system is functioning properly when the voltage (insta_voltage) determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current (insta_current) determined is between the predetermined high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and very high current threshold (current _thresholdvhigh) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is greater than or equal to a predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh).
23. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein a short circuit is detected in the lighting system when the voltage (insta_voltage) determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), and the change in current (insta_current) determined and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) determined follows a predetermined current-intensity pattern as stored in main controller (101).
24. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein lamp dimming condition is detected in the lighting system when the voltage determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current determined is between the predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow) and high current threshold (current _thresholdhigh) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is between predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow) and predetermined high intensity threshold (intensityhigh).
25. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein lamp fused/open circuit condition is detected in the lighting system when the voltage determined at any point of time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold), the current determined is smaller than or equal to predetermined low current threshold (current _thresholdlow) and the change in intensity (intensity_delta) is smaller than or equal to predetermined low intensity threshold (intensitylow).
26. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the system (100) is triggered after ignition ON or after engine ON or through remote operation or when light switch status is changed or door lock/unlock condition or a combination of any of these triggers.
27. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the false malfunction detection is avoided by ignoring the current and intensity determined during change in voltage at the time of the engine ON or cranking condition.
28. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein low battery voltage is detected when voltage determined at any point of time is lower than a predetermined threshold voltage (voltage_threshold) other than during engine ON or cranking condition.
29. The system (100a) as claimed in claim 16, wherein total time period for which a lamp in the lighting system is in operation is stored in the main controller and a diagnostic trouble signal is generated when the total time period approaches lamp’s expected lifespan.
30. The system (100) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the main controller (101) generates a diagnostic trouble signal of malfunction in the current sensors and the photodiode sensor when the determination from the current sensors and the photodiode sensors are contradictory.