Robert Boschgmbh

Rolf Kremser

Stefan Koch

Michael Soellner

Bernd Diebold

Arno Pruellage

Rob Millar

Adrian Mitcham

A device or arrangement for exchanging data between a main station (master) ( ) and at least one secondary station (slave) ( ), which each have access to at least one common data line ( ) via interfaces CAN, and processes for operating the device. Except for an individual identifier (a, b, . . . , d) of each slave ( ), which is stored in an identifier memory ( ) disposed in the slave ( ), the slaves ( ) are identical. The master ( ) likewise includes an identifier memory ( ), in which the identifiers (a, b, . . . , d) of the slaves ( ) are to be stored, so that the master can address the slaves ( ) in a targeted way and can process the data output by the slaves ( ). The processes according to the invention pertain to the storage of the identifiers (a, b, . . . , d) in the identifier memory ( ) of the master ( ) and to the procedure in the event of ai failure of slaves ( ) and/or of the master ( ), taking into account the case where no external computer ( ) that could furnish all the required information is available. The device according to the invention and the processes according to the invention are especially suitable for use in a multiplexing system that is preferably disposed in a motor vehicle.

Device for exchanging data and process for operating it

A method for detecting faulty switching operations of a first relay whose switching element is connected in series with a load and which, depending on the switch position, interrupts or closes the connection to the load in accordance with switching commands. In this context, a current is detected flowing through a circuit containing the switching element, and a faulty function of the relay, in particular a sticking of the switching element, is detected if the current intensity does not correspond to the current intensity to be expected in accordance with the selected switching position. Further relays, which can be provided in order to commutate the potentials at the load, can be included in the test. The method makes possible a relay test without moving the actuators, assuming the relays are in order. In addition, this generates a time savings, since not all of the relays have to be triggered for the test.

Method for detecting malfunctions of a first relay

A convertible-top system for a motor vehicle has a signal-processing arrangement for detecting actuating commands and for controlling drive mechanisms for the convertible-top system in open and/or closed loop as a function of the actuating commands. The signal-processing arrangement emits signals, which are a function of the state of the convertible-top system, to at least one operating device of at least one external component not belonging to the convertible-top system. The external components are influenced by way of the control signals.

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Neuried, Germany

Rolf Kremser