Self-testable spacecraft for self-testing analog functions
AssigneeHughes Electronics Corporation
InventorJames L. Gundersen
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A circuit for testing the functionality of an analog circuit of a satellite includes a multiplexer that is coupled to a circuit element to be tested. An analog-to-digital converter is coupled to the multiplexer. A test signal generator is coupled to a controller. The controller is also coupled to the analog-to-digital converter. The controller generates test signals that are coupled to the circuit element. Response signals are generated from the circuit elements and are received by the controller through the multiplexer and analog-to-digital converter. The controller compares the response signals to a predetermined signal indicative of a proper response. An indicator is coupled to the controller to provide an indication of whether or not the circuit elements are functioning properly.
Claims18
A self testable satellite comprising:
- at least one electrically operable element;
- a test module coupled within the satellite;
- said test module having,
- a multiplexer coupled to the circuit element, said multiplexer receiving a response signal from said circuit element;
- an analog-to-digital converter coupled to said multiplexer;
- a controller coupled to said analog-to-digital converter, said controller initiating test signals, said controller comparing response signals with a signal indicative of the proper functioning of the circuit element;
- and
- an indicator coupled to said controller indicating whether the circuit element is functioning properly.
A test circuit for testing the functionality of a circuit element for a spacecraft comprising:
- a multiplexer coupled to the circuit element, said multiplexer receiving a response signal from said circuit element;
- an analog-to-digital converter coupled to said multiplexer;
- a controller coupled to said analog-to-digital converter, said controller initiating test signals, said controller comparing response signals with a signal indicative of the proper functioning of the circuit element;
- and
- an indicator coupled to said controller indicating whether the circuit element is functioning properly.
A method for testing a spacecraft comprising the steps of:
- downloading testing software into a memory;
- coupling a wiring harness to an analog circuit;
- generating a test signal;
- receiving an analog response signal in response to test signal;
- selecting the analog response signal through a multiplexer;
- converting the analog response signal to a digital response signal after said step of selecting;
- and
- generating an indicator in response to said digital response signal.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.