Traditional scan tools often fall short, identifying issues only within specific circuits and leaving mechanics to replace components blindly. ProteanTecs brings a revolutionary approach by embedding "agents" on silicon chips to monitor logic tasks, power draw, and other parameters. These tiny monitors use minimal chip space, ensuring negligible performance impact, and they track operational physics to preempt potential failures.
These intelligent monitors are trained during vehicle development using identical chips, learning expected operations, power consumption, and computation times. Constantly compared with real-time data from cars in the field, this information is stored in the cloud. This system not only tracks the effects of over-the-air (OTA) software updates but could also recommend updates to optimize power usage and extend chip lifespan.
When monitors detect increased power draw or slower processing, they trigger different responses based on the system's criticality. Non-critical systems might prolong chip life through workaround strategies. For safety-critical systems, a "Check Engine light" alert can activate, shifting operations to redundant systems. The response options, from OTA updates to direct owner contact, depend on the OEM's strategy.
ProteanTecs’ innovative technology already supports shorter-lead-time products and is poised for automotive applications by 2026–2027. This aligns with the new ISO 26262 revision on tracking "degrading faults," essential for understanding defect progression. The technology will also adapt to the Universal Chiplet Interconnect Express (UCIe) specification, enhancing chiplet interconnections.
The cost of on-chip agents by ProteanTecs is minimal, but the accompanying software stacks incur expenses. However, the data holds value for Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs, potentially lowering warranty costs due to self-reporting system failures. As vehicles transition to fewer ECUs, replacing entire units becomes costlier. ProteanTecs’ solutions, alongside competitors like Synopsys, promise better longevity and less perplexing repairs without significantly hiking vehicle prices.
ProteanTecs is transforming auto diagnostics with on-chip monitoring, offering predictive repairs and enhancing vehicle durability. With negligible costs, this technology provides invaluable real-time insights, promising a future with fewer surprises under the hood.
