Modular harness system
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- SE · SE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- VOLVO PENTA AB
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-22
AI Technical Summary
Conventional harness systems lack modularity, leading to difficulties in installation, maintenance, and upgrades, and require extensive manual adjustments to meet regulatory compliance, increasing complexity and the risk of human error.
A modular harness system with a main backbone section, modular harness sections, extension sections, connector sections, and an adapter that integrates safety and compliance features such as overcurrent fuses, signal line filters, galvanic isolators, CAN/LIN buses, and surge protection suppressors to ensure efficient data transmission, power distribution, and regulatory compliance.
The modular design facilitates easy installation, maintenance, and upgrades, reduces downtime, and ensures continuous compliance with regulatory standards by automating adjustments and integrating comprehensive safety measures, enhancing reliability and longevity.
Abstract
Description
(1) The disclosure relates generally to wiring harnesses for electrical components. In particular aspects, the disclosure relates to a modular harness system. The disclosure can be applied to heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, among other vehicle types. The disclosure can also be applied to other areas of application, such as marine vessels, industrial applications, stationary applications, among other areas of application. Although the disclosure may be described with respect to a particular vehicle, the disclosure is not restricted to any particular vehicle.BACKGROUND(2) In modem electronic systems, harness systems are used for connecting various electrical components and ensuring reliable transmission of data and power across applications such as automotive, aerospace, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. These systems typically comprise multiple wiring sections, connectors, and other components that facilitate interconnection to a central control module.(3) Despite their importance, conventional harness systems often suffer from several limitations, including lack of modularity, which makes them difficult to install, maintain, and upgrade, leading to increased downtime and higher costs. Additionally, achieving regulatory compliance is a major challenge, as conventional harness systems often require extensive manual adjustments and modifications to meet industry-specific standards and regulations, increasing complexity and the potential for human error.(4) It is in view of the above limitations of the prior art and others that the present inventor is herein suggesting one or more improvements to the prior art.SUMMARY(5) The disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or accompanying clauses may be suitably combined with each other as would be apparent to anyone of ordinary skill in the art. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, clauses, and drawings, and in part will be readily apparent therefrom to those skilled in the art or recognized by practicing the disclosure as described herein.(6) There are also disclosed herein computer systems, control units, code modules, computer-implemented methods, computer readable media, and computer program products associated with the above discussed technical benefits.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS(7) Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the appended drawings.(8) FIG. 1 is an system diagram of a heavy duty vehicle according to some examples. (9) FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of a modular harness system according to some examples.(10) FIGs. 3-11 are exemplary illustrations of exemplary components for a modular harness system according to various examples.(11) FIG. 12 is an exemplary method for arranging a modular harness system according to an example.DETAILED DESCRIPTION(12) The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology with sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure.(13) The disclosed technology pertains to a modular harness system 100 designed to connect to a master electronic control module 10 via a main backbone section 5. This system comprises several components, including a plurality of modular harness sections 20, an extension section 30 with an extension wire 32) connector sections 40, and an adapter 50. Each modular harness section 20 connects to a respective electrical system component 12, ensuring efficient data transmission and power distribution throughout the system. The extension section 30 allows for flexible routing and positioning of the harness sections, while the connector sections 40 interconnect the modular harness sections 20 via the extension wire 32. The connector sections 40 are specifically adapted to receive the extension wire 32 and relay data and / or supply electrical power from one harness section to another.(14) One objective of this modular harness system is to address the limitations observed in conventional harness systems, such as lack of modularity, inadequate safety features, and challenges in achieving regulatory compliance. Traditional harness systems are typically monolithic structures, making them difficult to install, maintain, and upgrade. This system, however, offers a modular design that facilitates easy installation, maintenance, and upgrades, thereby reducing downtime and associated costs.(15) The adapter 50 is configured to ensure regulatory compliance for the harness system 100 (or parts thereof) against at least one compliance requirement 50. By continuously monitoring and adjusting the system’s parameters, the adapter 50 helps maintain adherence to industry standards related to safety, electromagnetic compatibility, electrical isolation, data communication, and voltage protection. The adapter 50 integrates various protective and communicative units, such as an overcurrent fuse, a signal line filter like an EMC line filter, galvanic isolators for DC supply, a CAN / LIN bus, and a surge protection suppressor. These units work together to protect the system from electrical faults, electromagnetic interference, voltage spikes, and other disturbances, ensuring reliable operation and compliance with regulatory standards.(16) The advantages of this modular harness system are manifold. The modularity of the system allows for flexibility in configuration and expansion, enabling the addition or removal of harness sections without significant disruption. The inclusion of the adapter 50 ensures that the system remains compliant with evolving regulatory requirements, reducing the need for manual adjustments and minimizing the potential for human error. The safety features integrated into the adapter 50 protect the system from various electrical and environmental threats, enhancing the overall reliability and longevity of the harness system. (17) This disclosure can improve upon the prior art due to its modular design, which simplifies installation and maintenance, and its compliance capabilities provided by the adapter 50. Traditional harness systems often require extensive manual adjustments to meet compliance standards, for example inserting new cables, removing some components or cables, etc., whereas this system automates the process, which may enable continuous and reliable compliance. Additionally, the safety measures incorporated into the adapter 50 offer enhanced protection against electrical faults and environmental disturbances, which are often inadequately addressed in conventional systems.(18) In conclusion, the modular harness system 100 with its integrated adapter 50 provides a robust, flexible, and compliant solution for connecting various electrical system components to a master electronic control module. Its modular design, advanced compliance capabilities, and comprehensive safety features make it a superior alternative to traditional harness systems, addressing their inherent limitations and providing a more reliable and efficient solution for modem electronic applications.(19) The adapter 50 in the modular harness system 100 is equipped with several components that ensure the system meets regulatory compliance requirements. These components may include an overcurrent fuse, a signal line filter such as an EMC line filter, galvanic isolators for DC supply, a CAN / LIN bus, and a surge protection suppressor. Each of these units can play a role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and regulatory adherence of the harness system.(20) An overcurrent fuse is a safety device designed to protect the harness system from excessive current that could cause overheating or damage to the wires and connected components. By automatically disconnecting the electrical circuit when an overcurrent condition is detected, the fuse prevents potential fire hazards and equipment failure, ensuring the harness system operates within safe electrical limits. This is for regulatory compliance, as many standards mandate protection against electrical faults to ensure system safety.(21) A signal line filter, such as an EMC line filter, is used to mitigate electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can disrupt the transmission of data and power within the harness system. By filtering out unwanted noise and ensuring clean signal lines, the EMC filter helps maintain the integrity of data communication and power supply. Compliance with electromagnetic compatibility standards is used in many industries, and the inclusion of a signal line filter in the adapter may ensure the harness system meets these requirements. (22) A galvanic isolator for DC supply is used to separate different sections of the harness system electrically, preventing direct current (DC) from flowing between them. This isolation can protect sensitive components from voltage spikes and ground loops, which can cause malfunctions or damage. Galvanic isolation is often required by regulatory standards to ensure the safety and reliability of electronic systems, particularly in environments where different electrical potentials may exist.(23) A CAN / LIN bus is a communication protocol used for data exchange between the master electronic control module and various components of the harness system. The Controller Area Network (CAN) and Local Interconnect Network (LIN) buses facilitate realtime communication and control, ensuring that data is transmitted accurately and efficiently. These communication protocols are widely used in automotive and industrial applications, and compliance with relevant standards ensures the harness system can seamlessly integrate with other systems and devices.(24) A surge protection suppressor is designed to protect the harness system from voltage surges that can result from lightning strikes, power outages, or other transient events. By clamping excess voltage and safely diverting it to the ground, the surge suppressor prevents damage to the harness system and connected components. Regulatory standards often require surge protection to ensure the resilience and longevity of electronic systems, and the inclusion of a surge protection suppressor in the adapter helps the harness system meet these requirements.(25) In summary, the adapter 50 integrates one or more of these units to ensure comprehensive regulatory compliance for the entire harness system. The overcurrent fuse, signal line filter, galvanic isolators, CAN / LIN bus, and surge protection suppressor each address specific compliance factors related to safety, electromagnetic compatibility, electrical isolation, data communication, and voltage protection. By incorporating these elements, the adapter can be configured to continuously monitor and adjust the harness system, certifying that it meets regulatory standards and providing a robust, reliable solution for connecting electronic components.(26) The main backbone section 5, also referred to as the spine, serves as the central hub for the modular harness system 100, providing a structured and organized platform for connecting the master electronic control module 10 with various harness sections 20. The main backbone section 5 is akin to an outbreak board, where one or more harness sections 20 can be arranged and interconnected. As depicted in FIG. 4, the backbone facilitates the distribution of data and power across the system, ensuring efficient communication and coordination among all connected components.(27) The spine comprises several features that enhance its functionality and versatility. It includes CAN (Controller Area Network) bus subnets and LIN (Local Interconnect Network) for robust and reliable data communication. These communication protocols are for transmitting data between the master electronic control module 10 and the modular harness sections 20, ensuring real-time control and monitoring of various system components.Additionally, the backbone section 5 incorporates analog / PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) outputs and inputs, which are crucial for controlling and receiving signals from analog devices and systems that require precise modulation of electrical signals.(28) Signal distribution within the main backbone section 5 is managed to ensure that data and power are accurately and efficiently routed to their respective destinations. This organized distribution prevents signal interference and power loss, contributing to the overall reliability and performance of the harness system 100.(29) Furthermore, software integrated into the spine is tailored to support its complex functions. This software is designed to manage the communication protocols, signal distribution, and overall system coordination, ensuring that all components operate in harmony. It allows for real-time adjustments and monitoring, which are essential for maintaining system integrity and compliance with regulatory standards.(30) For example, in an automotive application, the main backbone section 5 might serve as the central node connecting the master electronic control module 10 to various subsystems, such as the engine control unit, transmission control unit, and various sensors and actuators. The CAN and LIN bus subnets would facilitate seamless data communication between these subsystems, while the analog / PWM outputs and inputs would control and monitor the physical signals from sensors and actuators. The integrated software would ensure that all these components work together efficiently, providing real-time data and control to the master electronic control module 10.(31) The modular harness section 20 is a component of the modular harness system 100, designed to connect various electrical system components 12 to the master electronic control module 10. Each modular harness section 20 comprises multiple wires and connectors that facilitate both data transmission and power distribution. These sections are engineered for flexibility, allowing them to be easily added, removed, or replaced as needed. For instance, in an automotive application, a modular harness section 20 might connect the vehicle’s sensors, actuators, and control units to the main control module, ensuring seamless communication and coordinated functionality. The modular nature of these sections enables quick and efficient maintenance or upgrades, thereby reducing system downtime and associated costs.(32) The extension section 30 is designed to extend the reach of the modular harness sections 20, providing flexibility in the routing and positioning of the harness system components. This section includes an extension wire 32, which is specifically engineered to transmit both data and electrical power over longer distances without significant signal degradation or power loss. For example, in an industrial automation setup, the extension section 30 might be used to connect remote sensors or actuators located far from the main control unit, ensuring reliable data and power transmission across the entire system. The extension wire 32 is typically insulated and shielded to protect against environmental factors such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) and physical wear, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.(33) The connector section 40 serves as the interface between different modular harness sections 20 and the extension section 30. It is adapted to receive the extension wire 32 and facilitate the relay of data and / or electrical power from one harness section 20-1 to another 20-2. The connector section 40 ensures secure and reliable connections, preventing data loss and power interruptions. For instance, in a telecommunication system, the connector section 40 might link various network modules, enabling seamless data flow and communication between them. These connectors are often designed with locking mechanisms and protective housings to safeguard the connections from physical damage and environmental factors, further enhancing the robustness and reliability of the harness system. (34) In summary, the modular harness section 20, extension section 30 with extension wire 32, and connector section 40 work together to create a flexible, reliable, and efficient modular harness system 100. This system can be easily configured, maintained, and upgraded to meet the specific needs of various applications, from automotive and industrial automation to telecommunications and beyond.(35) In FIG. 5, the number 1) corresponds to a BMU / Battery, which is an exemplary electrical system component 12, 2) corresponds to an ID plug, and 3) corresponds to the connector section, which can be a daisy chain connection. Here, a subnet is input and output at 24V supply; involving wake up signal and HVIF.(36) The components of FIGs. 7-9 can be inserted selectively into the modular harness system 100 such that it can be scalable and / or connected for batteries, thermal systems with pumps, heaters, fans, etc., or other electrical system components 12. The adapter 50 could be integrated between extension sections 30. The adapter 50 could alternatively be arranged anywhere in the system 100, not necessarily according to what is shown in FIGs. 2 and 10. There may be one or more adapters 50. The adapter 50 may comprises one or more over current fuses, signal line filters, EMC line filters, galvanic isolators for DC supply, CAN buses, FIN buses, surge protection units, surge suppression units, or the like.(37) FIG. 10 is similar to what is shown in FIG. 2, showing modular harness sections 20, extension sections 30, connector sections 40, and adapter 40, of a modular harness system 100.(38) The adapter 50 may make time to market faster as EMC compliance or other compliance requirements can be achieved by said adapters 50.(39) The harness system 100 can be adapted to fit its area of application, for example having specific adapters for the marine industry, the industrial industry, and / or other requirements.(40) FIG. 11 shows an exemplary compliance requirement being EMC immunity requirement from IEC 61000-6-2, “Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 6-1 : Generic standards - Immunity for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments”. A galvanic isolator that fulfills the EMC requirement could be added before a connector section (e.g. daisy chain connection) that is shorter than 3 meters into the aforementioned adapter 50 such that the components are automatically made EMC compliant. This is so the indicated “b” requirement (indicated by bolded boxes at “b” and at “remarks”) can be met, i.e. for application only to ports interfacing with cables whose total length according to the manufacturer’s functional specification may exceed 3 meters. Any of the other requirements (a or c-f) can alternatively or additionally be considered, one by one or together. For example, a surge protector could be considered for point 2.2 “Surges line-to-earth”.(41) Using any of the aforementioned examples, compliance with regulatory requirements that were not within the initial design scope can thus be met and thus a redesign of a component can be avoided. This can save cost and time to market.(42) It shall be noted that for any of the FIGs. 3-11 where it says “shall”, “will”, “maximum”, etc., this can be construed as involving optional examples. It may also differ depending on area of application, such as marine industry, industrial vehicles, etc.(43) FIG. 7 is an exemplary method for arranging a modular harness system 100, involving the steps of connecting 210 a master electronic control module 10 to a main backbone section 5; connecting 220 a plurality of electrical system components 12 to a respective modular harness section 20; interconnecting 230 a first modular harness section 20-1 with a second harness section 20-2 from among the modular harness sections 20, the interconnection being performed via a connector section 40 and an extension section 30 comprising an extension wire 32, wherein the connector section 40 is adapted to: receive the extension wire 32, and relay data and / or supply electrical power from the first harness section 20-1 to the second harness section 20-2 via the received extension wire 32; and connecting 240 an adapter 50 to the harness system 100, the adapter 50 being configured to cause regulatory compliance for the harness system 100 against at least one compliance requirement.(44) The operational actions described in any of the exemplary aspects herein are described to provide examples and discussion. The actions may be performed by hardware components, may be embodied in machine-executable instructions to cause a processor to perform the actions, or may be performed by a combination of hardware and software.Although a specific order of method actions may be shown or described, the order of the actions may differ. In addition, two or more actions may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence.(45) The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "including" when used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.(46) It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.(47) Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element to another element as illustrated in the Figures. It will be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.(48) Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.(49) It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure and appended clauses. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed aspects for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the disclosure being set forth in the following clauses.(50) One or more of the following numbered clauses can be seen as one or more examples of this disclosure:(51) Clause 1 : A modular harness system (100) connecting to a master electronic control module (10) via a main backbone section (5), the harness system (100) comprising: a plurality of modular harness sections (20), each harness section (20) connecting to a respective electrical system component (12); an extension section (30) comprising an extension wire (32); a connector section (40) interconnecting a first harness section (20-1) with a second harness section (20-2) via said extension section (30), wherein the connector section () is adapted to: receive the extension wire (32), and relay data and / or supply electrical power from the first harness section (20-1) to the second harness section (20-2) via the received extension wire (32); and an adapter (50) connected to the harness system (100) and configured to cause regulatory compliance for the harness system (100) against at least one compliance requirement (50)(52) Clause 2: The modular harness system (100) of clause 1, wherein the connector section (40) comprises a daisy-chain connection.(53) Clause 3: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the extension wire (32) comprises a shielding layer to reduce electromagnetic interference.(54) Clause 4: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein each modular harness section (20) includes a diagnostic interface for monitoring the status of the respective electrical system component (12).(55) Clause 5: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the connector section (40) comprises a locking mechanism to securely connect the first harness section (20-1) and the second harness section (20-2).(56) Clause 6: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is configured to automatically adjust the harness system (100) to comply with different regulatory compliance requirements (50), optionally being an (at least near) realtime adjustment.(57) Clause 7: The modular harness system (100) of clause 6, wherein the adapter (50) adjusts the harness system (100) by dynamically modifying the power distribution to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards.(58) Clause 8: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-7, wherein the adapter (50) includes a database of regulatory compliance requirements (50) and adjusts the system parameters based on data stored in said database to meet the specific standards. (59) Clause 9: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-8, wherein the adapter (50) monitors the environmental conditions of the harness system (100) and adjusts the system to maintain compliance with temperature and humidity regulations.(60) Clause 10: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-9, wherein the adapter (50) utilizes signal filtering techniques to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and ensure compliance with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.(61) Clause 11: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-10, wherein the adapter (50) performs periodic self-diagnostics and adjusts the harness system (100) to correct any deviations from compliance requirements (50).(62) Clause 12: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-11, wherein the adapter (50) adjusts the harness system (100) by calibrating connected sensors and devices to ensure accurate data transmission and compliance with measurement standards.(63) Clause 13: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-12, the adapter (50) including a feedback loop to monitor compliance status and make adjustments to the harness system (100), optionally being a continuous monitoring.(64) Clause 14: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-13, wherein the adapter (50) adjusts the harness system (100) by reconfiguring communication protocols, such as CAN or LIN bus settings, to meet data integrity and communication standards.(65) Clause 15: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-14, wherein the adapter (50) incorporates surge protection measures to adjust and maintain compliance with voltage surge regulations.(66) Clause 16: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-15, wherein the adapter (50) adjusts the harness system (100) by optimizing the routing and connection of wires to ensure compliance with layout and installation standards.(67) Clause 17: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-16, wherein the adapter (50) is configured to receive firmware updates that include new or revised regulatory compliance requirements (50) and adjust the harness system (100) accordingly.(68) Clause 18: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-17, wherein the adapter (50) adjusts the harness system (100) by managing the load balancing across multiple harness sections (20) to prevent overloading and ensure compliance with power distribution standards.(69) Clause 19: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-18, wherein the adapter (50) adjusts the harness system (100) by isolating faulty sections and rerouting power and data flow to maintain overall system compliance.(70) Clause 20: The modular harness system (100) of any of clauses 6-19, wherein the adapter (50) includes machine learning algorithms that predict potential compliance issues and proactively adjust the harness system (100) to prevent non-compliance.(71) Clause 21: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein each modular harness section (20) is color-coded to indicate the type of electrical system component (12) it connects to.(72) Clause 22: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) comprises a memory unit storing compliance parameters for the regulatory compliance requirement (50).(73) Clause 23: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the main backbone section (5) includes a protective casing.(74) Clause 24: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the connector section (40) includes an indicator light to signal proper connection between the first harness section (20-1) and the second harness section (20-2).(75) Clause 25: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the extension wire (32) comprises a flexible material to facilitate easy routing through confined spaces.(76) Clause 26: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein each modular harness section (20) includes an identification tag to facilitate tracking and maintenance.(77) Clause 27: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the connector section (40) is waterproof to ensure reliable operation in moist environments. (78) Clause 28: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is detachable to allow for easy replacement or upgrading.(79) Clause 29: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, comprising a plurality of adapters (50), each adapter (50) being configured to cause regulatory compliance for the system (100) with respect to a respective compliance type.(80) Clause 30: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the extension section (30) includes an integrated fuse to protect the harness system (100) from electrical overload.(81) Clause 31: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the connector section (40) is configured to allow for quick-disconnect capability for rapid assembly and disassembly.(82) Clause 32: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes a wireless communication module to enable remote monitoring and control of the harness system (100).(83) Clause 33: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the extension section (30) and the modular harness sections (20) include strain relief features to minimize mechanical stress on the wires.(84) Clause 34: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the connector section (40) includes a thermal management system to dissipate heat generated during operation.(85) Clause 35: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) comprises an integrated microcontroller configured to monitor and adjust the harness system (100) parameters.(86) Clause 36: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes a software update interface allowing for the installation of firmware updates to address new or revised compliance requirements (50).(87) Clause 37: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) comprises a real-time clock to log compliance data timestamps for audit purposes.(88) Clause 38: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes a visual display to indicate the current compliance status of the harness system (100).(89) Clause 39: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is configured to interface with an external diagnostic tool to provide detailed compliance reports.(90) Clause 40: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes one or more sensors to monitor environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity to ensure ongoing compliance with the at least one compliance requirement (50).(91) Clause 41: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is configured to send alerts to the master electronic control module (10) when the harness system (100) approaches non-compliance with the at least one compliance requirement (50).(92) Clause 42: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) comprises a secure communication protocol to protect data integrity and privacy during compliance monitoring and reporting.(93) Clause 43: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes an energy-efficient mode to reduce power consumption while maintaining compliance with the at least one compliance requirement (50).(94) Clause 44: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is configured to store historical compliance data and provide trend analysis to predict future compliance issues.(95) Clause 45: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes an automatic calibration feature to adjust the harness system (100) settings for optimal performance and compliance.(96) Clause 46: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is equipped with a redundant power supply to ensure continuous operation during power fluctuations or outages.(97) Clause 47: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) comprises a modular design that allows for the addition or removal of compliance-specific modules to address different regulatory requirements (50).(98) Clause 48: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes a user interface allowing operators to manually verify and adjust compliance parameters.(99) Clause 49: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is configured to communicate with cloud-based compliance management systems to facilitate remote monitoring and control.(100) Clause 50: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes a tamper-evident seal to ensure the integrity of compliance settings and prevent unauthorized adjustments.(101) Clause 51: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) comprises a built-in self-test functionality to periodically check and verify its own operational integrity.(102) Clause 52: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) includes a user-configurable alert system to notify relevant personnel of compliance status changes.(103) Clause 53: The modular harness system (100) of any preceding clause, wherein the adapter (50) is designed with a modular architecture to easily integrate with various types of harness systems (100) and compliance requirements (50).(104) Clause 54: An adapter (50) adapted to be connected to the modular harness system (100) according to any of clauses 1-53 wherein the adapter (50) is configured to cause regulatory compliance for the harness system (100) against at least one compliance requirement.(105) Clause 55: A vehicle (1) comprising the modular harness system (100) according to any of clauses 1-53(106) Clause 56: A method (200) for arranging a modular harness system (100), comprising: connecting (210) a master electronic control module (10) to a main backbone section (5); connecting (220) a plurality of electrical system components (12) to a respective modular harness section (20); interconnecting (230) a first modular harness section (20-1) with a second harness section (20-2) from among the modular harness sections (20), the interconnection being performed via a connector section (40) and an extension section (30) comprising an extension wire (32), wherein the connector section (40) is adapted to: receive the extension wire (32), and relay data and / or supply electrical power from the first harness section (20-1) to the second harness section (20-2) via the received extension wire (32); and connecting (240) an adapter (50) to the harness system (100), the adapter (50) being configured to cause regulatory compliance for the harness system (100) against at least one compliance requirement.
Claims
1. A modular wiring harness system (100) for connecting a main electronic control module (10) to a plurality of electrical system components (12), the wiring harness system comprising: a main trunk section (5) connectable to the main electronic control module (10); a plurality of modular wiring harness sections (20), each wiring harness section (20) connecting to a respective electrical system component (12);an extension section (30) comprising an extension line (32);a connection section (40) configured to interconnect a preceding modular cabling section (20-1) in series with a succeeding modular second cabling section (20-2), from the plurality of modular cabling sections, to forward data and / or provide electrical power via the extension line (32); andan adapter (50) connected to the wiring system (100) and comprising one or more of an overcurrent fuse, a signal line filter, a galvanic isolator, a CAN / LIN bus, and a surge protector.
2. The modular cabling system (100) of claim 1, wherein the connection section (40) comprises a daisy chain.
3. A vehicle (1) comprising the modular wiring system (100) according to any one of claims 1-2.
4. A method (200) for arranging a modular cabling system (100), comprising:connecting (210) a main electronic control module (10) to a main trunk section (5); connecting (220) a plurality of electrical system components (12) to each respective modular wiring harness section (20);interconnecting (230), via a connection section (40) and an extension line (32), a preceding modular cabling section (20-1) in series with a succeeding modular cabling section (20-2), from the plurality of modular cabling sections (20), to forward data and / or provide electrical power; andconnecting (240) an adapter (50) to the main trunk section (5), wherein the adapter (50) includes one or more of an overcurrent fuse, a signal line filter, a galvanic isolator, a CAN / LIN bus, and a surge protector.