Improved connector assembly for high-speed wireless communication between vehicles

Abstract

An improved connector assembly for high-speed wireless communication between vehicles, particularly a wireless communication system (100) for communication between a truck (102) and a trailer (104), the system comprising: a connector assembly (106) coupled between the truck (102) and the trailer (104), the connector assembly including a connector assembly housing (108); a first wireless communication module (112) coupled to electronic circuitry (114) in the truck; and a second wireless communication module (120) coupled to electronic circuitry (122) in the trailer, wherein the first and second wireless communication modules are arranged within the connector assembly housing, wherein the connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and / or second wireless communication modules and the environment (138) outside the connector assembly housing, and wherein the first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link (134) between them.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to vehicles, particularly heavy vehicles, and especially devices for communication between vehicles in a vehicle assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Many different types of vehicles are increasingly employing computing systems to achieve various functions. For example, trucks and trailers may include cameras, radar, lidar, or other sensors to enable autonomous or semi-autonomous functions. Furthermore, many vehicles (such as trucks and trailers) can be mechanically connected to each other, and many functions require communication between different vehicles. With the increasing number and complexity of vehicle features, reliable and secure high-speed data communication between different vehicles is required.

[0003] EP3572308 A1 discloses a connection for secure tractor-trailer communication.

[0004] US2019 / 0315170A1 discloses a trailer signaling system.

[0005] Nevertheless, there remains a need for improved systems for communication between vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an improved device for communication between vehicles.

[0007] This objective is achieved, at least in part, by a wireless communication system for communication between a truck and a trailer. The system includes a connector assembly connecting the truck and the trailer. The connector assembly includes a connector assembly housing, a first wireless communication module connected to electronic circuitry in the truck, and a second wireless communication module connected to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The first and second wireless communication modules are disposed within the connector assembly housing, which includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and / or second wireless communication modules and the external environment of the connector assembly housing. The first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link between them.

[0008] If electromagnetic radiation from the external environment reaches these wireless communication modules, it can interfere with data transmission between the two modules. Conversely, electromagnetic radiation from the wireless communication modules can interfere with the functionality of other electronic devices. The advantage of including electromagnetic shielding in the connector assembly housing is that it reduces or even eliminates these problems because the amount of electromagnetic radiation transmitted from the inside of the connector assembly housing to the outside and from the outside to the inside of the connector assembly housing is reduced. As a further advantage, this allows the use of frequency bands otherwise reserved for other applications.

[0009] Furthermore, since the first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link between them, a connection, such as between a truck and a trailer, can be established before multiple parts of the connector assembly cooperate to form electromagnetic shielding. This means that a connection can be formed between unconnected vehicle units even if some interference is possible. Such a connection can be useful, for example, during coupling operations. Once the multiple parts of the connector assembly have cooperated, virtually interference-free communication follows, and the transition from interference-prone communication to interference-free communication is seamless.

[0010] The connector assembly housing can be configured to completely enclose the first and second wireless communication modules, thereby forming a mechanically sealed enclosure surrounding the first and second wireless communication modules. Advantageously, this mechanically sealed enclosure formed by the connector assembly housing protects the wireless communication modules from environmental factors such as dust, dirt, or precipitation. It can also be designed to withstand mechanical shocks, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the wireless communication modules.

[0011] The electromagnetic shielding device may include a conductive material that impedes the transmission of electromagnetic radiation. To minimize electromagnetic radiation leakage, ideally, the conductive material should completely encapsulate the wireless communication modules or at least leave no holes or gaps of similar size to the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation. To achieve this, the conductive material can be arranged to form an electrical contact between a first ground plane included in the first wireless communication module and a second ground plane included in the second wireless communication module. Advantageously, this provides good electromagnetic shielding.

[0012] According to some aspects, the electromagnetic shielding device may include an electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structure. EBG structures are highly efficient in attenuating electromagnetic radiation in the frequency band corresponding to the electromagnetic bandgap of the EBG structure, and are therefore good electromagnetic shielding materials. Advantageously, unlike the use of ordinary conductive materials, electromagnetic shielding using EBG structures does not require maintaining electrical contact.

[0013] According to some aspects, the EBG structure can be arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation in the operating frequency bands of the first and second wireless communication modules. This may require matching the electromagnetic bandgap of the EBG structure with the operating frequency band, and has the advantage that the EBG structure will be an effective shielding device for electromagnetic radiation in the relevant frequency band.

[0014] The EBG structure may include a plurality of protruding elements arranged periodically or quasi-periodically on the substrate 620. Advantageously, this type of EBG structure is easy to manufacture.

[0015] According to some aspects, the space surrounding the plurality of protruding elements may be at least partially filled with a dielectric material. This dielectric material (which may be a non-conductive polymer or resin) will prevent other materials (such as dust, dirt, or water) from accumulating in the space between the protruding elements, which is an advantage because the accumulation of such materials could alter the properties of the EBG structure.

[0016] Optionally, the size of the protruding element can be less than 10% of the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation in air within the operating frequency bands of the first and second wireless communication modules. Advantageously, this can result in a good match between the operating frequency band and the electromagnetic bandgap of the EBG structure, thereby enabling the EBG to function as an effective electromagnetic shielding device.

[0017] According to several aspects, the distance between the first and second wireless communication modules can be less than 5 centimeters. This short distance between the wireless communication modules means that low output power can be used. Furthermore, it allows communication at very high carrier frequencies, where the available bandwidth is large. This, in turn, leads to a higher information transmission rate through the wireless communication system, which is an advantage.

[0018] The connector assembly may further include: a first connector including a first wireless communication module; and a second connector including a second wireless communication module. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically coupled to each other to form the connector assembly. Advantageously, the first and second connectors enable a secure mechanical connection between the various parts of the connector assembly, thereby maintaining a desired distance between the first and second communication modules.

[0019] The stated objective is also achieved, at least in part, by a truck and trailer. The truck includes a first connector comprising a first wireless communication module coupled to electronic circuitry within the truck. The first connector is arranged to connect to a second connector, which includes a second wireless communication module, and the first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly. The connector assembly includes a connector assembly housing, which in turn includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and second wireless communication modules and the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

[0020] The trailer includes a second connector that includes a second wireless communication module coupled to electronic circuitry within the trailer. The second connector is arranged to connect to a first connector that includes a first wireless communication module. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly that includes a connector assembly housing. The connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and second wireless communication modules and the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

[0021] The objective is also achieved, at least in part, by a method for wireless communication between a truck and a trailer. The truck includes a first connector, and the trailer includes a second connector. The first and second connectors each include a first wireless communication module connected to electronic circuitry in the truck, and the second wireless communication module connected to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly, which includes a connector assembly housing. The connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and second wireless communication modules and the environment outside the connector assembly housing. The method includes: connecting the first connector to the second connector; establishing a wireless communication link between the first and second wireless communication modules; and transmitting data between the first and second wireless communication modules.

[0022] Furthermore, the aforementioned objective can be achieved, at least in part, by a wireless communication system for communication between a truck and a trailer. This wireless communication system includes a connector assembly connecting the truck and the trailer, the connector assembly including a connector assembly housing. The wireless communication system also includes a first wireless communication module connected to electronic circuitry in the truck. The wireless communication system further includes a second wireless communication module connected to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The first and second wireless communication modules are arranged within the connector assembly housing. The first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link between them.

[0023] According to another embodiment, a connector assembly for communication between a truck and a trailer includes a first connector configured to connect to the truck, the first connector including a first wireless communication module configured to connect to electronic circuitry in the truck. The connector assembly also includes a second connector configured to connect to the trailer, the second connector including a second wireless communication module configured to connect to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The first and second connectors are configured to be mechanically coupled to each other to form a connector assembly. The first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link within the connector assembly.

[0024] According to another embodiment, a method for wireless communication between a truck and a trailer includes: connecting a first connector of the truck to a second connector of the trailer, such that a first wireless communication module of the first connector is positioned within a first distance of a second wireless communication module of the second connector. The first wireless communication module is connected to electronic circuitry in the truck. The second wireless communication module is connected to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The method further includes: establishing a wireless communication link between the first and second wireless communication modules. The method further includes: transmitting data between the first and second wireless communication modules at a first transmission speed.

[0025] Other devices, methods, and systems according to the embodiments will be apparent to or become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the following figures and detailed description. All such additional surface compactors, methods, and control systems are intended to be included in this specification and protected by this application. Furthermore, all embodiments disclosed herein are intended to be implemented individually or in any manner and / or in combination.

[0026] According to one aspect, a wireless communication system for communication between a truck and a trailer includes a connector assembly coupled between the truck and the trailer, the connector assembly including a connector assembly housing. The wireless communication system also includes a first wireless communication module coupled to electronic circuitry in the truck. The wireless communication system further includes a second wireless communication module coupled to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The first and second wireless communication modules are disposed within the connector assembly housing. The first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link between them.

[0027] According to another aspect, the connector assembly housing is configured to completely enclose the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module to isolate the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module from the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

[0028] According to another aspect, the connector assembly housing includes electromagnetic shielding to electromagnetically isolate the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module from the external environment of the connector assembly housing.

[0029] According to another aspect, the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module are separated by a distance of less than 5 centimeters within the connector assembly.

[0030] According to another aspect, the wireless communication link has a data transmission bandwidth of at least 5 gigabits per second (Gb / s).

[0031] According to another aspect, the connector assembly further includes: a first connector including a first wireless communication module; and a second connector including a second wireless communication module. The first and second connectors are configured to selectively mechanically connect to each other to form a connector assembly.

[0032] According to another aspect, the first connector and the second connector are also configured to selectively separate from each other mechanically.

[0033] According to another aspect, the system also includes a first wired connection that links the first wireless communication module to the electronic circuitry in the truck.

[0034] According to another aspect, the system also includes a second wired connection that links the second wireless communication module to electronic circuitry in the trailer.

[0035] According to another aspect, a connector assembly for communication between a truck and a trailer includes a first connector configured to connect to the truck, the first connector including a first wireless communication module configured to connect to electronic circuitry in the truck. The connector assembly also includes a second connector configured to connect to the trailer, the second connector including a second wireless communication module configured to connect to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The first and second connectors are configured to be mechanically connected to each other to form a connector assembly. The first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link within the connector assembly.

[0036] According to another aspect, the connector assembly includes a connector assembly housing. A first wireless communication module and a second wireless communication module are disposed within the connector assembly housing.

[0037] According to another aspect, the connector assembly housing is configured to completely enclose the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module to isolate the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module from the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

[0038] According to another aspect, the connector assembly housing includes electromagnetic shielding to electromagnetically isolate the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module from the external environment of the connector assembly housing.

[0039] According to another aspect, the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module are separated by a distance of less than 5 centimeters within the connector assembly.

[0040] According to another perspective, the wireless communication link has a data transmission bandwidth of at least 5 Gb / s. Of course, other data transmission bandwidths are also possible. Here, "data transmission bandwidth" can refer to the information transmission rate in bits per second or the coding bit rate including channel code overhead, etc.

[0041] According to another aspect, the first connector and the second connector are also configured to selectively separate from each other mechanically.

[0042] According to another aspect, a method for wireless communication between a truck and a trailer includes: connecting a first connector of the truck to a second connector of the trailer, such that a first wireless communication module of the first connector is positioned within a first distance of a second wireless communication module of the second connector. The first wireless communication module is connected to electronic circuitry in the truck. The second wireless communication module is connected to electronic circuitry in the trailer. The method further includes: establishing a wireless communication link between the first and second wireless communication modules. The method further includes: transmitting data between the first and second wireless communication modules at a first transmission speed.

[0043] According to another aspect, the first distance is less than 5cm.

[0044] According to another aspect, the first transmission speed is greater than 5Gb / s.

[0045] According to another aspect, connecting the first connector to the second connector further includes forming a connector assembly, the connector assembly including a connector assembly housing that completely encloses the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module to isolate the first wireless communication module and the second wireless communication module from the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

[0046] The methods disclosed herein are associated with the same advantages discussed above in conjunction with different devices. Control units suitable for controlling some of the operations described herein are also disclosed herein.

[0047] Generally, all terms used herein should be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art, unless otherwise expressly defined herein. Unless otherwise expressly stated, all references to “a / an / the element, device, component, apparatus, step, etc.” are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of the element, device, component, apparatus, step, etc. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the steps of any method disclosed herein need not be performed in the exact order disclosed. Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon studying the accompanying drawings and the following description. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to produce embodiments other than those described below without departing from the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0048] This disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0049] Figure 1 A truck and trailer with wireless connector components are shown;

[0050] Figure 2A and Figure 2B The connector assembly is schematically shown in both connected and disconnected states;

[0051] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a view of the mechanical connector assembly in both connected and disconnected states.

[0052] Figure 4 It is a flowchart illustrating the method.

[0053] Figure 5A and Figure 5B An example vehicle assembly is shown.

[0054] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Electromagnetic bandgap materials are schematically shown.

[0055] Figure 7 The control unit is schematically shown; and

[0056] Figure 8 An example computer program product is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0057] Various aspects of this disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the different devices and methods disclosed herein can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. The same reference numerals in the drawings consistently refer to the same elements.

[0058] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various aspects of this disclosure only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0059] Figure 1 A wireless communication system 100 for truck 102 and trailer 104 is illustrated. In this example, a high-speed wireless connector assembly 106 connects truck 102 and trailer 104 to enable high-speed communication between components of truck 102 and components of trailer 104. However, it should be understood that any vehicle or vehicle assembly may employ the features of the embodiments described herein. As used herein, "vehicle" means equipment used for transporting goods and / or people and may include motor vehicles (e.g., trucks, cars, and / or motorized construction equipment) and non-motor vehicles (e.g., trailers, trolleys, and / or bogies).

[0060] Now for reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B This illustrates some embodiments. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of connector assembly 106. Figure 2A A connector assembly 106, including its components, is shown in a connected state, and Figure 2B The connector assembly 106 is shown in a disconnected state. As described above, the connector assembly 106 connects the truck 102 and the trailer 104. The connector assembly 106 includes a connector assembly housing (not shown) that houses a first wireless communication module 112 and a second wireless communication module 120. In this example, the first wireless communication module 112 is connected to electronic circuitry 114 in the truck 102 via a first wired connection 116, and the second wireless communication module 120 is connected to electronic circuitry 122 in the trailer 104 via a second wired connection 124. The electronic circuits 114 and 122 can be connected to various components, such as computing devices, sensors, and / or cameras.

[0061] Establishing a direct wired connection between electronic circuits 114, 122 in different vehicles can have several disadvantages. One disadvantage is that it can be difficult to disconnect the wired connection to allow the vehicles to be separated from each other or connected to different vehicles. Many high-speed wired connection mechanisms can only perform a limited number of connect / disconnect cycles without compromising the reliability of the high-speed wired connection. In this example, instead of establishing a direct wired connection, connector assembly 106 positions the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 very close to each other within the connector assembly housing. This allows the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 to establish a high-speed wireless communication link 134 between them without the performance degradation that may occur with detachable high-speed wired connections.

[0062] In this embodiment, the first wireless communication module 112 includes a first transceiver 128 connected to the first antenna 126, and the second wireless communication module 120 includes a second transceiver 132 connected to the second antenna 130. However, it should be understood that different components, such as dedicated transmitters, receivers and / or multiple antennas, may be used.

[0063] In this embodiment, the first antenna 126 of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second antenna 130 of the second wireless communication module 120 are separated by a distance of less than 5 cm within the connector assembly 106. However, it should be understood that a larger or smaller spacing distance can be used as needed. One advantage of positioning the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 very close together is that a high-speed wireless communication link 134 can be established between the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 with a relatively small amount of power. For example, in this example, the first wireless communication module 112 and / or the second wireless communication module 120 convert digital data into radio frequency (RF) waves (e.g., 60 GHz or higher) and vice versa. The RF waves may further include modulation (e.g., quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)) to further increase the bit rate of the wireless communication link 134. For example, in this embodiment, the wireless communication link 134 has a data transmission bandwidth of at least 5 gigabits per second (Gb / s). In some embodiments, the wireless communication link 134 is 10 Gb / s or higher, but it should be understood that the connector assembly 106 can be configured to provide a wireless communication link with higher or lower bandwidth when needed. In some examples, circuitry 114 in truck 102 and / or circuitry 122 in trailer 104 may include multiplexers / demultiplexers that combine and / or separate multiple individual data signals from, for example, different sensors into a combined high-bandwidth data signal for transmission between truck 102 and trailer 104.

[0064] Another advantage of this arrangement is that the transmission power of the first wireless communication module 112 and / or the second wireless communication module 120 can be kept relatively low. In addition to reducing power consumption, this also reduces the transmission range of the first wireless communication module 112 and / or the second wireless communication module 120, which in turn makes it more difficult for unauthorized third parties to access the wireless communication link 134.

[0065] In this embodiment, the connector assembly housing is also configured to completely enclose the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 to isolate them from the external environment 138 (e.g., moisture and other physical hazards). Furthermore, the connector assembly housing may also include an electromagnetic shield 140 to electromagnetically isolate the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 from the environment 138. The electromagnetic shield 140 provides several benefits. For example, the shield 140 prevents external electromagnetic interference to the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120, which allows the wireless communication link 134 to operate more reliably at higher connection speeds. Additionally, the shield 140 improves the security of the wireless communication link 134 by reducing bidirectional electromagnetic signal transmission between the connector assembly housing and the environment 138, and avoids regulatory issues that might apply to higher-power wireless communication.

[0066] In this example, the connector assembly includes: a first connector 108, which includes a first wireless communication module 112; and a second connector 118, which includes a second wireless communication module 120. Figure 2B As shown, the first connector 108 and the second connector 118 are configured to selectively mechanically connect to each other to form connector assembly 106, and can also selectively mechanically disconnect from each other as needed. Because the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 do not form a direct wired connection, the number of connection / disconnection cycles for the first connector 108 and the second connector 118 is significantly increased. In this example, the first connector 108 forms a male connection interface 142, while the second connector 118 forms a female connection interface 144; however, it should be understood that any number of different connection arrangements and mechanisms can be used as needed.

[0067] In this embodiment, truck 102 and trailer 104 can move relative to each other while connected to each other without disconnecting connector assembly 106. For example, in Figure 1 In the example, connector assembly 106 uses a suitable locking mechanism to form a dedicated mechanical tether between truck 102 and trailer 104 to maintain connector assembly 106 and wireless communication link 134.

[0068] In another example, the mechanical connection of truck 102 and trailer 104 can be achieved by forming a suitable connector assembly as part of the connection operation. In this regard, Figure 3A and Figure 3BThis is a view of an alternative mechanical connector assembly 306 in a connected and disconnected state according to some alternative embodiments. In this example, truck 102 includes a fifth wheel 346, which, as part of the mechanical coupling operation, is coupled to a kingpin 348 of trailer 104. In this example, a first connector 310 coupled to truck 102 near the fifth wheel 346 includes a male connection interface 342 positioned to be received by a female connection interface 344 of a second connector 318 coupled to trailer 104 near the kingpin 348. In this way, the mechanical coupling operation between truck 102 and trailer 104 forms a connector assembly housing 308 that accommodates... Figures 1 to 2B The connector assembly 106 comprises some or all of its components or similar components to provide a wireless communication link between the truck 102 and the trailer 104.

[0069] Figure 4 According to some embodiments, connector components are used (e.g., Figures 1 to 3B The flowchart illustrates an operation 400 of a method for wireless communication between a truck and a trailer using connector assemblies 106 and 306. Operation 400 includes connecting a first connector 108 of the truck to a second connector 118 of the trailer (block 402) to position a first wireless communication module within a suitable wireless communication distance of the second wireless communication module. Operation 400 further includes establishing a wireless communication link between the first and second wireless communication modules (block 404). Operation 400 further includes transmitting data between the first and second wireless communication modules (block 406).

[0070] In this example, connecting the first connector to the second connector further includes forming a connector assembly housing (block 408) that completely encloses the first and second wireless communication modules. As discussed above, by completely enclosing these wireless communication modules, these wireless communication modules can be isolated from the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

[0071] In this disclosure, the term "truck" can be interpreted as any tractor unit arranged to tow another vehicle unit, the truck being connected to that other vehicle unit via a coupling device (e.g., a fifth wheel, kingpin, or drawbar). Similarly, a trailer can be any vehicle arranged to be towed by such a tractor unit. For example, Figure 5A A vehicle assembly 500 is shown, which includes a traction unit (i.e., a truck 102) and a first semi-trailer (i.e., a trailer 104 without a front axle), with a connector assembly 106 arranged between these vehicles according to the present disclosure. Figure 5BA vehicle assembly 500 is shown, which includes a truck 102 connected to a trailer 104 having a front axle, and a connector assembly 106 arranged between the vehicles.

[0072] Figure 5A The vehicle assembly also includes a trolley 510 arranged to connect to the first semi-trailer and the second semi-trailer 520. The wireless communication system according to this disclosure can also be used for communication between the first semi-trailer and the trolley 510 and / or between the trolley 510 and the second semi-trailer 520. Alternatively, each vehicle in the vehicle assembly can communicate with the vehicles immediately preceding or following it via the wireless communication system 100 described herein. Therefore, the trolley 510 is considered herein as a form of trailer vehicle.

[0073] During vehicle operation, the wireless communication system 100 is expected to be exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as high and low temperatures, precipitation such as rain or snow, and dust and dirt from roads. The wireless communication system 100 may also be located near other electronic systems that generate electromagnetic fields and / or are sensitive to electromagnetic fields, which could lead to the wireless communication system 100 being affected by or being affected by these other electronic systems. Therefore, it is important that the wireless communication system 100 be adequately shielded both mechanically and electromagnetically.

[0074] Furthermore, verifying the robustness of a heavy-duty vehicle's wireless communication system against interference is challenging because the system must operate under a wide range of scenarios and conditions. Using interference mitigation methods incorporated into the signal processing approach of the system also increases its complexity. As described in this disclosure, eliminating interference by reducing the amount of electromagnetic radiation capable of causing interference offers a simpler solution.

[0075] Therefore, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2BA wireless communication system 100 for communication between a truck 102 and a trailer 104 is disclosed. The system includes a connector assembly 106 connected between the truck 102 and the trailer 104. The connector assembly includes a connector assembly housing, a first wireless communication module 112 connected to electronic circuitry 114 in the truck, and a second wireless communication module 120 connected to electronic circuitry 122 in the trailer. The first and second wireless communication modules are disposed within the connector assembly housing, and the connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and / or second wireless communication modules and the external environment 138 of the connector assembly housing. The first and second wireless communication modules are configured to establish a wireless communication link 134 between them.

[0076] The electromagnetic shielding device is arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the wireless communication module inside the connector assembly housing and the external environment 138. This significantly reduces the risk of interference from external electromagnetic radiation sources to the wireless communication system 100, as well as the risk of other devices installed near the wireless communication system 100 being affected by the wireless communication system.

[0077] Furthermore, if the wireless communication system 100 is isolated from or at least heavily shielded from the environment 138, this may affect which frequency bands the system can use and may also affect the permitted transmission power. If the system does not interact with the external environment, it may be permitted to use carrier frequency bands that are otherwise licensed or dedicated to other specific applications.

[0078] According to some aspects, the distance between the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 can be less than 5 centimeters. This short distance allows communication at very high carrier frequencies (e.g., between 120 GHz and 300 GHz or higher). One advantage of using very high carrier frequencies is the large bandwidth of the available frequency band, which in turn leads to a higher information transmission rate through the wireless communication system.

[0079] The connector assembly may further include: a first connector 108 including a first wireless communication module; and a second connector 118 including a second wireless communication module. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to each other to form connector assembly 106.

[0080] To mechanically protect these wireless communication modules from the surrounding environment, the connector assembly housing can be configured to completely enclose the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120. In other words, the connector assembly housing can form a mechanically sealed enclosure surrounding the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120.

[0081] Here, the term "mechanical seal" should be interpreted as meaning that the connector assembly housing is designed to reduce the likelihood of objects from the environment (such as sand, dust particles, or water droplets) entering the connector assembly 106. As an example, Figure 2A and Figure 2B A first connector 108 forming a male connection interface or plug and a second connector 118 forming a corresponding socket or female connection interface are shown. This will serve as a mechanical seal, although it is not an airtight seal.

[0082] As an alternative, these connection interfaces may include threads arranged such that the connection interfaces can be screwed together to keep the connector securely connected. Alternatively, the connector may be a bayonet connector.

[0083] The connector assembly housing may also be arranged to resist mechanical shock. This resistance may include: the connector assembly housing resisting breakage due to mechanical shock, and the connector being arranged to withstand mechanical shock without disconnection. Optionally, the connector assembly housing may include a rigid or shock-resistant layer, or a padding layer. Preferably, the connector assembly housing should be able to resist deformation caused by mechanical shock.

[0084] Electromagnetic shielding devices can block, absorb, and / or attenuate electromagnetic radiation. These devices may include conductive materials, such as metal foil or plates, conductive foam, or conductive mesh. Conductive materials are understood herein to be materials having electrical conductivity similar to that of metals or semiconductors, or alternatively, having a conductivity greater than 100 Ωm. -1 The conductive foam is a material with high electrical conductivity. According to one example, the conductive foam could be a metal foam. According to another example, it could comprise smaller particles of a conductive material (e.g., metal or carbon black) dispersed in a carrier material (e.g., a polymer or resin).

[0085] The conductive material can be selected based on the operating frequency bands of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120. Components of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 (e.g., transceivers 128, 132 and antennas 126, 130) will be arranged to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation within one or more frequency bands, where a frequency band is the frequency range between a minimum frequency and a maximum frequency. A frequency band can also be defined by a center frequency located at the center of the band and the bandwidth. The one or more frequency bands in which the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 are arranged to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation will be referred to herein as the operating frequency bands of the wireless communication modules or as carrier frequency bands.

[0086] In particular, if the conductive material selected for the electromagnetic shielding device is a mesh or any other structure including holes, the hole size can be selected such that it is much smaller than the corresponding wavelength of electromagnetic radiation in air in the operating frequency bands of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120. The hole size can be, for example, 10% of the wavelength or less.

[0087] To prevent electromagnetic radiation from leaking into or out of the connector assembly housing, it is advantageous to completely encapsulate the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 with conductive material, or at least leave no gaps with dimensions similar to or larger than the wavelength of the operating frequency band in air. This can be particularly challenging if the wavelength is very short, such as a few millimeters, because mechanical shocks that deform the connector assembly housing or improper connection of connectors 108, 118 may create holes or gaps of several millimeters.

[0088] Therefore, the conductive material can be arranged to form an electrical contact between the first ground plane included in the first wireless communication module 112 and the second ground plane included in the second wireless communication module 120.

[0089] Here, the ground plane is considered as a conductive plane or a sufficiently large object to serve as a zero-voltage reference level. Therefore, by arranging an electromagnetic shielding device comprising conductive material to form an electrical contact between the two ground planes, the first and second wireless communication modules are completely encapsulated, thereby reducing the risk of electromagnetic wave leakage.

[0090] One particularly effective electromagnetic shielding device is the electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structure. An EBG structure is a metamaterial, that is, a material formed by at least two different materials arranged in a specific manner. In an EBG structure, electromagnetic waves in a certain frequency band are strongly attenuated, and propagation through the structure is reduced for frequencies within that band. This frequency band is the electromagnetic bandgap or stopband of the EBG structure. EBG structures can also be referred to as photonic bandgap or PBG structures.

[0091] EBG structures are typically periodic or quasi-periodic arrangements of elements with selected electromagnetic properties. Here, "periodic arrangement" refers to the repeated arrangement of basic building blocks at regular intervals in one, two, or three dimensions, while "quasi-periodic arrangement" refers to an arrangement of building blocks with some local structure but without long-range order. Alternatively, EBG structures can be arrangements of elements characterized by translational symmetry, rotational symmetry, or sliding pair symmetry.

[0092] The selected electromagnetic properties of the component depend on the intended use of the EBG structure. According to one example, the component may include a dielectric material and be surrounded by different dielectric materials with different dielectric constants. According to another example, the component may include a conductive material such as a metal or a conductive polymer and may be surrounded by a dielectric such as a non-conductive polymer or resin or air. The example EBG structure 600 in... Figure 6A and Figure 6B The image shown includes elements 610 arranged in a two-dimensional periodic pattern. In this case, these elements have a cuboid shape, but they can also be, for example, cylindrical, conical, or mushroom-shaped.

[0093] Alternatively, EBG materials may also comprise blocks of conductive material (e.g., metals or conductive polymers) with multiple pores arranged in a periodic or quasi-periodic pattern in one, two, or three dimensions. These pores may be filled with air or with a solid dielectric, such as a non-conductive polymer or resin.

[0094] The electromagnetic shielding device included in the connector assembly housing may therefore include an electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structure 600. As an example, the EBG structure 600 may include a plurality of protruding elements 610 arranged periodically or quasi-periodically on a substrate 620.

[0095] As previously mentioned, these protruding elements will be surrounded by a dielectric (i.e., a material that is a poor conductor of electricity). The properties of this material (such as its dielectric constant) will affect the functionality of the EBG structure. If air is used as the dielectric material, it is important to ensure that no other material enters the EBG structure and occupies the space between these protruding elements, as this could weaken the electromagnetic shielding performance of the EBG structure.

[0096] In this application, the wireless communication system 100 may be exposed to environmental factors such as dirt and dust, water, road salt, etc. Therefore, it may be advantageous to construct the EBG structure such that the space surrounding the plurality of protruding elements 610 is at least partially filled with a solid dielectric material, or preferably completely filled with a solid dielectric material, such as a non-conductive polymer or resin. This can mitigate the problem of other materials (e.g., dust, dirt, or water) being introduced and accumulating within the EBG structure.

[0097] The EBG structure causes electromagnetic radiation to attenuate at frequencies falling within the bandgap of the material. In this application, the bandgap can advantageously be matched with at least one operating frequency band of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120, i.e., the EBG structure 600 can be arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation in the operating frequency bands of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120.

[0098] The band gap of the EBG structure is particularly determined by the dimensions of the protruding element 610, which, in particular, are periodic dimensions in one or more directions of the EBG structure. In, for example... Figure 6A and Figure 6B In the EBG structure shown, this dimension will be the length s of one side of the cuboid in the EBG plane. For cylindrical protruding elements, this dimension can be the radius or diameter of the cylinder.

[0099] Therefore, in order to match the bandgap of the EBG structure with the operating frequency bands of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120, the size of the protruding element 610 can be less than 10% of the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation in air in the operating frequency bands of the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120.

[0100] Again, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B The document also discloses a truck 102 including a first connector 108. The first connector includes a first wireless communication module 112 coupled to electronic circuitry 114 in the truck and arranged to connect to a second connector 118 including a second wireless communication module 120. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly 106 including a connector assembly housing, wherein the connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and second wireless communication modules 112 and the external environment 138 of the connector assembly housing.

[0101] Furthermore, a trailer 104 including a second connector 118 is disclosed. This second connector includes a second wireless communication module 120, which is coupled to electronic circuitry 122 in the trailer and arranged to connect to a first connector 108 including a first wireless communication module 112. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly 106 including a connector assembly housing. The connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and second wireless communication modules 112 and the external environment 138 of the connector assembly housing.

[0102] Figure 4A method for wireless communication between a truck 102 and a trailer 104 is illustrated. The truck 102 includes a first connector 108, and the trailer 104 includes a second connector 118. The first connector 108 and the second connector 118 each include a first wireless communication module 112 and a second wireless communication module 120, wherein the first wireless communication module 112 is connected to electronic circuitry 114 in the truck 102, and the second wireless communication module 120 is connected to electronic circuitry 122 in the trailer. The first and second connectors are arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly 106 including a connector assembly housing. The connector assembly housing includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first and second wireless communication modules 112 and the external environment 138 of the connector assembly housing.

[0103] The method includes: connecting a first connector 108 to a second connector 118 (as shown in block 402); establishing a wireless communication link 134 between a first wireless communication module 112 and a second wireless communication module 120 (as shown in block 404); and transmitting data between the first wireless communication module 112 and the second wireless communication module 120 (as shown in block 406).

[0104] When an element is referred to as “connection,” “link,” “response,” “mounted,” or otherwise associated with another element, it may be directly connected, linked, responded to, or mounted to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as “directly connected,” “directly linked,” “directly responded to,” “directly mounted,” or otherwise directly associated with another element, there are no intermediate elements. The same reference numerals always refer to the same element. 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. For brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail. The term “and / or” and its abbreviation “ / ” include any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0105] It will be understood that while the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements / operations, these elements / operations should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element / operation from another. Therefore, a first element / first operation in some embodiments may be referred to as a second element / second operation in other embodiments without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals or the same reference numerals denote the same or similar elements.

[0106] As used herein, the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “comprises,” “include,” “including,” “have,” “has,” “having,” or variations thereof are open-ended and include one or more of the stated features, integers, elements, steps, components, or functions, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof. Furthermore, as used herein, the common abbreviation “eg (for example),” derived from the Latin phrase “exempli gratia,” may be used to introduce or specify one or more general examples of previously mentioned items and is not intended to limit such items. The common abbreviation “ie (i.e.),” derived from the Latin phrase “id est,” may be used to specify a particular item from a more general description.

[0107] Those skilled in the art will recognize that certain elements of the above embodiments can be combined or eliminated in various ways to produce further embodiments, and these further embodiments still fall within the scope and teachings of the inventive concept. It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above embodiments can be combined, in whole or in part, to produce additional embodiments within the scope and teachings of the inventive concept. Therefore, although specific embodiments and examples of the inventive concept have been described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the inventive concept, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0108] Figure 7 The components of a control unit 700 according to the embodiments discussed herein are schematically shown with respect to multiple functional units. This control unit may be included in a vehicle (such as truck 102, trailer 104) or vehicle assembly 500. Processing circuitry 710 is provided using any combination of one or more of a suitable central processing unit (CPU), multiprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), etc., capable of executing software instructions stored in a computer program product (e.g., in the form of storage medium 730). Processing circuitry 710 may also be provided as at least one application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0109] Specifically, the processing circuit 710 is configured to cause the control unit 700 to perform a set of operations or steps, such as combining Figure 4 The methods of discussion.

[0110] For example, storage medium 730 may store the set of operations, and processing circuitry 710 may be configured to retrieve the set of operations from storage medium 730 to cause control unit 700 to execute the set of operations. The set of operations may be provided as a set of executable instructions. Therefore, processing circuitry 710 is thus arranged to execute the methods disclosed herein. In particular, a control unit 700 for controlling communication between truck 102 and trailer 104 via wireless communication system 100 is disclosed. This control unit includes processing circuitry 710, an interface 720 coupled to processing circuitry 710, and storage medium 730 coupled to processing circuitry 710, wherein the storage medium includes machine-readable computer program instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry, cause control unit to perform the operations described above. Figure 4 The methods of discussion.

[0111] The storage medium 730 may also include permanent memory, which may be any one or a combination of magnetic memory, optical memory, solid-state memory, or even remotely mounted memory.

[0112] The control unit 700 may also include an interface 720 for communicating with at least one external device. Therefore, the interface 720 may include one or more transmitters and receivers, which include analog and digital components and a suitable number of ports for wired or wireless communication.

[0113] The processing circuit 710 controls the general operation of the control unit 700, for example, by sending data and control signals to the interface 720 and the storage medium 730, by receiving data and reports from the interface 720, and by retrieving data and instructions from the storage medium 730. Other components and related functions of the control node are omitted to avoid confusing the concepts presented herein.

[0114] Figure 8 A computer-readable medium 810 carrying a computer program is shown, the computer program including a program code component 820 for execution when the program product is run on a computer. Figure 4 The method shown. The computer-readable medium and code components can together form a computer program product 800.

Claims

1. A wireless communication system (100) for communication between a truck (102) and a trailer (104), the system comprising: A connector assembly (106) is connected between the truck (102) and the trailer (104). The connector assembly includes a connector assembly housing, which includes: a first wireless communication module (112) connected to electronic circuitry (114) in the truck; and a second wireless communication module (120) connected to electronic circuitry (122) in the trailer. In the disconnected state of the connector assembly (106), a first portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the first wireless communication module (112), and a second portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the second wireless communication module (120). In the connected state of the connector assembly (106), the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) are completely enclosed by the corresponding first and second portions of the connector assembly housing, such that the connector assembly housing forms a mechanical seal around the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120). This mechanical seal isolates the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) from the external environment of the connector assembly housing. The connector assembly housing is configured to establish a wireless communication link (134) between the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) in the connected state.

2. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The connector assembly housing also includes an electromagnetic shielding device arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between the first wireless communication module (112) and / or the second wireless communication module (120) and the environment outside the connector assembly housing.

3. The wireless communication system according to claim 2, wherein, The electromagnetic shielding device includes conductive materials.

4. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 3, wherein, The conductive material is arranged to form an electrical contact between a first ground plane included in the first wireless communication module (112) and a second ground plane included in the second wireless communication module (120).

5. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The electromagnetic shielding device includes an electromagnetic bandgap EBG structure (600).

6. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The EBG structure (600) is arranged to reduce the transmission of electromagnetic radiation in the operating frequency bands of the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120).

7. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The EBG structure (600) includes a plurality of protruding elements (610) arranged periodically or quasi-periodically on a substrate (620).

8. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 7, wherein, The space surrounding the plurality of protruding elements (610) is at least partially filled with dielectric material.

9. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 7, wherein, The size of the protruding element (610) is less than 10% of the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation in air in the operating frequency band of the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120).

10. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The distance between the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) is less than 5 centimeters.

11. The wireless communication system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The connector assembly also includes: The first connector (108) includes the first wireless communication module; and The second connector (118) includes the second wireless communication module. The first connector (108) and the second connector (118) are arranged to be mechanically connected to each other to form the connector assembly (106).

12. A truck (102) comprising a connector assembly (106) having a connector assembly housing, the connector assembly housing comprising: A first connector (108), the first connector including a first wireless communication module (112), the first wireless communication module (112) being coupled to electronic circuitry (114) in the truck; and The second connector (118) includes a second wireless communication module (120); In the disconnected state of the connector assembly (106), a first portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the first wireless communication module (112), and a second portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the second wireless communication module (120). In the connected state of the connector assembly (106), the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) are completely enclosed by the corresponding first and second portions of the connector assembly housing, such that the connector assembly housing forms a mechanical seal around the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120). This mechanical seal isolates the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) from the external environment of the connector assembly housing. The connector assembly (106) is configured to establish a wireless communication link (134) between the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) in the connected state.

13. A trailer (104) including a second connector (118) comprising a second wireless communication module (120) coupled to electronic circuitry (122) in the trailer (104), the second connector (118) being arranged to connect to a first connector (108) including a first wireless communication module (112), the first connector (108) and the second connector (118) being arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly (106), the connector assembly (106) including a connector assembly housing. in, In the disconnected state of the connector assembly (106), a first portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the first wireless communication module (112), and a second portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the second wireless communication module (120). In the connected state of the connector assembly (106), the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) are completely enclosed by the corresponding first and second portions of the connector assembly housing, such that the connector assembly housing forms a mechanical seal around the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120). This mechanical seal isolates the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) from the external environment of the connector assembly housing. The connector assembly (106) is configured to establish a wireless communication link (134) between the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) in the connected state.

14. A method for wireless communication between a truck (102) and a trailer (104), the truck (102) including a first connector (108) and the trailer (104) including a second connector (118), the first connector (108) and the second connector (118) respectively including a first wireless communication module (112) and a second wireless communication module (120), the first wireless communication module (112) being connected to electronic circuitry (114) in the truck (102) and the second wireless communication module (120) being connected to electronic circuitry (122) in the trailer, the first connector and the second connector being arranged to be mechanically connected to form a connector assembly (106), the connector assembly (106) including a connector assembly housing, wherein, In the disconnected state of the connector assembly (106), a first portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the first wireless communication module (112), and a second portion of the connector assembly housing is arranged around the second wireless communication module (120); wherein, in the connected state of the connector assembly (106), the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) are completely enclosed by the corresponding first and second portions of the connector assembly housing, such that the connector assembly housing forms a mechanical seal around the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120), the mechanical seal isolating the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120) from the external environment of the connector assembly housing; the method includes: Connect the first connector (108) to the second connector (118). Establish a wireless communication link (134) between the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120); and Data is transmitted between the first wireless communication module (112) and the second wireless communication module (120).

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