Auxiliary Lighting Relay Pack for Plug-and-Play Vehicle Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of auxiliary lighting systems for vehicles with mounted implements like snowplows is labor-intensive and requires significant alterations to the vehicle's electrical system, involving complex wiring connections that are time-consuming and require professional expertise.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a relay pack and multiple wiring harnesses connected to a vehicle's electric plug and battery, allowing for easy installation and operation of auxiliary lighting systems without splicing or cutting existing wires, using a plug-and-play system that connects to the vehicle's electrical system through existing connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wiring harness installation methods are used to connect auxiliary lighting systems, then reliable electrical connections are achieved, but installation time and labor complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring system is divided into separate modular components: a vehicle-side connector that interfaces with the vehicle's existing electrical system, and an implement-side connector that attaches to the auxiliary implement. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex splicing operations while maintaining reliable electrical connections through standardized plug-and-socket interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiring harnesses are pre-assembled with connectors attached before installation. The vehicle-side connector is pre-configured to interface with standard vehicle electrical outlets, and the implement-side connector is pre-attached to the auxiliary implement. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming on-site wiring operations.
2Reliability
If complex wiring connections are made to the vehicle's electrical system, then proper power and control signals are achieved, but the complexity of the installation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle-side connector is designed as a universal interface that can connect to various vehicle electrical outlets (cigarette lighter sockets, power outlets, etc.). This multi-functionality allows the same connector design to work across different vehicle types without requiring vehicle-specific customization, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining proper electrical integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiring harness acts as an intermediary component that bridges the vehicle's electrical system and the auxiliary implement's electrical system. It includes built-in relays and control circuits that mediate the electrical signals, automatically managing power distribution and control functions without requiring the installer to perform complex wiring operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle's existing electrical system is altered through splicing and cutting, then custom wiring configurations are achieved, but the risk of electrical damage and installation errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the wiring complexity from the vehicle's existing electrical system by using a standalone connector that interfaces with the vehicle through standard outlets rather than requiring integration into the vehicle's internal wiring. This extraction eliminates the need to splice or cut vehicle wires, thereby maintaining electrical system safety while achieving the necessary wiring configuration through the external connector.
4Reliability
If professional electrical technicians are required for installation, then proper electrical connections are ensured, but installation cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is designed to be self-installing without requiring professional electrical technicians. The plug-and-socket interface with visual alignment features and simple connection mechanisms enable end-users to perform the installation themselves. The system includes built-in electrical protection features (fuses, relays, polarity protection) that automatically ensure proper connections, eliminating the need for expert verification while maintaining connection accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary lighting system using a vehicle's electric plug is disclosed. A signal may be transmitted from the plug to an auxiliary implement attached to a vehicle. The signal may be sent through a wire bundle (wiring harness). The auxiliary lighting system does not require rewiring of the vehicle's wiring harness. A normally closed relay pack is included with the auxiliary lighting system that prevents simultaneous operation of the vehicle's headlights and the auxiliary lighting system.