Auxiliary Lighting Control via Signal Sequence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting control systems often lack operator discretion for activating auxiliary lights, leading to unintended activation and requiring complex ECU programming or replacement, especially in aftermarket installations.
Innovation Solution
A lighting control device with a controller connected in parallel to the vehicle's lighting circuit, using a 555 IC timer and solid-state switch to detect specific signal change sequences, allowing operator-controlled activation of auxiliary lighting loads through existing primary lighting controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing componentry of the vehicle is used for control input, then the need for separate manually-operated switches is avoided, but the auxiliary equipment will be automatically activated every time the componentry is used, eliminating operator discretion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by requiring a specific sequence of signal pulses (initial high-to-low downstep followed by low-to-high upstep within a limited time window) rather than continuous or single activation. This periodic signal pattern allows the controller to distinguish between intentional activation sequences and normal operational signals, thereby providing operator discretion while using existing vehicle componentry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a specially programmed ECU is used to carry out control routines, then discretionary control is provided, but replacement, reprogramming or duplication of the trailer's existing ECU is required for aftermarket installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary controller that sits between the existing vehicle ECU and the auxiliary equipment. This intermediary device monitors signals from existing vehicle componentry and independently decides when to activate auxiliary equipment based on the specific signal sequence pattern, without requiring modification or reprogramming of the original ECU. This mediator approach enables discretionary control while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is segmented into two independent parts: the existing vehicle ECU that handles normal operational control, and the new intermediary controller that handles auxiliary equipment activation decisions. This segmentation allows the new control logic to be added without modifying or replacing the original ECU, simplifying aftermarket installation while providing the needed discretionary control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If intermittent operation of the brake pedal is used as activation signal, then operator discretionary control is provided, but unintentional activation may occur during necessary brake operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by requiring a specific temporal pattern of signal changes (high-to-low downstep followed by low-to-high upstep within a limited time window) rather than relying on intermittent brake pedal operation alone. This periodic signal sequence provides a more reliable and unambiguous activation method that reduces the risk of unintentional activation during normal brake operations, while still providing operator discretionary control.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device for a first lighting load on a vehicle or trailer features an input connected to a lighting circuit through which a different second lighting load is operated, thus placing the controller in parallel relation with the lighting circuit, and a power output connected to the first lighting load on the vehicle or trailer. The controller is configured to detect from the input, a signal change sequence in the lighting circuit that comprises an initial high-to-low signal downstep, and a subsequent low-to-high signal upstep completed within a limited time window triggered by the initial high-to-low signal downstep. In response to detection of this signal change sequence, the controller energizes the first lighting load. If the second lighting load is the vehicle headlights, for example, a user can turn on the first lighting load by momentarily flipping the headlight switch off, and then quickly back on again.