Pluggable Electronics Module for Automotive Power Distribution Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of power distribution systems in modern automotive vehicles, characterized by extensive wiring and the need for specialized circuit boards, leads to increased labor costs, heat degradation, and sealing requirements, making them inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A pluggable electronics module with a commercial standard electrical connector and communication bus electronics that can be directly plugged into a power distribution unit, eliminating the need for internal circuit boards and allowing for cost-effective construction using standard components like metal frets and bus bars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a printed circuit board is used in the power distribution unit, then electrical connections can be established, but the unit requires sealing to protect from heat degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the printed circuit board from the power distribution unit and replaces it with individual discrete components (relays, fuses, connectors) mounted directly on the unit housing. This eliminates the need for sealing the entire unit while maintaining all necessary electrical connections and functionality.
2Ease of operation
If extensive wiring is used to connect ECUs to the power distribution unit, then all components can be connected, but labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate wiring connections into a single integrated electrical connector assembly. The connector includes multiple terminals that simultaneously establish all necessary electrical connections between the ECU and power distribution components, reducing installation time and labor costs while maintaining full connectivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a specialized power distribution unit design is used, then specific automotive functions can be controlled, but special tooling and manufacturing are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power distribution unit design that can perform multiple automotive functions through standardized components and connectors. The unit can control various loads (lights, motors, accessories) using common electrical connection standards, eliminating the need for special tooling while maintaining full functional capability across different automotive applications.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronics module for automotive vehicles includes a housing; an electrical connector having a commercial standard electrical connector footprint mounted on the housing; and an electronics assembly including commercial standard communication bus electronics contained in the housing, the electronics assembly being electrically connected to the electrical connector. The electronics module is adapted to be plugged into a power distribution unit of an automotive vehicle in order to control power distribution components of the unit.