Vehicle Power Distribution Controller with Dynamic Load Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern power distribution systems in vehicles and towed vehicles are not customizable, leading to complex and costly installations, with extensive wiring and user input systems that are confusing and inflexible, making it difficult for users to add or modify accessories.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution system with a user interface and controller that allows for customizable control of loads via a plurality of channels, using configuration instructions stored in memory and dynamic inputs from a user interface, enabling ON/OFF control of loads and master switch functionality, with wireless connectivity and override options, allowing for centralized control and flexibility across multiple vehicle makes and models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a standardized power distribution system is used, then installation cost and complexity are reduced, but the system cannot be easily customized or modified by users
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of load assignments through software configuration rather than fixed hardwired connections. Users can dynamically assign different loads to different channels through the controller interface, enabling the system to adapt to changing user needs without physical reinstallation.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller stores configuration instructions in memory that define the parameters of each channel (load type, control mode, override behavior). By changing these stored parameters through software configuration, the system can be customized for different makes and models of vehicles and different user preferences without hardware modification.
2Ease of operation
If multiple scattered distribution panels and switches are installed for each accessory, then each load can be independently controlled, but the wiring complexity and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple distribution functions are merged into a single centralized controller unit. The controller integrates multiple channels in one device, eliminating the need for multiple scattered distribution panels. All load control functions are consolidated in this single unit with a unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The single controller unit performs multiple functions: it controls multiple different types of loads through different channels, provides user switches for individual control, implements master switch functionality, and stores configuration data. This multi-functional device replaces numerous specialized components.
3Reliability
If extensive wiring looms are installed to connect each accessory to its control switches, then reliable electrical connections are established, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring system is segmented into modular channels, where each channel is independently configured and connected. This modular approach allows installers to connect loads channel-by-channel rather than installing extensive interconnected wiring looms, reducing overall wiring complexity while maintaining reliable connections through standardized channel interfaces.
4Ease of manufacture
If the power distribution system is made highly standardized for specific vehicle makes and models, then installation cost is reduced, but the system cannot be adapted to different vehicle types or modified later
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal device that can be installed in different makes and models of vehicles. It provides standardized mounting and connection interfaces while allowing software configuration to adapt to specific vehicle requirements, making it compatible across multiple vehicle types without requiring vehicle-specific hardware variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic software configuration rather than static hardwired configurations specific to each vehicle model. This allows the same hardware controller to be adapted to different vehicle makes and models by simply changing the stored configuration instructions, enabling both standardization and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a power distribution system for and a method of controlling operation of loads of a vehicle or a towed vehicle, including configuring a controller, adapted to be mounted in a towed vehicle and adapted to be configured to control operation of loads in the towed vehicle, to output state commands to the loads to control the loads.