RFID Trailer Coupling Control Device for Authorized Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch control systems face challenges in efficiently identifying authorized operators and trailers, leading to potential unauthorized operation and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an RFID reading device within the trailer hitch or coupling arm to read an RFID transponder on a key fob or directly on the trailer, allowing for secure and efficient identification of operators and trailers, with communication to the towing vehicle's on-board network for enhanced control and safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional identification methods are used for trailer hitch operation, then system complexity is reduced, but operational safety and authorization control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or manual identification methods with an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) system. The RFID reading device reads identification data from an RFID transponder to determine operator authorization and trailer information, substituting physical key systems or manual verification with wireless electromagnetic field-based identification, thereby enhancing security without significantly increasing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control device serves as an intermediary between the RFID reading device and the trailer hitch actuators. It processes the identification data read by the RFID device, determines authorization status, and controls the locking/unlocking of the coupling arm accordingly. This intermediary layer enables sophisticated authorization logic and safety checks without requiring direct complex wiring between sensors and actuators
2Measurement precision
If RFID reading device is integrated into the trailer hitch, then identification accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID reading device is integrated directly into the coupling arm or coupling element structure of the trailer hitch. By merging the identification function with the mechanical coupling components, the system achieves accurate identification of trailers and operators while minimizing the addition of separate discrete components. The control device is also integrated into the existing trailer hitch control system, consolidating functions rather than adding independent subsystems
3Ease of operation
If RFID transponder is placed on key fob or trailer, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of identification may deteriorate due to reading errors
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID reading device is positioned at a specific location on the coupling arm or coupling element where it optimally reads the RFID transponder. The system is designed to read the transponder when the key fob or trailer is in the correct operational position relative to the hitch, ensuring reliable identification only under proper coupling conditions. This local optimization of the reading position maintains both ease of operation and identification reliability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances operational safety by ensuring only authorized personnel can operate the trailer hitch, provides accurate identification of trailers and loads, and enables improved driving stability through data transmission to the towing vehicle's systems, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and enhancing the trailer's operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The RFID reading device makes it possible to read in an RFID transponder arranged on a key fob, for example, and thus to identify the operator
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a trailer coupling (10a-10d) with a control unit (50a-50d) and a control unit (50a-50d) for a trailer coupling (10a-10d) for a towing vehicle (12), in particular a passenger car, wherein the trailer coupling (10a-10d) has a coupling arm (13a-13d) for attaching a trailer (17) or for holding a load carrier (90), wherein the control unit (50a-50d) has a reading device (38) for communication with an RFID transponder (39a-39d) arranged in particular on a coupling of the trailer (17) or the load carrier (90), in which at least one identification identifier (70-73) is stored, and evaluation means (67) for evaluating the at least one identification identifier.