Self-Identifying Vehicle Switch Module Reduces Wiring Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) face significant overhead costs and wiring complexities when customizing dashboards for motor vehicles, as current methods require separate drawings and wire harnesses for each vehicle configuration, limiting flexibility and increasing the risk of wiring errors.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle switch module with a self-identifying function, utilizing a backplane assembly, sub-network controller, and microprocessor-equipped switches that can be placed in any location without altering functionality or system wiring, allowing for standardized wiring layouts and reduced engineering overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate drawings and wire harnesses are provided for every vehicle configuration, then customization requirements are met, but overhead expenses and wiring complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal wire harness design that can accommodate multiple switch configurations through a standardized communication bus interface. Each switch is equipped with a microprocessor that enables it to communicate its identity and status digitally, allowing a single physical harness to support customized dashboard layouts without requiring custom wiring for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical wiring assignments with a digital communication system. Instead of physically connecting wires to specific switch positions, the system uses a communication bus where switches identify themselves digitally, allowing flexible positioning without changing the physical wiring structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switches are placed in different locations to meet customer preferences, then customization is achieved, but switch identification and functionality mapping becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
Each switch is equipped with a microprocessor that enables it to automatically identify itself and communicate its location and function to the vehicle's control systems. This self-identification capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or complex assembly procedures, as the switch autonomously provides the information needed for proper system integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where switches continuously report their status and identity through the communication bus to the vehicle's control unit. This allows the system to automatically adapt to different switch configurations and locations, simplifying assembly by eliminating manual configuration steps.
3Power
If high current wires are used for all switch positions to accommodate direct-wired loads, then load capacity is sufficient, but wire count and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical system into two distinct paths: a communication bus for control signals and switch identification, and separate high-current power paths only where actually needed for direct-wired loads. This segmentation allows the majority of the vehicle to use minimal wiring for communication, with high-current capability provided only at specific locations where loads are actually installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic wiring solution where high-current power connections are activated only when and where needed, rather than being permanently installed throughout the vehicle. The system can dynamically allocate power capacity based on actual customer options and switch placements, reducing the overall wire count while maintaining sufficient power handling capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle switch module includes a sub-network having switches connected thereto and a sub-network controller in operative communication with the sub-network and the switches. Each switch includes a microprocessor programmed to generate switch messages that include address and switch logic state data. The sub-network controller transmits switch queries onto the sub-network to a number of switch addresses to determine a connection status and switch state of switches in the switch module and receives switch messages responsive to the queries from switches at addresses to which the switch queries were transmitted. The received switch messages verify the identity of a switch in the module and provide a switch state for the switch. The sub-network controller interprets the received switch messages and - based on the switch address and switch state data in the messages - controls operation of a vehicle output or load associated with each of the switches.