Tractor-Trailer Communication System Using Power Line Carrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current semi-trailer truck systems lack efficient methods for tracking and communicating the identification and status of cargo trailers connected to tractors, particularly in scenarios where continuous power is required and signals need to be transmitted simultaneously with power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A communication system utilizing a power line carrier network that includes a trailer module with a processor, memory, and transmitter for transmitting a unique identification number via short-wavelength ultra-high frequency protocols, coupled with sensors monitoring various trailer and tractor subsystems, and a secondary transceiver for non-power line sensor data, allowing real-time tracking and status updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a power line carrier network is used to transmit both power and communication signals, then the need for separate communication wiring is eliminated, but signal interference and communication reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments communication signals into different frequency bands and uses separate transceivers for different communication functions (identification vs. status monitoring), allowing simultaneous power and data transmission on the same physical medium without mutual interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces communication bus 130 as an intermediary medium that couples the trailer module to the tractor module, enabling reliable data exchange while the power line carrier handles power distribution and basic identification, thus separating critical communication functions from power transmission
2Duration of action of moving object
If continuous power is supplied to the trailer module, then real-time monitoring is enabled, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic status updates rather than continuous data transmission, where sensors monitor continuously but communicate only when status changes or at scheduled intervals, reducing power consumption while maintaining real-time monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer module autonomously manages its power consumption by selectively activating communication only when necessary (e.g., when status changes occur), without requiring continuous power supply from the tractor, thus reducing overall energy usage while maintaining monitoring functionality
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are deployed to monitor trailer subsystems, then monitoring precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a universal communication bus and standardized sensor interfaces that can accommodate multiple sensor types and trailer configurations, allowing high monitoring precision without proportionally increasing system complexity through modular and scalable architecture
Data Source
AI summary
A communication system, including: a trailer module disposed on a cargo trailer, the trailer module including a trailer identification number for the cargo trailer; a tractor module disposed on a cargo tractor, the tractor module to electrically couple to the trailer module; and a communications bus to couple the trailer module to the tractor module when the trailer is coupled to the tractor, wherein, when coupled to the tractor module, the trailer module communicates the trailer identification to the tractor module.