Trailer Braking System Dynamic SSID Pairing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large trailer depots with numerous standardized trailers face challenges in accurately tracking and pairing trailers with tractors due to human error and inefficiencies in manual processes, leading to resource wastage and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A trailer electronic braking system with a communication interface using a 802.11 wireless card that transmits a dynamic SSID, paired with a list of allowable MAC addresses, ensures secure pairing with compatible devices, and sends release codes via SMS or email, preventing incorrect trailer pairing and enhancing operational efficiency in large depots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual checking is used to verify trailer correctness at the exit gate, then the risk of taking the wrong trailer is reduced, but the operation speed is slowed down and additional manual costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical checking at the exit gate with an automated electronic identification system. The reader device automatically detects the identification signal from the trailer's transponder or RFID tag, eliminating the need for manual verification by gate operators. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with electronic automation resolves the contradiction by maintaining high reliability through automated identification while significantly improving operation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification system consisting of transponders, RFID tags, or electronic labels attached to trailers, and corresponding reader devices at the exit gate. This intermediary electronic layer mediates between the trailer and the gate control system, enabling automatic verification of trailer-tractor pairing without requiring direct manual intervention. The intermediary system maintains accuracy while enabling rapid automated processing.
2Ease of manufacture
If standardized trailers with identical appearance are used, then manufacturing costs are reduced and interchangeability is improved, but the ability to track and identify individual trailers becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds identification devices (transponders, RFID tags, or electronic labels) within or on the surface of standardized trailers. These nested identification elements are integrated into the trailer structure without affecting the external standardized appearance. The identification system is contained within the trailer body or attached to its surface, allowing trailers to maintain identical external appearances for ease of manufacture while carrying unique identification information internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses electronic copies or representations of trailer identification information stored in transponders or RFID tags. Instead of relying on physical visual differences between trailers, the system creates electronic copies of identification data that can be uniquely read and tracked. This allows physically identical standardized trailers to have distinct electronic identities, preserving manufacturing efficiency while enabling precise tracking and identification.
3Extent of automation
If wireless communication systems are deployed in large depots with hundreds of trailers, then automated tracking capability is improved, but the complexity of managing and pairing devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where reader devices continuously monitor and report the presence and status of trailers to a central management system. The system receives feedback signals from multiple wireless devices and uses this information to automatically manage pairings, track trailer locations, and resolve conflicts. This feedback loop simplifies the management of complex wireless systems by providing real-time information that enables automated decision-making and reduces manual intervention requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal communication protocols and standardized identification formats that allow a single wireless infrastructure to serve multiple functions: tracking trailers, verifying pairings, managing depot operations, and providing real-time location information. The identification system is designed to be multi-functional, handling various operational requirements through a unified platform, thereby reducing the overall complexity of managing hundreds of wireless devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A trailer electronic braking system comprising a braking device capable of generating a braking force on a wheel on the trailer. The braking force is applied to brake cylinders andis controllable by a braking ECU 13, which braking ECU 13 is connected to a standards compliant communication bus on said trailer. The ECU 13 is adapted to receive data inputs from sensors 5, 6, on the trailer. The system further comprises means to interface to trailer electronics and a communications interface having a 802.11 wireless cardadapted to transmit an SSID. The braking system is adapted to transmit a trailer identifier comprising the SSID. The trailer identifier can be paired with a further device previously provided with the trailer identifies. The braking system enables the SSID to be changed to a second SSID when a predetermined condition is met.