Trailer Braking ECU Remote Pairing via Communication Bus
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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 manual processes, leading to inefficiencies and additional costs.
Innovation Solution
A trailer electronic braking system with a braking ECU connected to a communication bus, featuring a communications interface that allows remote control functions via a device, includes pairing with allowable MAC addresses and secure code transmission for parking brake release, using SMS, email, or barcodes to prevent incorrect pairings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual checking is used to verify correct trailer-tractor pairing, then human error in pairing is reduced, but operational speed and efficiency deteriorate due to high degree of manual input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical verification processes with an electronic automated system. The braking ECU automatically detects and verifies trailer-tractor pairings through electronic communication, eliminating the need for manual checking while maintaining pairing accuracy and significantly improving operational speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service pairing verification where the electronic braking system automatically identifies and confirms correct trailer-tractor pairings without human intervention. The ECU autonomously performs the verification function that previously required manual checking, thereby maintaining reliability while improving productivity.
2Device complexity
If standardized trailers with identical appearance are used, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but tracking and identification difficulty increases due to inability to visually distinguish trailers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electronic intermediary system (braking ECU with communication capabilities) that mediates between the standardized trailers and the tracking system. This intermediary automatically identifies and tracks trailers through electronic signals, eliminating the need for visual differentiation while maintaining easy tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces visual/mechanical identification methods with electronic identification. Instead of using distinctive physical features on trailers, the system uses electronic tags or communication protocols that allow the braking ECU to automatically identify and track each standardized trailer, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving trackability.
3Reliability
If independent manual check at exit gate is implemented, then risk of wrong trailer selection is reduced, but additional costs increase due to inefficient use of resources
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic braking system performs self-service verification of trailer-tractor pairings automatically at the point of connection. The braking ECU independently verifies correct pairing without requiring additional manual checks at the exit gate, thereby maintaining high reliability while eliminating the waste of resources associated with redundant verification steps.
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 the brake cylinders and is 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. In use, the means transmits a request to the device for a driver to apply a predetermined condition to the trailer to enable control functions to be actuated from a remote device.