Truck Trailer Cable Connectors With Addressable CAN/LIN Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trailer cabling systems are limited by dedicated connections for specific functions, unable to accommodate the growing number of electronic devices in trailers, and require different wiring configurations for various trailer components.
Innovation Solution
A cable system with a nosebox containing a master control circuit and slave control circuits, utilizing power and communication cables to manage multiple trailer components, allowing flexible control and communication through a CAN or LIN protocol, and addressing each component with unique identifiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate dedicated power lines are used for each trailer component function, then each component can be reliably powered and controlled, but the system complexity increases and the ability to accommodate additional electronic devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single communication cable (such as CAN bus or LIN bus) to carry multiple functions including power delivery, data communication, and control signals for various trailer components. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated power lines for each component, reducing wiring complexity while maintaining reliable power and control delivery through protocol-based communication and power management.
2Reliability
If dedicated wiring configurations are used for different trailer components, then each component can be reliably controlled, but the adaptability to accommodate new electronic devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a standardized communication interface that can accommodate multiple electronic devices including sensors, cameras, lighting, and other accessories through a single communication cable. The system uses protocol-based communication (CAN/LIN) that allows flexible addition and configuration of devices without requiring new dedicated wiring configurations, thereby enhancing adaptability while maintaining control reliability through structured communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the wiring system to adapt its functionality dynamically. The communication cable and control circuit can dynamically allocate bandwidth, adjust power delivery, and reconfigure communication protocols based on the specific needs of connected devices. This dynamic capability allows the system to reliably control diverse components while accommodating new electronic devices without physical reconfiguration.
3Power
If multiple separate power cables are used for trailer components, then power delivery is reliable, but the number of connections between trailer and tractor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining power delivery, data communication, and control functions into a single communication cable system. Instead of using multiple separate power cables for different trailer components, the system integrates these functions through a unified communication infrastructure (CAN bus or LIN bus) that can simultaneously handle power transmission, data exchange, and device control, thereby reducing the number of electrical connections between trailer and tractor while maintaining adequate power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a multi-functional communication cable that serves multiple purposes: power delivery, data communication, and device control. This single cable replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate cables, reducing connection complexity while maintaining the power delivery capability needed for various trailer components through intelligent power management and protocol-based control.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A cable system for a truck trailer with connectors having a main power connection, a ground connection, and one, two, or more communication cable connections. Connectors include at least a power and ground connection for electrically connecting an individual trailer to the cable system. A master control circuit may be included in the trailer nosebox, and the master control circuit configured to send commands to slave control circuits mounted within the connectors. The slave control circuits in the connectors are configured to receive a control command sent by the master control circuit that may include an address, mode identifiers, or other indications of which connectors in the cable system should take action, and what actions should be taken.