Combined Trailer Connector Plug for High-Speed Backward Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector systems for truck-trailer communication interfaces are limited to low data rates of 125 kbit, unable to utilize the second CAN line effectively, and lack backward compatibility, which is essential for seamless transition with increasing digital information transfer demands in autonomous vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A combined connector plug and socket system that provides both low-speed and high-speed communication links, with the low-speed link operational even when the high-speed link is not connected, using separate power supplies and terminals for backward compatibility, enabling data rates above 1 Mbit per second.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a new high-speed communication interface is implemented, then data transfer rate is improved, but backward compatibility with legacy systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a legacy connector (first connector portion) and a high-speed connector (second connector portion) into a single integrated plug assembly. This merging allows the system to simultaneously support both legacy low-speed communication (125 kbit CAN) and new high-speed communication (1 Mbit or higher), resolving the contradiction between improved data transfer rate and maintained backward compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated plug assembly serves multiple functions: it provides both legacy communication interfaces and high-speed communication interfaces, and can connect to either legacy sockets or combined sockets. This multi-functionality enables the system to adapt to different connection scenarios while maintaining both old and new communication capabilities.
2Quantity of substance
If additional communication links are added to existing connections, then data bandwidth is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connector functions into a single integrated plug assembly that contains both legacy and high-speed connector portions. This consolidation increases data bandwidth by adding communication channels while managing complexity through integrated design, rather than requiring separate independent connector systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug assembly is segmented into distinct first and second connector portions, each handling specific communication functions. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each connector type while maintaining overall integration, managing the complexity of supporting multiple communication protocols and speeds within a unified structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A combined connector plug for a connection between a towing vehicle and a trailer is disclosed. The combined connector plug includes: a first connector plug portion configured to connect a first connector socket portion and to provide a first power supply and low-speed communication link between the towing vehicle and the trailer; and a second connector plug portion configured to connect a second connector socket portion and to provide a second power supply and a high-speed communication link between the towing vehicle and the trailer, the high-speed communication link providing a transmission rate that is higher than the low-speed communication link. The first connector plug portion is configured to connect the first connector socket portion even when the second connector plug portion is not connected to the second connector socket portion.