Trailer Control Module for Electro-Mechanic Brake Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake systems for motor vehicles with trailers face challenges in electrification, as modern electro-mechanic brake systems in vehicles cannot directly control pneumatic brake systems in trailers, requiring a solution that is compatible with existing pneumatic systems to maintain functionality across different ownership and vehicle upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A trailer control module (TCM) with at least two electrical terminals for redundant control signals, solenoid groups for independent brake pressure control, and pneumatic components to adjust and provide brake pressure to the trailer's pneumatic brake system, ensuring compatibility and safety through redundant signal processing and energy-efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If electro-mechanic brake systems are used in motor vehicles, then energy consumption and noise emissions are reduced, but compatibility with existing pneumatic trailer brake systems is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trailer control module as an intermediary device that bridges the electro-mechanic brake system of the motor vehicle and the pneumatic brake system of the trailer. This module contains both electrical inputs and pneumatic outputs, enabling signal conversion and system compatibility without requiring complete electrification of the trailer brake system.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer control module is designed to perform multiple functions: it receives electrical control signals from the motor vehicle's brake system, processes these signals through solenoid valves, and generates pneumatic control pressure for the trailer's pneumatic brake system. This multi-functionality allows a single device to handle both electrical and pneumatic domains.
2Reliability
If redundant control signals are implemented in the TCM, then system reliability and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is segmented into distinct functional components: electrical input terminals, solenoid valve groups with control channels, and pneumatic output terminals. Each component handles a specific part of the control signal path, making the overall system easier to understand and maintain despite the redundancy requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements redundant control paths and solenoid valve groups that can compensate for potential failures before they occur. The dual solenoid valve groups are configured such that if one fails, the other can take over, providing fail-safe operation without requiring complex real-time monitoring systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables seamless integration of electro-mechanic brake systems with pneumatic trailer systems, providing reliable and efficient brake control while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure, ensuring safety and reducing energy consumption and noise emissions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one valve (21a-21d), configured to adjust the constant air pressure from the air pressure source (60) to the preset break outlet pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer air supply and control module for a electronic brake system of a motor vehicle with a trailer interface, and a brake system of a motor vehicle with a trailer interface comprising the trailer air supply and control module, includes at least two electrical terminals configured to receive two independent but redundant electrical control input signals which comprise a signal for a preset brake control outlet pressure. At least one valve is configured to adjust a constant air pressure from an air pressure source to the preset brake outlet pressure. One pneumatic outlet terminal is configured to provide the preset brake supply outlet pressure to the pneumatic brake system of the trailer, and one pneumatic outlet terminal is configured to provide the preset brake control outlet pressure to the pneumatic brake system of the trailer.