Trailer Coupling Authorization Using Remote Brake and Lock Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current security mechanisms for heavy duty trailers lack a scalable, efficient, and secure method to prevent unauthorized use, carrier non-compliance, and safety issues, as existing solutions like physical locks are impractical and do not account for remote authorization or real-time monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A smart authorization system that uses a network of servers, a PE identification module, and a security subsystem to remotely grant and verify authorization for connecting Powered Equipment (PE) to Non-Powered Equipment (NPE), integrating with existing fleet management systems to control air brake, landing gear, and internal door locking systems via a centralized computing system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical locks are used to prevent unauthorized connection, then security against unauthorized use is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to key handover coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical physical locks with an electronic authorization system that uses digital credentials, wireless communication, and electronic control modules to manage trailer access. This substitution eliminates the need for physical key handover while maintaining security through cryptographic authentication and remote authorization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authorization server and electronic control module that mediates between the trailer owner and the carrier. This intermediary system verifies credentials, grants authorization digitally, and controls trailer systems remotely, eliminating the need for direct physical key transfer while ensuring secure access control.
2Reliability
If physical locks are used to secure trailers, then prevention of unauthorized use is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to employee involvement in unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service authorization where carriers can independently obtain digital credentials and authorize themselves to access trailers through mobile devices or onboard systems. This eliminates the need for employee intervention in the unlocking process, allowing carriers to access trailers autonomously and immediately upon valid authorization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual physical locking and unlocking operations with automated electronic authorization and remote system control. The electronic control module automatically executes authorization decisions and controls trailer systems without human intervention, significantly improving operational efficiency and productivity.
3Ease of operation
If remote authorization systems are implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electronic control module and authorization system to perform multiple functions: credential verification, authorization management, trailer system control, and remote monitoring. By consolidating these functions into a unified multi-functional platform, the system reduces overall complexity despite the advanced capabilities it provides.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the authorization system into modular components: credential verification module, authorization server, electronic control module, and trailer system interfaces. This modular architecture allows each component to be independently developed, tested, and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while enabling sophisticated remote authorization capabilities.
4Reliability
If comprehensive security monitoring is implemented, then reliability is improved, but loss of energy increases due to continuous system operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring and communication cycles where the electronic control module checks authorization status, monitors trailer systems, and communicates with the authorization server at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. This periodic operation maintains security monitoring while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
A smart authorization system preventing a trailer from being pulled without authority either by activating, deactivating or blocking access to coupling devices or by maintaining parking conditions or temporarily disabling driving systems.