Trailer EBS Backup Power via Telematics Battery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer power systems struggle to provide continuous power to the electronic braking system (EBS) and telematics unit when the trailer is not connected to an external power source, limiting the ability to monitor and manage trailer loads effectively.
Innovation Solution
A power system that includes a telematics unit with a rechargeable battery, which provides power to the EBS via a power connection, initiated by a sensor signal, allowing the EBS to operate independently of external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the trailer is not connected to an external power source, then the EBS cannot operate, but connecting to external power limits mobility and independence
Solution Approach 1:
A power transfer unit acts as an intermediary between the telematics unit battery and the EBS. This mediator enables power transfer when needed while maintaining system independence, resolving the contradiction between reliable EBS operation and trailer independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery in the telematics unit is pre-charged during normal operation when connected to external power. This preliminary energy storage allows the EBS to be powered later when disconnected, ensuring reliability without requiring permanent connection to external power sources.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the battery continuously powers the EBS, then the EBS remains operational, but the battery depletes quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sensing to trigger intermittent EBS operation. The sensor detects load conditions at specific intervals, and the EBS is activated only when triggering events occur, rather than running continuously. This periodic activation extends battery life while maintaining necessary operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing excessive continuous power to the EBS, the system applies partial action by powering the EBS only for the minimum necessary duration to detect load conditions and trigger appropriate responses. This optimized partial operation reduces energy consumption while achieving the required operational duration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the EBS is powered from the telematics unit battery, then the trailer can operate independently, but the battery capacity must be sufficient to power the high-power EBS
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by powering the EBS only intermittently based on sensor-triggered events rather than continuously. This reduces the total energy demand on the battery, allowing a smaller capacity battery to suffice while maintaining trailer independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The EBS is activated periodically only when the sensor detects specific load conditions, rather than running continuously. This periodic operation pattern significantly reduces cumulative energy consumption, enabling trailer independence with a practical battery capacity.
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 continuous monitoring and management of trailer loads, even when disconnected from the tractor, by powering the EBS and telematics unit from the telematics unit's battery, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A power system for a vehicle trailer includes a telematics unit having a battery, a power connection from the telematics unit to an electronic braking system (EBS) to provide power from the battery of the telematics unit to the EBS
Data Source
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AI summary
A power system for a vehicle trailer, the trailer comprising an electronic braking system (EBS) and a telematics unit having a battery, wherein a power connection is provided from the telematics unit to the EBS to provide power from the rechargeable battery of the telematics unit to the EBS to power the EBS when the trailer is not connected to an external source of electrical power.