Detachable Truck Tablet Interface for Secure Vehicle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing materials handling vehicles lack a flexible and upgradable computer interface that integrates with vehicle electronics, limiting functionality and upgradeability, and there is a need for secure and efficient communication protocols to control vehicle operations.
Innovation Solution
A materials handling vehicle communication system incorporating a vehicle network and an embedded information core, coupled with a tablet processor, enables a distributed multi-processor architecture for secure and efficient control of vehicle operations using open standard communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional tablet computer is used as an interface for materials handling vehicles, then ease of operation and user interface flexibility are improved, but device complexity and integration with vehicle electronics worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication layer that translates between the tablet's open standard protocols and the vehicle's proprietary electronics. This mediator handles protocol conversion, data formatting, and interface abstraction, allowing the tablet to function as a user-friendly interface without directly complicating the vehicle's core electronic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture is segmented into distinct functional layers: the tablet interface layer, the communication protocol layer, and the vehicle control layer. This segmentation isolates the complexity of vehicle electronics from the user interface, allowing the tablet to remain a simple, flexible interface while the complex control logic resides in the vehicle's native systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If open standard communication protocols are used for tablet-vehicle communication, then adaptability and upgradeability are improved, but security and communication reliability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preliminary security measures by establishing encrypted communication channels and authentication protocols before data exchange begins. Security policies, digital certificates, and access controls are pre-configured in the communication module, ensuring that even though open standards are used, security is maintained through advance preparation of protective mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system dynamically adjusts security parameters such as encryption keys, data transmission formats, and protocol versions based on the specific operational context. This allows the system to maintain high security standards while adapting to different upgrade scenarios and communication requirements, balancing openness with protection.
3Productivity
If a distributed multi-processor architecture is implemented, then productivity and information exchange efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed architecture uses standardized, multi-functional communication modules that can handle multiple protocols and data types through a single interface. This universality reduces the overall system complexity despite having multiple processors, as each module is designed to perform multiple functions rather than requiring specialized components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A materials handling vehicle comprises a distributed processor system including a vehicle network that facilitates an exchange of information with vehicle electronic components, and a distributed multi-processor vehicle control architecture. The distributed multi-processor vehicle control architecture includes an embedded information core having a core processor communicably coupled to the vehicle network, and a tablet having a tablet processor, where the tablet is communicably couplable to, and detachable from the distributed multi-processor vehicle control architecture. When the tablet is detached from the distributed multi-processor vehicle control architecture, the core processor functions as a primary processor that communicates with vehicle electronic components by communicating therewith across the vehicle network. When the tablet is communicably attached to the distributed multi-processor vehicle control architecture, the tablet processor functions as the primary processor, and the core processor functions as a subordinate processor.