Truck-Trailer Connector Layout for High-Speed Data Compatibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current truck-trailer connector systems lack the bandwidth and reliability needed for advanced vehicle communication, particularly for autonomous vehicles, and introducing new standards like ISO12098 complicates compatibility with existing systems, leading to confusion and design complexities.
Innovation Solution
An expanded connector plug and socket system with symmetrically placed secondary connectors for high-speed communication, maintaining backward compatibility with ISO 12098 and ISO 7638-1, and incorporating Ethernet connectors on the top to prevent interference with the locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a new connector standard (ISO12098) is introduced to provide high-speed communication, then data transmission rate is improved, but device complexity and compatibility issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connector functions into a single integrated connector assembly. The primary connector (ISO 12098-1 compliant) and secondary connector (for high-speed communication) are merged into one physical unit, allowing both legacy and advanced communication capabilities to coexist without requiring separate connection points or multiple adapter devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides both traditional low-speed communication (125 kbit/s CAN) and high-speed communication (100 Mbit/s Ethernet or faster) through a single interface. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connector standards while supporting both legacy and future vehicle systems.
2Speed
If additional connector positions are added to support high-speed communication, then data bandwidth is improved, but ease of operation and driver confusion worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the high-speed communication connector with the existing primary connector into a single integrated assembly. This eliminates the need for drivers to locate and operate separate connector positions, as all communication functions are accessed through one unified interface that maintains the familiar ISO 12098 form factor.
3Reliability
If Ethernet connectors are placed on the top of the primary connector, then reliability against disconnection forces is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the secondary Ethernet connector in the vertical dimension (on top of the primary connector) rather than horizontally adjacent to it. This vertical stacking arrangement in a different spatial dimension protects the secondary connector from lateral disconnection forces that affect horizontally arranged connectors, while the compact vertical layout minimizes the overall increase in device footprint and structural complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to expanded electrical connector plug, socket and system in particular to an expanded truck-trailer connector for use, for example between a truck tractor or tractor and a semi-trailer, trailer, tanker or other body vehicle. The expanded connector system, plug the expanded connector plug (1) for a connection between a towing vehicle and a trailer, comprises a primary connector plug portion (2) configured to connect to a primary connector socket portion and to provide a first set of electrical connections and a low-speed communication link between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Accordingly, to complete the connection a primary connector socket portion is configured to connect to a primary connector plug portion (2) and to provide a first set of electrical connections and a low-speed communication link between the towing vehicle and the trailer. At least two separate secondary connector plug portions (3) are configured to connect to at least two separate secondary connector socket portion and to provide a second set of electrical connections and in particular a high-speed communication link between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Accordingly, to complete the connection at least two separate secondary connector socket portions are configured to connect to two secondary connector plug portions (3) and to provide the second set of electrical connections and in particular a high-speed communication link between the towing vehicle and the trailer.