Variable PLC Attenuator and Amplifier for Tractor-Trailer Signal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power line communication (PLC) systems in tractor-trailers face issues with inconsistent signal levels, leading to excessive electromagnetic radiation, energy inefficiency, vulnerability to eavesdropping, and signal attenuation over long distances, as well as the risk of unauthorized commands due to inconsistent signal levels and lack of effective monitoring and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an input circuit, an adjustable amplifier circuit, and an output circuit that receives communication signals, applies a selectable gain to adjust signal levels, and broadcasts the adjusted signals onto the PLC network, allowing for amplification or attenuation based on monitored conditions and user input, while detecting irregular signals to prevent unauthorized commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If signal levels are increased to ensure reliable reception over long distances, then signal reliability is improved, but electromagnetic radiation increases beyond regulatory limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements different signal levels for different segments of the PLC network. Transmitting devices broadcast signals at a first signal level optimized for long-distance communication, while receiving devices operate at a second signal level for local processing. This segmentation allows the system to achieve reliable long-distance communication without all devices continuously transmitting at high power levels, thereby reducing overall electromagnetic radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts signal levels based on operational conditions. The controller monitors network conditions and selectively activates transmitting devices at appropriate signal levels. This dynamic control ensures that high signal levels are used only when and where necessary for reliable communication, rather than continuously, thus reducing electromagnetic radiation while maintaining signal reliability.
2Length of stationary object
If signal levels are increased to overcome network attenuation, then communication range is extended, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different signal levels to different functional roles in the network. Transmitting devices that need to communicate over long distances use a first signal level, while receiving devices and intermediate nodes use a second signal level. This localized optimization ensures that high energy consumption is confined only to the minimal necessary devices, extending communication range without proportionally increasing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables receiving devices to process and potentially forward signals without always requiring retransmission at full power. Intermediate devices can operate in receive-only mode or forward signals at lower power levels when appropriate, reducing the energy burden on individual devices while maintaining extended communication range through the network.
3Adaptability or versatility
If signal levels are standardized across all devices, then network compatibility is improved, but vulnerability to eavesdropping increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hierarchical signal level structure where transmitting devices use a first signal level for broad network compatibility, while receiving devices operate at a second signal level for secure local processing. This creates de facto signal level encryption where eavesdroppers capturing signals at the network level cannot easily interpret data meant for devices operating at different signal levels, thus reducing eavesdropping vulnerability while maintaining network compatibility.
4Measurement precision
If high signal levels are used for testing and troubleshooting, then measurement accuracy is improved, but unauthorized command execution risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts signal levels based on operational mode. During normal operation, devices use appropriate signal levels for secure communication. During testing and troubleshooting modes, the controller selectively activates transmitting devices at elevated first signal levels for accurate measurement, but only under controlled conditions with proper authentication. This dynamic control allows high measurement accuracy during testing while preventing unauthorized command execution through proper access control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling a level of communication signals broadcast onto an associated power line communication (PLC) network by an associated transmitting device includes an input circuit, an adjustable amplifier circuit, and an output circuit. The input circuit receives a first communication signal having a first signal level from the associated transmitting device. The adjustable amplifier circuit applies a selectable gain to the first communication signal based on one or more of a monitored condition of the associated vehicle and/or a monitored condition of the associated PLC network to generate a level-adjusted communication signal having a second signal level different than the first signal level of the first communication signal. The output circuit receives the level-adjusted communication signal and broadcasts the level-adjusted communication signal onto the associated PLC network.