Vehicle Accessory Auto-Configuration via Single-Wire Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and configuration of vehicle accessories, particularly those requiring power, can be challenging due to the lack of integration with the vehicle's electrical system, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs, especially for DIY users.
Innovation Solution
A system that automatically detects and configures vehicle accessories upon connection using a single wire communication protocol, such as 1-Wire®, to identify and control power supply based on vehicle operational states and accessory specifications, ensuring proper installation and efficient power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If accessories are installed without integration with the vehicle's electrical system, then installation simplicity is improved, but power management efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device automatically transmits its information to the vehicle controller and receives power management instructions without requiring manual configuration. The system self-configures by having the accessory provide its own specifications (power requirements, operational states) to the vehicle's controller, which then autonomously manages power distribution based on vehicle operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle controller continuously monitors vehicle operational states (ignition status, accessory mode, run mode, park mode, reverse engaged, drive engaged, door open status, door lock status) and uses this feedback to dynamically control power supply to the accessory. The system establishes a closed-loop control where power management decisions are based on real-time vehicle state information.
2Reliability
If accessories require professional installation, then installation reliability is improved, but installation cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device performs self-identification and self-registration with the vehicle's electrical system. Upon connection, the accessory automatically transmits its identification information and specifications to the vehicle controller, which then configures the power management parameters. This eliminates the need for professional installers to manually program or configure the accessory.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory device pre-stores its identification information and operational specifications in its memory before installation. This preliminary preparation allows the device to immediately communicate its requirements to the vehicle controller upon connection, enabling automatic configuration without requiring post-installation programming or adjustment by a professional installer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are universally compatible, then adaptability is improved, but integration precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a standardized communication protocol that allows accessories of different types and manufacturers to communicate their specific parameters (power requirements, operational states, configurability) to the vehicle controller. The controller adapts power management strategies based on the received parameters, achieving precise integration for each accessory type while maintaining universal physical compatibility through a single-wire interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle controller acts as an intermediary between the diverse accessory devices and the vehicle's electrical system. It receives standardized communication from various accessories, interprets their specific requirements, and translates these into appropriate power management commands. This intermediary layer enables universal accessory compatibility while maintaining precise control over power distribution for each specific accessory type.
4Reliability
If multiple wires are used for communication and power, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both communication and power delivery functions into a single wire interface. The vehicle controller and accessory device use the same single wire for bidirectional communication and for controlling power supply. This merging of functions reduces wiring complexity while maintaining reliable communication through the standardized single-wire protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The single wire interface serves multiple functions: it provides bidirectional communication between the vehicle controller and accessory, transmits accessory identification information, conveys operational status data, and controls power supply to the accessory. This multi-functional single-wire interface eliminates the need for separate wires for each function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are a system, method, and apparatus for automatically detecting and configuring vehicle accessories. A method includes: receiving an indication of an accessory device connected to a connection point of a vehicle; receiving accessory information from the accessory device; receiving, from the vehicle, an operational state of the vehicle; and providing power to the accessory device based on the accessory information and the operational state of the vehicle. The accessory information can include an indication of at least one operational state of the vehicle in which power is to be provided to the accessory device. The accessory information can include an indication of at least one operational state of the vehicle in which power is not to be provided to the accessory device.