Vehicle Connector PLC Identification for Tractor-Trailer Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for tracking and identifying heavy-duty vehicle components, such as trailers, are cumbersome, prone to errors, and limited by environmental vulnerabilities and the need for close proximity for reading, especially in standardized connections like tractors and trailers.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle communication system utilizing an electrical connector with a communication circuit that transmits a unique identifier via a power line communication protocol, integrated within a 7-pin J560 socket or plug, which broadcasts the identifier at every power cycle or predetermined intervals, enabling automatic identification without driver input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual recording of identification numbers is used, then no additional hardware is needed, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical recording processes with an automated electronic communication circuit that transmits identification signals electronically through the electrical connector, eliminating manual intervention and improving both speed and accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The communication circuit automatically transmits identification information without requiring operator input, making the system self-servicing and eliminating human error in the identification process
2Reliability
If bar-code and magnetic-stripe identification systems are used, then human error is reduced, but they are vulnerable to environmental conditions and require close proximity for reading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical bar-code and magnetic-stripe systems with an electronic communication circuit that transmits identification signals through electrical connections, making the system immune to environmental factors like moisture, dust, and physical damage while eliminating proximity constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector serves as an intermediary medium that carries both power and identification signals between vehicles, allowing transmission without direct line-of-sight or close proximity requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If standardized connections are used for interchangeability, then components can be detached and connected to different vehicles, but tracking and identification becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The communication circuit is integrated into the standardized electrical connector, allowing the same connector to serve both its traditional electrical function and the additional function of identification signal transmission, maintaining interchangeability while enabling tracking
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the identification communication circuit with the existing electrical connector housing, merging two functions (power transmission and identification) into a single integrated component, thereby reducing overall system complexity
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
This solution provides reliable, real-time identification of connected vehicles, reducing human error and environmental vulnerabilities, and allows for accurate tracking of hook and unhook times, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of tractor-trailer communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
The communication circuit is configured to transmit the identification signal via a power line communication (PLC) protocol
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle communication system includes an electrical connector coupled to a first vehicle and including a plurality of pins configured to carry signals between the first vehicle and a second vehicle, the plurality of pins including a first pin configured to receive electrical power and a second pin configured to act as a signal ground, and a communication circuit coupled to the first and second pins of the electrical connector and configured to transmit an identification signal on the first pin to the second vehicle.