Vehicle Data Splitter for Stable CAN Bus Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for connecting vehicles, particularly towing vehicles and trailers, face issues with establishing a secure CAN bus connection due to the coexistence of manual ISO 7638 plug connections and automatic coupling systems, leading to potential disruptions and instability in data communication.
Innovation Solution
A data splitter is introduced to manage the CAN bus connections, checking which plug connections are active and activating only one line path to ensure a point-to-point connection, while terminating the other path to prevent parallel connections and excessive capacitance, thereby ensuring a stable data link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both ISO 7638 plug connection and automatic coupling system are used simultaneously, then compatibility with both old and new vehicles is improved, but data communication stability deteriorates due to parallel connections and excessive capacitance
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different connection modes based on detection results. The control unit detects whether the ISO 7638 plug connection is established and automatically activates or deactivates the corresponding data line path, transforming the static parallel connection structure into a dynamic single-active path structure that maintains stability while preserving compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the two connection systems. This control unit detects the connection state and manages the activation/deactivation of data lines, preventing direct parallel connection conflicts while maintaining compatibility with both old and new vehicle types
2Reliability
If ISO 7638 plug connection is manually connected, then data communication can be established between vehicles, but the connection process requires personnel intervention and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-detection and self-configuration of the data communication path. The control unit automatically detects whether the ISO 7638 plug is connected and autonomously activates or deactivates the corresponding data line without requiring manual intervention, enabling the system to serve itself in establishing the correct communication path
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously monitors the connection state in advance and proactively activates or deactivates data lines before data communication is required. This preliminary detection and preparation eliminates the need for manual connection setup and reduces coupling time
3Extent of automation
If the socket remains open on the vehicle with automatic coupling system, then the automatic coupling function is preserved, but cable reflections occur that endanger safe operation
Solution Approach 1:
The data line connection state is dynamically adjusted based on the automatic coupling system's activation status. When the automatic coupling system is active, the control unit deactivates the ISO 7638 data line path to prevent reflections, and activates it only when needed, creating a dynamic connection state that eliminates harmful reflections while preserving automatic coupling functionality
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
AI summary
The connection device comprises a data line (11,21) and two plug connections, which are connected to the data line and are assigned to different conduction paths. A data splitter (12,22) is provided between the data line and the plug connections. The data splitter checks the plugged in plug connection that is connected to the corresponding plug connection, and activates the assigned conduction path. One of the conduction paths is activated when both plug connections are used. An independent claim is included for a method for establishing or for operating a connection for data communication between two vehicles, particularly between a towing vehicle and a trailer vehicle.