Vehicle Remote Control via CAN Gateway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems for auxiliary systems like aerial lifts and concrete mixers often require operators to remain fixed, limiting mobility and increasing hardware complexity, despite advancements in remote control technologies and CAN bus communication standards.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing a handheld unit generating command signals via radio link to a vehicle-mounted receiver, connected to a data network that translates messages between different CAN bus segments, allowing flexible control of various vehicle systems through a programmable electrical system controller acting as a gateway.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote control systems are implemented for auxiliary vehicle systems, then operator mobility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal remote control system where a single receiver unit can control multiple auxiliary vehicle systems (aerial lifts, dump bodies, snowplows, wreckers, fluid delivery pumps, aircraft deicing equipment, refuse compactors, and cement mixers) through a standardized interface. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate control systems for each auxiliary system, thereby improving operator mobility while managing hardware complexity through consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control unit that acts as a mediator between the remote control receiver and the various auxiliary vehicle systems. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by providing a standardized communication protocol that translates remote control signals into system-specific commands, reducing the complexity of direct point-to-point control connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate control systems are used for different auxiliary systems, then system functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate control systems into a single integrated control architecture. Instead of having independent control circuits for each auxiliary system, the invention combines them into one unified receiver unit that communicates with all auxiliary systems through a common data bus, thereby maintaining comprehensive system functionality while significantly reducing control system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed with universality, allowing a single receiver unit to interface with multiple different auxiliary systems through standardized protocols. This multi-functional capability enables the system to maintain adaptability across different vehicle configurations while avoiding the complexity of multiple specialized control systems.
3Reliability
If fixed location controls are used for auxiliary systems, then control reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection system (wires and switches requiring fixed operator position) with a wireless radio frequency communication system. This substitution allows the operator to move freely while maintaining reliable control connection through electromagnetic signals, thereby improving ease of operation while preserving control reliability through robust signal transmission protocols.
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
Enables remote and vehicle-mounted control of auxiliary systems with reduced hardware complexity and increased flexibility, allowing customization and two-way communication between major and specialized vehicle controllers, thereby improving operational mobility and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
A hand held or portable unit generates command signals which are communicated as messages over a radio link to a receiver installed on the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Radio remote control over a motor vehicle and particularly of auxiliary systems installed on the vehicle is effected through an onboard controller which is integrated with the vehicle's controller area network. This arrangement increases flexibility of the system for handling different systems, and potentially more than one unrelated system.