Vehicle Wiring Distribution Module with Semiconductor Relays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical wiring devices for vehicles face challenges such as varying power and signal requirements for different optional devices, limited versatility and extensibility, potential communication line issues leading to system standstill, and complexity in connecting unexpected devices due to fixed connector assumptions.
Innovation Solution
An electrical wiring device with an auxiliary connector connected to a power supply line, ground line, and communication line, featuring a distribution module with relays, input/output interfaces, a control unit, and a fuse function, which simplifies the connection process by allowing selection of appropriate distribution modules based on connected devices and enabling voltage conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are provided for different optional devices, then each device can be connected with appropriate power and signal lines, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by providing a single auxiliary connector that can connect to various optional devices with different power and signal requirements. Instead of having separate connectors for each device type, one universal auxiliary connector handles multiple connection scenarios through the distribution module's flexible configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the wiring system into a fixed auxiliary connector part and a flexible distribution module part. The distribution module is divided into multiple connection terminals that can be selectively activated, allowing the system to adapt to different device requirements without changing the physical connector structure.
2Ease of operation
If connectors are installed assuming specific optional devices, then connection is straightforward for predetermined devices, but connecting unexpected devices requires processing wire harnesses which worsens connecting workability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the wiring system dynamic by allowing the distribution module to be reconfigured for different optional devices. The connection terminals can be selectively activated based on which device is connected, enabling the system to adapt to both predetermined and unexpected devices without physical modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares multiple connection terminals in advance within the distribution module, so when an optional device is connected, the appropriate terminals are already available for immediate use. This eliminates the need for on-site wire harness processing and makes connecting unexpected devices as easy as connecting predetermined ones.
3Adaptability or versatility
If communication lines are shared with existing vehicle systems, then in-vehicle data can be utilized, but communication line standstill may occur causing vehicle system disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the distribution module as an intermediary between the auxiliary connector and the vehicle's communication system. This intermediary can manage communication line access, prevent conflicts, and ensure that data utilization does not cause system standstill or disruption.
4Reliability
If distribution section includes additional fuses for different power line sizes, then power line protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing fuse protection only where needed in the distribution module. Instead of adding fuses throughout the entire wiring system, protection is implemented locally at the distribution point where power lines are divided, maintaining simplicity while ensuring safety.
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
Simplifies the connection of optional devices by reducing the number of components needed on the vehicle, enhances versatility and extensibility, prevents communication system disruptions, and allows easy integration of devices with different voltage requirements, improving workability and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
one or more relays connected to the power supply line
Implementation Method 2
a fuse function for detecting an overcurrent on the basis of an electricity energizing current and an electricity energizing time of each of the relays
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical wiring device for vehicle includes a distribution module that is disposed between an auxiliary connector and optional devices. The distribution module includes: semiconductor relays connected to a power supply line; input/output interfaces; a control unit configured to control the semiconductor relays and the input/output interfaces on the basis of various kinds of signals acquired via a communication line; and a connecting terminal for connecting outputs of the semiconductor relays and outputs of the input/output interfaces to the optional devices. The control unit controls operations of the semiconductor relays and the input/output interfaces corresponding to the optional devices connected to the connecting terminal.