Reconfigurable Zone-Based Network for Trailer Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle network architectures are statically defined and fail to dynamically adapt when a trailer is connected, as they do not account for the varying messages and I/O devices of different trailers, leading to inefficiencies in sharing information between vehicle and trailer applications.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable zone-based network architecture that utilizes Ethernet communication links between zone-based modules and a command center module to facilitate dynamic adaptation, allowing trailer information to be communicated and integrated into the vehicle network, with configuration sub-modules processing and packaging subscription information into multicast frames for efficient reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static vehicle network architecture is used, then the network structure is simple and stable, but it cannot dynamically adapt when a trailer is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic network architecture where the vehicle gateway can dynamically add or remove trailers from the network based on connection status. The system transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one by detecting trailer connections and automatically integrating new trailers into the network, allowing the network topology to change adaptively without manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle gateway is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle both vehicle-only mode and vehicle-trailer mode. It can dynamically switch between different network configurations and support multiple trailer types with varying I/O devices, making the system universal enough to accommodate different operating scenarios without requiring separate dedicated systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the network dynamically adapts to incorporate trailer messages, then adaptability improves, but the complexity of network configuration and management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automatic trailer detection and integration. When a trailer is connected, the vehicle gateway automatically detects its presence, retrieves its I/O device information, and configures the network without human intervention. This self-configuration capability eliminates the need for manual network reconfiguration and reduces operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the vehicle gateway continuously monitors the network status and trailer connection states. Based on this feedback, it automatically adjusts the network configuration, adds or removes trailers from the active network, and manages message routing dynamically, ensuring the system adapts to changing conditions without requiring complex manual management.
3Loss of information
If trailer information is communicated across the network, then information sharing improves, but the risk of network errors and interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network communication by creating a dedicated trailer message queue separate from the main vehicle network traffic. This segmentation isolates trailer information exchange from critical vehicle control messages, reducing the risk that trailer-related errors or interference will affect vehicle safety systems. The gateway manages this segmented queue to ensure reliable information sharing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trailers with varying I/O devices are supported, then versatility improves, but the complexity of handling unknown trailer messages increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a standardized trailer interface model that copies the essential I/O device structure expected across different trailer types. When a new trailer is detected, the gateway compares its actual I/O devices against this standardized model to identify and integrate compatible devices. This copying approach allows the system to support multiple trailer types without requiring complex custom handling for each specific trailer configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for communicating trailer information from a trailer to a vehicle. In one embodiment, the method includes: a plurality of zone-based modules configured to communicate with at least one of sensors and actuators of a vehicle; and at least one command center module configured to communicate with the plurality of zone-based modules. The at least one of the plurality of zone-based modules includes a configuration sub-module configured to, by a processor, facilitate communication of the trailer information from the trailer to at least one other of the plurality of zone-based modules. Each of the plurality of zone-based modules includes a configuration sub-module configured to, by a processor, facilitate communication of the trailer information between the plurality of zone-based modules. The at least one command center module includes a configuration sub-module configured to, by a processor, facilitate communication of the trailer information between the plurality of zone-based modules and vehicle applications.