초록 ▼

The present invention entails a power switching system for a tractor-trailer that can be selectively actuated to direct power to the tractor unit from an auxiliary power source such as a refrigeration unit mounted on the trailer. When the tractor-trailer is in a parked position, power can be furnish

The present invention entails a power switching system for a tractor-trailer that can be selectively actuated to direct power to the tractor unit from an auxiliary power source such as a refrigeration unit mounted on the trailer. When the tractor-trailer is in a parked position, power can be furnished to the tractor and to energy consuming components thereof through an auxiliary power source carried by the tractor-trailer, thereby improving the total fuel economy of the rig. In the power switching system of the present invention, there is provided a switch assembly for operatively connecting run, accessory, start/ignition circuits to the auxiliary power source. In addition, an oil and water heater circuit can be powered through the same auxiliary power source. Finally, a trickle charge may even be directed from the auxiliary power source to the battery of the tractor engine.

대표청구항 ▼

A method of supplying power from an auxiliary power source to the tractor portion of a tractor-trailer rig comprising: operatively interconnecting switch means between an auxiliary power source and the battery of the tractor engine; selectively actuating the switch means and directing power from the

A method of supplying power from an auxiliary power source to the tractor portion of a tractor-trailer rig comprising: operatively interconnecting switch means between an auxiliary power source and the battery of the tractor engine; selectively actuating the switch means and directing power from the auxiliary power source to the tractor and certain energy consuming components thereof; preventing the tractor from being started when power is being directed to the tractor from the auxiliary power source; and providing an oil and water heater circuit and connecting a control switch therein that is operatively connected to the auxiliary power source and providing power from the auxiliary power source to the oil and water heater circuit for powering the same.