초록 ▼

A system for providing an electrical power and electronic communication link between a tractor and trailer includes a tractor module associated with the tractor and a trailer module associated with the trailer. The tractor module controls a plurality of switching devices operable to switch a corresp

A system for providing an electrical power and electronic communication link between a tractor and trailer includes a tractor module associated with the tractor and a trailer module associated with the trailer. The tractor module controls a plurality of switching devices operable to switch a corresponding plurality of electrical lines extending between the tractor electrical system and the trailer to one of an electrical power line, a ground line and a communication line. The trailer module similarly controls a plurality of switching devices operable to switch a corresponding plurality of electrical lines extending between the trailer lighting system and the tractor electrical system to one of an electrical system of the trailer a communication line. The tractor and trailer modules are operable to establish a communication link therebetween and gather diagnostic data relating to the trailer electrical system, and to selectively route electrical power and/or ground to the trailer electrical system while maintaining control over the trailer lighting system each of the tractor and trailer modules is further operable to control their corresponding switching devices to switch back to the conventional electrical connection if the communication link is inoperable.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A tractor communication and power switching system for establishing a power and communications link with a trailer, comprising:a plurality of switching devices each having an input switchable between an electrical line forming part of an electrical system of the tractor a

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A tractor communication and power switching system for establishing a power and communications link with a trailer, comprising:a plurality of switching devices each having an input switchable between an electrical line forming part of an electrical system of the tractor and one of an electrical power line connected to a source of power associated with the tractor and a single unpowered communication line, and an output connected to the trailer; anda tractor control module having an input/output connected to said single unpowered communication line for sending and receiving communication signals thereon, said tractor control module controlling said plurality of switching devices to connect the inputs of first and second ones of said switching devices to said communication line and said electrical power line respectively.