초록 ▼

A communication link between a tractor and trailer is established utilizing existing by dormant tractor and trailer circuitry. In one embodiment of the invention, a tractor communications device has a communications port connected to a turn signal circuit and a trailer communications device has a co

A communication link between a tractor and trailer is established utilizing existing by dormant tractor and trailer circuitry. In one embodiment of the invention, a tractor communications device has a communications port connected to a turn signal circuit and a trailer communications device has a communications port connected to the same turn signal circuit. The two communications devices permit communications therebetween over the turn signal circuit as long as the turn signal circuit is inactive, and otherwise inhibits such communications. In another embodiment of the invention, such a communications link is used to transmit a fault signal, relating to an abnormally operating trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS), to the tractor for activation of an in-cab ABS warning device.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A tractor communication system for providing warning of a fault condition associated with an electrical system external to the tractor, comprising:an electrical connector mounted to a tractor and having a number of electrical terminals adapted for connection to an electri

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A tractor communication system for providing warning of a fault condition associated with an electrical system external to the tractor, comprising:an electrical connector mounted to a tractor and having a number of electrical terminals adapted for connection to an electrical system external to the tractor;a tractor electrical system including a turn signal circuit having a turn signal circuit path connected to one of said electrical terminals of said electrical connector;means disposed in a cab of said truck and responsive to a warning signal for providing a warning indicative of a fault condition associated with the electrical system external to said tractor; anda communications device having a communications port connected to said turn signal circuit path, said communications port adapted to receive a fault signal indicative of said fault condition as long as said turn signal circuit is inactive, said communications device providing said warning signal in response to detection of said fault signal at said communications port.