DRIVEAWAY PREVENTION FOR ELECTRIC TRAILER CHARGING PLUG

DRIVE December 22, 2022
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A motion detection and interlock mechanism prevents unintended drive-off of a trailer still connected to a charging source, which could cause damage and/or injury if continued unimpeded. Trailer power for electrical components is a high voltage AC connection, typically between 277-480 VAC. Forced disconnection of an engaged plug could damage the plug and receptacle, leave electrical conductive members unprotected, and cause a short circuit. Electrical connections to trailers may be made for powering electric TRUs (Transport Refrigeration Units) for refrigerated loads, and for charging a storage battery for powering the TRU over the road or even the tractor itself in the case of a hybrid/electric tractor. In configurations herein, an e-axle is provided on the trailer suspension, such that a driveaway prevention circuit reverse biases the wheels to prevent movement of the trailer while engaged with a charging outlet.

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