Abstract: A system having dual functionality implemented on a semi-trailer is provided. The system includes a sensor attached to a rear of the semi-trailer, a processing and display assembly, other systems associated with the semi-trailer, and wiring connected therebetween. The wiring may also be connected to other systems associated with the semi-trailer. The sensor senses the distance between a back end of the semi-trailer and an object behind the semi-trailer. Based on the distance sensed, the processing and display assembly flashes colored lights, visible to the semi-trailer driver, to inform the driver of the distance to an object behind the semi-trailer. The processing and display assembly also monitors the status of other systems associated with the semi-trailer. Based on the status, the processing and display assembly continuously shines colored lights, visible to the semi-trailer driver, to inform the driver of the status of the other systems.

Abstract: A system for a vehicle includes a hollow axle, a wheel hub which surrounds the axle, bearings provided therebetween, at least one nut having a predetermined inner diameter mounted on an end of the axle, and a hub cap mounted to the wheel hub. An exciting element is mounted within the hub cap by a mounting wheel. A sensor member is mounted in the end of the axle and radially spaced from the exciting element. The sensor member has an outer diameter which is less than the inner diameter of the nut such that the wheel hub, the bearings, the nut, the hub cap, the exciting element and the mounting wheel can be removed without having to remove the sensor member from the axle.

Abstract: A system is provided for sensing the presence of a semi-tractor as the mechanical connection between a trailer and a fifth wheel of the semi-tractor is made, or for sensing the presence of a rail car as the mechanical connection between the trailer and a stanchion plate of the rail car is made. A sensor is provided in the floor of the trailer proximate to the kingpin. The sensor senses the presence of the fifth wheel or the rail car stanchion plate during the connection process. Control circuitry on the trailer processes and uses signals from the sensor to perform various functions.

Abstract: A trailer connector to which a conventional connector from a tractor can be attached includes an electrical housing assembly and a lid and connector assembly. The electrical housing assembly includes a non-conductive housing which is mounted to the trailer and a plurality of conductive studs, a plurality of conductive terminals, and a non-conductive cap mounted within the housing. The cap has a plurality of passageways provided therein. Each terminal has a first end connected to a respective one of the studs and a second end which is in communication with a respective one of the passageways through the cap. A conventional wiring harness is attached to the studs. The lid and connector assembly includes a lid portion which is attached to the housing and a connector portion which is capable of being connected to and removed from the lid portion. The connector portion includes a plurality of pins which extend therethrough and interface with the cap.

Abstract: A system is provided for sensing the presence of a standard component of a locking mechanism of a door of a trailer when the door is moved to the closed position and is secured. A sensor is provided on the trailer proximate to the locking mechanism. The sensor automatically reacts when a ferrous target comes within its sensing range. Control circuitry on the trailer processes and uses signals from the sensor to perform various functions.

Abstract: A novel diagnostic system for a trailer is provided by the present invention. The trailer includes a micro controller which is part of an anti-lock brake system of the trailer. A warning light is provided on the trailer and is in electrical connection with the micro controller. A switch is provided proximate to the warning lamp. The switch can be activated by a technician to provide a short across the warning lamp. A stored program within the micro controller recognizes the short and performs a diagnostic function in response thereto by flashing the warning lamp in a predetermined manner.