X-by-wireless: a novel approach to vehicle control

Abstract

As the cost of wireless devices approaches zero, it becomes more feasible to replace wires with wireless communication. Vehicle wiring harnesses are traditionally wired to communicate both power and information simultaneously, resulting in separate circuits for each vehicle device. X-By-Wireless seeks to supplant this configuration in favor of a shared power bus and wireless inter-component communication. In doing so, we can recognize a number of benefits such as reduced weight and increased reliability, flexibility, and upgradeability. However, this introduces new problems such as longer transmission delays, interference and encryption issues, fusing difficulties, and public perception regarding safety. The purpose of this thesis is to define the X-By-Wireless concept and to investigate the benefits and drawbacks in implementing X-By-Wireless. Furthermore, we do a theoretical and case study analysis to expand upon the weight reduction benefit so as to quantify the expected improvements. We also address each of the challenges presented by X-By-Wireless and integrate them into a proposed circuit that is capable of performing all the necessary functions of wireless control, wireless sensing, and fusing. We find that the proposed device can be mass-produced as an effective solution that meets the speed and security constraints necessary for most vehicle components.