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The primary function of a gauge and information display cluster is to report to the driver the current state of the different systems of the vehicle and particularly to report out of range performance conditions. This paper will examine one implementation of the instrument cluster as a node on the J1939 data link as it relates to that functionality. Traditionally clusters have received their information from a variety of sensors requiring a substantial number of connections. Once the cluster is installed in the vehicle, changing the configuration may only be accomplished by means of a hardware change.

The increasing complexity of the electrical and electronic systems on trucks requires a more sophisticated electrical control system. Replacing many of the discrete electronic controls and wiring with a central Electrical System Controller (ESC) allows for easier integration of system components and improved system response. The use of software control within the Electrical System Controller, provides opportunities for enhanced system capabilities and a fluid platform for future development. This paper examines the software architecture employed within an Electrical System Controller and also examines the factors that govern the software's design. These include a requirement for the ESC to be highly configurable to accommodate a variety of features desired by customers.

The increased use of power field-effect transistors instead of power relays for controlling electrical loads on vehicles has created an opportunity for the development of a software based virtual fuse. This development has several important aspects to the vehicle OEM. Not only will the cost of the fuse be saved along with the cost of the fuse holder, but also perhaps the largest cost associated with using a traditional fuse: the wiring to and from the fuse. In commercial vehicles, the variability of one vehicle to the next may force different circuits to occupy the same physical space on the different vehicles. These differing circuits may also require different values of fuse elements. Ensuring that the correct fuse value is installed under these conditions can be a difficult task at best. Having a software based virtual fuse that can be programmed to match the vehicle configuration can eliminate having an unprotected circuit due to an assembly error.

With the added complexity of vehicle multiplexed systems, the task of accurately diagnosing vehicle electrical failures is daunting at best. Integration of smart controllers into the electrical system provide the added flexibility and capability of detecting and monitoring operating conditions. This paper discusses one approach to detecting and displaying vehicle electrical diagnostic information either directly to the driver/technician via on-board driver information systems or indirectly via off-board service tools.