One-Wire Automotive Electrical Systems

A single-wire vehicle electrical control system is applied to the various vehicle electrical functions. The resultant three-wire system (signal, power, ground) reduces wire bulk in the floor, door, instrument panel, and engine compartment of the vehicle. Increased control switch and component complexity, due to the additional solid-state components required, may affect overall reliability. Improved power bus and signal bus protection must be added to the control system. Failure of the entire single-wire control system, due to accidental grounds or opens, limits application to certain noncritical vehicle electrical systems.