Use of Power Line Communications with LONWORKS® Technology in Transportation Applications

Multiplexed buses are necessary to add new electronic control systems on-board vehicles. With roughly 50% of these systems expected to be installed or modified after the vehicle rolls off the assembly line, plug-and-play retrofits are important.

Using a network protocol that runs on the electrical wiring in a vehicle reduces wiring for new vehicles. In allowing use of wiring already installed on the vehicle, such a scheme also pays excellent dividends for retrofits.

Over the life of a vehicle, networked electronic devices and sub-systems will be obtained from several different suppliers. Standard device profiles and a common network operating system are essential for their easy integration, whether on the assembly line or in the aftermarket.