Remote interface modules with programmable functions

Abstract

A control system for vehicle accessories differentiated from one another in terms of required voltage, current drawn, load duration and variability of energization levels utilizes generic interface modules to effect control. One or more generic remote interface modules, in addition to controllers such as engine and chassis controllers, are mounted on the vehicle for controlling actuation and energization of the non-standard devices, such as motors driving pumps for hydraulic lits. An electronic system controller (ESC) manages the remote interface modules over a serial communication link to provide the specialized functionality. Each remote interface module (RIM) is constructed as a standard component capable of providing digital and analog outputs to devices attached to one or more output ports on the module. The remote interface assumes a number of controller states under the control of the electronic system controller for regulating actuation and energization of the differentiated loads. Input ports are also provided for digital and analog inputs from sensors, which signals may be formatted for transmission to the electronic system controller. The electronic system controller includes memory for storing a data structure specifying permissible remote interface module states and a map to the module's ports to provide for the actuation and energization of the differentiated loads.