MeritorWABCO Vehicle Control Systems has introduced its new Roll Stability Support (RSS) trailer system, the RSSplus. Designed specifically for the North American trailer industry, it provides more advanced features and added value by building upon the company's current RSS offering, which incorporates ABS functionality with other pertinent safety features, such as improved roll mitigation.
MeritorWABCO introduced its first trailer stability system in 2003.
The new RSSplus retains MeritorWABCO's side-by-side wheel end control, which provides superior stability management and helps prevent tire flat spotting and abnormal tire wear. Additionally, the system offers simplified installation and advanced “intelligent” communication capabilities through on-board data recording with event broadcasting capability via Power Line Carrier (PLC) communications or telematic devices.
A premium two-modulator (2M) roll mitigation system, RSSplus integrates several features, including ABS and PLC functionality, reducing individual component requirements. The new system also is compatible for use with spring suspensions, as well as air ride suspensions.
A new cable connector system allows for more positive connections and cable stabilization to prevent damage and mitigate potential problems with connector corrosion.
Standardized SAE diagnostics make troubleshooting much simpler and are a conventional feature of the system, say company officials. The diagnostics also have been integrated into the company's Toolbox PC software.
System diagnostics can also be performed using standard blink codes which eliminate the cost of additional diagnostic tools.
By adding Power Line Carrier (PLC) capability to the RSSplus electronic control unit (ECU), the system can communicate between the tractor and trailer utilizing a PLC display. Additional messaging can also be accommodated via telematic devices.
Examples of events that can be communicated include suspension weight, tire pressure, wheel-end temperatures, or other customer-specific data.
“On-board data recording within the ECU allows for the retention of vehicle performance data in the ECU memory to enhance fleet management,” the officials say. “Such ‘intelligent’ data can be utilized to help improve operating efficiencies.”
Configurations of the new system include 2S/2M1, 4S/2M, and 4S/2M + 1 (for most 4S/3M requirements). Applications include vans, reefer units, flat beds, tankers, hazardous material haulers, B-trains, and high center of gravity trailers.
The design of the new system includes capabilities that are compatible with current tractor stability technologies, as well as future technologies.
RSSplus is also backward-compatible with existing trailers in the marketplace, so it can be retrofitted.
It will be available in late first quarter 2008 through trailer original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and as an aftermarket retrofit through trailer OEM dealers.