Abstract:
The present invention provides a nosebox having an interchangeable connector assembly contained in a housing, for making electrical connection between a tractor and a trailer. The nosebox housing is sized to receive electrical conduits in excess of the size and/or number (seven) proscribed by the SAE J-560 standards and is adapted to securely attach to either the tractor or the trailer. The nosebox housing includes a cover member hingedly attached to a tray member. When closed, the cover member seals against the tray member, thus preventing water from entering the interior of the box. Additionally, the interior of the nosebox is contoured for directing electrical conduits without pinching them. 
     The interchangeable connector assembly is detachably mounted inside the nosebox housing and is easily removable for repair or replacement. The interchangeable connector assembly also meets SAE-J560b standard. The interchangeable connector assembly offers push-on sealed plug connections, stacking ring-terminal connections, and circuit breaker protection in different embodiments.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to systems for interfacing electrical power and electronic communications between a tractor and a trailer, and more specifically to a nosebox having interchangeable connector assemblies. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     For the past few decades, the freight hauling industry has relied on a tractor/ trailer combination for hauling cargo over long distances. These combinations consist of a tractor that is mechanically coupled to a trailer so it can pull the trailer and its cargo. Because the trailer typically has no power source or control mechanisms, it is necessary to supply power and communicate control signals via a subsystem link from the tractor to the trailer for the proper functioning of the tractor/trailer combination. Since a tractor is not permanently linked to a specific trailer, it is desirable that this subsystem link comply with relevant industry standards in order for a tractor to be compatible with different trailers. 
     Electrical power exchange between a tractor and trailer is currently accomplished via a seven wire cable and an associated seven pin connector. This electrical connection system, capable of carrying seven separate circuits, provides electrical power for various trailer lighting functions such as turn signals, brake lamps, tail lamps, side marker lamps, clearance lamps and dome lamps, as well as a ground reference for these electrical circuits. In an effort to provide uniformity throughout the industry, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has promulgated standards for both the seven wire cable (SAE-J1067) and the associated seven pin connectors (SAE-J560b). 
     As used hereinafter, the term “tractor” refers to any vehicle having another vehicle in tow, and therefore includes medium or heavy duty trucks, tractor trucks and tractor truck/trailer combinations having a further vehicle or vehicles in tow The term “trailer” as used hereinafter refers to any vehicle towed by another vehicle, and therefore includes semi-trailers, and the like. 
     Referring to FIG. 1, a diagram of a typical prior art electrical connection system  50  for routing electrical power to an electrical trailer system is shown. A tractor  52  includes a tractor power system  54  which acts as a power source to provide electrical power to a tractor electrical system  56  when the tractor  52  is in operation. Connected to tractor electrical system  56  are seven electrical lines  58   1 ,  58   2 , . . .  58   7 , which are configured in accordance with SAE-J1067 standards. Electrical lines  58   1 ,  58   2 , . . .  58   7  extend from tractor electrical system  56  into a connector housing  60 , commonly referred to as a “tractor nosebox”, which is typically attached to an exterior surface of tractor  52 . Housing  60  has a seven conductor electrical connector  62  associated therewith, and electrical lines  58   1 ,  58   2 , . . .  58   7  are connected thereto in accordance with SAE-J560b standards. 
     A trailer  64  includes a trailer electrical system  66  which is operable to provide the aforementioned trailer lighting functions. Connected to trailer electrical system  66  are seven electrical lines  68   1 ,  68   2 , . . .  68   7  which are configured in accordance with SAE J-1067 standards. Electrical lines  68   1 ,  68   2 , . . .  68   7  extend from trailer electrical system  66  into a connector housing  70 , or “trailer nosebox”, which is typically attached to an exterior surface of trailer  64 . Housing  70  has a seven conductor electrical connector  72  associated therewith, to which electrical lines  68   1 ,  68   2 , . . .  68   7  are connected in accordance with SAE-J560b standards. 
     A seven conductor connector/cable  74 , or “power cord”, connects tractor electrical connector  62  to trailer electrical connector  72  so that the tractor electrical system  56  controls, and provides electrical power to, the trailer electrical system  66 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 2, a typical power cord  74  is shown. Power cord  74  includes an SAE-J1067 seven wire jacketed cable  76  with an SAE-J560b seven conductor plug connector  78  connected thereto at each end. Each plug connector  78  has a front face  82  and a socket guide  80  extending away from the front face  82 . FIG. 3 shows the front face  82  of plug connector  78  which defines seven receptacles, or electrical terminals  84 - 96 , therein, each of which forms an electrical connection with one of the seven wires contained within cable  76 . The sizing and color standard of the seven circuit wires are set forth in SAE-J1067. 
     Referring now to FIG. 4, an example of a typical electrical connection between connector housing  60  (or  70 ), attached to tractor  52  (or trailer  64 ), and power cord  74  is shown. Connector housing  60  ( 70 ) typically includes a socket cover  116  connected to housing  60  ( 70 ) by hinged connection  118 , which is biased, such that cover  116  provides an environmentally and mechanically protecting seal over socket  114  when not in use. Socket  114  has been generally referred as electrical connector  62  (or  72 ) (FIG. 1.) Socket  114  is configured complementary to plug  78  of power cord  74 , and includes a socket guide slot  112  (FIG. 5) such that plug  78  may be received within socket  114  having socket guide  80  aligns with socket guide slot  112  when cover  116  is lifted to expose socket  114 . Cover  116  also typically includes a projection  120  which operates to engage socket guide  80  of plug  78 , which, under the normal bias of cover  116  provided by hinged connection  118 , acts to retain plug  78  within socket  114 , thereby maintaining electrical connection therebetween. 
     FIG. 5 shows a cross-section, taken along section lines  5 — 5  of FIG. 4, of the electrical connection between plug  78  and socket  114 . Socket  114  includes seven “pins” or electrical terminals  122 - 134 , which are typically configured in accordance with SAE-J560b standards, and which are received within corresponding receptacle terminals  84 - 96  of plug  78 . The specifics of the sizing and geometry standards of SAE-J1067 cable and SAE-J560b plugs and sockets are set forth in “Seven Truck-Trailer Jumper-Cable,” of the 2000 SAE Handbook. Generally, for a SAE-J560b socket, the seven pins are positioned in a standard pattern such that a central pin surrounded by six pins spaced equiangularly from each other and from the center pin. Per the SAE-J560b standard, the pin located at the 12 o&#39;clock position, in reference to the socket guide slot  112 , is slightly larger in diameter than the other six standard pins. Traditionally, the pins are referred to by the color and/or function of the circuit wire to which the pins are ultimately connected, i.e. pin  122  at the 12 o&#39;clock position is white for the main ground circuit, pin  128  at the 6 o&#39;clock position is for the red circuit, pins  124 ,  126 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134  are black, yellow, blue, green, and brown, respectively. 
     Recently, technological advances in the tractor/trailer industry have created a need to provide tractors and trailers with additional electrical functions. Examples of such functions include anti-lock brakes, lift gates, and electronic suspension control, as well as diagnostic control and fault detection of various trailer functions. Furthermore, there is a desire within the industry to have the capability of providing for a parallel main harness when a double trailer hook-up is required. The prior art interface system as described in FIG. 1 does not have the capacity to provide for the extra functions. A recent government ruling further aggravates the problem by dedicating the blue circuit to the trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS). Although provisions for additional power cables and connectors may be a viable solution in the short term, this approach is generally a costly solution since that tends to limit compatibility between tractors and trailers. Additionally, it is still generally considered desirable by owners and operators of tractor/trailer combinations to maintain the use of the universal J560b plugs, sockets and the associated J1067 power cords. However, before the universal J560/J1067 hardware standard is to be used to provide electrical interface for the added communication and power needs, two issues must be addressed. First, the system must provide the capability of loading multiple functions on one circuit. Secondly, the system must provide connection points for the added functions. 
     An example of a design utilizing the SAE-J1067/J560b electrical interface system to provide added data communications and electrical power routing between a tractor and trailer is set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,592. This design incorporates communication and power switching circuitry to permit power and communications to be selectively routed with the same circuit so as to provide dedicated power to the trailer while maintaining normal trailer electrical functions. Other known designs are set forth in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,854,517 and 5,920,128. These systems transmit communication data while the circuit power function is inactive. The above cited patents are all assigned to the same assignee as the present invention. While these innovative circuit designs may have addressed the capability issue of using one circuit for multiple power and communication functions, these systems did not address the second issue of providing extra terminal receptacles allowing the added functions to connect to the circuits. 
     What is therefore needed are connector assemblies which are compatible with existing SAE-J1067/J506b power cords and plugs but which also permit new electrically controlled tractor/trailer functions and features to be connected to the existing circuits without additional electrical connection hardware or splicing. Ideally, these connector assemblies should have different connection configurations suited to the particular needs of a specific tractor/trailer. Additionally, such assemblies should be removable providing the flexibility of changing a configuration or replacing a damaged unit. Furthermore, the connector assemblies should provide circuit breaker protection. The present invention is designed to meet the above needs. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a nosebox for making electrical connection between a tractor and a trailer. The nose box is adapted to securely attach to either the tractor or the trailer and includes an interchangeable connector assembly detachably mounted within the nosebox housing. The interchangeable connector assemblies feature SAE-J560b/J1067 interface compatibility, while at the same time providing multiple connecting positions for added electrical functions, e.g., anti-lock brakes, lift gates, parallel main harness, etc., to connect to the circuits bridging between the tractor and trailer combination. The present invention also provides several embodiments of interchangeable connector assemblies, allowing electrical interfacing via conventional push-on-sealed plugs, ring terminals, with circuit breaker protection. 
     The nosebox housing is sized to accommodate the interchangeable connector assemblies and the extra electrical wires and cables. The nosebox housing includes a tray member hingeably engaged to a cover member. The cover member can be secured to the tray member with locking bolts. The cover member further includes an outer flange which seals around the tray member and preventing water from entering the interior of the housing when closed. Additionally, the inside surface of the cover member has a “U” shaped wall that pushes the wires into the interior of the housing when the cover member closes onto the tray member, and preventing the cable wires from being pinched or cut. 
     One aspect of the present invention is to provide a nosebox for making electrical connections between a tractor and a trailer, comprising a housing, an interchangeable connector assembly having a plurality of conductors electrically connected to a socket, wherein the plurality of conductors are adapted to receive electrical cables, and said socket is adapted to receive circuits bridging between the tractor and the trailer, and the electrical cables are detachably engaged to the plurality of conductors of the connector assembly, and the connector assembly is detachably mounted in the housing, whereby the connector assembly may be easily removed from the housing for repair or replacement. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a nosebox-plug interchangeable connector assembly comprising a body, a plurality of primary conducting pins extending from said body and configured as a socket, wherein each of the primary conducting pins is adapted to receive connection to a circuit, a plurality of additional conductors extending from the body, the plurality of additional conductors exceeding the plurality of primary conducting pins in number, and wherein each of the plurality of primary conducting pins is electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of additional conductors, and wherein the additional conductors are adapted to receive terminal connectors, thereby the additional conductors providing additional electrical connection points to the circuits received by the primary conducting pins. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a stacking ring terminal interchangeable connector assembly comprising a body, a plurality of primary conducting pins extending from the body and configured as a socket, and wherein each the primary conducting pin is adapted to receive connection to a circuit, a plurality of secondary conducting pins extending from the body, wherein the secondary conducting pins are adapted to receive multiple ring terminals, and wherein each the secondary pins is connected to one of the primary conducting pins, whereby the secondary pins provide extra connection points to the circuits received by the primary pins. 
     A yet further aspect of the present invention is to provide a circuit breaker interchangeable connector assembly comprising a body, a plurality of primary conducting pins extending from the body, wherein the primary conducting pins are configured as a socket and adapted to receive connection to a circuit, a plurality of circuit breakers having terminal posts, wherein the terminal posts are adapted to receive multiple terminal connectors, a plurality of sets of contact plates extending through the body, each the set of contact plates includes an inner contact plate and an outer contact plate, wherein the inner contact plates are electrically connected to respective ones of the primary conducting pins, and wherein the circuit breakers are coupled between respective ones of the sets of contact plates, thereby providing circuit breaker protection and multiple connection points to the circuits received by the primary conducting pins. 
     A still further aspect of the present invention is to provide a method of making an interchangeable connector assembly comprising the steps of (a) providing a plurality of primary conducting pins, the primary pins being configured as a socket, wherein each primary conducting pin is adapted to receive connection to a circuit from an incoming cable; (b) providing a plurality of additional conductors; (c) providing a plurality of connecting conductors; (d) connecting the primary conducting pins to respective ones of the connecting conductors and connecting the additional conductors to selected ones of the connecting conductors, thereby electrically connecting the primary conducting pins to the additional conductors; (e) providing a mold; (f) arranging the primary conducting pins, the connecting conductors and the additional conductors in the mold in a predetermined configuration; (g) filling the mold with an insulating fluid molding compound; and (h) curing the fluid molding compound to form a rigid plate completely enclosing the bar conductors. 
     One object of the present invention is to provide an interchangeable connector assembly for a nosebox where the connector assembly is detachably mounted and can be easily removed for repair or replacement. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide multiple interchangeable connector assemblies for reconfiguring the electrical interfacing of the tractor/trailer combination. 
     Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a connector assembly which includes multiple connection points for tractor/trailer electrical functions to connect to the circuits bridging the tractor and trailer. 
     Related objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical illustration of a prior art electrical interface between a tractor electrical system and a trailer electrical system. 
     FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art seven conductor electrical cable with plug connectors for use as an electrical interface between a tractor and a trailer. 
     FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of a prior art seven terminal plug connector for use with the prior art seven conductor electrical cable of FIG.  2 . 
     FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of an electrical connection between the prior art seven conductor electrical cable of FIG. 2 and a seven terminal electrical socket of a tractor or trailer. 
     FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection of FIG. 4 taken along section line  5 — 5  of FIG.  4 . 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an electrical connector housing, or nosebox, of the present invention. 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the first side of a nosebox plug connector assembly, which illustrates a portion of a first embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly of the present invention. 
     FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the second side of the nosebox plug connector of FIG.  7 . 
     FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electrical connection of the nosebox plug connector assembly of FIG.  7 . 
     FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the first side of a ring terminal connector assembly, which illustrated a portion of a second embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly of the present invention. 
     FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the second side of the ring terminal connector assembly of FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the electrical connection of the ring terminal connector assembly of FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the first side of a circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly, which illustrates a portion of a third embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly of the present invention. 
     FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the second side of the circuit beaker-ring terminal connector assembly of FIG.  13 . 
     FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the electrical connection of the circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly of FIG.  13 . 
     FIG. 16 is a exploded view of the first side of a circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly, which illustrates a portion of a fourth embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly of the present invention. 
     FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the second side of the circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly of FIG.  16 . 
     FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the electrical connection of the circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly of FIG.  16 . 
     FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a nosebox housing and cover of the present invention. 
     FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the tray member of the nosebox housing of FIG.  19 . 
     FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the cover member of the nosebox housing of FIG.  19 . 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates are also included. 
     FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of an electrical connector housing, or nosebox,  150  of the present invention. Nosebox  150  includes a housing  152  and an interchangeable connector assembly  160  contained therein. The present invention provides several embodiments of interchangeable connector assembly  160 . A nosebox plug connector assembly  202 , a first embodiment of an interchangeable connector assembly  160 , is illustrated in FIG.  6 . Housing  152  is specifically designed to house the interchangeable connector assemblies  160  and is also adapted to securely attach to either a tractor or a trailer. Connector assemblies  160  are detachably mounted to nosebox housing  152  and can be easily removed for servicing or exchanging for other connector assemblies  160 . Each embodiment of connector assemblies  160  includes special features designed to meet specific needs of interfacing the electrical systems  56 ,  66  (FIG. 1) of the tractor/trailer combination. Four embodiments of interchangeable connector assemblies  160  will be illustrated. Features of the housing  152  will also be discussed. 
     A. Nosebox Plug Connector Assembly 
     FIGS. 7-9 show a nosebox plug connector assembly  202 , a first embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly  160  of the present invention. Push-on-sealed plug or nosebox plug connector assembly  202  provides additional connecting positions for conventional nosebox plug connectors to the electrical circuits, thus eliminating the common but undesirable practice of splicing into the electrical circuit wires. FIGS. 7 and 8 show the exterior features of nosebox plug connector assembly  202 . FIG. 9 shows the electrical connections of nosebox plug connector assembly  202 . Nosebox plug connector assembly  202  is of a one-piece construction, having a plate-like body  204  which includes a first side  206  and a second side  208 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 7 which shows first side  206  of nosebox plug connector assembly  202 , centrally defined on first side  206  is a turret  210  which extends above first side  206 . Turret  210  includes a top face  212  and a key projection  222  protruding from the side of turret  210 . Key projection  222  extends from top surface  212  to first side  206 . Extending from top face  212  of turret  210  is a raised section  224  which contains seven wells  226 . Seven secondary conducting pins or secondary pins  214 - 220  extend above raised section  224  from wells  226 . Raised section  224  provides support to the secondary conducting pins  214 - 220 , while wells  226  allow adequate access for the plug terminals to contact secondary conducting pins  214 - 220 . Surrounding turret  210  are sixteen free-standing wells  228  each having a secondary conducting pin or secondary pins  284 - 299  extending therefrom. The secondary conducting pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  as a group are also referred to as additional conductors. 
     Secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  provide added connection points to the electrical circuits bridging the tractor/trailer combination. In the illustrated embodiment where the bridging circuits are configured according to the SAE-J1067 standard, secondary pins  214  and  284 - 288  are for connection to the white circuit, secondary pins  215  and  289 - 291  are for connection to the brown circuit, secondary pins  216  and  292 - 293  are for connection to the green circuit, secondary pins  217  and  294  are for connection to the red circuit, secondary pins  218  and  295 - 296  are for connection to the yellow circuit, secondary pins  219  and  297 - 299  are for connection to the black circuit, and secondary pin  220  is for connection to the blue circuit. Additionally, secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  are adapted to receive conventional push-on-sealed plug terminals. Preferably, secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  are approximately 0.18 inches in diameter. While the illustrated number of secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  are provided for each of the SAE-J1067 circuits, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  may be utilized without deviation from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     A set of mounting bosses  236  are also provided on body  204 . Mounting bosses  236  extend from first side  206  and include apertures  238 . Apertures  238  are adapted for receiving bolts or screws for attaching nosebox plug connector assembly  202  to nosebox housing  152 . Preferably, mounting bosses  236  are spaced a distance apart for an even distribution of attachment forces. 
     Referring now to FIG. 8, which shows second side  208  of nosebox plug connector assembly  202 . Recessed within second side  208  is turret cavity  240  which complements turret  210  defined on first side  206 . Extending from turret cavity  240  are seven primary conducting pins or primary pins or central pins  244 - 250  which are configured as a socket for receiving a SAE-J560b plug connector of a SAE-J1067 cable. While the nosebox plug connector assembly  202  as illustrated is adapted to the SAE-J560b interfacing standard, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates providing a connector assembly for push-on-seal plug (or other style) terminals having other than a SAE-J560b configuration. 
     Situated directly behind central conducting pin  244 , on the wall of turret cavity  240 , is key slot  242 . Key slot  242  complements key projection  222  defined on first side  206 . Key slot  242  provides guidance for aligning connector assembly  202  to nosebox housing  152 . Spaced apart at the corners of body  204  are recesses  237 , which correspond to mounting bosses  236  defined on first side  206 . Each of the recesses  237  is adapted for engaging nosebox housing  152 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 9, which shows the electrical connections between primary pins  244 - 250  and secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  of nosebox plug connector assembly  202 . Electrical connections are made and organized by the use of connecting conductors, specifically bar conductors  252 - 257 . Conducting pins which are connected to the same bar connectors are electrically connected. Bar conductors  252 - 257  include first and second surfaces,  260  and  262 , respectively, and both surface  260 ,  262 , are capable of receiving conducting pins. In one embodiment, bar conductors  252 - 257  are stamped out as a single piece and formed into a track  258  as shown in FIG. 9. A single track  258  of bar conductors would facilitate the assembly of the multiple types of conducting pins. The links  259  between bar conductors  252 - 257  would be separated later to provide individual circuits. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other conventional processes of producing bar conductors  252 - 257  may be used in place of the stamped and formed process. For example, bar conductors  252 - 257  may be formed as individual pieces and assembled before molding. Additionally, it is preferred that bar conductors  252 - 257  be made of brass. However, other conducting material having suitable electrical conductivity and formability may also be used. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each of the bar conductors  252 - 257  are bent to a step shape defining a central portion  252   a - 257   a  and an auxiliary portion  252   c - 257   c.  Central portions  252   a - 257   a  and auxiliary portions  252   c - 257   c  are adapted to receive additional conductors. As illustrated, auxiliary portions  252   c - 257   c  are of different widths depending on the number of secondary conducting pins to be attached thereon and the placement geometry. 
     Connecting to, and extending above, first surface  260  of bar conductors  252 - 257  are secondary pins  214 - 219  and  284 - 299 . Connecting to, and extending below, second surface  262  of bar conductors  252 - 257  are primary pins or central pins  244 - 249 . Primary pins  244 - 249 , which are connected to central portions  252   a - 257   a  are part of a set of primary pins  244 - 250  which is adapted to meet SAE-J560b standard. Because the number of conductor bars  252 - 257  is one less than the number of primary conducting pins  244 - 250 , primary conducting pin  250 , which is not attached to a conductor bar, is joined to secondary pin  220 . The joined primary/secondary conductor pin  250 / 220  is positioned among the attached primary pins  244 - 249 , completing a socket in accordance with SAE-J560b standard. Each primary pin  244 - 250  within the socket is adapted to receive connection to a circuit of the SAE-J1067 cable. Primary conducting pin  244  being slightly larger in diameter than the other six primary conducting pins  245 - 250  is conventionally referred to as the white pin for accepting the ground or white circuit. Moving clockwise from primary pin  244  is primary pin  245  for accepting the black circuit, primary pin  246  for accepting the yellow circuit, primary pin  247  for accepting the red circuit, primary pin  248  for accepting the green circuit, primary pin  249  for accepting the brown circuit, and primary pin  250  for accepting the blue circuit. 
     Secondary conducting pins  214 - 219  are connected one each to first surface  260  of central portions  252   a - 257   a.  Varying numbers of secondary pins  284 - 299  are attached to first surface  260  of auxiliary portions  252   c - 257   c.  In the illustrated embodiment, there are five secondary pins  284 - 288  connecting to auxiliary portion  252   c,  three secondary pins  288 - 291  connecting to auxiliary portion  253   c,  two secondary pins  292 - 293  connecting to auxiliary portion  254   c,  one secondary pins  294  connecting to auxiliary portion  255   c,  two secondary pins  295 - 296  connecting to auxiliary portion  256   c,  and three secondary pins  297 - 299  connecting to auxiliary portion  257   c.    
     After primary conducting pins  244 - 250  and secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  are connected to bar connectors  252 - 257  and to each other as described above, secondary pins  214  and  284 - 288  are electrically connected to primary pin  244 , thus providing connections to the white circuit; secondary pins  215  and  289 - 291  are electrically connected to primary pin  249 , thus providing connections to the brown circuit; secondary pins  216  and  292 - 293  are electrically connected to primary pin  248 , thus providing connections to the green circuit; secondary pins  217  and  294  are electrically connected to primary pin  247 , thus providing connections to the red circuit; secondary pins  218  and  295 - 296  are electrically connected to primary pin  246 , thus providing connections to the yellow circuit; secondary pins  219  and  297 - 299  are electrically connected to primary pin  245 , thus providing connections to the black circuit; and secondary pin  220  is directly connected to primary pin  250 , thus providing connection to the blue circuit. The secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  therefore providing connecting positions for the many extra electrical functions to the seven circuits of the SAE-J1067 cable. 
     Preferably, central conducting pins  244 - 249  and secondary conducting pins  214 - 219  and  284 - 299  are secured to conductor bars  252 - 257  by insert welding. However, other methods which can conductively secure the conducting pins to the bar conductors may also be used. Additionally, while bar conductors are shown for making electrical connections in this illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that other type of connecting conductors, for example, conductive wires, may also be used. 
     After the electrical connections are made, body  204  of nosebox plug connector assembly  202  is formed by insert molding. Insert molding assures a seal over the bar conductors and the welding joints, and thus reduces the probability of environmental corrosion. Additionally, insert molding allows better control and dimensional stability of the conducting pin locations. Insert molding generally involves assembling bar conductors  252 - 257  and the associated central pins  244 - 250 , secondary pins  214 - 220 , and auxiliary pins  284 - 299  as shown in FIG. 9 into a mold (not shown). A fluid non-conducting molding compound is dispensed into the mold sufficient to cover conducting bars  252 - 257  and the welded junctions, but allowing central conducting pins  244 - 250 , secondary pins  214 - 220  and  284 - 299  to extend above the molding compound. The molding compound is then cured to a solid stage forming a rigid plate enclosing bar conductors  252 - 257 , thereby stabilizing the pin positions and providing protection against moisture intrusion. Preferably, the molding compound is glass filled nylon. The amount of glass may vary depending on the strength and rigidity required. The preferred range is between 20-30% glass. While, insert molding with glass filled nylon is chosen for the illustrated embodiments, other non-conducting, moldable materials having the necessary strength and rigidity may also be used. 
     B. Stacking Ring Terminal Connector Assembly 
     FIGS. 10-12 show a stacking ring terminal or ring terminal connector assembly  302 , a second embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly  160  of the present invention. Ring terminal connector assembly  302  provides multiple connecting positions for ring terminal connectors in a stacking arrangement, thus eliminating the common but undesirable practice of splicing into cable wires. FIGS. 10 and 11 show the exterior features of ring terminal connector assembly  302 . FIG. 12 shows the hidden electrical connections  304  of ring terminal connector assembly  302 . Ring terminal connector assembly  302  is of a one-piece construction, having a plate-like body  304  including a first side  306  and a second side  308 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 10, which shows first side  306  of stacking ring terminal connector assembly  302 , centrally defined on first side  306  is turret  310  extending above first side  306 . Turret  310  includes a side  311 , a top face  312  and a key projection  322  protruding from side  311  and extending between top surface  312  and first side  306 . Extending from top face  312  of turret  310  is a raised platform  324  having a secondary pin  320  protruding therethrough. Surrounding turret  310  are additional raised platforms  324 , each having a secondary conducting pin  314 - 319  protruding therethrough. Raised platform  324  adds rigidity and stabilizing supports to secondary conducting pin  314 - 320  contained therein. 
     Secondary pins  314 - 320  are provided as connection points to the electrical circuits bridging the tractor/trailer combination. In the illustrated embodiment where the bridging circuits are configured according to SAE-J1067 standard, secondary pin  314  enables connection to the white circuit, secondary pin  315  enables connection to the brown circuit, secondary pin  316  enables connection to the green circuit, secondary pin  317  enables connection to the red circuit, secondary pin  318  enables connection to the yellow circuit, secondary pin  319  enables connection to the black circuit, and secondary pin  320  enables connection to the blue circuit. Secondary pins  314 - 320  are adapted to receive conventional ring-terminal connectors and are of sufficient height to accommodate a multiple of ring-terminal connectors by stacking. Preferably, secondary conducting pins  314 - 320  are #10 threaded post for accepting #10 ring-terminals. Divider panels  327  extend from side  311  of turret  310  toward the periphery of first side  306 , together with mounting bosses  336 , forming dividers separating each of secondary conducting pins  314 - 319 , thus avoiding inadvertent contact of conducting terminal wires. 
     Mounting bosses  336  are provided for mounting ring terminal connector assembly  302  to nosebox housing  152 . Mounting bosses  336  extend from first side  306  and include aperture  338  which are adapted to receive fasteners  12  (FIG. 6) for attachment to nosebox housing  152 . Preferably, mounting bosses  336  are spaced a distance apart for an even distribution of attachment forces. 
     Referring now to FIG. 11 which shows second side  308  of stacking ring terminal connector assembly  302 . Recessed within second side  308  is turret cavity  340  which complements to turret  310  defined on first side  306 . Extending from turret cavity  340  are seven primary or central conducting pins  344 - 350 , which are configured as a socket, for receiving a SAE-J560b plug connector of a SAE-J1067 cable. While ring terminal connector assembly  302 , as illustrated, is adapted to be compatible with SAE-J560b standard, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates providing a stacking ring terminal connector with electrical connection having other than a SAE-J560b configuration. 
     Situated directly behind white primary conducting pin  344  on the wall of turret cavity  340  is key slot  342 . Key slot  342  complements key projection  322  formed on first side  306 . Key slot  342  is provided as a guide for aligning stacking ring terminal connector assembly  302  to nosebox housing  152 . Spaced apart at the corners are recesses  327  which correspond to mounting bosses  336  defined on first side  306 . Recesses  327  are adapted for engaging nosebox housing  152 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 12, which shows the electrical connections of ring terminal connector assembly  302 , the electrical connections are made and organized by the use of connecting conductors, specifically, bar conductors  352 - 357 . Conducting pins connected to the same bar conductor are electrically connected. Bar conductors  352 - 357  include first and second surfaces  360  and  362 , respectively. As discussed previously, bar conductors  352 - 357  may be formed as a track or as separate pieces. In addition, bar conductor  352 - 357  are preferably formed of brass. However, other conducting materials having suitable electric conductivity and formability may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, each bar conductor  352 - 357  is bent into a “step” shape, defining a central portion  352   a - 357   a  and an auxiliary portions  352   c - 357   c.  Connecting to, and extending above, first surface  360  of auxiliary portions  352   c - 357   c  are secondary pins  314 - 319 . Connecting to, and extending below, second surface  362  of central portions  352   a - 357   a  are primary conducting pins  344 - 349 . 
     Primary pins  344 - 349  which are connected to central portions  352   a - 357   a  are part of a set of primary pins  344 - 350  meeting the SAE-J560b standard. Because the number of conductor bars  352 - 357  is one less than the number of primary conducting pins  344 - 350 , primary conducting pin  350 , which is not attached to a bar conductor  352 - 357 , is joined to secondary pin  320 . The joined primary/secondary conductor pin  350 / 320  is positioned among the attached primary pins  344 - 349 , completing a socket in accordance with SAE-J560b standard. Each primary pin  344 - 350  within the socket is adapted to accept a terminal from an SAE-J5606 plug. Primary conducting pin  344  being slightly larger in diameter than the other six central conducting pins  345 - 350  is conventionally referred to as the white pin for accepting the ground or white circuit. Moving clockwise from primary pin  344  is central pin  345  for accepting the black circuit, primary pin  346  for accepting the yellow circuit, primary pin  347  for accepting the red circuit, primary pin  348  for accepting the green circuit, primary pin  349  for accepting the brown circuit, and primary pin  350  for accepting the blue circuit. 
     After the central pins  344 - 350  and secondary pins  314 - 320  are connected to bar connectors  352 - 357  and to each other as described above, secondary pin  314  is electrically connected to primary pin  344 , thus providing connection to the white circuit; secondary pin  315  is electrically connected to primary pin  349 , thus providing connection to the brown circuit; secondary pin  316  is electrically connected to primary pin  348 , thus providing connection to the green circuit; secondary pin  317  is electrically connected to primary pin  347 , thus providing connection to the red circuit; secondary pin  318  is electrically connected to primary pin  346 , thus providing connection to the yellow circuit; secondary pin  319  is electrically connected to primary pin  345 , thus providing connection to the black circuit; and secondary pin  320  is electrically connected to primary pin  350 , thus providing connection to the blue circuit. Additionally, secondary pins  314 - 320  are adapted to accept a multiple of ring terminals; many extra electrical functions may therefore be connected to the seven circuits provided by the SAE-J1067 cable. Preferably, primary and secondary conducting pins  344 - 349  and  314 - 319 , respectively, are connected to bar conductors  352 - 357  by insert welding. However, other methods which can conductively secure the conducting pins to the bar conductors may be used. Furthermore, while conductors  352 - 357  are used as electrical conductors in the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that other types of connecting conductors, for example conductive wires, may also be used. 
     After the various electrical connections are made, the bar conductors-conducting pins assembly is insert molded with an insulating fluid compound as previously described. The molding compound is cured to a solid state, forming a plate and sealing bar conductors  352 - 357  and the welding joints, thereby providing protection against environmental corrosion. Primary pins  344 - 350  and secondary pins  314 - 320  are also partially embedded in the molding compounds, whereby the pin positions are stabilized. Preferably the molding compound is glass filled nylon. The amount of glass may vary depending on the strength and rigidity required. The preferred range is between 20-30% glass. While glass filled nylon is chosen for the illustrated embodiments, other non-conducting, moldable materials having the necessary strength and rigidity may also be used. 
     C. Circuit Breaker-Ring Terminal Connector Assembly 
     FIGS. 13-15 show a circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 , a third embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly  160  of the present invention. Circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402  provides multiple connecting positions for ring-terminals in a stacking arrangement to the circuits bridging in a tractor/trailer combination. In addition, circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402  provides circuit breaker protection for each of the circuits. Circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402  is of a one-piece construction, having a plate-like body  404  which includes a first side  406  and a second side  408 . FIGS. 13 and 14 show the exterior features of circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 . FIG. 15 shows the electrical connections of circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 . 
     FIG. 13 shows first side  406  of circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 . Centrally defined on first side  406  is raised cap  410  extending above first side  406 . Raised cap  410  includes a top face  412  and a key projection  422  protruding from the side of raised cap  410 . Extending from top face  412  of raised cap  410  is platform  424  having a secondary pin  414  protruding therethrough. Platform  424  adds rigidity and stabilizing support to secondary conducting pin  414  contained therein. Surrounding raised cap  410  are sets of contact plates  415 - 420 . Each sets of contact plates  415 - 420  includes an inner contact plate  415   a - 420   a  and an outer contact plate  415   b - 420   b.  Each inner contact plate,  415   a - 420   a,  includes an inner plate aperture  466 , and each outer contact plate,  415   b - 420   b,  includes an outer plate aperture  468 ; inner and outer plate apertures  466  and  468  are sized to receive a circuit breaker  470 . 
     Circuit breakers  470 , preferably of conventional style, include a first terminal post  472  and a second terminal post  474  extending upwardly from a breaker body  478 . Posts  472  and  474  are electrically connected inside breaker body  478  via a fusible link (not shown) which will cause the electrical circuit to open when the connected circuit is overloaded. Circuit breaker  470  is installed to circuit breaker ring-terminal assembly  402  by first inserting terminal posts  472  and  474  from second side  408  of body  404  through plate apertures  466  and  468 , and then threading nuts  480  down posts  472  and  474 , thus securing circuit breaker  470  to body  404 . Preferably, a conducting washer  482  is placed between each nut  480  and contact plate,  415   a - 420   a,    415   b - 420   b,  to ensure electrical contact. While only three circuit breakers  470  are shown in FIG. 13, it is understood that circuit breaker  470  can be installed within each contact plate sets  415 - 420 . 
     Secondary pin  414  and contact plate sets  415 - 420  are provided as connecting points to the electrical circuits bridging the tractor/trailer combination. In the illustrated embodiment where the bridging circuits are configured according to the SAE-J1067/J560 standards, secondary pin  414  enables connection to the white circuit; inner contact plate  415   a  enables connection to the brown circuit; inner contact plate  416   a  enables connection to the green circuit; inner contact plate  417   a  enables connection to the red circuit; inner contact plate  418   a  enables connection to the yellow circuit; inner contact plate  419   a  enables connection to the black circuit; and inner contact plate  420   a  enables connection to the blue circuit. Inner and outer contact plates,  415   a - 420   a  and  415   b - 420   b,  respectively, are not electrically connected. The electrical links between inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a  and outer contact plates  415   b - 420   b  are made through circuit breakers  470  inserted between inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a  and outer contact plates  415   b - 420   b.  Therefore, outer contact plates  415   b - 420   b  provide connection to the same circuits as the corresponding inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a.  In addition, because the electrical connection is made through the fusible link (not shown) of circuit breakers  470 , the circuit links are circuit breaker protected. 
     In practice, connections to the bridging circuits are accomplished through connections to terminal posts  472  and  474  of circuit breakers  470  installed between the contact plate sets  415 - 420 . Secondary pin  414  and terminal posts  472 ,  474  are adapted to receive conventional ring-terminal connectors. Preferably, secondary pin  414  and breaker posts  472  and  474  are of sufficient height to accommodate multiple ring-terminals by stacking. Also preferably, secondary pin  414  and breaker posts  472  and  474  are #10 threaded posts for accepting #10 ring terminals. 
     Separating circuit breakers  470  are wells  428  formed on first side  406  and scattered in between the contact plates  415 - 420 . Wells  428  separate each of the circuit breakers  470  from its neighbors, thus avoiding the inadvertent contact of the cable wires. For mounting connector assembly  402  to nosebox housing  152 , a set of mounting apertures  438  are included through body  404  for receiving fasteners. Preferably, mounting apertures  438  are spaced a distance apart for even distribution of the attachment forces. 
     Referring now to FIG. 14 which shows second side  408  of circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 . Recessed within second side  408  is a raised cap cavity  440  which complements raised cap  410  formed on first side  406 . Extending from raised cap cavity  440  are seven primary conducting pins  444 - 450  configured as a socket for receiving a SAE-J560b plug connector. While circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402  as illustrated is adapted to be compatible with SAE-J560b standard, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates providing a circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly having other than a SAE-J560b configuration. 
     A key slot  442  is formed on the wall of cap cavity  440 . Key slot  442  complements to key projection  422  which is formed on first side  406 . Key slot  442  is provided as a guide for aligning circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  402  to nosebox housing  152 . Surrounding raised cap cavity  440  are inner and outer contact apertures  466  and  468 , respectively, and are mounting apertures  438 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 15 which shows the electrical connections of circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 , the electrical connections are made and organized by the use of connecting conductors. Preferably, the connecting conductors are bar conductors  452 - 457 . Conducting pins and contact plates which are connected to the same bar conductor are electrically connected. Bar conductors  452 - 457  include first surfaces and second surfaces,  460  and  462 , respectively. As discussed previously, bar conductors  452 - 457  may be formed as a track or as separate pieces. In addition, bar conductors  452 - 457  are preferably formed of brass. However, other conducting material having adequate electric conductivity and formability may be used. 
     Each bar conductors  452 - 457  are bent into a “step” shape, defining a central portion  452   a - 457   a  and an auxiliary portion  452   c - 457   c.  Auxiliary portions  452   c - 457   c  are U-shaped. Connecting to first surface  460  of bar conductors  452 - 457  are inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a.  Inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a  are attached to auxiliary portions  452   c - 457   c,  preferably between the two arms of auxiliary portions  452   c - 457   c.  Inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a,  as attached, extend above first surface  406  of auxiliary portions  452   c - 457   c.  Spaced apart from inner contact plates  415   a - 420   a  are outer contact plates  415   b - 420   b.  Outer contact plates  415   b - 420   b  are not directly connected to bar conductors  452 - 457 . The distance between inner plates  415   a - 420   a  and outer contact plates  415   b - 420   b  are set for receiving terminal posts  472 ,  474  of circuit breakers  470 . 
     Connecting to and extending below second surface  462  of bar conductors  452 - 457  are primary or central conducting pins  445 - 450 . Primary pins  445 - 450  are part of a set of primary pins  444 - 450  which is adapted to meet the SAE-J560 standard. Because the number of primary pins  444 - 450  are one more than the number of bar conductors  452 - 457 , primary pin  444  is joined directly to secondary pin  414 . The joined primary/secondary pin  444 / 414  is positioned among the attached primary pins  445 - 450 , and completes a socket in accordance with the SAE-J560 standard. Each primary conducting pin  444 - 450  is adapted to accept a terminal from an SAE-J560b plug connector. Primary conducting pin  444  is slightly larger in diameter than the other six primary conducting pins  445 - 450 , and is conventionally referred to as the white pin for accepting the ground or white circuit. Moving clockwise from primary pin  444  are primary pin  445  adapted to accept the black circuit, primary pin  446  adapted to accept the yellow circuit, primary pin  447  adapted to accept the red circuit, primary pin  448  adapted to accept the green circuit, primary pin  449  adapted to accept the brown circuit, and primary pin  450  adapted to accept the blue circuit. 
     After the primary pins  444 - 450  and the sets of contact plates  414 - 420  are attached as described above, secondary pin  414  is electrically connected to primary pin  444 , thus providing connection to the white circuit; inner contact plate  415   a  is electrically connected to primary pin  449 , thus providing connection to the brown circuit; inner contact plate  416   a  is electrically connected to primary pin  448 , thus providing connection to the green circuit; inner contact plate  417   a  is electrically connected to primary pin  447 , thus providing connection to the red circuit; inner contact plate  418   a  is electrically connected to primary pin  446 , thus providing connection to the yellow circuit; inner contact plate  419   a  is electrically connected to primary pin  445 , thus providing connection to the black circuit; and inner contact plate  420   a  is connected to primary pin  450 , thus providing connection to the blue circuit. 
     Preferably, the primary conducting pins  445 - 450  and inner contact plates  414   a - 420   a  are connected by welding to bar conductors  452 - 457 . However, other methods which can conductively secure the conducting pins and the contact plates to the bar conductors may be used. Furthermore, while bar conductors  452 - 457  are used as electrical conductors in the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that other types of connecting electrical conductors, for example, conductive wires, may also be used. 
     After the various conducting pins and contact plates are connected to the bar conductors as described above, the bar conductor-conducting pins assembly is insert molded as previously described with an insulating fluid compound to form body  404  of circuit breaker-ring terminal connector assembly  402 . The molding compound is cured to a solid state forming a plate and sealing bar conductors  452 - 457 , thereby providing protection against environmental corrosion. The primary pins  444 - 450 , secondary pin  414 , and sets of contact plates  415 - 420  are partially embedded in the molding compounds, thereby the positions of the pins and plates are stabilized. Preferably the molding compound is glass filled nylon. The amount of glass may vary depending on the strength and rigidity required. The preferred range is between 20-30% glass. While glass filled nylon is chosen for the illustrated embodiments, other non-conducting, moldable materials having the necessary strength and rigidity may also be used. 
     D. Circuit Breaker-Nosebox Plug Connector Assembly 
     FIGS. 16-18 show a circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502 , a fourth embodiment of the interchangeable connector assembly  160  of the present invention. Circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  provides the flexibility of multiple connections, via both ring-terminals and conventional push-on sealed plug terminals, to the electrical circuits bridging the tractor/trailer combination. Additionally, circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  provides circuit breaker protection for the circuits. Circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  is of a one-piece construction, having a plate-like body  504  which includes a first side  506  and a second side  508 . FIGS. 16 and 17 show the exterior features of circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502 . The FIG. 18 shows the hidden electrical connections of circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 16, which shows first side  506  of circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502 , centrally defined on first side  506  is a raised cap  510  which extends above first side  506 . Raised cap  510  includes a top face  512  and a key projection  522  protruding from the side of raised cap  510 . Extending from top face  512  is a platform  524  having a secondary conducting pin or secondary pin  514  protruding therethrough. Platform  524  adds rigidity and stabilizing support to secondary conducting pin  514  containing therein. Surrounding raised cap  510  and extending through body  504  are sets of contact plates  515 - 520 . Each set of contact plates  515 - 520  further includes an inner contact plate  515   a - 520   a  and an outer contact plate  515   b - 520   b.  Additionally, each of the inner contact plates  515   a - 520   a  includes an inner plate aperture  566 , and each of the outer contact plates  515   b - 520   b  includes an outer plate aperture  568 . Inner and outer plate apertures  566  and  568 , respectively, are sized to receive the terminal posts of a circuit breaker. Disposed between inner and outer contact plates,  515   a - 520   a  and  515   b - 520   b,  respectively, are free standing wells  528  each having an adjunct pin  586 - 599  protruding therethrough. 
     Circuit breakers  570 , preferably of conventional style, include a first terminal post  572  and a second terminal post  574  extending upwardly from a breaker body  578 . Terminal posts, or breaker posts,  572  and  574  are electrically connected inside breaker body  578  via a fusible link (not shown) which will cause the connected electrical circuit to open when it is overloaded. Circuit breakers  570  are installed on circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  by inserting terminal posts  574  and  572  from second side  508  of body  504 , through plate apertures  566  and  568 , and then threading nuts  580  down terminal posts  572  and  574 , thereby securely retaining circuit breakers  570  to body  504 . Preferably, a conducting washer  582  are placed between each nut  580  and contact plate  515   a - 520   a  and  515   b - 520   b  to ensure electrical contact. While only three circuit breakers  570  are shown in FIG. 16, it is understood that more or fewer circuit breakers  570  can be installed. 
     Secondary pin  514 , adjunct pins  586 - 599  and contact plate sets  515 - 520  are provided as connection points to the circuits bridging the tractor/trailer combination. In the illustrated embodiment, where the bridging circuits are configured according to the SAE-J1067 standards, secondary pin  514  enables connection to the white circuit; inner contact plate  515   a  enables connection to the brown circuit, inner contact plate  516   a  enables connection to the green circuit, inner contact plate  517   a  enables connection to the red circuit, inner contact plate  518   a  enables connection to the yellow circuit, inner contact plate  519   a  enables connection to the black circuit, and inner contact plate  520   a  enables connection to the blue circuit. Outer contact plates  515   b - 520   b  and adjunct pins  586 - 599  provide connection to the circuits only after circuit breakers  570  are installed between the set of contact plates  515 - 520 . Additionally, connection through the outer contact plates and adjunct pins are circuit breaker protected. In the illustrated embodiment, adjunct pins  586 - 588  and outer contact plate  515   b  provide connection to the brown circuit; adjunct pins  589 - 590  and outer contact plate  516   b  provide connection to the green circuit; adjunct pins  591 - 592  and outer contact plate  517   b  provide connection to the red circuit; adjunct pins  593 - 594  and outer contact plate  518   b  provide connection to the yellow circuit; adjunct pins  595 - 597  and outer contact plate  519   b  provide connection to the black circuit; and adjunct pins  598 - 599  and outer contact plate  520   b  provide connection to the blue circuit. 
     Adjunct pins  586 - 599  are adapted to receive conventional push-on-sealed plug terminals. Preferably, adjunct pins  586 - 599  are approximately 0.18 inches in diameter. While the above number and position of adjunct pins  586 - 599  are illustrated, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of adjunct pins  586 - 599  may be utilized without deviation from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     Further, connection to the contact plates  515 - 520  are, in practice, through terminal posts  572 ,  574  of circuit breakers  570 . Secondary pin  514  and terminal posts  572 ,  574  are adapted to receive conventional ring-terminal connectors. Preferably, secondary pin  514  and terminal posts  572 ,  574  are of sufficient height to accommodate multiple ring-terminals by stacking. Also preferably, secondary pin  514  and breaker posts  572 ,  574  are #10 threaded posts for accepting #10 ring terminals. Wells  528  scattered between contact plate sets  515 - 520  separate the circuit breakers  570 , thus providing protection from inadvertent contact of the cable wires. For mounting circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  to nosebox housing  152 , a set of mounting apertures  538  is provided. Mounting apertures  538  disposed through body  504  are adapted for receiving fasteners. Preferably, mounting apertures  538  are spaced apart for even distribution of the attachment forces. 
     Extra connection points to the white or ground circuit, when using conventional nosebox plug terminals, are provided by a ground cap  529 . Ground cap  529  includes a ground contact plate or ground plate  533  contained within a pin boss  532 . Group cap  529  further includes a plurality of ground pins  535 , each extending from free standing wells  528 . Ground pins  535  are in electrical contact with ground plate  533 . Ground cap  529  is adapted to engage raised cap  510 . When ground cap  529  is fitted over raised cap  510 , ground cap guide  531  aligns with key projection  522 , and pin boss  532  engaging platform  524 , such that secondary pin  514  extends through aperture  534  and is in electrical contact with ground plate  533 . Ground cap  529  is held in place by nut  536  threaded onto secondary pin  514 . Preferably, a conducting washer  537  is placed between nut  536  and ground plate  533  to ensure electrical contact. When contact plate  533  is in electrical contact with secondary pin  514 , all ground pins  535  are in electrical contact with secondary pin  514 , thus providing connection points to the ground or white circuit. Ground pins  535  are adapted to receive conventional push-on-sealed plug terminals. Preferably, ground pins  535  are approximately 0.18 inches in diameter. While six ground pins  586 - 599  are illustrated, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of ground pins  586 - 599  may be utilized without deviation from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     Referring now to FIG. 17 which shows second side  508  of circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502 , recessed within second side  508  is raised cap cavity  540  which complements raised cap  510  formed on first side  506 . Extending from raised cap cavity  540  are seven primary conducting pins  544 - 550  configured as a socket for receiving a SAE-J560b plug connector of a SAE-J1067 cable. Behind central pin  544  formed on the wall of cap cavity  540  is key slot  542 . Key slot  542  corresponds to key projection  522  formed on first side  506 . Key slot  542  is provided as a guide for aligning circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  to nosebox housing  152 . While circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502  is adapted to be compatible with SAE-J560b interfacing hardware, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates providing multiple connection points for ring-terminals and nosebox plug terminals with electrical connections having other than SAE-J560b/J1067 standards. 
     Referring now to FIG. 18 which shows the electrical connections of circuit breaker-nosebox plug connector assembly  502 , electrical connections are made and organized by the use of connecting conductors. Preferably, the connecting conductors used are main bar conductors  552 - 557  and adjunct bar conductors  576 - 581 . Main bar conductors  552 - 557  include first surfaces and second surfaces,  560  and  562 , respectively. Main bar conductors  552 - 557  may be formed as a track or as separate pieces. Preferably, main and adjunct bar conductors,  552 - 557  and  576 - 581 , respectively, are formed of brass. However, other conducting material having similar electric conductivity and formability may be used. 
     Each main bar conductor  552 - 557  is bent to a “step” shape, defining a central portions  552   a - 557   a  and an auxiliary portion  552   c - 557   c.  Auxiliary portions  552   c - 557   c  are U-shaped, having two arms. 
     Connecting to first surface  560  of auxiliary portions  552   c - 557   c  of main bar conductors  552 - 557  are inner contact plates  515   a - 520   a.  Contact plates  515   a - 520   a  as connected extend above first surface  506  of main bar conductors  552 - 557 . Spaced apart from inner contact plates  515   a - 520   a  are outer contact plates  515   b - 520   b.  The set of contact plates  515   a - 520   a  and  515   b - 520   b  are adapted for receiving the terminal posts of a circuit breaker  570 . 
     Connecting to the second surface  562  of primary portion  552   a - 557   a  of main bar conductors  552 - 557  are primary or central conducting pins  545 - 550 . Preferably, primary conducting pins  545 - 550  are insert welded to main bar conductors  552 - 557 . However, other methods which can conductively secure the conducting pins to bar conductors may be used. Primary pins  545 - 550  are part of a set of primary pins  545 - 550  which are adapted to meet the SAE-J560 standard. Because the number of primary pins  544 - 550  are one more than the number of main bar conductors  552 - 557 , primary pin  544  is not attached to a bar conductor and is joined to secondary pin  514 . Joined primary/secondary pin  544 / 514  is positioned among the attached primary pins  545 - 550 , completing a socket in accordance with SAE-J560b standard. Each primary conducting pin  545 - 550  is adapted to accept a terminal from a SAE-J560b plug connector. Primary conducting pin  544  is slightly larger in diameter than the other six primary conducting pins  545 - 550 , and is conventionally referred to as the white pin for accepting the ground or white circuit. Moving clockwise from primary pin  544  are primary pin  545  adapted to accept the black circuit, primary pin  546  adapted to accept the yellow circuit, primary pin  547  adapted to accept the red circuit, primary pin  548  adapted to accept the green circuit, primary pin  549  adapted to accept the brown circuit, and primary pin  550  adapted to receive the blue circuit. 
     After the primary pins  545 - 550  and inner contact plates  515   a - 520   a  are connected to main bar conductors  552 - 557 , inner contact plate  515   a  is connected to primary pin  549  and provides connection to the brown circuit, inner contact plate  516   a  is connected to primary pin  548  and provides connection to the green circuit, inner contact plate  517   a  is connected to primary pin  547  and provides connection to the red circuit, inner contact plate  518   a  is connected to primary pin  546  and provides connection to the yellow circuit, inner contact plate  519   a  is connected to primary pin  545  and provides connection to the black circuit, and inner contact plate  520   a  is connected to primary pin  550  and provides connection to the blue circuit. Additionally, secondary pin  514  is electrically connected to primary pin  544  and provides connection to the white circuit. 
     Surrounding main bar conductors  552 - 557  are adjunct bar conductors  576 - 581 . Connecting on and extending above adjunct bar conductors  576 - 581  are adjunct pins  586 - 599  and outer contact plates  514   b - 520   b.  In the illustrated embodiment, outer contact plate  515   b  and adjunct pins  586 - 588  are attached to adjunct bar  576 ; outer contact plate  515   b  and adjunct pins  589 - 590  are attached to adjunct bar  577 ; outer contact plate  517   b  and adjunct pins  591 - 592  are attached to adjunct bar  578 ; outer contact plate  518   b  and adjunct pins  593 - 594  are attached to adjunct bar  579 ; outer contact plate  519   b  and adjunct pins  595 - 597  are attached to adjunct bar  580 ; outer contact plate  520   b  and adjunct pins  598 - 599  are attached to adjunct bar  581 . Adjunct bar conductors  576 - 581  are not electrically connected to main bar conductors  552 - 557 , thus inner contact plates  514   a - 520   a  and outer contact plates  514   b - 520   b  are not electrically connected. The electrical links between inner contact plates  514   a - 520   a  and outer contact plates  514   b - 520   b  are made through circuit breakers  570  inserted between inner and outer contact plates  514   a - 520   a,    514   b - 520   b,  respectively. Therefore, outer contact plates  514   b - 520   b  provide connection to the same circuits as the corresponding inner contact plates  514   a - 520   a.  In addition, because the electrical connection is made through the fusible link (not shown) of circuit breakers  570 , the circuit connections are circuit breaker protected. While main bar conductors  552 - 557  and adjunct bar conductors  576 - 581  are used as electrical links in the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that other types of connecting conductors, for example conductive wires, may also be used. 
     After the various conducting pins, contact plates, main bar connectors and adjunct bar conductors are electrically connected as described above, the assembly is insert molded with a insulating fluid compound to form body  504 . The molding compound is cured to a solid state forming a rigid plate and sealing main bar conductors  552 - 557 , adjunct bar conductors  576 - 581 , and the various welding joints, thus providing protection against environmental corrosion. In addition, the primary pins  544 - 550 , secondary pins  514 , adjunct pins  586 - 599 , and contact plates  515 - 520  are partially embedded in the molding compounds, therefore the pin and contact plate positions are stabilized. 
     Preferably the molding compound is glass filled nylon. The amount of glass may vary depending on the strength and rigidity required. The preferred range is between 20-30% glass. While glass filled nylon is chosen for the illustrated embodiments, other non-conducting, moldable materials having acceptable strength and rigidity may also be used. 
     E. Nosebox Housing 
     Nosebox housing  152  is provided to house the interchangeable connector assemblies  160 . FIG. 19 shows the exterior of one embodiment of a nosebox housing  152  of the present invention. Housing  152  is sized to accommodate the interchangeable connector assemblies  160  and the associated electrical cables (not shown) making connections with the connector assemblies  160 . With the expanded number of connection positions available on the connector assemblies, it is likely that with the number of cables will exceed the size and number (7) proscribed by the SAE-J560b/J1067 standards. Preferably, housing  152  is sized larger than prior art nose boxes. In the illustrated embodiment, housing  152  is generally square, approximately 7.25 inches on each side, and between approximately 3.5 inches to 5 inches deep. While it is shown that housing  152  is approximately square, other housing shapes may be utilized. Housing  152  is constructed of glass filled nylon. The amount of glass may vary, preferably approximately 20% of glass is used. However, other materials which have acceptable strength, rigidity and weathering characteristics may also be used. 
     Nosebox housing  152  includes a cover member  156  and a tray member  154 , together defining an interior space  158  (FIG. 20) thereinbetween. Cover member  156  is hingeably engaged to tray member  154  by a hinge rod  20  threading alternatively through hinge members  40  and  29  of cover member  156  and tray member  154 , respectively. Hinge rod  20  is bent at one end such that it is retained in position by one of the hinge members  40  and  29  and is prevented from disengaging by the vibration of a moving vehicle. Preferably, nose box  150  is mounted to a tractor or trailer in the orientation as shown in FIG. 19 having the hinge axis  162  at the bottom such that cover member  156  opens downward. Cover member  156  can be maintained in a closed position by locking screws  39  threading through upper corners  41  of cover member  156  to tray member  154 . The degree of opening of cover member  156  is limited by shelves  30 . Shelves  30  disposed below hinge members  29  interfere with cover member  156  when cover member  156  is opened to an approximately 95 degree angle, thereby forming a posi-stop. Shelves  30  are supported and strengthened by ribs  31  (FIGS.  6  and  20 ). While three shelves  30  are shown in the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that a greater or lesser number of shelves may be utilized. 
     A socket cover plate  43  is located on outside surface  166  of cover member  156 . Socket cover plate  43  covers the entrance to a socket cavity  48 . Socket cover plate  43  is hingeably engaged to cover member  156 . Although not shown in detail in the drawings, the pivotal attachment between plate  43  and cover member  156  is preferable such that plate  43  is biased toward its downward (closed) position as shown in order to protect the socket from the environment. 
     FIG. 20 is a perspective view of tray member  154 . Tray member  154  includes a back wall  21 , and right, left, top and bottom walls,  22 ,  23 ,  24 , and  25 , respectively, extending therefrom. Back wall  21  of tray member  154  includes a plurality of mounting holes  26  for receiving mounting bolts  27  for securing tray member  154  to a tractor  52  or trailer  64  (not shown). Brass eyelets  28 , inserted in mounting holes  26 , protect tray member  154  from thread damage in the event that mounting bolts  27  are over-torqued. Preferably, brass eyelet  28  has a wide flange  18  such that a ring terminal can be secured on top to produce a redundant ground. 
     For receiving locking screws  39  (FIG. 19) to secure cover member  156  to tray member  154 , corners  38  adjacent top wall  24  are thickened such that receiving bores  36  can be included. Threaded brass inserts  37  adapted to receive locking screw  39  are placed into receiving bores  36 . Brass inserts  37  reduce thread damage from repeated opening and closing of cover member  156 . 
     Access  32 , defined through bottom wall  25 , provides access for electrical cables to interchangeable connector assembly  160 . A grommet  33  is fitted into access  32 . Grommet  33  includes a thin membrane wall  19  having a precut slit allowing entry and exit of the electrical cables (not shown). Thin membrane wall  19  forms around the cable and wires and provides added protection against splash and road salt from entering nosebox housing  152 . In the case where water inadvertently collects inside housing member  152 , a notch  34  defined at the front edge of bottom wall  25  is provided to facilitate drainage. 
     FIG. 21 is a perspective view of interior surface  164  of cover member  156 . A socket housing  47  is formed on interior surface  164 . Socket housing  45  defines corresponding socket cavity  48  adapted for receiving a SAE-J560b plug connector. Seven perforations  18  configured in accordance with the SAE-J560b standard are defined on face  49  of socket housing  47 . Perforations  18  allow passage of the conducting pins forming the socket, e.g. primary pins  244 - 250  of nosebox plug connector assembly  202 . Socket guide  44  protrudes from the side of socket housing  47  corresponding to a guide slot  46  within socket cavity  48  for aligning a SAE-J560b plug connector. Also defined on interior surface  164  of cover member  156  are receiver bosses  11 . Receiver bosses  11  adapts to engage interchangeable connector assemblies  160  and including receiving apertures  13  for receiving fasteners. 
     Cover member  156  is sized to receive tray member  154 . An overhang  14  formed around the edge of cover member  156  fits over tray member  154  and prevents moisture from entering interior space  158 . Preferably, a gasket (not shown) is placed adjacent to overhang  14  providing a tighter environmental seal. Defined on interior surface  164  is U-shaped flange  46 . U-shaped flange  16  channels the electrical cables/wires (not shown) into interior space  158  when cover member  156  is closing onto tray member  154 . Formed on the bottom edge of cover member  156  is a set of hinge members  40  for engaging tray member  154 . For securing cover member  156  to tray member  154 , bores  42 , included at corners  41 , are adapted to receive locking screws  39 . 
     FIG. 6 is an exploded diagram of nosebox  150 , showing the assembly of an interchangeable connector assembly  160  and nosebox housing  152 . A nosebox plug connector assembly  202 , an embodiment of interchangeable connector assembly  160 , is used for illustrative purposes. However, all other embodiments of interchangeable connector assembly  160  of the present invention may be similarly assembled. Housing  152  may be assembled by placing cover member  156  over tray member  154  and juxtaposing hinge members  29  of tray member  154  against hinge member  40  of cover member  156 . Hinge rod  20  is inserted through the bores of hinge members  29  and  40  thereby hingeably attaching cover member  156  to tray member  154 . Interchangeable connector assembly  160  is placed over socket housing  47  such that turret cavity  240  corresponding to turret  210  engages socket housing  47  and key slot  242  aligns with socket guide  44 . Primary pins  244 - 250  extend through perforations  18  into the socket cavity  48  corresponding to socket housing  47 . Mounting bolts  12  pass through mounting aperture  238  and receiver apertures  13  and are received in receiver bosses  11 , thereby securing connector assembly  202  to cover member  156 . 
     While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.