Vehicle with receiver to receive data from transmitter of vehicle connector for controlling object manipulator

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a system, comprising: a vehicle connector and a vehicle. The vehicle connector comprises: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector. The vehicle comprises: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data to generate processed data; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart. The controller controls the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart. In response to receiving data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed to generate the processed data, which is communicated to the controller. The controlling of the object manipulator is based at least in part on the processed data.

Description

VEHICLE WITH RECEIVER TO RECEIVE DATA FROM TRANSMITTER OF VEHICLE CONNECTOR FOR CONTROLLING OBJECT MANIPULATORRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 560,206, filed March 1 , 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to the road transportation industry. More specifically, the disclosure is directed at an automated connection between a vehicle and a vehicle connector.BACKGROUND

[0003] To transport a vehicle connector, such as a trailer, by a vehicle, such as a towing vehicle, pneumatic gas and electrical connections between the towing vehicle and the trailer are to be established for the pneumatic gas system and the electrical system of the trailer, for example, service brakes, parking brakes, the ABS brakes, and turn signals. Currently, establishment of such connections are done manually, wherein an operator of the towing vehicle exits the vehicle to connect the gas and electrical lines from the towing vehicle to the trailer.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, there is provided a system, comprising: a vehicle connector, comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle and thevehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0005] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for modifying a vehicle and a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter; wherein: while: (i) the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, and (ii) the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart and the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle and the modified vehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0006] In another aspect, there is provided a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle is configured to co-operate witha vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0007] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for modifying a vehicle, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: while the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle- defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the modified vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0008] In another aspect, there is provided a vehicle connector, comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; wherein: the vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an objectmanipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0009] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for modifying a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter; wherein: while the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart and the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector: the modified vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the modified vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0010] In another aspect, there is provided a system, comprising: a vehicle connector, comprising: a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-definedconnection counterpart; the vehicle and the vehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0011] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for modifying a vehicle and a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a transmitter; wherein: while: (i) the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, and (ii) the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle and the modified vehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0012] In another aspect, there is provided a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a transmitter, configured to transmit datarepresentative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0013] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for modifying a vehicle, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: while the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle- defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the modified vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0014] In another aspect, there is provided a vehicle connector, comprising: a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; wherein: the vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the cooperation of the vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that: in response to receiving of thedata by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0015] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for modifying a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a transmitter; wherein: while the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector: the modified vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the modified vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

[0016] Other aspects will be apparent from the description and drawings provided herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] In the figures, which illustrate example embodiments,

[0018] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of an object manipulator of a connection apparatus, mounted to a vehicle that is connected to a vehicle connector, the vehicle being a towing vehicle and the vehicle connector being a trailer;

[0019] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first adapter counterpart of an adapter;

[0020] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2, wherein an upper portion of the housing is removed;

[0021] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2;

[0022] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a second adapter counterpart of an adapter;

[0023] Figure 6 is a front elevation view of the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5;

[0024] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5 and a counterpart housing;

[0025] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the second adapter counterpart and counterpart housing of Figure 7, the frame including a cover;

[0026] Figure 9 is a rear perspective view of the second adapter counterpart and counterpart housing of Figure 8;

[0027] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the second adapter counterpart and counterpart housing of Figure 8, with the cover disposed in a closed configuration;

[0028] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the second adapter counterpart and counterpart housing of Figure 8, with the cover disposed in an open configuration;

[0029] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2 and the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5 disposed in an operable communication-effectible alignment;

[0030] Figure 12A is a schematic of the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart of Figure 2, wherein there is an absence of connection between the first and second adapter counterparts;

[0031] Figure 12B is a schematic of the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart of Figure 2, wherein the first and second adapter counterparts are connected;

[0032] Figure 13 is a block diagram of an example embodiment of a connection apparatus;

[0033] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2, the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5, the counterpart housing of Figure 7, and a coupler of the object manipulator of Figure 1 , disposed in alignment;

[0034] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2, the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5, and the coupler of Figure 14, disposed in alignment;

[0035] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the first adapter counterpart, the second adapter counterpart, and the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the coupler is connected to the first adapter counterpart, and the first adapter counterpart is connected to the second adapter counterpart;

[0036] Figure 17 is a top perspective view of the first adapter counterpart, the second adapter counterpart, and the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the coupler is connected to the first adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement interference relationship, and there is an absence of connection between the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart;

[0037] Figure 18 is a top perspective view of the first adapter counterpart, the second adapter counterpart, and the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the coupler is connected to the first adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement interference relationship, and the first adapter counterpart is connected to the second adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement effectible relationship;

[0038] Figure 19 is a top perspective view of the first adapter counterpart, the second adapter counterpart, and the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the coupler is connected to the first adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement effectible relationship, and the first adapter counterpart is connected to the second adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement interference relationship;

[0039] Figure 20 is a top perspective view of the first adapter counterpart, the second adapter counterpart, and the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the first adapter counterpart is connected to the second adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement interference relationship, and there is an absence of connection between the coupler and the first adapter counterpart;

[0040] Figure 21 is a top elevation view of the coupler and the first adapter counterpart of Figure 15, wherein the coupler is connected to the first adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement interference relationship;

[0041] Figure 22 is a bottom elevation view of the coupler and the first adapter counterpart of Figure 15, wherein the coupler is connected to the first adapter counterpart and disposed in a relative movement interference relationship;

[0042] Figure 23 is a top elevation view of the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member actuator of the coupler is disposed in a first actuating configuration;

[0043] Figure 24 is a top elevation view of the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member actuator of the coupler is disposed in a second actuating configuration;

[0044] Figure 25 is a bottom elevation view of the coupler of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member actuator of the coupler is disposed in the second actuating configuration;

[0045] Figure 26 is a bottom elevation view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member configuration is disposed in a first retaining configuration;

[0046] Figure 27 is a bottom elevation view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member configuration is disposed in a second retaining configuration;

[0047] Figure 28 is a bottom elevation view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member configuration is disposed in the first retaining configuration, and the housing of the first adapter counterpart is removed;

[0048] Figure 29 is a bottom elevation view of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 15, wherein the retaining member configuration is disposed in the second retaining configuration, and the housing of the first adapter counterpart is removed;

[0049] Figure 30 is a perspective view of the object manipulator of Figure 1 , mounted to a towing vehicle that is connected to a trailer, wherein the towing vehicle and trailer are misaligned, and the object manipulator is disposed in a manipulator retracted configuration;

[0050] Figure 31 is a schematic of the bottom of the trailer of Figure 30;

[0051] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 30;

[0052] Figure 33 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 30, the object manipulator is disposed in a manipulator extended configuration;

[0053] Figure 34A is a schematic of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2 and the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5, while the object manipulator is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration;

[0054] Figure 34B is a schematic of the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2 and the second adapter counterpart of Figure 5, while the object manipulator is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration;

[0055] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 33;

[0056] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 33, wherein an end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator is disposed in an alignment effector extended configuration;

[0057] Figure 37 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 36, wherein an end effector of the end effector alignment effector is disposed in an end effector alignment-ready configuration;

[0058] Figure 38 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 37, wherein the end effector of the end effector alignment effector is disposed in an end effector alignment-effective configuration;

[0059] Figure 39 is a top elevation view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 38, with a portion of the trailer removed to depict the subfloor of the trailer and the second adapter counterpart;

[0060] Figure 40 is a schematic of the object manipulator and trailer of Figure 38, depicting the end effector disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration and also disposed in the end effector alignment-effective configuration;

[0061] Figure 41 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 38, wherein a coupler of the end effector is disposed in a coupler extended configuration;

[0062] Figure 42 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 41, wherein the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart aredisposed in operable communication, and the coupler of the end effector is disposed in a coupler retracted configuration;

[0063] Figure 43 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 42, wherein the end effector is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration;

[0064] Figure 44 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 43, wherein the end effector is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration;

[0065] Figure 45 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 44, wherein the end effector alignment effector is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration;

[0066] Figure 46 is a perspective view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer of Figure 45, wherein the object manipulator is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration;

[0067] Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view of the object manipulator, towing vehicle, and trailer, of Figure 46, taken along line 47-47 of Figure 46;

[0068] Figure 48 is a perspective view of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0069] Figure 49 is a bottom perspective view of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0070] Figure 50 is a perspective view of the end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0071] Figure 51 is a top elevation view of the mounting plate of the end effector supported by an end effector supporter of the end effector alignment effector of Figure 50, wherein the mounting plate is disposed at the center of the curved guide;

[0072] Figure 52 is a top elevation view of the mounting plate of the end effector and the end effector supporter of Figure 51 , wherein the mounting plate is disposed to the left of the center of the curved guide;

[0073] Figure 53 is a top elevation view of the mounting plate of the end effector and the end effector supporter of Figure 51 , wherein the mounting plate is disposed to the right of the center of the curved guide;

[0074] Figure 54 is a perspective view of the end effector supporter of the end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0075] Figure 55 is a perspective view of the displacement guiding configuration of the end effector supporter of Figure 54;

[0076] Figure 56 is a top elevation view of the displacement guiding configuration of Figure 55;

[0077] Figure 57 is a bottom perspective view of the mounting plate of the end effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0078] Figure 58 is a perspective view of the mounting plate of the end effector supported on the curved guide of the end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0079] Figure 59 is a top elevation view of a portion of the mounting plate of the end effector and the curved guide of the end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1 ;

[0080] Figure 60 is a top elevation view of the mounting plate of the end effector and the curved guide of the end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1

[0081] Figure 61 is a perspective view of an end effector of the end effector alignment effector of the object manipulator of Figure 1, the end effector connected to the first adapter counterpart of Figure 2 and disposed in an end effector retracted configuration;

[0082] Figure 62 is a perspective view of the end effector of Figure 61 , the end effector disposed in an end effector alignment-ready configuration;

[0083] Figure 63 is a perspective view of the end effector of Figure 62, the coupler disposed in a coupler extended configuration;

[0084] Figure 64 is a perspective view of the object manipulator of Figure 1 , without the coupler supporter and mounting plate, mounted on the towing vehicle;

[0085] Figure 65 is a top elevation view of the object manipulator and towing vehicle of Figure 64;

[0086] Figure 66 is a top elevation view of a towing vehicle connected to a trailer, with the object manipulator of Figure 1 mounted to the towing vehicle;

[0087] Figure 67 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the vehicle connector, the vehicle connector being a charging dock;

[0088] Figure 68 is a perspective view of the charging dock of Figure 67 coupled to the vehicle of Figure 1 , wherein there is an absence of connection between the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart, and the object manipulator is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration;

[0089] Figure 69 is a perspective view of the charging dock and vehicle of Figure 68, wherein the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart are connected, and the object manipulator is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration;

[0090] Figure 70 is a schematic of an example embodiment of the vehicle and the vehicle connector, the vehicle comprising a receiver and the vehicle connector comprising a transmitter;

[0091] Figure 71 is a front elevation view of the vehicle connector of Figure 70;

[0092] Figure 72 is a schematic of a side elevation view of the vehicle and the vehicle connector of Figure 70;

[0093] Figure 73 is a block diagram of the vehicle of Figure 70;

[0094] Figure 74 is a block diagram of the vehicle connector of Figure 70;

[0095] Figure 75 is a block diagram of an example embodiment of the data that is transmissible by the transmitter of the vehicle connector of Figure 70;

[0096] Figure 76 is a process flow chart for the decision process of connecting the first adapter counterpart of the vehicle of Figure 70 and the second adapter counterpart of the vehicle connector of Figure 70.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0097] Disclosed herein is an apparatus 100 configured to effectuate an automated connection between a vehicle 13 and a vehicle connector 12 or counterpart-disposed configuration 12, wherein the vehicle 13 includes a vehicle-defined connection counterpart 302, and the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 includes a configuration-defined connection counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the vehicle 13 is a towing vehicle, a car, a van, atruck, and the like. In some embodiments, for example, the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is a trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the counterpart-disposed configuration12 is a charging dock or docking station 12. In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 is configured to effectuate an automated connection between a vehicle connector 12 and another vehicle connector 12 (e.g. a trailer to another trailer). The establishing of the connection between the vehicle-defined connection counterpart 302 and the configuration-defined connection counterpart 350 is with effect that communication between the vehicle 13 and the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is established. In some embodiments, for example, the establishment of the communication between the vehicle 13 and the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is for actuating an operation of the counterpart-disposed configuration 12, and for controlling said actuation of the operation of the counterpart-disposed configuration 12. In some embodiments, for example, the establishment of the communication between the vehicle13 and the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is for replenishing an energy storage device of the vehicle 13 via an energy source of the counterpart-disposed configuration 12.

[0098] Figure 1 depicts a towing vehicle 13 that is coupled to a trailer 12. The towing vehicle 13 is configured to tow the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is a tractor, a yard shifter, or a converter dolly. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is an autonomous vehicle, such as an autonomous tractor, yard shifter, or converter dolly. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes a fifth wheel coupling 15, configured for receiving, for example, slidably receiving, and coupling with a corresponding fifth wheel guiding counterpart or locking pin, or kingpin 14 that extends from a downward-facing surface 50 or a bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, the bottom surface 50 defined, in some embodiments, for example, by a base plate 51 of the trailer 12, which is received within a corresponding slot formed in the coupling plate of the fifth wheel coupling 15, the trailer 12 resting and pivoting on the coupling plate 15 about the kingpin or locking pin 14, such that a fifth wheel coupling relationship is established. While a fifth wheel coupling has been described in connection with the coupling of the trailer 12 to the towing vehicle 13, it will be understood that various other couplings may be used provided the coupling between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 is such that the trailer 12 displaces with the towing vehicle 13 while the towing vehicle 13 is in motion and can pivot relative to the towing vehicle 13 via the coupling for maneuverability. In some embodiments, for example, while the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are coupled, for example, via the co-operative configuration of the kingpin 14 and the fifth wheel 15, the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 become disposed in an interaction-effectiveconfiguration, such that respective adapter counterparts 302 and 350 of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are disposable in an alignment relationship for connection, for example, via a connection apparatus 100, as described in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, for example, while the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are decoupled, the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 become disposed in an interaction-ineffective configuration, such that respective adapter counterparts 302 and 350 of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are not connectible via the connection apparatus 100.

[0099] In some embodiments, for example, operable connections, for example, fluid, electrical, and data connections are established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 for actuating a vehicular operation to operate a towing vehicle 13 to tow a trailer 12. The fluid connection is established to supply fluid energy (e.g. pneumatic gas) from a fluid energy source or fluid energy storage device (e.g. pneumatic gas tank or reservoir) of the towing vehicle 13 to the fluid energy system (e.g. pneumatic gas system) of the trailer 12, which includes actuatable systems, for example, pneumatic gas systems such as the service and parking brakes of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical connection is established to supply electrical energy from an electrical energy source or electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 to the electrical system of the trailer 12, which includes actuatable systems, for example, the ABS brakes and turn signals of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the data connection is established to establish data communication between the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 to the data communication devices of the trailer 12, for controlling the actuation of the fluid system and electrical system of the trailer 12.

[0100] In some embodiments, for example, operable connections, for example, fluid, electrical, and data connections are established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 for replenishing an energy storage device, energy source, or energy reservoir (e.g. battery, fuel tank, pneumatic gas tank, hydrogen fuel cell, natural gas tank, etc.) of the towing vehicle 13 by an energy storage device, energy source, or energy reservoir (e.g. source of electrical energy, solar panel, generator, fuel such as diesel, pneumatic gas, hydrogen, natural gas, etc.) of the trailer 12. The fluid connection is established to supply fluid energy, such as pneumatic gas or fuel, from a fluid energy source of the fluid system of the trailer 12 (e.g. pneumatic gas tank or reservoir, fuel tank or reservoir) to the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 (e.g. pneumatic gas tank or fuel tank). In some embodiments, for example, the electrical connection is established to supply electrical energy from an electrical energy source of the electrical system of the trailer 12 (e.g. battery, generator, solar panel) to the electrical energy storagedevice of the towing vehicle 13 (e.g. battery). In some embodiments, for example, the data connection is established to establish data communication between the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 and the data communication devices of the trailer 12, for controlling the replenishing of the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 by the energy source of the trailer 12.

[0101] In some embodiments, for example, connection or operable communication (e.g. electrical communication, fluid communication or fluid pressure communication or flow communication, data communication, etc.) is established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 via connection of the first and second adapter counterparts 302 and 350, such that the fluid system and electrical system of the trailer 12 are actuatable and controllable, for example, by an operator of the towing vehicle 13.

[0102] In some embodiments, for example, connection or operable communication (e.g. electrical communication, fluid communication or fluid pressure communication or flow communication, data communication, etc.) is established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 via connection of the first and second adapter counterparts 302 and 350, such that energy is transferrable from the energy source of the trailer 12 to the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, to replenish the energy storage device.

[0103] In some embodiments, for example, connection or operable communication (e.g. electrical communication, fluid communication or fluid pressure communication or flow communication, data communication, etc.) is established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 via connection of the first and second adapter counterparts 302 and 350, such that energy and data are transferrable between the trailer 12 and the towing vehicle 13.

[0104] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 12, the towing vehicle 13 includes a vehicle-defined communicator, towing vehicle- defined communicator, configuration communication, or trailer communicator 120, and the trailer 12 includes a configuration-defined communicator, trailer-defined communicator, vehicle communicator, or towing vehicle communicator 130. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 is compliant with an ISO 13044-2 standard. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes one or more flexible cables. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle communicator 130 is compliant with an ISO13044-2 standard. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes one or more flexible cables.

[0105] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a configuration communicator-defined connector counterpart or trailer communicator-defined connector counterpart, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a vehicle communicator-defined connector counterpart or towing vehicle communicator-defined connector counterpart. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined connector counterpart and the towing vehicle communicator-defined connector counterpart are cooperatively configured to effect the coupling of the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 such that the trailer communicator 120 becomes disposed in the coupled relationship with the towing vehicle communicator 130. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined connector counterpart and the towing vehicle communicator-defined connector counterpart are co-operatively configured to effect the coupling of the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 such that the trailer communicator 120 becomes disposed in operable communication, for example, fluid communication (for example, fluid pressure communication or flow communication), electrical communication, and data communication, with the towing vehicle communicator 130.

[0106] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a vehicle defined fluid communication counterpart, towing vehicle defined fluid communication counterpart or a trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a configuration-defined fluid communication counterpart, trailer-defined fluid communication counterpart or a towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid communication counterpart 1306. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 are co-operatively configured to effect fluid communication between the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 such that while the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 are disposed in fluid communication, the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 are disposed in fluid communication.

[0107] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a vehicle-defined fluid conductor, towing vehicle-defined fluid conductor or trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 that is disposed in fluid communication with the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a configuration-defined fluid conductor, trailer-defined fluid conductor, or towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 that is disposed in fluid communication with the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206, the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 are co operatively configured such that while the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 are disposed in fluid communication, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 are disposed in fluid communication.

[0108] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 include pneumatic gas conductors (e.g. gas hoses), and the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 include glad hands. In some embodiments, for example, the pneumatic gas includes pneumatic air, and the pneumatic gas conductors include air hoses. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 are configured for conducting diesel and the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 are configured to connect the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid conductor 1302 for conducting diesel. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 are configured for conducting hydrogen, and the trailer communicator- defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 are configured to connect the trailer communicator- defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 for conducting hydrogen. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 are configured for conducting natural gas, and the trailer communicator-defined fluid communicationcounterpart 1206 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 are configured to connect the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 for conducting natural gas.

[0109] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a vehicle defined electrical communication counterpart, towing vehicle defined electrical communication counterpart, or trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a configuration-defined electrical communication counterpart, trailer-defined electrical communication counterpart, or towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308 are co-operatively configured to effect electrical communication between the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 such that while the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308 are disposed in electrical communication, the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 are disposed in electrical communication.

[0110] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a vehicle-defined electrical conductor, towing vehicle-defined electrical conductor or trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 that is disposed in electrical communication with the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a configuration-defined electrical conductor, trailer-defined electrical conductor, or towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 that is disposed in electrical communication with the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308, the trailer communicator- defined electrical conductor 1204, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 are co operatively configured such that while the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308 are disposed in electrical communication, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 are disposed in electrical communication.

[0111] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 include electrical conductors (e.g. electrical cables), and the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308 include electrical connectors (e.g. multi-pin electrical connectors, such as 7-pin or 30-pin electrical connectors; fast charge adapter, etc.).

[0112] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a vehicle defined data communication counterpart, towing vehicle defined data communication counterpart, or trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a configuration-defined data communication counterpart, trailer defined data communication counterpart, or towing vehicle communicator- defined data communication counterpart 1309. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309 are co-operatively configured to effect data communication between the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130, such that while the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309 are disposed in data communication, the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 are disposed in data communication.

[0113] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes a vehicle-defined data conductor, towing vehicle-defined data conductor, or trailer communicator- defined data conductor 1205 that is disposed in data communication with the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes a configuration-defined data conductor, trailer-defined data conductor, or towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 that is disposed in data communication with the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209, the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 are co operatively configured such that while the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309 are disposed in datacommunication, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 are disposed in data communication.

[0114] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 include data conductors (e.g. data cables), and the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309 are data connectors.

[0115] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 12, the trailer communicator 120 includes the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the trailer communicator 120 is defined as separate communicators, in particular, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, the trailer communicator- defined electrical conductor 1204, and the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 are separate conductors, each with a respective communication counterpart. In some embodiments, for example, the trailer communicator 120 includes the trailer communicator- defined fluid conductor 1202, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the trailer communicator 120 is defined as a single communicator, for example, as a single cable, wherein the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and the and the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 are disposed in the communicator.

[0116] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 is disposed in fluid communication with a fluid energy storage device (e.g. diesel, natural gas, hydrogen, pneumatic gas, etc.) of the towing vehicle 13, such that the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 via the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202.

[0117] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 is disposed in electrical communication with an electrical energy source (e.g. battery) of the towing vehicle 13, such that the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208 is disposed inelectrical communication with the electrical energy source (e.g. battery) of the towing vehicle 13 via the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204.

[0118] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 is disposed in data communication with a data communication system, for example, a databus, of the towing vehicle 13, such that the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209 is disposed in data communication with the databus of the towing vehicle 13 via the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205. The data communication system supports data communication between the data communication devices (e.g. sensors, valves, switches, controller of the vehicle 13, controllers including the controller 102, memory, user interface, pumps, actuators, energy storage devices, engine, etc.) of the towing vehicle 13. Example communication protocols supported by the data communication system include Controller Area Network (CAN), RS485, Automotive Ethernet, Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link (GMSL). In some embodiments, for example, wherein the towing vehicle 13 does not include a data communication system such as a databus, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 functions as a data communication system, such as a databus, and is configured for disposition in data communication with data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, such that the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 are disposed in data communication via the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205.

[0119] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202 that are each, independently, disposed in fluid communication with the pneumatic gas source of the towing vehicle 13.

[0120] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202 that are each, independently, disposed in fluid communication with a respective one of a plurality of fluid energy storage devices (e.g. energy storage devices for diesel, natural gas, hydrogen, pneumatic gas, etc.) of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes a trailer communicator- defined fluid conductor 1202 for each fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13. In such embodiments, for example, each one of a plurality of trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterparts 1206, independently, is disposed in fluid communication with arespective fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 via a respective trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202. For example, as depicted in Figure 2, the towing vehicle 13 includes two trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202. In some embodiments, for example, a first trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 is disposed in fluid communication with a first fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, and a second trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 is disposed in fluid communication with a second fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0121] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, for example, a trailer communicator- defined fluid conductor 1202 for each fluid energy storage device (e.g. a diesel storage device, natural gas storage device, hydrogen storage device, or pneumatic gas storage device, etc.) of the towing vehicle 13.

[0122] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined electrical conductors 1204 that are each, independently, disposed in electrical communication with the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0123] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined electrical conductors 1204 that are each, independently, disposed in electrical communication with a respective one of a plurality of electrical energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13. In such embodiments, for example, each one of a plurality of trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterparts 1208, independently, is disposed in electrical communication with a respective electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 via a respective trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204. For example, the towing vehicle 13 includes two trailer communicator-defined electrical conductors 1204. A first trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 is disposed in electrical communication with a first electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, and a second trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 is disposed in electrical communication with a second electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0124] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, for example, a trailercommunicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 for each electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0125] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined data conductors 1205 that are each, independently, disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, for example, via the data communication system of the towing vehicle 13.

[0126] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined data conductors 1205 that are each, independently, disposed in data communication with one or more data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13. In such embodiments, for example, each of a plurality of trailer communicator-defined data communication counterparts 1209, independently, is disposed in data communication with a respective one or more data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 via a respective trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205.

[0127] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 includes more than one trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, for example, a plurality of trailer communicator-defined data conductors 1205 for the data communication devices (e.g. sensors, valves, switches, controllers, actuators, memory, user interface, etc.) of the towing vehicle 13.

[0128] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 5, the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305, and the towing vehicle communication 130 is defined as separate communicators, in particular, the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 are separate conductors, each with a respective communication counterpart. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle communicator 130 includes the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305, and the towing vehicle communicator 130 is defined as a single communicator, for example, as a single cable, wherein the towing vehiclecommunicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 are disposed in the communicator.

[0129] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid energy system of the trailer 12, which include, in some embodiments, for example, actuatable fluid systems such as pneumatic gas systems, fluid energy storage devices or sources such as pneumatic gas storage devices, natural gas storage devices, hydrogen storage devices, and fuel storage devices, such that the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid system of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302.

[0130] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 is disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12, which include, in some embodiments, for example, actuatable electrical systems and electrical energy storage devices, such that the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308 is disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304.

[0131] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 is disposed in data communication with a data communication system, for example, a databus, of the trailer 12, such that the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309 is disposed in data communication with the databus of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305. The data communication system supports data communication between the data communication devices (e.g. sensors, valves, switches, controllers, memory, user interface, pumps, actuators, energy sources, etc.) of the trailer 12. Example communication protocols supported by the data communication system include Controller Area Network (CAN), RS485, Automotive Ethernet, Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link (GMSL). In some embodiments, for example, wherein the trailer 12 does not include a data communication system such as a databus, the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 functions as a data communication system, such as a databus, and isconfigured for disposition in data communication with data communication devices of the trailer 12, such that the data communication devices of the trailer 12 are disposed in data communication via the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305.

[0132] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, for example, a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302 that are each, independently, disposed in fluid communication with the pneumatic gas system of the trailer 12.

[0133] As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, for example, a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302 that are each, independently, disposed in fluid communication with a respective one of a plurality of subsystems of the fluid system (e.g. actuatable systems such as service brakes and parking brakes, pneumatic gas source, fuel source, etc.) of the trailer 12. In such embodiments, for example, each of a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterparts 1306, independently, is disposed in fluid communication with a respective subsystem of the fluid system of the trailer 12 via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302. For example, as depicted in Figure 5, the trailer 12 includes two towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302. A first towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 is disposed in fluid communication with the service brake, and a second towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid conductor 1302 is disposed in fluid communication with the parking brake.

[0134] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, for example, a towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 for each subsystem of the fluid system of the trailer 12.

[0135] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, for example, a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304 that are each, independently, disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12.

[0136] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, for example, a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304 that are each, independently,disposed in electrical communication with a respective one of a plurality of subsystems of the electrical system (e.g. actuatable systems such as ABS brakes, turning signals, electrical energy source, etc.) of the trailer 12. In such embodiments, for example, each of a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterparts 1308, independently, is disposed in electrical communication with a respective subsystem of the electrical system of the trailer 12 via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304. For example, the trailer 12 includes two towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304. A first towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 is disposed in electrical communication with ABS brakes of the trailer 12, and a second towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 is disposed in electrical communication with the turning signals of the trailer 12.

[0137] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, for example, a towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 for each subsystem of the electrical system of the trailer 12.

[0138] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305, for example, a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305 that are each, independently, disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the trailer 12, for example, via the data communication system of the trailer 12.

[0139] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305, for example, a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305 that are each, independently, disposed in data communication with one or more data communication devices of the trailer 12. In such embodiments, for example, each one of a plurality of towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterparts 1309, independently, is disposed in data communication with a respective one or more data communication devices of the trailer 12 via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1305. For example, the trailer 12 includes two towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305. A first towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 is disposed in data communication with a first data communication device of the trailer 12, and a second towing vehicle communicator-defined dataconductor 1305 is disposed in data communication with a second data communication device of the trailer 12.

[0140] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes more than one towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305, for example, a towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 for each data communication device of the trailer 12.

[0141] In some embodiments, for example, the towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 is disposed in fluid communication with a fluid connector 20 (e.g. including a glad hand) of the trailer 12, as depicted in Figure 1 , which is disposed in fluid communication with the fluid system of the trailer 12, such that the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 is disposable in fluid communication with the fluid system of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 and the fluid connector 20.

[0142] In some embodiments, for example, the towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 is disposed in fluid communication with a fuel connector 22 of the trailer 12, as depicted in Figure 1, which is disposed in fluid communication with the fuel source of the fluid system of the trailer 12 (e.g. diesel fuel tank, etc.), such that the towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid communication counterpart 1306 is disposable in fluid communication with the fuel source of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 and the fuel connector 22.

[0143] In some embodiments, for example, the towing communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 is disposed in electrical communication with an electrical connector 30 (e.g. including a pin connector, quick charge connector, etc.) of the trailer 12, as depicted in Figure 1 , which is disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12, such that the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308 is disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 and the electrical connector 30.

[0144] In some embodiments, for example, the towing communicator-defined data conductor 1305 is disposed in data communication with a data connector 40 (e.g. including a pin connector) of the trailer 12, as depicted in Figure 1 , which is disposed in data communication with data communication devices of the trailer 12, such that the towing vehiclecommunicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309 is disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the trailer 12 via the towing vehicle communicator- defined data conductor 1305 and the data connector 40.

[0145] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 12, Figure 12A, and Figure 12B, the connection between the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 is effectible by an adapter 300. The adapter 300 is configured to reduce the complexity of the establishing of operable communication, for example, fluid communication, electrical communication, and data communication, between the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130. In some embodiments, for example, the adapter 300 is configured to reduce the complexity of the establishing of operable communication between the vehicle 13 and the vehicle connector 12 or configuration 12. The adapter 300 includes: (i) a vehicle-defined adapter counterpart, vehicle-defined connection counterpart, towing vehicle-defined adapter counterpart, or towing vehicle-defined connection counterpart, for example, a first adapter counterpart 302, and (ii) a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, configuration-defined adapter counterpart, configuration-defined connection counterpart, trailer-defined adapter counterpart or a trailer-defined connection counterpart, for example, a second adapter counterpart 350. The first adapter counterpart 302 is configured for connection, for example, coupling, to the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured for connection, for example, coupling.

[0146] In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that operable communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 is established for actuating a vehicular operation.

[0147] In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that operable communication between the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 and the actuatable system of the trailer 12 is established, for transfer of energy from the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 to the actuatable system of the trailer 12, and for actuating and controlling the vehicular operation. In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 with the second adapter counterpart 350 effectuates connection between the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 and the actuatable system of the trailer 12, suchthat energy is transferrable from the energy storage device to the actuatable system, for actuating and controlling the vehicular operation.

[0148] In some embodiments, for example, the communication established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, in response to the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes fluid communication.

[0149] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicular operation that is actuatable, in response to the establishment of communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, is actuation of service brakes of the trailer 12.

[0150] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicular operation that is actuatable, in response to the establishment of communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, is actuation of parking brakes of the trailer 12.

[0151] In some embodiments, for example, the actuatable system of the trailer 12 is a fluid energy-actuatable system or actuatable fluid system, the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 is a fluid energy, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the fluid energy-actuatable system of the trailer 12 is disposed in fluid pressure communication with the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, for transfer of fluid energy to the fluid energy-actuatable system of the trailer 12 from the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid energy includes pneumatic gas, such as pneumatic air.

[0152] In some embodiments, for example, the communication established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, in response to the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes electrical communication.

[0153] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicular operation that is actuatable, in response to the establishment of communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, is actuation of ABS brakes of the trailer 12.

[0154] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicular operation that is actuatable, in response to the establishment of communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, is actuation of turn signals of the trailer 12.

[0155] In some embodiments, for example, the actuatable system of the trailer 12 is an electrical energy actuatable system, the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 is an electrical energy storage device, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the electrical energy actuatable system of the trailer 12 is disposed in electrical communication with the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, for transfer of electrical energy to the electrical energy actuatable system of the trailer 12 from the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0156] In some embodiments, for example, the communication established between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, in response to the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes data communication.

[0157] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes one or more data communication devices, the towing vehicle 13 includes a data communication system (e.g. a databus) that is disposed in data communication with data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the data communication devices of the trailer 12 are disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, for controlling the actuation of the fluid system or electrical system of the trailer 12.

[0158] In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that operable communication between the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 and the energy source of the trailer 12 is established, for transfer of energy from the energy source of the trailer 12 to the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 with the second adapter counterpart 350 effectuates connection between the energy source of the trailer 12 and the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, such that energy is transferrable from the energy source of the trailer 12 to the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0159] In some embodiments, for example, the energy source of the trailer 12 is a fluid energy source of the fluid system of the trailer 12, the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 is a fluid energy storage device, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the fluid energy source of the trailer 12 is disposed in fluid pressure communication with the fluid energy storage device of thetowing vehicle 13, for transfer of fluid energy from the fluid energy source of the trailer 12 to the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid energy includes pneumatic gas. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid energy includes hydrogen. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid energy includes natural gas.

[0160] In some embodiments, for example, the energy source of the trailer 12 is a fuel source of the fluid system of the trailer 12, the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 is a fuel storage device, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the fuel source of the trailer 12 is disposed in fluid pressure communication with the fuel storage device of the towing vehicle 13, for transfer of fuel from the fuel source of the trailer 12 to the fuel storage device of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the fuel includes diesel fuel.

[0161] In some embodiments, for example, the energy source of the trailer 12 is an electrical energy source of the electrical system of the trailer 12, the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 is an electrical energy storage device, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the electrical energy source of the trailer 12 is disposed in electrical communication with the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, for transfer of electrical energy from the electrical energy source of the trailer 12 to the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0162] In some embodiments, for example, the trailer 12 includes one or more data communication devices, the towing vehicle 13 includes a data communication system (e.g. a databus) that is disposed in data communication with data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is with effect that the data communication devices of the trailer 12 are disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, for controlling the transfer of energy from the one or more energy sources of the trailer 12 to the one or more energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13.

[0163] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 4, the first adapter counterpart 302 (e.g. a male counterpart 302) is disposed in operable communication, for example, fluid communication, electrical communication, and data communication, with the trailer communicator 120.

[0164] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in fluid communication with the one or more trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202, which are disposed in fluid communication with the fluid energy storage devices (e.g. pneumatic gas storage device and fuel storage device) of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in fluid communication with the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 via a respective trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the fluid energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 are disposed in fluid communication via a respective trailer communicator- defined fluid conductor 1202. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13 are disposed in fluid communication with the first adapter counterpart 302 via the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and the trailer communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1206.

[0165] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in electrical communication with the one or more trailer communicator-defined electrical conductors 1204, which are disposed in electrical communication with the electrical energy storage devices (e.g. battery) of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator- defined electrical conductors 1204, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in electrical communication with the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 via a respective trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the electrical energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 are disposed in electrical communication via a respective trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13 are disposed in electrical communication with the first adapter counterpart 302 via the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 and the trailer communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1208.

[0166] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in data communication with the one or more trailercommunicator-defined data conductors 1205, which are disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, for example, via the data communication system of the vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in data communication with the one or more trailer communicator- defined data conductors 1205 via a respective trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the data communication device are disposed in data communication via a respective trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205. In some embodiments, for example, the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 are disposed in data communication with the first adapter counterpart 302 via the data communication system (e.g. databus), the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 and the trailer communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1209.

[0167] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 5 to Figure 12, the second adapter counterpart 350 (e.g. a female counterpart 350) is disposed in operable communication, for example, fluid communication, electrical communication, and data communication, with the towing vehicle communicator 130.

[0168] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in fluid communication with the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302, which are disposed in fluid communication with the fluid system of the trailer 12 (e.g. subsystems such as actuatable fluid systems, fluid energy source such as a pneumatic gas source and a fuel source, etc.). In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid conductors 1302, the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in fluid communication with the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the subsystems of the fluid system the trailer 12, the second adapter counterpart 350 and the subsystem of the pneumatic gas system of the trailer 12 are disposed in fluid communication via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302. In some embodiments, for example, the fluid system of the trailer 12 disposed in fluid communication with the second adapter counterpart 350 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid communication counterpart 1306.

[0169] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in electrical communication with the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304, which are disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12 (e.g. subsystems such as actuatable electrical systems, electrical energy source, etc.). In some embodiments, for example, for each of the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304, the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in electrical communication with the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the subsystems of the electrical system of the trailer 12, the second adapter counterpart 350 and the subsystem of the electrical system of the trailer 12 are disposed in electrical communication via a respective towing vehicle communicator- defined electrical conductor 1304. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical system of the trailer 12 is disposed in electrical communication with the second adapter counterpart 350 via the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical communication counterpart 1308.

[0170] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12A and Figure 12B, the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in data communication with the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305, which are disposed in data communication with the data communication devices of the trailer 12, for example, via the data communication system of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in data communication with the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305 via a respective towing vehicle communicator- defined data communication counterpart 1309. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, for each one of the data communication devices of the trailer 12, the second adapter counterpart 350 and the data communication device are disposed in data communication via a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305. In some embodiments, for example, the data communication devices of the trailer 12 are disposed in data communication with the second adapter counterpart 350 via the data communication system (e.g. databus), the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data communication counterpart 1309.

[0171] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are configured to be disposed in operable communication viaconnection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, for example, fluid communication, electrical communication, and data communication. In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication is effected by connection, for example, coupling, of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0172] In some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication via connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the trailer communicator 120 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 are disposed in operable communication via the adapter 300. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are disposed in operable communication via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator 120, and the towing vehicle communicator 130.

[0173] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12B, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication, for example, fluid communication, via connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the one or more trailer communicator- defined fluid conductors 1202 and the corresponding towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302 become disposed in fluid communication via the adapter 300. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in fluid communication, the one or more fluid energy storage devices, such as pneumatic gas storage devices, of the towing vehicle 13 and the fluid system of the trailer 12 become disposed in fluid communication via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, and the towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid conductor 1302, such that the actuatable fluid system of the fluid system of the trailer 12 is actuatable by the one or more fluid energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13, and such that fluid energy is transferrable from the fluid energy source of the trailer 12, such as the pneumatic gas source, to the one or more fluid energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13, such as the pneumatic gas storage device.

[0174] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12B, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication, for example, fluid communication, via connection of the first adaptercounterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the one or more trailer communicator- defined fluid conductors 1202 and the corresponding one or more towing vehicle communicator- defined fluid conductors 1302 are disposed in fluid communication via the adapter 300. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in fluid communication, the one or more fuel storage devices of the towing vehicle 13 and the corresponding fuel energy source of the trailer 12 are disposed in fluid communication via the adapter 300, the one or more trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202, and the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302, such that fuel is transferrable from the fuel source of the trailer 12 to the one or more fuel storage devices of the towing vehicle 13.

[0175] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12B, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication, for example, electrical communication, via connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the one or more trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 and the corresponding towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304 become disposed in electrical communication via the adapter 300. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in electrical communication, the one or more electrical energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13 and the electrical system of the trailer 12 become disposed in electrical communication via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, such that the actuatable electrical systems of the electrical system is actuatable by the one or more electrical energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13, and such that electrical energy is transferrable from the electrical energy source of the trailer 12 to the one or more electrical energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13.

[0176] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 12B, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication, for example, data communication, via connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 are disposed in data communication via the adapter 300. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adaptercounterpart 350 in data communication, the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 and the data communication devices of the trailer 12 are disposed in data communication via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 are configured to support data communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, in particular, the data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13 and the data communication devices of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, in response to disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication, for example, data communication, via connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the databus of the vehicle 13 and the databus of the trailer 12 are disposed in data communication. Example communication protocols supported by the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 include Controller Area Network (CAN), RS485, Automotive Ethernet, Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link (GMSL).

[0177] As depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 4, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes a housing 304. As depicted, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes one or more electrical communicators, for example, electrical connectors 308, for example, electrical connector pins, one or more fluid pressure communicators, for example, fluid connectors 310, for example, fluid connector pins, one or more guide pins 312, and one or more data connectors 314, for example, data connector pins. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical connectors 308, the fluid connectors 310, data connectors 314, and the guide pins 312 extend from the housing 304. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical connectors 308, the fluid connectors 310, the data connectors 314, and the guide pins 312 are housed in the housing 304. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical connectors 308, the fluid connectors 310, the data connectors 314, and the guide pins 312 are mounted to the housing 304. In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 defines an electro-pneumatic interface, wherein the electro-pneumatic interface includes the one or more electrical connectors 308, the one or more fluid connectors 310, and the one or more data connectors 314. In some embodiments, for example, the electro-pneumatic interface further includes the one or more guide pins 312. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the one or more fluid connectors 310 are disposed in fluid communication with the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202. As depicted in Figure 3, in some embodiments, for example, a first fluid connector 310 is disposed in fluid communication with a first trailer communicator- defined fluid conductor 1202, and a second fluid connector 310 is disposed in fluid communication with a second trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the one or more electrical connectors 308 are disposed in electrical communication with the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204. In some embodiments, for example, a first electrical connector 308 is disposed in electrical communication with a first trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and a second electrical connector 308 is disposed in electrical communication with a second trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the one or more data connectors 314 are disposed in data communication with the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205.

[0178] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted, a first group of connectors comprises the electrical connectors 308, and a second group of connectors comprises the data connectors 314. In some embodiments, for example, the first group of connectors comprises one or more electrical connectors 308 and one or more data connectors 314, and the second group of connectors comprises one or more electrical connectors 308 and one or more data connectors 314.

[0179] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202 is disposed in operable communication, for example, fluid communication, with at least one of the one or more fluid connectors 310, for operably communicating fluid energy (e.g. diesel, natural gas, hydrogen, pneumatic gas). As depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 4, in some embodiments, for example, a first fluid connector 310 is disposed in fluid communication with a first trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, and a second fluid connector 310 is disposed in fluid communication with a second towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator-defined electrical conductors 1204, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 is disposed in electrical communication with at least one of the one or more electrical connectors 308, for operably communicating electrical energy. In some embodiments, for example, a first electrical connector 308 is disposed in electrical communication with a first trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and a second electrical connector 308 is disposed in electrical communication with a second towing communicator-defined electricalconductor 1204. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator-defined data conductors 1205, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 is disposed in data communication with at least one of the one or more data connectors 314, for operably communicating data (e.g. data signals). In some embodiments, for example, a first data connector 314 is disposed in data communication with a first trailer communicator- defined data conductor 1205, and a second data connector 308 is disposed in data communication with a second towing communicator-defined data conductor 1205.

[0180] As depicted in Figure 5 to Figure 12, the second adapter counterpart 350 includes a housing 352. The second adapter counterpart 350 includes one or more electrical ports 3080, one or more fluid ports 3100, one or more data ports 3140, and one or more guide ports 3120. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical ports 3080, the fluid ports 3100, the data ports 3140, and the guide ports 3120 are recessed into the housing 352. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical ports 3080, the fluid ports 3100, the data ports 3140. and the guide ports 3120 are housed in the housing 352. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical ports 3080, the fluid ports 3100, the data ports 3140, and the guide ports 3120 are mounted to the housing 352. In some embodiments, for example, the guide ports 3120 are defined by the housing 352. In some embodiments, for example, the second adapter counterpart 350 defines an electro-pneumatic interface, wherein the electro-pneumatic interface includes the one or more electrical connector ports 3080, the one or more fluid connector ports 3100, and the one or more data connector ports 3140. In some embodiments, for example, the electro-pneumatic interface further includes the one or more guide ports 3120. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the one or more fluid ports 3100 are disposed in fluid communication with the towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302. As depicted in Figure 5 to Figure 7, in some embodiments, for example, a first fluid port 3100 is disposed in fluid communication with a first towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, and a second fluid port 3100 is disposed in fluid communication with a second towing communicator- defined fluid conductor 1302. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the one or more electrical ports 3080 are disposed in electrical communication with the towing communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304. In some embodiments, for example, a first electrical port 3080 is disposed in electrical communication with a first towing communicator- defined electrical conductor 1304, and a second electrical port 3080 is disposed in electrical communication with a second towing communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304. In some embodiments, for example, at least one of the one or more data ports 3140 are disposed in datacommunication with the towing communicator-defined data conductor 1305. In some embodiments, for example, a first data port 3140 is disposed in data communication with a first towing communicator-defined data conductor 1305, and a second data port 3140 is disposed in data communication with a second towing communicator-defined data conductor 1305.

[0181] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted, a first group of ports comprises the electrical ports 3080, and a second group of ports comprises the data ports 3140. In some embodiments, for example, the first group of ports comprises one or more electrical ports 3080 and one or more data ports 3140, and the second group of ports comprises one or more electrical ports 3080 and one or more data ports 3140.

[0182] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302, the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 is disposed in operable communication, for example, fluid communication, with at least one of the one or more fluid ports 3100, for operably communicating fluid energy (e.g. diesel, natural gas, hydrogen, pneumatic gas). In some embodiments, for example, a first fluid port 3100 is disposed in fluid communication with a first towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, and a second fluid port 3100 is disposed in fluid communication with a second towing communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304, the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 is disposed in electrical communication with at least one of the one or more electrical ports 3080, for operably communicating electrical energy. In some embodiments, for example, a first electrical port 3080 is disposed in electrical communication with a first towing communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, and a second electrical port 3080 is disposed in electrical communication with a second towing communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304. In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the one or more towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305, the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 is disposed in data communication with at least one of the one or more data ports 3140, for operably communicating data. In some embodiments, for example, a first data port 3140 is disposed in data communication with a first towing communicator-defined data conductor 1305, and a second data port 3140 is disposed in data communication with a second towing communicator- defined data conductor 1305.

[0183] As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, while the second adapter counterpart 350 is mounted on the trailer 12, and while the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are coupled, the electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 3120 are facing towards the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, while the second adapter counterpart 350 is mounted on the trailer 12, the electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 3120 are facing forwards towards a front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the second adapter counterpart 350 is mounted on the trailer 12, the electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 3120 are disposed in alignment with the roll axis (e.g. of the trailer 12).

[0184] In some embodiments, for example, the front surface 52 is defined by a frontfacing surface 52 of the trailer 12, wherein the front-facing surface 52 faces in a forward direction. In some embodiments, for example, while the vehicle 13 is connected to the trailer 12 (e.g. via the kingpin 15 and fifth wheel 14), the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12 faces in a direction towards the vehicle 13, for example, towards the cab of the vehicle.

[0185] In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 50 is disposed below the front surface 52. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the front surface 52 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 50 are disposed in a non-parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the front surface 52 and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 50 are disposed in a perpendicular relationship.

[0186] In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 50 is defined by a bottom-facing surface 50 of the trailer 12, wherein the bottom-facing surface 50 faces in a downward direction, such that the bottom surface 50 is a downward-facing surface.

[0187] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 5 and Figure 6, the second adapter counterpart 350 includes an internal configuration 370. In some embodiments, for example, the electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 3120 are defined by the internal configuration 370. In some embodiments, for example, the internal configuration 370 includes the electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 3120. In some embodiments, for example, the internal configuration 370 defines the guide ports 3120. As depicted, the internal configuration 370 is disposed in the housing 352.

[0188] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 5 and Figure 6, the internal configuration 370 is biased to a center position, relative to the housing 352. The biasing is effectuated by a spring assembly 372. In some embodiments, for example, the spring assembly 372 comprises two springs 3720. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the housing 352, the internal configuration 370, and the spring assembly 372 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement is effectuatable between the housing 352 and the internal configuration 370 via the spring assembly 372. In some embodiments, the relative displacement includes lateral displacement (e.g. left-right displacement). In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 is displaced towards the second adapter counterpart 350, for effectuating the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the internal configuration 370 is displaceable, relative to the housing 352, in response to a force applied to the internal configuration 370, for example, the guide ports 3120, by the first adapter counterpart 302, for example, the guide pins 312, to align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, for effectuating the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0189] The electrical connectors 308 of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the electrical ports 3080 of the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to insertion of the electrical connectors 308 into the electrical ports 3080, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in electrical communication, with effect that, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator- defined electrical conductors 1204, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204 and a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304 become disposed in electrical communication. In this respect, in response to insertion of the electrical connectors 308 into the electrical ports 3080, the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 becomes disposed in electrical communication with the electrical system of the trailer 12 via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined electrical conductor 1204, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductor 1304, such that the actuatable electrical system is actuatable, and such that electrical energy is transferrable from the electrical energy source of the trailer 12 to the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0190] The fluid connectors 310 of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the fluid ports 3100 of the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to insertion of the fluid connectors 310 into the fluid ports 3100, the first adaptercounterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in fluid communication, with effect that, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator-defined fluid conductors 1202, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202 and a respective towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302 become disposed in fluid communication. In this respect, in response to insertion of the fluid connectors 310 into the fluid ports 3100, the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 becomes disposed in fluid communication with the fluid system of the trailer 12 via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined fluid conductor 1202, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductor 1302, such that the actuatable fluid system is actuatable, and such that fluid energy (e.g. pneumatic gas, fuel) is transferrable from the fluid energy source of the trailer 12 to the fluid energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0191] The data connectors 314 of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the data ports 3140 of the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that, in response to insertion of the data connectors 314 into the data ports 3140, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in data communication, with effect that, for each one of the one or more trailer communicator-defined data conductors 1205, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205 and a corresponding towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305 become disposed in data communication. In this respect, in response to insertion of the data connectors 314 into the data ports 3140, for each one of the one or more data communication devices of the towing vehicle 13, the data communication device becomes disposed in data communication with one or more of the data communication devices of the trailer 12 via the adapter 300, the trailer communicator-defined data conductor 1205, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductor 1305, for controlling the actuation of the actuatable energy system (e.g. fluid energy system such as pneumatic gas system, electrical energy system, etc.) of the trailer 12, and for controlling the transfer of energy from the energy source of the trailer 12 to the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0192] In some embodiments, for example, connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, for disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication, is effected by establishment of: (i) electrical communication between the electrical connectors 308 and the electrical ports 3080, (ii) fluid communication between the fluid connectors 310 and the fluid ports 3100, and (iii) data communication between the data connectors 314 and the data ports3140. In some embodiments, for example, establishment of electrical communication between the electrical connectors 308 and the electrical ports 3080 is effected by insertion of the electrical connectors 308 into the electrical ports 3080. In some embodiments, for example, establishment of fluid communication between the fluid connectors 310 and the fluid ports 3100 is effected by insertion of the fluid connectors 310 into the fluid ports 3100. In some embodiments, for example, establishment of data communication between the data connectors 314 and the data ports 3140 is effected by insertion of the data connectors 314 into the data ports 3140.

[0193] In some embodiments, for example, the guide pins 312 of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the guide ports 3120 of the second adapter counterpart 350 are cooperatively configured to guide the relative displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 for effecting the coupling of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in operable communication.

[0194] As depicted in Figure 5, in some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes the electrical connectors 308, the fluid connectors 310, the data connectors 314, and the guide pins 312, and the second adapter counterpart 350 includes the electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 312. In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes one or more of the ports, for example, electrical ports 3080, fluid ports 3100, data ports 3140, and guide ports 3120, and the second adapter counterpart 350 includes one or more of the connectors, for example, the electrical connectors 308, the fluid connectors 310, the data connectors 314, and the guide pins 312. In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 includes one or more ports, the second adapter counterpart 350 includes the one or more corresponding connectors.

[0195] In some embodiments, for example, the second adapter counterpart 350 includes the electrical connectors 308, fluid ports 3100, data connectors 314, and guide ports 3120. In such embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes the electrical ports 3080, fluid connectors 310, data ports 3140, and guide pins 312.

[0196] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are compliant with ISO 13044-2 standard.

[0197] Figure 13 depicts a block diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus 100 that is configured to operably communicate the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, for example, connect, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, to effect operable communication of the trailer communicator 120 of the towing vehicle 13 and the towing vehicle communicator 130 of the trailer 12. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 includes a controller 102, a detector 104, an actuator assembly 106, an object manipulator 110, a power module 112, and a memory 114. In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 further includes a user interface 116. The object manipulator 110 is configured to automatically connect the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 to establish operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, thereby establishing connection, for example, operable communication, between the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 and the energy system of the trailer 12, such that the energy system of the trailer 12 is actuatable, and such that energy is transferrable from the energy source of the energy system the trailer 12 to the energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13.

[0198] In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 is configured to displace the first adapter counterpart 302 towards the second adapter counterpart 350 for effecting an alignment relationship-obtaining displacement between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in an alignment relationship, and for disposing the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication.

[0199] In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 is configured to dispose the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication. In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication is effected by insertion of the electrical, fluid, and data connectors 308, 310, and 314 of the first adapter counterpart 302 into the corresponding ports 3080, 3100, and 3140 of the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0200] In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 is configured to decouple from the first adapter counterpart 302, and displace away from the first adapter counterpart 302and the second adapter counterpart 350, after effecting the disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in operable communication (e.g. after connecting the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350).

[0201] In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are connected, the apparatus 100 is configured to defeat the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0202] In some embodiments, the controller 102 includes a processor or a central processing unit (CPU), a memory 114 such as a ROM, RAM, persistent memory, or flash memory for storing data, and input or output peripherals. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 acts as a central controller for controlling all of the communications of the apparatus 100, and between the apparatus 100 and an external server or user equipment, such as a computer, laptop, smart device, a control panel in a control room, a control panel or user interface of the vehicle 13, a controller of the vehicle 13, and the like. In some embodiments, for example, similar to the controller 102, the controller of the vehicle 13 includes a processor or CPU and a memory.

[0203] The controller 102 communicates with the detector 104, the actuator assembly 106, the user interface 116, the power module 112, and the memory 114. In some embodiments, the controller 102 receives data, saves the data to a memory, and processes the received data. The data may be real time data or historical data. In some embodiments, the controller 102 or detector 104 processes the data by, for example, comparing data with one or more preset thresholds. In some embodiments, the controller 102 or detector 104 processes the data to, for example, determine whether the towing vehicle 13 and trailer 12 are coupled or uncoupled, determine whether the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are coupled or uncoupled, determine whether the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in operable communication, determine whether a coupler 704 of an end effector 700 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are coupled or uncoupled, determine whether the object manipulator 110 is disposed outside a swing path of the trailer 12, and determine the configuration of the object manipulator 110, for initiating the next step in the process for aligning and coupling the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 to establish operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, or for uncoupling the first adaptercounterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 to defeat the operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. Based on said determinations, in some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is configured to activate the actuator assembly 106 to effect coupling of the end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110 with the first adapter counterpart 302, and to displace the first adapter counterpart 302 relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, to operably connect the first adapter counterpart 302 with the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 determines that the towing vehicle 13 has stopped operating for a threshold period of time and that the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are coupled, and then the controller 102 is configured to activate the actuator assembly 106 to effect coupling of the end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110 with the first adapter counterpart 302, and to displace the first adapter counterpart 302 relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, to operably connect the first adapter counterpart 302 with the second adapter counterpart 350. Based on said determinations, in some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is configured to activate the actuator assembly 106 to effect coupling of the end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110 and the first adapter counterpart 302 that is operably connected with the second adapter counterpart 350, and to displace the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, to operably disconnect from the second adapter counterpart 350, such that operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 becomes defeated. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 determines that the towing vehicle 13 has stopped operating for a threshold period of time and that the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are coupled, and then the controller 102 is configured to activate the actuator assembly 106 to effect coupling of the end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110 110 and the first adapter counterpart 302 that is operably connected with the second adapter counterpart 350, and to displace the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, to operably disconnect from the second adapter counterpart 350, such that operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 becomes defeated.

[0204] In some embodiments, the controller 102 is configured to control the functioning or operation of the apparatus 100. For example, based on the data from the detector 104 or the actuator assembly 106, the controller 102 sends a control command to the user interface 116 to render a graphic representative of the data, or sends a control command to the actuator assembly 106 to operate the object manipulator 110.

[0205] In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is mounted to the towing vehicle 13 such that the controller 102 is protected from the elements. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is mounted under the cab of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is mounted on the frame of the towing vehicle 13, for example, a crossbar 42B, as depicted in Figure 49.

[0206] In some embodiments, for example, the detector 104 is operably coupled to the controller 102, for example, via wired or wireless communication, to transmit the detected data to the controller 102. In some embodiments, for example, the detector 104 includes a sensor subsystem, which includes one or more sensors, for example, sensors 104A to 104F. In some embodiments, for example, the detector 104 is configured to detect, independently: (i) the coupling or uncoupling of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, (ii) the coupling or uncoupling of the end effector 700 and the first adapter counterpart 302, (iii) the disposition of the end effector 700 and the first adapter counterpart 302 in a relative movement interference relationship or relative movement effectible relationship, (iv) the coupling or uncoupling of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, (v) the disposition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in a relative movement interference relationship or relative movement effectible relationship, (vi) the establishment or defeating of operable communication of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, (vii) establishment or defeating of abutting engagement of the trailer engaging surface 404 to the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, (viii) the vertical displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500 tor transitioning the end effector alignment effector 500 to the alignment effector extended configuration, (ix) establishment or defeating of abutting engagement of the engagement surface 706A or the engagement surface 706B to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, and (x) the capacity of the one or more energy storage devices of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the detector 104 is configured to detect whether the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in operable communication. In some embodiments, for example, the detector 104 is configured to detect whether the end effector 700 and the first adapter counterpart 302, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302, are releasably coupled.

[0207] In some embodiments, one or more of the sensors of the detector 104 are wireless sensors that are configured for wireless communication with the controller 102.

[0208] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 is configured to be in electrical communication with a power source, such as a battery or fuel cell. In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 is disposable in electrical communication with an external power source, such as a portable battery, portable generator, external battery, and the like. In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 is wirelessly connectable to the external power source for wirelessly energizing the apparatus 100. In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 is powered by the electrical energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13, such as the battery of the towing vehicle 13.

[0209] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes a user interface 116 that is configured to enable the controller 102 to interconnect with one or more input devices, such as user equipment, a keyboard, mouse, camera, touch screen and a microphone, or with one or more output devices such as a display screen and a speaker. In some embodiments, the controller 102 is configured to send a control command to the user interface 116 for displaying a graphical representation of data that is detected or sensed by the detector 104. In some embodiments, the user interface 116, via input from a user, is configured to send a control command to the controller 102 for controlling the apparatus 100. In some embodiments, for example, a user can input a control command to the controller 102 to via the user interface 116 to begin or end operation of the apparatus 100.

[0210] In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 sends a control command to the user interface 116 to generate a graphical representation of the operating status of the apparatus 100. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 sends a control command to the user interface 116 to generate a graphical representation of a menu of options, and the user can input a control command using the user interface 116 to select an option from the menu, and the user interface 116 sends the control command to the controller 102 to control the operation of the apparatus 100.

[0211] In some embodiments, for example, the user interface 116 is disposed in a cab of the vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the user interface 116 is defined by a user interface of the vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, the user interface 116 of the apparatus 100 and the user interface of the vehicle 13 are different user interfaces.

[0212] In some embodiments, for example, the user interface of the vehicle 13 is operably coupled to the controller of the vehicle 13 and configured to enable the controller of thevehicle 13 to interconnect with one or more input devices, such as user equipment, a keyboard, mouse, camera, touch screen and a microphone, or with one or more output devices such as a display screen and a speaker, substantially similar to the user interface 116. In some embodiments, the controller of the vehicle 13 is configured to send a control command to the user interface of the vehicle 13 for displaying a graphical representation of data that is detected or sensed by a sensor that is disposed in operable communication with the controller of the vehicle 13. The user interface of the vehicle 13 is operably coupled to the controller of the vehicle 13, and is configured to send a control command to the controller of the vehicle 13, for example, via a user input, to control the apparatus 100, or to control the actuation of a vehicular operation.

[0213] In some embodiments, for example, similar to the controller 102, the controller of the vehicle 13 sends a control command to the user interface of the vehicle 13 to generate a graphical representation of the operating status of the apparatus 100 or the operating status of the vehicular operation. In some embodiments, for example, similar to the controller 102, the controller of the vehicle 13 sends a control command to the user interface of the vehicle 13 to generate a graphical representation of a menu of options, and the user can input a control command using the user interface of the vehicle 13 to select an option from the menu, and the user interface of the vehicle 13 sends the control command to the controller of the vehicle 13 to control the operation of the apparatus 100 or the vehicular operation.

[0214] The apparatus 100 includes an actuator assembly 106 that is disposed in operable communication with the controller 102. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator assembly 106 includes one or more actuators 106A to 106E, 750, 762, and 808. The actuator assembly 106 is activatable to displace the object manipulator 110 and to effect releasable coupling and releasing of the first adapter counterpart 302 by the end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110. In some embodiments, while the end effector 700 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are coupled, the actuator assembly 106 is activatable to displace the first adapter counterpart 302 via the object manipulator 110. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is configured to activate one or more actuators of the actuator assembly 106 to coordinate the displacement of the object manipulator 110 and to effect the releasable coupling and releasing of the first adapter counterpart 302 by the end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110, and to effect the releasable coupling and releasing of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is configured to send a control command to an actuator 762 of theactuator assembly 106 to actuate a retaining member actuator 750 to releasably retain a connection between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302, and also to releasably retain the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 is configured to send a control command to an actuator 808 of the actuator assembly 106 to center an end effector 700 of the object manipulator 110 about a curved guide 602.

[0215] In some embodiments, for example, the actuator assembly 106 includes a linear actuator. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator assembly 106 includes a rotating actuator. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator assembly 106 includes an electrical actuator. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator assembly 106 includes a pneumatic actuator. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator assembly 106 includes a hydraulic actuator. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the object manipulator 110 via activation of the actuator assembly 106 includes extension, retraction, displacement, rotation, and pivoting of the object manipulator 110.

[0216] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the actuators of the actuator assembly 106, independently, is configured to send data representative of its operational state (e.g. activated, deactivated, or degree of activation) to the controller 102 for the controller 102 to control the operation of the object manipulator 110.

[0217] In some embodiments, for example, the actuators of the actuator assembly 106 of the apparatus 100 are mounted on the object manipulator 110 and are disposed in operable communication with the object manipulator 110.

[0218] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 1 and Figure 13, the connection apparatus 100 includes an object manipulator 110.

[0219] In some embodiments, for example, the object manipulator 110 includes a movable or pivotable platform 400 and an end effector alignment effector 500. In some embodiments, for example, the end effector alignment effector 500 includes an end effector supporter 600 and an end effector 700. The end effector 700 includes a coupler supporter 702 that supports a coupler 704, which is configured to releasably couple with the first adapter counterpart 302. The platform 400 is configured to support the end effector alignment effector 500. The supporting of the end effector alignment effector 500 by the platform 400 is such thatthe end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed within a frame 402 of the platform 400. The end effector supporter 600 is configured to support the end effector 700.

[0220] As depicted in Figure 1, the coupler 704 is couplable or connectible to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that, while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are coupled or connected, a coupled object manipulator 110 is established. In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 is coupled to the first adapter counterpart 302 such that a coupled end effector 700 is established. In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 is coupled to the coupler 704 of the object manipulator 110, the object manipulator 110 is configured to dispose the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in an operable communication-effectible alignment, as depicted in Figure 12, wherein the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in an alignment relationship. In the aligned relationship, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart and the second adapter counterpart 350, via displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302 towards the second adapter counterpart 350. Operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is effected in response to connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, while first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the operable communication-effectible alignment, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are aligned along an axis 360 that is parallel to the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the axis 360 is a linear axis.

[0221] Figure 14 and Figure 15 depict an exploded view of the coupler 704, the first adapter counterpart 302 of the vehicle 13, and the second adapter counterpart 350 of the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 (e.g. trailer 12). Figure 16 depicts the coupler 704 connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, and the first adapter counterpart connected to the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0222] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are connectible, and the connection of the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 is retainable. In some embodiments, for example, the retention of the connection between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 is defeatable, suchthat the connection between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 is defeatable. In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are connectible, and the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is retainable. In some embodiments, for example, the retention of the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is defeatable, such that the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is defeatable.

[0223] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 14 to Figure 22 and Figure 26 to Figure 29, the first adapter counterpart 302 comprises a retaining member configuration 902, wherein the retaining member configuration 902 is configurable in a first retaining configuration, as depicted in Figure 17, Figure 18, Figure 21 , Figure 22, Figure 26, and Figure 28, and also configurable in a second retaining configuration, as depicted in Figure 19, Figure 20, Figure 27, and Figure 29. In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 of the object manipulator 110 includes a retaining member actuator 750 and a manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770.

[0224] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that the coupler 704 is connectible to the first adapter counterpart 302. While the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configurable in a relative movement interference relationship, as depicted in Figure 17, Figure 18, Figure 21 and Figure 22, and a relative movement effectible relationship, as depicted in Figure 19.

[0225] In the relative movement interference relationship:

[0226] (i) the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed in the first retaining configuration; and

[0227] (ii) the retaining member configuration 902 and the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 are co-operatively configured such that interference to displacement of the coupler 704, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, in a direction away from the first adapter counterpart 302, is established, such that defeating of the connection of the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302, via displacement of the coupler 704, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, in a direction away from the first adapter counterpart 302, is opposed.

[0228] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement interference relationship, the defeating of the connection of the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302, via displacement of the coupler 704, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, in a direction away from the first adapter counterpart 302, is prevented.

[0229] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement interference relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 and the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 is opposed.

[0230] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement interference relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 and the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 is prevented.

[0231] In the relative movement effective relationship:

[0232] (i) the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed in the second retaining configuration; and

[0233] (ii) the retaining member configuration 902 and the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 are co-operatively configured such that there is an absence of interference to displacement of the coupler 704, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, in a direction away from the first adapter counterpart 302, such that the coupler 704 is displaceable, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, in a direction away from the first adapter counterpart 302, for effectuating defeating of the connection of the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302.

[0234] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement effective relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 and the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302, is effectible.

[0235] In some embodiments, for example, while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configurable in an interaction-effective relationship, wherein, in the interaction-effective relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed, relative to the retaining member actuator 750, such that the retaining member configuration 902is actuatable, by the retaining member actuator 750, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration.

[0236] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 of the vehicle 13 is configured for connection to the second adapter counterpart 350 of the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 (e.g. trailer 12 or vehicle connector 12). In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 17, the second adapter counterpart 350 comprises a connector-defined retaining counterpart 790. In some embodiments, for example, the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 is connected to the housing 352 of the second adapter counterpart 350 via mechanical fasteners, for example, screws, rivets, nuts and bolts, and the like. In some embodiments, for example, the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 extends from the housing 352.

[0237] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that, while the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the trailer-defined connection counterpart are co-operatively configurable in a relative movement interference relationship, as depicted in Figure 19 and Figure 20, and a relative movement effectible relationship, as depicted in Figure 18.

[0238] In the relative movement interference relationship:

[0239] (i) the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed in the second retaining configuration; and

[0240] (ii) the retaining member configuration 902 and the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 are co-operatively configured such that interference to displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, in a direction away from the second adapter counterpart 350, is established, such that defeating of the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, via displacement, of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, in a direction away from the second adapter counterpart 350, is opposed.

[0241] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement interference relationship, the defeating of the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the secondadapter counterpart 350, via displacement, of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, in a direction away from the second adapter counterpart 350, is prevented.

[0242] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement interference relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 and the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is opposed.

[0243] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement interference relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 and the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is prevented.

[0244] In the relative movement effective relationship:

[0245] (i) the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed in the first retaining configuration; and

[0246] (ii) the retaining member configuration 902 and the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 are co-operatively configured such that there is an absence of interference to displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, in a direction away from the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 is displaceable, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, in a direction away from the second adapter counterpart 350, for effectuating defeating of the connection of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0247] In some embodiments, for example, in the relative movement effective relationship, the retaining member configuration 902 and the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 are co-operatively configured such that relative displacement between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, is effective.

[0248] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are connected such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the firstadapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship:

[0249] in response to actuation of the retaining member configuration 902 by the retaining member actuator 750, the retaining member configuration 902 is transitioned from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that:

[0250] the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship;

[0251] the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship.

[0252] In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 in the relative movement effectible relationship, and (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in the relative movement interference relationship, in response to transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, is effectuated simultaneously.

[0253] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are connected such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship:

[0254] in response to transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is further established.

[0255] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are connected such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the firstadapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship:

[0256] in response to transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship: (i) the electrical connectors 308 become further disposed in the electrical ports 3080, such that the connection between the electrical connectors 308 and the electrical ports 3080 is further established; (ii) the fluid connectors 310 become further disposed in the fluid ports 3100, such that the connection between the fluid connectors 310 and the fluid ports 3100 is further established; and (iii) the data connectors 314 become further disposed in the data ports 3140, such that the connection between the data connectors 314 and the data ports 3140 is further established.

[0257] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are connected, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302 such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship:

[0258] in response to actuation of the retaining member configuration 902 by the retaining member actuator 750, the retaining member configuration 902 is transitioned from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that:

[0259] the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship;

[0260] the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship.

[0261] In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 in the relative movement effectible relationship, in response to transition of the retaining member configuration 902 fromthe second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, is effectuated simultaneously.

[0262] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member configuration 902 is biased to the second retaining configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the bias is effected by a spring 904, as depicted in Figure 26.

[0263] In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration opposes the transition of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 from the relative movement interference relationship to the relative movement effectible relationship.

[0264] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0265] while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are disposed in the interaction-effective relationship, and (ii) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship:

[0266] a force is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship.

[0267] In some embodiments, for example, the force, which is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, cooperates with the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration, the bias effected by the spring 904, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration.

[0268] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0269] while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship:

[0270] a force is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship.

[0271] In some embodiments, the coupler 704, the first adapter counterpart 302, and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that, while: (i) the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are disposed in the interactioneffective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship: the force, which is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902.

[0272] In some embodiments, for example, the force that is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, which, in some embodiments, for example, is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902, co-operates with the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration, the bias effected by the spring 904, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration.

[0273] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0274] while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are disposed in the interaction-effective relationship, and (ii) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement effective relationship:

[0275] a force is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship.

[0276] In some embodiments, for example, the force, which is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, overcomes the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration, the bias effected by the spring 904, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration.

[0277] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0278] while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship:

[0279] a force is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship.

[0280] In some embodiments, the coupler 704, the first adapter counterpart 302, and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that, while: (i) the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are disposed in the interactioneffective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, and (ii) thefirst adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship: the force, which is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902.

[0281] In some embodiments, for example, the force that is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, which, in some embodiments, for example, is applicable by the retaining member actuator 750 to the retaining member configuration 902, overcomes the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration, the bias effected by the spring 904, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration.

[0282] In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration includes a first rotation of the retaining member configuration 902, and the transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration includes a second rotation of the retaining member configuration 902 in a direction that is opposite the first rotation.

[0283] In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the retaining member configuration 902 includes a rocker or rocker arm. In some embodiments, for example, the rocker includes a a first retaining member 906, disposed on a first end of the rocker; and a second retaining member 908, disposed on a second opposite end of the rocker.

[0284] In some embodiments, for example, the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 includes a hook, as depicted in Figure 17 to Figure 25. In some embodiments, for example, while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the first retaining member 906 is disposed in the hook of the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770. In some embodiments, for example,while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, the first retaining member 906 is disposed outside of the hook of the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770.

[0285] In some embodiments, for example, the hook of the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770 includes an angled or chamfered leading edge 771 to effectuate the disposition of the first retaining member 906 into the hook.

[0286] In some embodiments, for example, the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 includes a hook, as depicted in Figure 17 to Figure 20. In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the second retaining member 908 is disposed in the hook of the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790. In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, the second retaining member 908 is disposed outside of the hook of the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790.

[0287] In some embodiments, for example, the hook of the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 includes an angled or chamfered leading edge 791 to effectuate the disposition of the second retaining member 908 into the hook.

[0288] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member actuator 750 is configurable in a first actuating configuration, as depicted in Figure 23, and in a second actuating configuration, as depicted in Figure 24 and Figure 25. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member actuator 750 is transitionable between the first actuating configuration and the second actuating configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the retaining member actuator 750 from the first actuating configuration to the second actuating configuration includes a first rotation of the retaining member actuator 750, and the transition of the retaining member actuator 750 from the second actuating configuration to the first actuating configuration includes a second rotation of the retaining member actuator 750 in a direction that is opposite the first rotation.

[0289] In some embodiments, for example, while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302 and co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship, the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the first actuating configuration. In some embodiments, for example, while the coupler 704 is connected to the firstadapter counterpart 302 and co-operatively configured in the relative movement effective relationship, the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the second actuating configuration.

[0290] In some embodiments, for example, while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, a first interaction-effective relationship is established between the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 while: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed in the first retaining configuration, and (ii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the first actuating configuration.

[0291] In some embodiments, for example, while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, a second interaction-effective relationship is established between the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 while: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 is disposed in the second retaining configuration, and (ii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the second actuating configuration.

[0292] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are connected such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship, and (iii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the first actuating configuration:

[0293] in response to transitioning of the retaining member actuator 750 from the first actuating configuration to the second actuating configuration, the retaining member configuration 902 is actuated by the retaining member actuator 750, such that the retaining member configuration 902 is transitioned from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that:

[0294] the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship;

[0295] the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship.

[0296] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are connected, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, (ii) the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302 such that the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship, and (iii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the second actuating configuration:

[0297] in response to transitioning of the retaining member actuator 750 from the second actuating configuration to the first actuating configuration, the retaining member configuration 902 is actuated by the retaining member actuator 750, such that the retaining member configuration 902 is transitioned from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that:

[0298] the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship;

[0299] the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship.

[0300] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member actuator 750 includes a first prong 752 and a second prong 754, as depicted in Figure 25. As depicted, the first prong 752 and the second prong 754 are disposed on opposite sides of the retaining member actuator 750.

[0301] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0302] while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator are disposed in the interaction-effective relationship, (ii) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the (iii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the first retaining configuration:

[0303] the first prong 752 and the first retaining member 906 are co-operatively configured such that a force is applicable by the first prong 752 to the first retaining member 906 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning theretaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the force is applied by the first prong 752 to the first retaining member 906, for effectuating the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, in response to transitioning of the retaining member actuator 750 from the first actuating configuration to the second actuating configuration.

[0304] In some embodiments, for example, the force, which is applicable by the first prong 752 to the first retaining member 906 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, co-operates with the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration, the bias effected by the spring 904, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration.

[0305] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator are disposed in the interaction-effective relationship, (ii) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and the (iii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the first retaining configuration, the first retaining member 906 is disposed between the first prong 752 and the second prong 754.

[0306] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0307] while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator are disposed in the interaction-effective relationship, (ii) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, and the (iii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the second retaining configuration:

[0308] the second prong 754 and the first retaining member 906 are co-operatively configured such that a force is applicable by the second prong 754 to the first retaining member 906 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the force is applied by the second prong 754 to the first retaining member 906, for effectuating the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, in response to transitioning of the retaining member actuator 750 from the second actuating configuration to the first actuating configuration.

[0309] In some embodiments, for example, the force, which is applicable by the second prong 754 to the first retaining member 906 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, overcomes the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration, the bias effected by the spring 904, to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration.

[0310] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, such that: (i) the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator are disposed in the interaction-effective relationship, (ii) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, and the (iii) the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the second retaining configuration: the first retaining member 906 is disposed between the first prong 752 and the second prong 754.

[0311] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 includes a coupler body 760, as depicted in Figure 23 to Figure 25.

[0312] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 includes one or more guide pins 322. As depicted in Figure 23 to Figure 25, the coupler 704 has two guide pins 322. In some embodiments, for example, the guide pins 322 are connected to, and extend from, thecoupler body 760. The guide pins 322 are configured to be received by corresponding guide ports 240 of the first adapter counterpart 302. As depicted in Figure 4, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes two guide ports 240. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the guide ports 240, independently, is defined by a guide port configuration 2400, which, in some embodiments, for example, is mounted to the housing 304 of the first adapter counterpart 302, for example, via friction fit, interference fit, and the like, or via mechanical fasteners. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the guide pins 312 extends from a respective guide port configuration 2400. In some embodiments, for example, each one of the guide ports 240, independently, is defined by the housing 304. In some embodiments, for example, the guide ports 240 are disposed on a side of the first adapter counterpart 302 that is opposite the side on which the electrical connectors 308, fluid connectors 310, and data connectors 314 are defined. The one or more guide pins 322 and the one or more guide ports 240 are cooperatively configured to guide the relative displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the coupler 704 to effect the releasable coupling of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the coupler 704.

[0313] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 22 and Figure 25, a sensor 104E, for example, a proximity sensor, is mounted to the coupler body 704. As depicted, the sensor 104E is mounted to the coupler body 704 such that the sensor 104E is facing the hook of the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770. The sensor 104E is configured to collect data representative of the disposition, or absence of disposition, of the retaining member configuration 902, for example the first retaining member 906, in the hook of the hook of the manipulator-defined retaining counterpart 770. Based on the data from the sensor 104E, the controller 102 determines the configuration of the retaining member configuration 902 (e.g. first retaining configuration or second retaining configuration).

[0314] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member actuator 750 is rotatably connected to the coupler body 760 via a bearing 756. In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the retaining member actuator 750 from the first actuating configuration to the second actuating configuration includes the first rotation of the retaining member actuator 750, relative to the coupler body 760, and the transition of the retaining member actuator 750 from the second actuating configuration to the first actuating configuration includes the second rotation of the retaining member actuator 750, relative to the coupler body 760, in a direction that is opposite the first rotation.

[0315] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 includes an actuator 762 that is configured to transition the retaining member actuator 750 between the first actuating configuration and the second actuating configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 762 is a motor, for example, a servo motor. As depicted in Figure 21 and Figure 22, in some embodiments, for example, the actuator 762 is mounted to the coupler body 760. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 762 and the retaining member actuator 750 are co-operative configured such that the retaining member actuator 750 is rotatable, relative to the coupler body 760, in response to actuation by the actuator 762, for transitioning the retaining member actuator 750 between the first actuating configuration and the second actuating configuration.

[0316] The actuator 762 and the retaining member actuator 750 are disposed in operable communication. As depicted in Figure 21, the actuator 762 and the retaining member actuator 750 are disposed in operable communication via a linkage configuration 764. In some embodiments, for example, the linkage configuration 764 is connected, at a first end, to the actuator 762, and at a second opposite end, to the retaining member actuator 750. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 762 is configured to drive rotation of the linkage configuration 764, and in response to rotation of the rotation of the linkage configuration 764, the retaining member 750 is rotated, for transitioning the retaining member actuator 750 between the first actuating configuration and the second actuating configuration.

[0317] In some embodiments, for example, the linkage configuration 764 comprises at least one linkage member 765. In some embodiments, for example, the linkage configuration 764 is a four-bar linkage.

[0318] As depicted in Figure 21 to Figure 25, in some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 includes screws 766. In some embodiments, for example, the screws 766 extend from the coupler body 760. The screws 766 are configured to be coupled to rails 730 of the coupler supporter 702, as depicted in Figure 61 , for guiding the displacement of the coupler 704 relative to the coupler supporter 702.

[0319] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes a first adapter counterpart body 910, which, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by the housing 304, as depicted in Figure 26 and Figure 27.

[0320] In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member configuration 902 is rotatably connected to the counterpart body 910 via a bearing 912, as depicted in Figure 2. In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration includes the first rotation of the retaining member configuration 902, relative to the counterpart body 910, and the transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the second actuating configuration to the first actuating configuration includes the second rotation of the retaining member configuration 902, relative to the counterpart body 910, in a direction that is opposite the first rotation.

[0321] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 26 to Figure 29, the first adapter counterpart includes a handle configuration 916, the handle configuration 916 defining a handle 918. The handle configuration 916 is connected to the retaining member configuration 902. In some embodiments, for example, the retaining member configuration 902 and the handle 918 are co-operatively configured such that a force, for example, an external force, which, in some embodiments, is applied by an external source, is applicable to the handle 916 for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration.

[0322] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are connected, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship:

[0323] in response to transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration:

[0324] the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship; and

[0325] the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship.

[0326] In some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are connected, and disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, and (ii) the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, and disposed in the relative movement effectible-relationship:

[0327] in response to transition of the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration: and

[0328] the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship;

[0329] the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship.

[0330] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0331] while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship:

[0332] a force, for example, an external force, is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the force, for example, the external force, co-operates with the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration.

[0333] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0334] while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship:

[0335] a force, for example, an external force, is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the force, for example, the external force, overcomes the bias of theretaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration.

[0336] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0337] while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship:

[0338] a force, for example, an external force, is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration, with effect that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the force, for example, the external force, overcomes with the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the second retaining configuration to the first retaining configuration.

[0339] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that:

[0340] while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship:

[0341] a force, for example, an external force, is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration, with effect that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the relative movement interference relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the force, for example, the external force, co-operates with the bias of the retaining member configuration 902 to the second retaining configuration to transition the retaining member configuration 902 from the first retaining configuration to the second retaining configuration.

[0342] In some embodiments, for example, the force is applicable by the object manipulator 110 described herein, for example, the retaining member actuator 750 of the coupler 704, to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration. In some embodiments, for example, wherein the force is an external force, the force is applicable to the retaining member configuration 902 by an external source, for example, an operator or an object manipulator (e.g. robot) other than the object manipulator 110 described herein. In some embodiments, for example, the force is applied directly to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the force is applied to the retaining member actuator 750, which applies a force to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the force is applied to the handle 918, which applies a force to the retaining member configuration 902 to effectuate the actuation of the retaining member configuration 902, for transitioning the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration.

[0343] In this respect, the retaining member configuration 902 is transitionable between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration via the object manipulator 110, and also transitionable between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration via an external source, for example, manually, for example, by an operator, or by an object manipulator (e.g. robot) other than the object manipulator 110 described herein. In some embodiments, for example, the functionality of the retaining member configuration 902 to transition between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration via an external source is desirable, should the coupler 704 of the object manipulator 110 lack the functionality to transition the retaining member configuration 902 between the first retaining configuration and the second retaining configuration (e.g. an embodiment of the coupler 704 does not include the retaining member actuator 750; the coupler 704, for example, the retaining member actuator 750, the linkage member 765, or the actuator 762, is damaged or malfunctioning; there is an absence of supply of energy such as electrical power to the object manipulator 110, etc.). In such embodiments, for example, the relative movement interferencerelationship and the relative movement effectible relationship between the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are still able to be established, for example, manually, for example, by an operator, and the relative movement interference relationship and the relative movement effectible relationship between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are still able to be established, for example, manually, for example, by an operator.

[0344] In some embodiments, for example, the spring 904 is connected, at a first end, to the counterpart body 910, and at a second opposite end, to the handle configuration 916. In some embodiments, for example, the positions of the connections of the spring 904 to the counterpart body 910 and to the handle configuration 916 is adjustable based on the stiffness of the spring.

[0345] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 28 and Figure 29, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes sensors 104F. In embodiments, for example, each one of the sensors 104F is a proximity sensor, and is mounted to the counterpart body 910. As depicted, the sensors 104F are mounted to the counterpart body 910 such that the sensors 104F are disposed in opposing relationship, and are facing a portion of the handle configuration 916, for example, a portion of the handle configuration 916 disposed rearwardly of the handle 918. Each one of the sensors 104F, independently, is configured to collect data representative of the proximity of the said portion of the handle configuration 916 relative to the sensor 104F. Based on the data from the sensors 104F, the controller 102 determines the position of the handle configuration 916, and since the handle configuration 916 is connected to the retaining member configuration 902, the controller 102 also determines the configuration of the retaining member configuration 902 (e.g. first retaining configuration or second retaining configuration).

[0346] As depicted in Figure 26 to Figure 29, in some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 includes more than one retaining member configuration 902, for example, two retaining member configurations 902A and 902B. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 includes more than one manipulator defined retaining counterpart 770, for example, two manipulator defined retaining counterparts 770, and the second adapter counterpart 350 includes more than one connector-defined retaining counterpart 790, for example, two connector-defined retaining counterparts 790.

[0347] By having more than one retaining member configuration 902, manipulator defined retaining counterpart 770, and connector-defined retaining counterpart 790, the connection between the coupler 704, first adapter counterpart 302, and second adapter counterpart 350, and the retention of said connections, is improved.

[0348] In some embodiments, the first retaining member configuration 902A and the second retaining member configuration 902B are co-operatively configured such that the configuration of the first and second retaining member configurations 902A and 902B are the same. For example, as depicted in Figure 26, while the first retaining member configuration 902A is disposed in the first retaining configuration, the second retaining member configuration 902B is disposed in the first retaining configuration. Similarly, as depicted in Figure 27, while the first retaining member configuration 902A is disposed in the second retaining configuration, the second retaining member configuration 902B is disposed in the second retaining configuration.

[0349] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, rotation of the coupler 704, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, is opposed. In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, rotation of the coupler 704, relative to the first adapter counterpart 302, is prevented.

[0350] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 is connected to the first adapter counterpart 302, the first adapter counterpart 302 is supported by the coupler 704.

[0351] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the interference to the displacement of the coupler 704, relative to the towing vehicle defined connection counterpart, is along a displacement axis that is a linear axis.

[0352] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 and the firstadapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the displacement of the coupler 704, relative to the towing vehicle defined connection counterpart, in the direction away from the first adapter counterpart 302, is prevented.

[0353] In some embodiments, for example, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured such that: while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement effectible relationship, the coupler 704 is displaceable, relative to the towing vehicle defined connection counterpart, along a displacement axis that is a linear axis.

[0354] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, rotation of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, is opposed. In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, rotation of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, is prevented.

[0355] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, the first adapter counterpart 302 is supported by the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0356] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 is connected to the second adapter counterpart 350, operable communication (e.g. fluid communication, electrical communication, data communication, etc.) is established between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0357] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicle 13 is a towing vehicle 13, the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is a trailer 12, and the establishment of the communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 is for actuating a vehicular operation.

[0358] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicle 13 is a towing vehicle 13, the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is a trailer 12, and the establishment of the communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 is for replenishing an energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 via an energy source of the trailer 12.

[0359] In some embodiments, for example, the vehicle 13 is a towing vehicle 13, the counterpart-disposed configuration 12 is a charging dock 12, and the establishment of the communication between the towing vehicle 13 and the charging dock 12 is for replenishing an energy storage device of the towing vehicle 13 via an energy source of the charging dock 12.

[0360] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the interference to the displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, is along a displacement axis that is a linear axis.

[0361] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship, the displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, in the direction away from the second adapter counterpart 350, is prevented.

[0362] In some embodiments, for example, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively configured such that: while the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the relative movement first adapter counterpart 302, the first adapter counterpart 302 is displaceable, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, along a displacement axis that is a linear axis.

[0363] Figure 1 depicts the towing vehicle 13 connected to the trailer 12 via the fifth wheel 15 and kingpin 14. As depicted, the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, wherein the object manipulator 110 is disposed in a manipulator retracted configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in an alignment effected retracted configuration, the end effector 700 is disposed in an end effector retracted configuration, and the coupler 704 is disposed in a coupler retracted configuration. While theobject manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, the object manipulator 110 is disposed within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, below of the swing radius 21 of the trailer 12, for example, the swing radius 21 of the front corners of the trailer 12, and there is an absence of engagement between the platform 400 and a bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, wherein the bottom surface 50 is defined by the base plate 51 of the trailer 12.

[0364] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, the disposition of the platform 400 within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 is such that the platform 400 is nested within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13. While the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, the disposition of the platform 400 within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 is such that the platform 400 is nested within a recess 41 within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13. While the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed within the frame 402 of the platform 400, in particular, within an alignment effector receiving space 406 defined by the frame 402, such that the end effector alignment effector 500 is nested within the alignment effector receiving space 406. While the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, the end effector 700 is disposed forwardly of a front surface 52 of the trailer 12, the front surface 52 defined by a front wall 53 of the trailer 12, and there is an absence of contact engagement between the end effector 700 and the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. While the coupler 704 is disposed in the coupler retracted configuration, and while the coupler 704 is coupled to the first adapter counterpart 302, there is an absence of operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. While the coupler 704 is disposed in the coupler retracted configuration, the coupler 704 is disposed at a front end of the coupler supporter 702.

[0365] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, at least a portion of the platform 400 is disposed below the base plate 51 of the trailer 12, and the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed forward of the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0366] In some embodiments, for example, the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 such that it is disposed forwardly of the fifth wheel 15 of the towing vehicle 13, and between the fifth wheel 15 and the cab of the towing vehicle 13.

[0367] As depicted in Figure 31 , Figure 32, Figure 35, and Figure 47, the second adapter counterpart 350 is mounted under the floor 16 and disposed within the subfloor 17 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the subfloor 17 of the trailer 12 is defined between: a floor 16 of the trailer defining a support surface that is configured to support cargo disposed within the trailer 12, and the base plate 51. As depicted in Figure 31 , the mounting of the second adapter counterpart 350 (drawn in dashed line) is such that the second adapter counterpart 350 is aligned with the center of the kingpin 14 along the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 31 , the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12 is coincident with the center of the second adapter counterpart 350, and also coincident with the center of the kingpin 14. In some embodiments, for example, a central longitudinal axis of the second adapter counterpart 350, and the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12 are disposed in a parallel relationship.

[0368] In some embodiments, for example, it is desirable to mount the second adapter counterpart 350 under the floor 16 of the trailer 12 and within the subfloor 17 of the trailer 12, as it is relatively easy to retrofit existing trailers 12 to mount the second adapter counterpart 350 under the floor 16 and within the subfloor 17. In some embodiments, for example, it is relatively easy to design a new trailer 12 to mount the second adapter counterpart 350 under the floor 16 and within the subfloor 17. Furthermore, in some embodiments, for example, by mounting the second adapter counterpart 350 under the floor 16 and within the subfloor 17, support structures disposed on the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, for supporting the cargo disposed within the trailer 12 in the event of a sudden stoppage of the trailer 12, do not have to be removed, adjusted, or re-designed. In addition, by mounting the second adapter counterpart 350 under the floor 16 and within the subfloor 17, the second adapter counterpart 350 is protected from the elements. In some embodiments, for example, it is undesirable to mount the second adapter counterpart 350 on the floor 16 of the trailer 12, as the second adapter counterpart 350 would be disposed within the trailer 12, wherein collision between the cargo of the trailer 12 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is effectible. Such collision between the cargo of the trailer 12 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is undesirable as it can damage the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0369] In some embodiments, for example, while the second adapter counterpart 350 is mounted to the trailer 12, the second adapter counterpart 350 is facing in a forward direction, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, it is desirable to mount the second adapter counterpart 350 to the trailer 12 such that the second adapter counterpart 350 is facing in a forward direction, as it is relatively easy to cut a bottom portion of the front wall 53of the trailer 12 to define an opening 54, through which the first adapter counterpart 302 is displaceable for establishing operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the bottom portion of the front wall 53 of the trailer 12 includes a panel 55 that conceals the subfloor 17, as depicted in Figure 1. In some embodiments, for example, it is relatively easy to cut the panel 55 to define the opening 54. In some embodiments, for example, the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 includes the front surface 56 of the panel 55. In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the second adapter counterpart 350 to the first adapter counterpart 302 is effectible via the opening 54 defined on the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the opening 54 is configured for receiving the first adapter counterpart 302 for effectuating the connection of the second adapter counterpart 350 and the first adapter counterpart 302. In some embodiments, for example, it is undesirable to mount the second adapter counterpart 350 to the trailer 12 such that the second adapter counterpart 350 is facing in a downward direction, as it is undesirable to cut the base plate 51 of the trailer 12 to define the opening 54. In some embodiments, for example, the base plate 51 of the trailer 12 is the thickest part of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the base plate 51 of the trailer 12 is defined by a steel plate that has a thickness, for example, of 5 / 8”.

[0370] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the second adapter counterpart 350 to the trailer 12 is such that the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed rearwardly of the front surface 52 of the towing vehicle 12, and there is an absence of disposition of at least a portion of the second adapter counterpart 350 forwardly of the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the second adapter counterpart 350 to the trailer 12 is such that the entirety of the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed rearwardly of the front surface 52 of the towing vehicle 12.

[0371] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the second adapter counterpart 350 under the floor 16 and within the subfloor 17, is effectuated by a counterpart housing 380, as depicted in Figure 7 and Figure 8. The counterpart housing 380 is mounted to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in the counterpart housing 380. The housing 380 defines an opening 382, through which the first adapter counterpart 302 is displaceable for establishing operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the opening 382 and the opening 54 are disposed in alignment, for example, axial alignment. In someembodiments, for example, the connection of the second adapter counterpart 350 to the first adapter counterpart 302 is effectible via the opening 382. In some embodiments, for example, the opening 382 is configured for receiving the first adapter counterpart 302 for effectuating the connection of the second adapter counterpart 350 and the first adapter counterpart 302. In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of the second adapter 350 in the counterpart housing 380 is such that the second adapter counterpart 350 is facing in a direction towards the opening 382.

[0372] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 7 and Figure 8, the housing 380 includes flanges 384 that are configured to connect to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12, for example, via mechanical fasteners, such that the housing 380 is mounted to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the flanges 384 are connected to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12, the flanges 384 are flush with the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the housing 380 is connected to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12 via the flanges 384, the housing 380, for example, a front-facing surface 381 of the housing 380, which, in some embodiments, for example, includes a front-facing surface of the flanges 384, defines a portion of the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the frontfacing surface 52 of the trailer 12 includes the front-facing surfaces of the flanges 384. In some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the housing 380 to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12 is such that at least a portion of the housing 380 is disposed forwardly of the frontfacing surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surface 381 of the housing 380 is disposed forwardly of the front facing surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the front facing surfaces of the flanges 384 are disposed forwardly of the front facing surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0373] In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of the second adapter 350 in the counterpart housing 380 is such that the second adapter counterpart 350 is facing the frontfacing surface of the counterpart housing 380.

[0374] In some embodiments, for example, the bottom surface 50 is disposed below and rearwardly of the front-facing surface. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the front-facing surface and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 50 are disposed in a non-parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, a normal axis defined by the front-facing surface and a normal axis defined by the bottom surface 50 are disposed in a perpendicular relationship.

[0375] In some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the counterpart housing 380 to the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12 is such that an outermost front-facing surface portion of the front-facing surface 381 of the counterpart housing 380 is spaced apart from the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12 by a minimum spacing distance having a minimum value of at least 1 / 16 inches, for example, at least 1 / 8 inches, for example, at least 0.5 inches, for example, at least one (1) inch, for example, at least two (2) inches.

[0376] In some embodiments, for example, the housing 380 includes an extended portion 386 that is configured to extend through the opening 54 and be disposed within the subfloor 17. The second adapter counterpart 350 is configured to connect to the extended portion 386, for example, via the mechanical fasteners that connect the connector-defined retaining counterpart 790 to the housing 352 of the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 8, at least a portion of the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed in the extended portion 386. In some embodiments, for example, the extended portion 386 functions as a protective shroud. In some embodiments, for example, the extended portion 386 is manufactured with sheet metal. While the second adapter counterpart 350 is connected to the extended portion 386, the second adapter counterpart 350 is aligned with the center of the kingpin 14 along the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12, with the electrical ports 3080 (or electrical connectors 308), fluid ports 3100 (or fluid connectors 310), data ports 3140 (or data connectors 314), and guide ports 3120 (or guide pins 312) are facing the front-facing surface 52 and aligned with the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12, as depicted in Figure 12 and Figure 31.

[0377] In some embodiments, for example, the extended portion 386 defines openings to allow the towing vehicle communicator-defined fluid conductors 1302, towing vehicle communicator-defined electrical conductors 1304, and the towing vehicle communicator-defined data conductors 1305 to extend out of the extended portion 386.

[0378] In some embodiments, for example, the extended portion 386 defines one or more drain ports 388 for draining liquid and debris that enters the extended portion 386.

[0379] In some embodiments, for example, the housing 380 includes a protective cover 390 for selectively establishing communication through the opening 382, as depicted in Figure 8to Figure 11. In some embodiments, for example, the cover 390 is coupled to the extended portion 386. In some embodiments, for example, the protective cover 390 is configured to protect the second adapter counterpart 350 from the elements or unintentional engagement through the opening 382. In some embodiments, for example, the protective cover 390 is transitionable between a closed configuration, as depicted in Figure 10, and an open configuration, as depicted in Figure 11. In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration 110, the cover 390 is disposed in the closed configuration, wherein communication through the opening 382 is occluded by the cover 390. In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration 110, such that the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed in abutting engagement with the bottom surface 52 of the trailer 12, the cover 390 is disposed in the open configuration, wherein occlusion of the opening 382 by the cover is defeated, such that communication through the opening 382 with the second adapter counterpart 350 is effectible. In some embodiments, for example, the abutting engagement of the trailer engaging surface 404 with the bottom surface 51 of the trailer 12 is with effect that an actuator, for example, a lever arm, is actuated, for transitioning the protective cover 390 from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0380] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 390 is pivotably coupled to the extended portion 386 about a pivot 392, as depicted in Figure 9. In some embodiments, for example, a spring 394 is coupled to cover 390, and biases the cover 390 to the closed configuration, as depicted in Figure 10, to protect the second adapter counterpart 350 from the elements or unintentional engagement through the opening 382. In some embodiments, for example, while the first adapter counterpart 302 is aligned with the second adapter counterpart 350, and is being displaced towards the second adapter counterpart 350 to effectuate the connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, the first adapter counterpart 302 applies a force to the cover 390, which overcomes the spring force applied to the cover 390 by the spring 394, such that the cover 390 is transitioned to the open configuration, as depicted in Figure 11.

[0381] Figure 30 depicts the towing vehicle 13 connected to the trailer 12 via the fifth wheel 15 and kingpin 14, such that a connected towing vehicle 13 and trailer 12 is established, with the towing vehicle 13 misaligned, relative to the trailer 12, for example, angularly misaligned, relative to the trailer 12, about the pitch axis (lateral axis; left-to-right axis), and also angularly misaligned about the yaw axis (vertical axis). In some embodiments, for example, theconnection of the towing vehicle 13 connected to the trailer 12 via the fifth wheel 15 and kingpin 14 is with effect that the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are angularly aligned about the roll axis (longitudinal axis, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in angular alignment about the roll axis. In some embodiments, for example, the roll axis and a normal axis defined by the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 are disposed in a parallel relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the yaw axis and a central longitudinal axis of the kingpin 14 are disposed in a parallel relationship. As depicted, the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, and the coupler 704 is disposed in the coupler retracted configuration. As depicted, there is an absence of connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0382] In some embodiments, for example, the misalignment between the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 is due to surface grade, pit docks, the models of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, trailer’s landing gear 14A, tire pressure of the towing vehicle 13 or the trailer 12, parked position of the trailer 12, access position of the towing vehicle 13 to the trailer 12, and the like.

[0383] As depicted in Figure 30, the object manipulator 110 is releasably coupled the first adapter counterpart 302, for example, via the coupler 704, such that the coupled object manipulator 110 is established. At this point, as depicted in Figure 17, the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship, the retaining member actuator 750 is disposed in the first actuating configuration, and the retaining member configuration 902 and the retaining member actuator 750 are cooperatively configured in the interaction-effective relationship (e.g. first interaction-effective relationship). As depicted, the coupled object manipulator 110 is disposed in the coupled object manipulator retracted configuration. The towing vehicle 13 is configured to co-operate with the trailer 12 such that, while the coupled object manipulator 110 is disposed in the coupled object manipulator retracted configuration, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively disposed in a misaligned relationship, wherein, in the misaligned relationship, there is an absence of alignment between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, said misalignment of the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is due, in part, by the misalignment of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12.

[0384] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is configured to cooperate with the trailer 12 such that, while the coupled object manipulator 110 is disposed in the coupled object manipulator retracted configuration, the coupled object manipulator 110 is nested within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, while the coupled object manipulator 110 is disposed in the coupled object manipulator retracted configuration, the nesting of the object manipulator within the frame of the vehicle is such that the coupled object manipulator 110 is nested within the recess 41 defined within the frame 40 of the towing vehicle. In some embodiments, for example, the recess 41 is defined between opposing frame members 40A and 40B of the frame 40, as depicted in Figure 64 and Figure 65.

[0385] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is configured to cooperate with the trailer 12 such that, while the coupled object manipulator 110 is disposed in the coupled object manipulator retracted configuration, the coupled object manipulator 110 is disposed below a swing radius 21 of the trailer 12, for example, the swing radius 21 of the trailer corners, as depicted in Figure 66.

[0386] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 66, while the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are connected, for example, via the fifth wheel 15 and kingpin 14, the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are rotatable, relative to each other, about the connection of the towing vehicle 13 and trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 and trailer 12 rotate, relative to each other, as the towing vehicle 13 turns in a left or right direction during operation of the towing vehicle 13. In some embodiments, for example, while the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are connected, and during operation of the towing vehicle 13, one of the front corners of the trailer 12 overlaps the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, to which the object manipulator 110 is mounted. Accordingly, while the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are connected, and during operation of the towing vehicle 13, it is desirable for the coupled object manipulator 110 to be disposed in the coupled object manipulator retracted configuration, such that there will be an absence of collision between the object manipulator 110 and the trailer 12, to prevent damage to the object manipulator 110.

[0387] The misalignment between the connected towing vehicle 13 and trailer 12 is such that, while: (i) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, (ii) the effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, (iii) the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, (iv) the coupler 704 is disposed in a coupler retracted configuration, and (v) the first adaptercounterpart 302 is coupled to the coupler 704 (e.g. the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship), the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are angularly misaligned, for example, about the pitch axis (lateral axis; left-to-right axis), axially misaligned about the pitch axis, and angularly misaligned about the yaw axis (vertical axis). As depicted in Figure 34A, while: (i) the towing vehicle 13 is connected to the trailer 12, wherein the towing vehicle 13 is angularly misaligned, relative to the trailer 12, about the pitch axis (lateral axis; left-to-right axis), and also about the yaw axis (vertical axis), (ii) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, (iii) the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, (iv) the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, (v) the coupler 704 is disposed in an coupler retracted configuration, and (vi) the first adapter counterpart 302 is coupled to the coupler 704 (e.g. the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship), the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed on a horizontal plane HP1 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed on a horizontal plane HP2, wherein the horizontal plane HP1 and the horizontal plane HP2 are nonparallel.

[0388] In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 via the fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14 is such that the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 is disposed below the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are connected via the fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14, (ii) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, (iii) the effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, (iv) the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, (v) the coupler 704 is disposed in an coupler retracted configuration, and (vi) the first adapter counterpart 302 is coupled to the coupler 704 (e.g. the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship), the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are axially misaligned about the yaw axis (vertical axis).

[0389] In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 via the fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14 is such that the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed forward of the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, while: (i) the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are connected viathe fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14, (ii) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, (iii) the effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, (iv) the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, (v) the coupler 704 is disposed in an coupler retracted configuration, and (vi) the first adapter counterpart 302 is coupled to the coupler 704 (e.g. the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship), the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are axially misaligned about the roll axis (longitudinal axis; front to back axis).

[0390] In some embodiments, for example, as described in greater detail below, while the coupled end effector 700 is established, the platform 400 and the end effector alignment effector 500, which includes the end effector supporter 600 function as a guide to guide the displacement of the coupled end effector 700 to align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in an alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0391] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is configured to cooperate with the trailer 12 such that: while: (i) the coupled end effector 700 is established, (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively disposed in a misaligned relationship, wherein, in the misaligned relationship, there is an absence of alignment between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, and (iii) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in a guiding-effective relationship with the trailer 12, wherein, in the guiding-effective relationship, contact engagement between the object manipulator 110 and the trailer 12 is effectible, for example, contact engagement between the object manipulator 110 and a reaction surface of the trailer 12 is effectible (e.g. contact engagement between the object manipulator 110 and the front-facing surface 52 and bottom-facing surface 50 is effectible):

[0392] while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in contact engagement with the trailer 12, for example, the reaction surface of the trailer 12 (e.g. the front-facing surface 52 and bottom-facing surface 50), in response to a force applied to the object manipulator 110 for urging displacement of the object manipulator 110 towards the trailer 12, for example, the reaction surface, an alignment reaction force is applied by trailer 12, for example, the reaction surface, to the object manipulator 110 to urge displacement of the object manipulator 110, witheffect that an alignment relationship-obtaining displacement of the coupled end effector 700, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, is effectuated by the alignment reaction force, wherein the alignment relationship-obtaining displacement is guided by the guide (e.g. the platform 400 and end effector supporter 600), wherein the guided displacement is effective for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in an alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, the alignment reaction force includes a platform-urging reaction force and an end effector-urging reaction force, as described in greater detail herein.

[0393] In some embodiments, for example, the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the guiding-effective relationship with the trailer 12 while the fifth wheel coupling 15 and the kingpin 14 are coupled.

[0394] To angularly align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 about the pitch axis, the object manipulator 110 is transitioned from the manipulator retracted configuration to a manipulator extended configuration.

[0395] Figure 33 and Figure 35 depicts the object manipulator 110 disposed in the manipulator extended configuration. In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are angularly aligned about the pitch axis.

[0396] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is configured to cooperate with the trailer 12 such that: while: (i) the coupled end effector 700 is established (e.g. the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are co-operatively configured in the relative movement interference relationship), (ii) the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively disposed in a misaligned relationship, wherein, in the misaligned relationship, there is an absence of alignment between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, and (iii) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in a guiding-effective relationship with the trailer 12, wherein, in the guiding-effective relationship, contact engagement between the pivotable platform 400 and the trailer 12, for example, the bottom surface 50 defined by the base plate 51 , is effectible: theobject manipulator 110 is displaced towards the trailer 12, for example, in an upwards direction towards the bottom surface 50. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the object manipulator 110 in the upward direction is such that the platform 400 and end effector alignment effector 500 (which includes the end effector supporter 600 and end effector 700), together, displace in the upwards direction. The displacement of the object manipulator 110 towards the trailer 12, for example, in an upwards direction towards the bottom surface 50, is with effect that the platform 400 becomes disposed in contact engagement with the bottom surface 50.

[0397] The pivotable platform 400 and the trailer 12 are co-operatively configured such that, while the pivotable platform 400 is disposed in contact engagement with the trailer 12, for example, the bottom surface 50, in response to a platform-displacement force applied to the pivotable platform 400, for example, by actuators 106A and 106B, to urge displacement of the pivotable platform 400 towards the trailer 12, for example, the bottom surface 50, a platformurging reaction force is applied by the trailer 12, for example, the bottom surface 50, to the pivotable platform 400 to urge pivoting of the object manipulator 110, with effect that a pivoting of the coupled end effector 700, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, is effectuated by the platform-urging reaction force. In some embodiments, for example, the pivoting is effective for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in angular alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350 about a pitch axis. In some embodiments, for example, the pivoting of the coupled end effector 700 is for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in an alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350.

[0398] In some embodiments, for example, the guide of the object manipulator 110 includes the pivotable platform 400.

[0399] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes the displacement of the coupled end effector 700, for example, the pivoting and the vertical displacement of the coupled end effector 700, that iseffectuated via the transitioning of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator-retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration.

[0400] In some embodiments for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the platform 400 is disposed in contact engagement, for example, abutting engagement with the base plate 51 of the trailer 12, for example, the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 30 and Figure 48, the platform 400 includes a trailer engaging surface 404. The trailer engaging surface 404 is configured to become disposed in contact engagement, for example, abutting engagement with the bottom surface 50, for example, the base plate 51, of the trailer 12. In some embodiments for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed in abutting engagement with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed in abutting engagement with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, the trailer engaging surface 404 is parallel with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the trailer engaging surface 404 is parallel with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, the frame 402 is parallel with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12.

[0401] While the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed in abutting engagement with the base plate 51 of the trailer 12. The disposition of the trailer engaging surface 404 in abutting engagement with the base plate 51 of the trailer 12 is with effect that the platform 400 becomes disposed in parallel with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become angularly aligned about the pitch axis (lateral axis; left-to-right axis). In some embodiments, for example, the disposition of the trailer engaging surface 404 in abutting engagement with the base plate 51 of the trailer 12 is with effect that the platform 400 becomes disposed in parallel with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become angularly aligned about the roll axis (longitudinal axis; front-to-back axis).

[0402] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, at least a portion of the trailer engaging surface 404 and the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12 are disposed in opposing relationship. In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of thetowing vehicle 13, at least a portion of the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed below the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12.

[0403] In some embodiments for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, relative to its disposition in the manipulator-retracted configuration, the object manipulator 110 is disposed at a higher vertical position.

[0404] In some embodiments, for example, transitioning of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator-retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration includes displacement of the object manipulator 110, relative to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, in an upward direction. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the object manipulator 110 to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 is such that the object manipulator 110 is vertically displaceable, relative to the frame 40.

[0405] In some embodiments, for example, transitioning of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator-retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration includes rotation of the object manipulator 110 about the pitch axis. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the object manipulator 110 to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 is such that the object manipulator 110 is rotatable, relative to the frame 40, about the pitch axis.

[0406] In some embodiments, for example, transitioning of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration includes displacement of the object manipulator 110, relative to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, in a direction towards the trailer 12, for example, along the roll axis. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the object manipulator 110 towards the trailer 12, for example, along the roll axis, for effecting the transitioning of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration, is due to the angular misalignment of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 about the pitch axis. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the object manipulator 110 to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 is such that the object manipulator 110 is displaceable, relative to the frame 40, in a direction towards the trailer 12, for example, along the roll axis.

[0407] As depicted in Figure 34B, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the first adapter counterpart 302 is disposed on thehorizontal plane HP1 and the second adapter counterpart 350 is disposed on the horizontal plane HP2, wherein the horizontal plane HP1 and the horizontal plane HP2 are parallel.

[0408] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is transitioning from the manipulator retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 remains disposed in the alignment effector retracted configuration, wherein the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed within the frame 402 of the platform 400.

[0409] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the platform 400 towards the trailer 12, for example, towards the bottom surface 50, for example, to effectuate the transition of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration, is effected by actuation of an actuator 106A and an actuator 106B of the actuator assembly 106. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 106A and 106B are pneumatic actuators. In some embodiments, for example, object manipulator 110 includes more than one actuator 106A, for example, two actuators 106A, and more than one actuator 106B, for example, two actuators 106B. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 106A and 106B are actuated by the controller 102, in response to a process initiation signal, for example, a signal provided by an operator of the towing vehicle 13, or a signal representative of the coupling of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12, or a signal representative of an absence of operable communication between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. As depicted in Figure 47 to Figure 49, the actuator 106A is connected, at a first end, to a crossbar 42A of the frame 40, and at a second end, to the platform 400, such that relative displacement between the frame 40 and the platform 400 is effectuatable. Similarly, the actuator 106B is connected, at a first end, to a crossbar 42B of the frame 40, and at a second end, to the platform 400, such that relative displacement between the frame 40 and the platform 400 is effectuatable.

[0410] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 47 to Figure 49, the connection of the actuators 106A and 106B to the crossbars 42 of the frame 40 and to the platform 400 is such that the actuators 106A and 106B are disposed in a scissor configuration, such that the transition of the object manipulator 110 from the manipulator retracted configuration to the manipulator extended configuration includes a scissor lift displacement, the scissor lift displacement effected by the actuators 106A and 106B.

[0411] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator retracted configuration, the platform 400 is rested on the crossbar 42A and the crossbar 42B.

[0412] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 48, sensors 104A and 104B, for example, proximity sensors, mounted to the platform 400, are configured to collect data representative of the proximity of the trailer engaging surface 404 relative to the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12. Based on the data from the sensors 104A and 104B, the controller 102 determines that the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed in abutting engagement with the bottom surface 50, for example, the base plate 51, of the trailer 12.

[0413] In some embodiments, for example, the apparatus 100 includes a displacement restrictor 900, configured to resist the rotation of the platform 400, relative to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, about the roll axis, and also about the yaw axis. In some embodiments, for example, a first end of the displacement restrictor 900 is connected to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, and a second end of the displacement restrictor 900 is connected to the platform 400.

[0414] To axially align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 about the yaw axis (e.g. vertical axis), while the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 is transitioned from the alignment effector retracted configuration to an alignment effector extended configuration.

[0415] Figure 36 depicts the end effector alignment effector 500 disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration. In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are axially aligned about the yaw axis (e.g. vertical axis).

[0416] In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 and the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 are disposed in opposing relationship.

[0417] In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration, relative to its disposition in thealignment effector retracted configuration, the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed at a higher vertical position.

[0418] In some embodiments, for example, transitioning of the end effector alignment effector 500 from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration includes displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500, relative to the platform 400, in an upward direction. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the supporting of the end effector alignment effector 500 by the platform 400 is such that the end effector alignment effector 500 is displaceable, relative to the platform 400. In some embodiments, for example, the displaceability of the end effector alignment effector 500, relative to the platform 400, includes a vertical displaceability.

[0419] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes the displacement of the coupled end effector 700, for example, the vertical displacement of the coupled end effector 700, that is effectuated via the transitioning of the end effector alignment effector 500 from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration.

[0420] In some embodiments, for example, the vertical displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500, for transitioning from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration, is predetermined, based on the mounting of the second adapter counterpart 350 to the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the mounting of the second adapter counterpart 350 to each one of a plurality of trailers 12 is such that, for each one of the plurality of trailers 12, the minimum spacing distance between the second adapter counterpart 350 and the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12 is consistent. Such mounting is with effect that the vertical displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500, for transitioning from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration, is the same, for different models of towing vehicle 13 and trailer 12, for which the apparatus 100 is used to operable communicate the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, based on the determination by the controller 102 that the end effector alignment effector 500 isdisplaced by the predetermined vertical displacement, the controller 102 determines that the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration.

[0421] In some embodiments, for example, the vertical displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500, for transitioning from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration, is predetermined, based on the specifications (e.g. dimensions) of the models of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 for which the apparatus 100 is used to operable communicate the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In some embodiments, for example, based on the determination by the controller 102 that the end effector alignment effector 500 is displaced by the predetermined vertical displacement, the controller 102 determines that the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration.

[0422] In some embodiments, for example, the vertical displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500, for transitioning from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration, is determined based on detection of a feature of the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, for example, a marker disposed on the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, on the flange 384 of the housing 380, or on the edge of the opening 382 defined by the housing 380 that is mounted to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, through which the towing-defined adapter counterpart 350 is displaceable for effecting communication with the second adapter counterpart 350, by a sensor, for example, an optical sensor. In some embodiments, for example, based on data from the sensor, the controller 102 determines that the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration.

[0423] In some embodiments, for example, the vertical displacement of the end effector alignment effector 500, for transitioning from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration, is effected by vertical displacement of the end effector supporter 600 together with the end effector 700.

[0424] In some embodiments, for example, the transition of the end effector alignment effector 500 from the alignment effector retracted configuration to the alignment effector extended configuration is effected by actuation of the actuator 106C. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 106C is a pneumatic actuator. In some embodiments, for example, the object manipulator 110 includes more than one actuator 106C, for example, two actuators106C. In some embodiments, for example, the actuator 106C is actuated by the controller 102, in response to determination by the controller 102 that the object manipulator 110 is disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, for example, in response to determination that the trailer engaging surface 404 is disposed in abutting engagement with the bottom surface 50 of the trailer 12. As depicted in Figure 48, the actuator 106C is connected to the frame 402 of the platform 400 and also to the end effector supporter 600, such that relative displacement between the platform 400 and the end effector alignment effector 500 is effectuatable.

[0425] To: (i) angularly align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 about the yaw axis (e.g. vertical axis), (ii) axially align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 about the pitch axis (e.g. lateral axis; left to right axis), and (iii) axially align the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 about the roll axis (e.g. longitudinal axis; front to back axis) such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the operable communication-effectible alignment, while the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration, the end effector 700 is transitioned from an end effector retracted configuration to an end effector alignment-ready configuration, and then transitioned from the end effector alignment-ready configuration to an end effector alignment-effective configuration.

[0426] Figure 36 depicts the end effector 700 disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, and Figure 37 depicts the end effector 700 disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration. In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, there is an absence of contact engagement between the end effector 700 and the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration, the coupler supporter 702 is disposed in contact engagement with the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, for example, disposed in contact engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0427] In some embodiments, for example, transitioning of the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration includes displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configurationincludes displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the end effector supporter 600, and along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the towing vehicle 13, towards the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the supporting of the end effector 700 by the end effector supporter 600 is such that the coupler supporter 702 is displaceable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards the trailer 12.

[0428] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes the displacement of the coupled end effector 700, for example, the displacement of the coupler supporter 702 towards the trailer 12, that is effectuated via the transitioning of the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration.

[0429] In some embodiments, for example, transitioning of the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration includes displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the end effector supporter 600, away from the end effector supporter 600, and towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, which, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by the front wall 53 of the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the supporting of the end effector 700 by the end effector supporter 600 is such that the coupler supporter 702 is displaceable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, away from the end effector supporter 600, and towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0430] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 50 and Figure 61 to Figure 63, to effect the displaceability of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the end effector supporter 600, away from the end effector supporter 600, and towards the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, the end effector 700 includes a mounting plate 722 that includes rails 724, wherein the coupler supporter 702 is slidably coupled to the rails 724 of the mounting plate 722. In some embodiments, for example, the rails 724 are configured to guide the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722.

[0431] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, for transitioning the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration, includes displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, is guided by the rails 724.

[0432] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the end effector supporter 600, away from the end effector supporter 600, and towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, for transitioning the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration, includes displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722 away from the end effector supporter 600, and towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, is guided by the rails 724.

[0433] In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration, relative to its disposition in the end effector retracted configuration, the coupler supporter 702 is disposed further from the end effector supporter 600 and closer to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0434] The transition of the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration is effected by actuation of the actuators 106D. In some embodiments, for example, the actuators 106D are pneumatic actuators. In some embodiments, for example, the actuators 106D actuated by the controller 102, in response to determination by the controller 102 that the end effector alignment effector 500 is disposed in the alignment effector extended configuration. As depicted in Figure 23, each one of the actuators 106D, independently, is connected, at a first end, to the mounting plate 722 of the end effector 700, and at a second end, to the coupler supporter 702 of the end effector 700, such that relative displacement between the coupler supporter 702 and the mounting plate 722 is effectuatable.

[0435] To transition the end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector alignment-ready configuration, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the endeffector retracted configuration, the actuators 106D are actuated to displace the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. The displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, is with effect that the coupler supporter 702 becomes disposed in contact engagement with the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the coupler supporter 702 defines a first engagement surface 706A and a second engagement surface 706B, as depicted in Figure 61 to Figure 63. In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, towards the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, is with effect that at least one of the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B of the end effector 700 becomes disposed in contact engagement with the front wall 53, for example, front surface 52, of the trailer 12. As depicted in Figure 37, in some embodiments, for example, due to the angular misalignment of the trailer 12 and towing vehicle 13 about the yaw axis (vertical axis), the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, towards the front wall 53, for example, front surface 52, of the trailer 12 is with effect that the first engagement-ready surface 706A becomes disposed in contact engagement with the front wall 53, for example, front surface 52, of the trailer 12. In other embodiments, for example, due to the angular misalignment of the trailer 12 and towing vehicle 13 about the yaw axis (vertical axis), the displacement of the coupler supporter 702, relative to the mounting plate 722, towards the front wall 53, for example, front surface 52, of the trailer 12 is with effect that the second engagement-ready surface 706B becomes disposed in contact engagement with the front wall 53, for example, front surface 52, of the trailer 12.

[0436] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the first engagement surface 706A and the second engagement surface 706B, independently, is a planar surface.

[0437] In some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700 includes rollers 705, as depicted in Figure 61 to Figure 63. In some embodiments, for example, the first engagement surface 706A is defined by a first roller 705, and the second engagement surface 706B is defined by a second roller 705,

[0438] Figure 38 and Figure 39 depict the end effector 700 disposed in the end effector alignment-effective configuration. In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 disposed in the end effector alignment-effective configuration, the first adapter counterpart302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are (i) angularly aligned about the yaw axis (e.g. vertical axis), (ii) axially aligned about the pitch axis (e.g. lateral axis; left to right axis), (iii) axially aligned about the roll axis (e.g. longitudinal axis; front to back axis), and (iv) axially aligned about the yaw axis (e.g. vertical axis), such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the operable communication-effectible alignment.

[0439] In some embodiments for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-effective configuration, the end effector 700 is disposed in abutting engagement with the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 61 , each one of the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B, independently, is configured to become disposed in abutting engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-effective configuration, each one of the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B, independently, is disposed in abutting engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, while the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B are disposed in abutting engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, each one of the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B, independently, is parallel with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0440] While the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-effective configuration, the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B are disposed in abutting engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. The abutting engagement of the of the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 is with effect that, while the fist adapter counterpart 302 is coupled to the coupler 704, the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become (i) angularly aligned about the yaw axis (vertical axis) (ii) axially aligned about the pitch axis (e.g. lateral axis; left to right axis), and (iii) axially aligned about the roll axis (e.g. longitudinal axis; front to back axis), such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in the operable communication-effectible alignment.

[0441] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 40, transitioning of the end effector 700 from the end effector alignment-ready configuration (drawn in broken line in Figure 40) to the end effector alignment-effective configuration (drawn in solid line in Figure 40) includes (i) displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, in a direction parallel to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, for example, in a lateral direction, for example, along the pitch axis (displacement D1), (ii) displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a longitudinal direction, for example, along the roll axis (displacement D2), and (iii) rotation of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the yaw axis (vertical axis) (displacement D3). In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the supporting of the end effector 700 by the end effector supporter 600 is such that the end effector 700 is: (i) displaceable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, away from the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a direction, for example, along the pitch axis of the towing vehicle 13, (ii) displaceable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a direction, for example, along the roll axis of the towing vehicle 13, and (iii) rotatable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the yaw axis of the towing vehicle 13.

[0442] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 50 to Figure 60, to effect: (i) displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, in a direction parallel to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a direction, for example, along the pitch axis, (ii) displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards from the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a direction, for example, along the roll axis, and (iii) rotation of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the yaw axis (vertical axis), for transitioning the end effector 700 from the end effector alignment-ready configuration to the end effector alignment-effective configuration, the end effector supporter 600 includes a guide assembly 606, which includes: (i) a displacement guiding configuration 610, and (ii) a curved track or a curved guide 602.

[0443] The displacement guiding configuration 610 is configured to guide the displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600. In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 54 to Figure 58, the displacement guiding configuration 610 includes a first guide bracket 612, a first rail 614, a slew ring 616, a second guide bracket 618, and a second rail 620.

[0444] The first guide bracket 612 is configured to be connected to the mounting plate 722 of the end effector 700. In some embodiments, for example, the first guide bracket 612 is configured to be connected to a first mounting plate portion 722A of the end effector 700. The first guide bracket 612 and the first rail 614 are co-operatively configured such that the first guide bracket 612 is slidably connected to the first rail 614, such that the first guide bracket 612 is displaceable relative to the first rail 614. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the first guide bracket 612 includes couplings 613 that are coupled to the first rail 614. In some embodiments, for example, the first guide bracket 612 and the first rail 614 are co-operatively configured such that the displacement of the first guide bracket 612, relative to the first rail 614, is guided by the first rail 614. In some embodiments, for example, the guided displacement of the first guide bracket 612, relative to the first rail 614, is a longitudinal displacement (e.g. front to back or back to front displacement). In some embodiments, for example, the guided displacement of the first guide bracket 612, relative to the first rail 614, is along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614 extends along the length of the first rail 614, as depicted in Figure 56. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614 is a linear axis.

[0445] The second guide bracket 618 is configured to be connected to a support plate 608 of the end effector supporter 600, such that, while the second guide bracket 618 is connected to the support plate 608, the second guide bracket 618 is supported by the support plate 608. The second guide bracket 618 and the second rail 620 are co-operatively configured such that the second guide bracket 618 is slidably connected to the second rail 620, such that the second guide bracket 618 is displaceable relative to the second rail 620. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the second guide bracket 618 includes couplings 619 that are coupled to the second rail 620. In some embodiments, for example, the second guide bracket 618 and the second rail 620 are co-operatively configured such that the displacement of the second guide bracket 618, relative to the second rail 620, is guided by the second rail 620. In some embodiments, for example, the guided displacement of the second guide bracket 618, relative to the second rail 620, is a lateral displacement (e.g. side to side displacement). In some embodiments, for example, the guided displacement of the second guide bracket 618, relative to the second rail 620, is along an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620. In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620 extends along the length of the second rail 620, as depicted in Figure 56. In someembodiments, for example, the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620 is a linear axis. In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the second guide bracket 618 to the support plate 608 is such that the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620 is parallel to the pitch axis (e.g. lateral axis) of the towing vehicle 13.

[0446] In some embodiments, for example, the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614 and the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620 are disposed in a non-parallel relationship.

[0447] The slew ring 616 is configured to be connected to the first rail 614 and to the second guide bracket 618. In some embodiments, for example, the slew ring 616, the first rail 614, and the second guide bracket 618 are co-operatively configured such that relative rotational displacement between the first rail 614 and the second guide bracket 618 is effectuatable via the slew ring 616. In this respect in some embodiments, for example, the displacement guiding configuration 610 is configured such that relative rotational displacement between: (i) the first guide bracket 612 and the first rail 614, and (ii) the second guide bracket 618 and the second rail 620, is effectuatable via the slew ring 616. In some embodiments, for example, said relative rotational displacement is along a rotational axis 617 of the slew ring 616 that is perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614 and the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620, as depicted in Figure 55. In some embodiments, for example, the axis 617 is a linear axis. In some embodiments, for example, the connection of the displacement guiding configuration 610, for example, the second guide bracket 618, to the support plate 608 is such that the axis 617 is parallel to the yaw axis (e.g. vertical axis) of the towing vehicle 13.

[0448] In some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700, the displacement guiding configuration 610, and the end effector supporter 600 are co-operatively configured such that the end effector 700 is: (i) displaceable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, in a direction along the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614, (ii) displaceable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, in a direction along the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620, and (iii) rotatable, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the axis 617 of the slew ring 616.

[0449] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, that is effectuatable by the displacement guiding configuration 610, is constrained by the curved guide 602.

[0450] The curved guide 602 is configured to be connected to a support plate 608 of the end effector supporter 600, such that, while the curved guide 602 is connected to the support plate 608, the curved guide 602 is supported by the support plate 608. The curved guide 602 is further configured to be connected to the mounting plate 722 of the end effector 700. In some embodiments, for example, the curved guide 602 is configured to be connected to a second mounting plate portion 722B of the mounting plate 722 of the end effector 700. The curved guide 602 and the mounting plate 722 are co-operatively configured such that the mounting plate 722 is slidably connected to the curved guide 602, such that the mounting plate 722 is displaceable relative to the curved guide 602 along a curvilinear path defined by the curved guide 602.

[0451] In some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700, the displacement guiding configuration 610, the curved guide 602, and the end effector supporter 600 are cooperatively configured such that: (i) the displaceability, of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, in a direction along the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614, is constrained by the curvature of the curved guide 602, (ii) the displaceability, of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, in a direction along the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620, is constrained by the curvature of the curved guide 602, and (iii) the rotatability, of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the axis 617 of the slew ring 616, is constrained by the curvature of the curved guide 602.

[0452] In some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700, the displacement guiding configuration 610, the curved guide 602, and the end effector supporter 600 are cooperatively configured such that: (i) the forwardmost and rearmost positions, of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, defined on the longitudinal axis 615 of the first rail 614, is defined by the curvature of the curved guide 602, (ii) the leftmost and rightmost positions, of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, defined on the longitudinal axis 621 of the second rail 620, is defined by the curvature of the curved guide 602, and (iii) the limits of rotation, of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the axis 617 of the slew ring 616, is defined by the curvature of the curved guide 602.

[0453] The end effector 700 includes bearings 720 that are receivable in the curved guide 602, wherein the bearings 720 are mounted to the mounting plate 722. In some embodiments, for example, the bearings 720 are cam followers or rollers. As depicted in Figure 57 to Figure 60, in some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700 includes four bearings720. While the bearings 720 are received in the curved guide 602, the end effector 700 is slidably coupled to the curved guide 602. In some embodiments, for example, the bearings 720 are connected to a second mounting plate portion 722B of the end effector 700.

[0454] While the mounting plate 722 is slidably coupled to the curved guide 602, via the mounting bracket 722 or the bearings 720, the end effector 700 is supported by the guide 602. In some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700 and the curved guide 602 are cooperatively configured such that the end effector 700 is slidable along the curved guide 602, for example, via the co-operation between the bearings 720 and the curved guide 602. In some embodiments, for example, the end effector 700 and the curved guide 602 are co-operatively configured such that the coupler 704 is facing the center 601 of the curved guide 602. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 40 and Figure 51 to Figure 53, while the end effector 700 is coupled to the curved guide 602 and disposed at a first position of the curved guide 602, the coupler 704 is facing the center 601 of the curved guide 602, and while the end effector 700 is coupled to the curved guide 602 and disposed at a second position of the curved guide 602 that is different from the first position, the coupler 704 is also facing the center 601 of the curved guide 602. In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 is being displaced, relative to the curved guide 602, the end effector 700 is facing the center 601 of the curved guide 602.

[0455] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 64 and Figure 65, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, the center 601 of the curved guide 602 is coincident with a center 15A of the fifth wheel 15. In some embodiments, for example, the coupling of the fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14 is effectuated at the center 15A of the fifth wheel 15. In this respect, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, the length of the radius of curvature 603 of the curved guide 602 is the same as the minimum spacing distance from the curved guide 602 to the center 15A of the fifth wheel 15.

[0456] In some embodiments, for example, the displacement of the first adapter counterpart 302, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in the alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, includes the displacement of the coupled end effector 700,for example, the displacement of the coupled end effector 700 that is guided by the guide assembly 606, that is effectuated via the transitioning of the end effector 700 from the end effector alignment-ready configuration to the end effector alignment-effective configuration.

[0457] In some embodiments, for example, the (i) displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, parallel to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a direction, for example, along the pitch axis, (ii) displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, towards from the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, in a direction, for example, along the roll axis, and (iii) rotation of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, about the yaw axis, for transitioning the end effector 700 from the end effector alignment-ready configuration to the end effector alignment-effective configuration, is a guided displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, wherein the guided displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600, is guided by the guide assembly 606. In some embodiments, for example, the supporting of the end effector 700 on the guide assembly 606, for example, the curved guide 602, or the displacement guiding configuration 610 and the curved guide 602, is such that, while the end effector 700 is guidedly displaced, relative to the end effector supporter 600, via the guide assembly 606, the coupler 704, which is supported by the coupler supporter 702, is facing the center 601 of the curved guide 602 during the guided displacement of the end effector 700.

[0458] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13, and while the end effector 700 is supported on the guide assembly 606 and disposed at a first position of the curved guide 602, the coupler 704 is facing the center 15A of the fifth wheel 15, and while the end effector 700 is supported on the guide assembly 606 and disposed at a second position of the curved guide 602 that is different from the first position, the coupler 704 is also facing the center 15A of the fifth wheel 15.

[0459] In some embodiments, for example, the supporting of the end effector 700 on the guide assembly 606 is such that, while the end effector 700 is guidedly displaced, relative to the end effector supporter 600, via the displacement guiding configuration 610 and the curved guide 602, the coupler 704 is facing the center 15A of the fifth wheel 15 during the guided displacement.

[0460] In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 and the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 are coupledvia the fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14, the center 601 of the curved guide 602 is coincident with the kingpin 14, as depicted in Figure 40. In some embodiments, for example, while the object manipulator 110 is mounted to the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 and disposed in the manipulator extended configuration, the center 601 of the curved guide 602 is coincident with the central longitudinal axis of the kingpin 14 (e.g. the central longitudinal axis of the kingpin 14 is parallel to a vertical axis, for example, the yaw axis).

[0461] In some embodiments, for example, the curved guide 602 has an arc length of at least 300 millimeters, for example, 400 millimeters, for example, 500 millimeters, for example, 600 millimeters. In some embodiments, for example, the radius of curvature 603 of the curved guide 602 has a value of at least 1.0 meters, for example, 1.25 meters.

[0462] In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector retracted configuration, the end effector 700 is disposed, relative to the curved guide 602, at an engagement-absent position, wherein there is an absence of engagement between the end effector 700 and the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the engagement-absent position is defined at the middle of the curved guide 602.

[0463] In some embodiments, for example, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration, the end effector 700 is disposed, relative to the curved guide 602, at an urging-absent position, wherein there is an absence of urging of displacement of the end effector 700 by the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In some embodiments, for example, the urging-absent position is defined at the middle of the curved guide 602.

[0464] The transition of the end effector 700 from the end effector alignment-ready configuration to the end effector alignment-effective configuration is effected by actuation of the actuators 106D. In some embodiments, for example, the actuators 106D are actuated by the controller 102, in response to determination by the controller 102 that the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the controller 102 determines that the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration, in response to detection that displacement of the end effector supporter 702, towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, is being opposed, for example, by the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0465] Actuation of the actuators 106D, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration, is with effect that the end effector supporter 702 is urged to displace towards the front surface 52 of the trailer 12. In response to actuation of the actuators 106D, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration, the first engagement-ready surface 706A applies a force to the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, and the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 applies a reaction force to the first engagement-ready surface 706A. The supporting of the end effector 700 on the guide assembly 606 is such that the application of the reaction force from the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 to the first engagement-ready surface 706A is with effect that the end effector 700 is guidedly displaced, relative to the end effector supporter 600, by the curved guide 602 and, in some embodiments, for example, the displacement guiding configuration 610 of the guide assembly 606, such that the second engagement-ready surface 706B becomes disposed in contact engagement with the front wall 53 of the trailer 12, and that the end effector 700 become disposed in the end effector alignment-ready configuration.

[0466] In some embodiments, for example, wherein the end effector 700 includes rollers 705, the rollers 705 are configured to reduce interference (e.g. friction between the front surface 52 of the trailer 12 and the first engagement-ready surface 706A of the end effector 700) to the guided displacement of the end effector 700, relative to the end effector supporter 600.

[0467] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 38 and Figure 39, while the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B are disposed in contact engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12, the first engagement-ready surface 706A and the second engagement-ready surface 706B are disposed in abutting engagement with the front surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0468] In some embodiments, for example, the guide of the object manipulator 110 includes the curved guide 602, wherein the coupled end effector 700 and the curved guide 602 are co-operatively configured such that displacement of the coupled end effector 700 is guided by the curved guide 602 along a curvilinear path defined by the curved guide 602. In some embodiments, for example, the guide of the object manipulator includes the displacement guiding configuration 610.

[0469] In some embodiments, for example, the towing vehicle 13 is configured to cooperate with the trailer 12 such that: while: (i) the coupled end effector 700 is established, (ii) thefirst adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are co-operatively disposed in a misaligned relationship, wherein, in the misaligned relationship, there is an absence of alignment between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350, and (iii) the object manipulator 110 is disposed in a guiding-effective relationship with the trailer 12, wherein, in the guiding-effective relationship, contact engagement between the coupled end effector 700 and the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52, is effectible: the coupled end effector 700 is displaced towards the trailer 12, for example, in a direction towards the front surface 52, with effect that the coupled end effector 700 becomes disposed in contact engagement with the front surface 52 (e.g. transitioning the coupled end effector 700 from the end effector retracted configuration to the end effector extended alignment-ready configuration).

[0470] The guide assembly 606, the coupled end effector 700, and the trailer 12 are cooperatively configured such that, while the coupled end effector 700 is disposed in contact engagement with the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52, in response to an end effectordisplacement force applied to the coupled end effector 700, for example, by the actuators 106D, to urge displacement of the coupled end effector 700 towards the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52, an end effector-urging reaction force is applied by the trailer 12, for example, the front surface 52, to the coupled end effector 700 to urge displacement of the end effector 700, with effect that a curvilinear displacement of the coupled end effector 700, relative to the second adapter counterpart 350, is effectuated by the end effector-urging reaction force, wherein the curvilinear displacement is guided by the guide assembly 606 along the curved path, which, in some embodiments, for example, is defined by the curved guide 602. In some embodiments, for example, the curvilinear displacement is effective for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in angular alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350 about a yaw axis. In some embodiments, for example, the curvilinear displacement of the coupled end effector 700 is for emplacing the first adapter counterpart 302 in alignment with the second adapter counterpart 350, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in an alignment relationship for establishing connection between the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the reaction surface of the trailer 12 includes a front-facing reaction surface, for example, the front-facing surface 52 of the trailer 12.

[0471] In some embodiments, for example, the: (i) the connection of the towing vehicle 13 and the trailer 12 via the fifth wheel 15 and the kingpin 14, (ii) the mounting of the secondadapter counterpart 350 such that the center of the second adapter counterpart 350 is aligned with the center of the kingpin 14 along the central longitudinal axis 18 of the trailer 12, (iii) the supporting of the end effector 700 on the guide assembly 606 such that the coupler 704 is facing the center 601 of the curved guide 602, (iv) the mounting of the object manipulator 110 on the frame 40 of the towing vehicle 13 such that the center 601 of the curved guide 602 is disposed at the center 15A of the fifth wheel 15, and (v) the supporting of the coupler 704 by the coupler supporter 702, are with effect that, while the end effector 700 is disposed in the end effector extended configuration, and while the first adapter counterpart 302 is releasably coupled to the coupler 704 (e.g. while the coupler 704 and the first adapter counterpart 302 are disposed in the relative movement interference relationship), the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 become disposed in: (i) angular alignment about the yaw axis, (ii) axial alignment about the pitch axis, and (iii) axial alignment about the roll axis, such that the first adapter counterpart 302 and the second adapter counterpart 350 are disposed in...

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system, comprising: a vehicle connector, comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle and the vehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a serial number of the transmitter.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a vehicle identification number of the vehicle connector.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a fleet number of the vehicle connector.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a vehicle connector number of the vehicle connector.

6. The system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a configuration of the vehicle connector.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes information related to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the presence of the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

9. The system of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein:the information related to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the model of the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

10. The system of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the functionality of the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

11. The system of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the geometry of the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

12. The system of any one of claims 7 to 11 , wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the configuration of the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

13. The system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: the receiver is operably coupled to a memory for storing data representative of information related to the vehicle; and the vehicle and the vehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data and the data representative of information related to the vehicle are processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein: the information related to the vehicle includes a manufacturer of the vehicle.

15. The system of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein: the information related to the vehicle includes information related to the vehicle-defined connection counterpart.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein: the information related to the vehicle-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the model of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart.

17. The system of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein: the information related to the vehicle-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the functionality of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart.

18. The system of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein: the information related to the vehicle-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the geometry of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart.

19. The system of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein: the information related to the vehicle-defined connection counterpart includes information related to the configuration of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart.

20. The system of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein: the information related to the vehicle includes information related to the object manipulator.

21. The system of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein: the processed data includes a determination that the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart are connectible; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that the object manipulator is displaceable for displacing the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-definedconnection counterpart, to effectuate emplacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart in alignment with the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

22. The system of claim 21 , wherein: the processed data further includes a displacement adjustment to adjust the displacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, to effectuate emplacement of the vehicle- defined connection counterpart in alignment with the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that a displacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, is adjustable by the object manipulator, based on the displacement adjustment, to effectuate emplacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart in alignment with the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein: the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart is upwardly spaced apart from a bottom-facing surface of the vehicle connector, along a vertical axis, by a vertical distance; and the information related to the vehicle connector includes the vertical distance; the processed data includes: (i) the determination that the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart are connectible, and (ii) the displacement adjustment, wherein the displacement adjustment is a vertical adjustment distance, based on the vertical distance; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that a vertical displacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, is adjustable by the object manipulator, based on the vertical adjustment distance, to effectuate emplacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart in alignment withthe vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart along an axis that is parallel to the vertical axis.

24. The system of claim 22 or claim 23, wherein: the vehicle connector includes a kingpin that is spaced rearwardly from a front-facing surface of the vehicle connector, along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle connector, by a kingpin setback distance; the information related to the vehicle connector includes the kingpin setback distance; the processed data includes: (i) the determination that the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart are connectible, and (ii) the displacement adjustment, wherein the displacement adjustment is a kingpin setback adjustment distance, based on the kingpin setback distance; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that a displacement of the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, in a direction towards the vehicle connector, is adjustable by the object manipulator, based on the kingpin setback adjustment distance, to effectuate emplacement of the vehicle- defined connection counterpart in alignment with the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart along an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle connector.

25. The system of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein: the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart is upwardly spaced apart from a bottom-facing surface of the vehicle connector, along a vertical axis, by a vertical distance; and the information related to the vehicle connector includes the vertical distance.

26. The system of any one of claims 1 to 20 and 25, wherein: the vehicle connector includes a kingpin that is spaced rearwardly from a front-facing surface of the vehicle connector, along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle connector, by a kingpin setback distance;the information related to the vehicle connector includes the kingpin setback distance.

27. The system of any one of claims 1 to 20 and 25 to 26, wherein: the processed data includes a determination that the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart are ineffective for connection; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that there is an absence of displacement of the object manipulator for displacing the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, by the object manipulator.

28. The system of any one of claims 1 to 20 and 25 to 26, wherein: the processed data includes a determination that connection between the vehicle- defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart is to be opposed; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that there is an absence of displacement of the object manipulator for displacing the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, relative to the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, by the object manipulator.

29. The system of any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein: the transmitter is configured to transmit the data via a short range communication protocol.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein: the short range communication protocol includes radio frequency identification.

31. The system of any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein: the data is transmissible by the transmitter and the data is receivable by the receiver while there is an absence of connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector.

32. The system of claim 31 , wherein:the absence of connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is such that there is an absence of connection between the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

33. The system of claim 31 or claim 32, wherein: the vehicle comprises a fifth wheel; and the vehicle connector comprises a kingpin; wherein the absence of connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is such that there is an absence of connection between the fifth wheel and the kingpin.

34. The system of any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein: the data is transmissible by the transmitter and the data is receivable by the receiver while the vehicle and the vehicle connector are connected.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein: the connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is effected while the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart are connected.

36. The system of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein: the vehicle comprises a fifth wheel; and the vehicle connector comprises a kingpin; wherein the connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is effected while the fifth wheel and the kingpin are connected.

37. A kit for modifying a vehicle and a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; andan apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter; wherein: while: (i) the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle- defined connection counterpart, and (ii) the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart and the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle and the modified vehicle connector are cooperatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver togenerate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

38. A vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

39. A kit for modifying a vehicle, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: while the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle- defined connection counterpart; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart, and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the modified vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that:in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

40. A vehicle connector, comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; wherein: the vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that:in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

41. A kit for modifying a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart; and a transmitter; wherein: while the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart and the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector: the modified vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; andan object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the modified vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

42. A system, comprising: a vehicle connector, comprising: a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; andan object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle and the vehicle connector are co-operatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

43. The system of claim 42, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a serial number of the transmitter.

44. The system of claim 42 or claim 43, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a vehicle identification number of the vehicle connector.

45. The system of any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a fleet number of the vehicle connector.

46. The system of any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein: the information related to the vehicle connector includes a vehicle connector number of the vehicle connector.

47. The system of any one of claims 42 to 46, wherein:the information related to the vehicle connector includes a configuration of the vehicle connector.

48. The system of any one of claims 42 to 47, wherein: a vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart is absent from the vehicle connector; and the information related to the vehicle connector includes the absence of the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

49. The system of any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein: the processed data includes a determination that the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart is absent from the vehicle connector; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, based at least in part on the processed data, is such that there is an absence of displacement of the object manipulator for displacing the vehicle-defined connection counterpart by the object manipulator.

50. The system of any one of claims 42 to 49, wherein: the transmitter is configured to transmit the data via a short range communication protocol.

51. The system of claim 50, wherein: the short range communication protocol includes radio frequency identification.

52. The system of any one of claims 42 to 51 , wherein: the data is transmissible by the transmitter and the data is receivable by the receiver while there is an absence of connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector.

53. The system of claim 52, wherein:the absence of connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is such that there is an absence of connection between the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart.

54. The system of claim 52 or claim 53, wherein: the vehicle comprises a fifth wheel; and the vehicle connector comprises a kingpin; wherein the absence of connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is such that there is an absence of connection between the fifth wheel and the kingpin.

55. The system of any one of claims 42 to 51 , wherein: the data is transmissible by the transmitter and the data is receivable by the receiver while the vehicle and the vehicle connector are connected.

56. The system of claim 55, wherein: the connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is effected while the vehicle-defined connection counterpart and the vehicle connector-defined connection counterpart are connected.

57. The system of claim 55 or claim 56, wherein: the vehicle comprises a fifth wheel; and the vehicle connector comprises a kingpin; wherein the connection between the vehicle and the vehicle connector is effected while the fifth wheel and the kingpin are connected.

58. A kit for modifying a vehicle and a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; andan apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a transmitter; wherein: while: (i) the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle- defined connection counterpart, and (ii) the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle and the modified vehicle connector are cooperatively configured such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; andthe controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

59. A vehicle, comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

60. A kit for modifying a vehicle, comprising: vehicle adaptor components comprising:a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, configured to be operably coupled to the receiver such that the receiver and the controller are disposed in communication; and an object manipulator, configured to be operably coupled to the controller, and configured to be releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein: while the vehicle adaptor components are installed on the vehicle, with effect that a modified vehicle is established, such that the modified vehicle includes the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, the receiver, and the apparatus, wherein the controller is operably coupled to the receiver, and the object manipulator is operably coupled to the controller and releasably coupled with the vehicle- defined connection counterpart; the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the modified vehicle is configured to co-operate with a vehicle connector, the vehicle connector comprising a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; and the co-operation of the modified vehicle with the vehicle connector is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; andthe controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

61. A vehicle connector, comprising: a transmitter, configured to transmit data representative of information related to the vehicle connector; wherein: the vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that: in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

62. A kit for modifying a vehicle connector, comprising: vehicle connector adaptor components comprising: a transmitter; wherein: while the vehicle connector adaptor components are installed on the vehicle connector, with effect that a modified vehicle connector is established, such that the modified vehicle connector includes the transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit data representative of information related to the modified vehicle connector: the modified vehicle connector is configured to co-operate with a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a vehicle-defined connection counterpart; a receiver, configured to receive the data from the transmitter and process the received data, such that processed data is generated; and an apparatus, comprising: a controller, operably coupled to the receiver for receiving the processed data; and an object manipulator, operably coupled to the controller, and releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; wherein the controller is configured to control the object manipulator to displace the vehicle-defined connection counterpart; the co-operation of the modified vehicle connector with the vehicle is such that:in response to receiving of the data by the receiver from the transmitter, the received data is processed by the receiver to generate the processed data, and the processed data is communicated to the controller; and the controlling of the object manipulator, by the controller, is based at least in part on the processed data.

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