Active Converter Dolly With Regenerative Torque Assist
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current converter dollies are passive and limited in their applications, failing to enhance fuel economy and operational efficiency in transport trucks, especially with the increasing size of transport trucks and trailers.
Innovation Solution
An active converter dolly system that includes a frame with a charge generation system and control system, utilizing motors to convert mechanical energy into electricity, which is stored in a battery and used to assist the tractor-trailer's operation, including regenerative braking and torque assistance, with sensors and control modules for improved performance and fuel savings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If passive converter dollies are used to attach pup trailers, then the basic connection function is achieved, but fuel economy and operational efficiency cannot be enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The converter dolly is transformed from a passive static device to an active dynamic system with motorized wheels that can independently control movement. The dolly now has active drive motors, regenerative braking capability, and independent steering control, allowing it to adapt to various operational conditions and enhance fuel economy through intelligent power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The dolly equipped with a battery system and regenerative braking can generate and store its own electrical energy during operation. The regenerative braking system recovers kinetic energy during deceleration and stores it in the battery, making the system self-sufficient and reducing the energy burden on the main truck engine.
2Productivity
If larger transport trucks and trailers are used to achieve larger loads, then transportation efficiency is improved, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion function is segmented between the main truck engine and the dolly's independent motor system. The dolly's motor can independently assist in accelerating and propelling the trailer, distributing the power demand and allowing the main engine to operate more efficiently while reducing overall fuel consumption for large load transportation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If converter dollies remain passive devices, then device complexity is low, but functional capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The dolly system integrates multiple functions into a single device: propulsion assistance through motorized wheels, energy generation through regenerative braking, energy storage through battery system, and independent steering control. This multi-functional integration enhances versatility while managing complexity through a unified control architecture.
4Use of energy by moving object
If active systems with motor/generator drives are added to the dolly, then torque assistance and fuel savings are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors operational parameters such as truck speed, acceleration, braking status, and battery charge level to dynamically adjust motor/generator operation. This feedback control optimizes torque assistance and regenerative braking engagement, achieving fuel savings while managing system complexity through intelligent decision-making algorithms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The active converter dolly enhances fuel economy, reduces emissions, and allows for independent movement and remote operation, improving the efficiency and maneuverability of tractor-trailer systems by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy for power assistance.
Implementation Method 1
a system for generating electricity from mechanical actions of the active converter dolly
Implementation Method 2
a battery for storing the electricity
Implementation Method 3
the motor/generator drive is controlled by the dolly control system to enable torque to be generated to assist trailer operation
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed at a method and apparatus for an active convertor dolly for use in a tractor-trailer configuration. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a system to connect a tractor to a trailer. The apparatus further includes a charge generating system for translating the mechanical motions or actions of the dolly into electricity or electrical energy so that this energy can be used to charge a battery or to power other functionality for either the dolly or the tractor-trailer. The active dolly may also operate to assist in shunting the tractor-trailer.