Active Light Emitting Handle for Fifth Wheel Coupling Status
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handles for coupling devices, such as fifth wheel couplings, require drivers or operators to closely inspect the handle and coupling device to ensure proper locking and unlocking, which can be cumbersome and unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A handle with an end portion that actively emits light, allowing the driver or operator to easily check the state of the coupling device by visible light signals, indicating whether the coupling device is locked or unlocked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If passive illumination is used to illuminate the handle, then the handle becomes visible to the driver or operator, but the driver or operator must still look very closely to check the coupling device state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical illumination system with an active light emission system integrated into the handle. The handle itself becomes a light source through incorporated light-emitting elements (LEDs, bulbs, or fiber optics), transforming the handle from a merely illuminated object to an active signaling device that emits visible light to indicate its position and the coupling device state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes different colors of light emitted by the handle to indicate different states of the coupling device. By incorporating multi-color light-emitting elements or using color-coded light guides, the system provides intuitive visual information about whether the coupling device is properly locked, unlocked, or in transition, making state detection immediate and error-free.
2Measurement precision
If the driver or operator inspects the handle closely to ensure proper locking, then accurate detection is achieved, but the operation becomes cumbersome and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback system where the handle's light emission directly communicates the coupling device state to the driver or operator. The light signal provides immediate confirmation of proper locking or unlocking without requiring physical inspection, creating a closed-loop feedback system that enhances both accuracy and convenience of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary between the handle mechanism and the driver's perception. Instead of requiring direct visual inspection of the mechanical handle position, the light-emitting system acts as an intermediary that translates mechanical state into easily perceivable optical signals, eliminating the need for close inspection while maintaining detection accuracy.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If active light emission is integrated into the handle, then the coupling device state becomes easily detectable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light-emitting function with the existing handle structure by integrating light sources, light guides, or reflective elements directly into the handle components. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate illumination systems and reduces overall device complexity while achieving the goal of easy state detection through active light emission.
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 handle improves safety and ease of use by providing a clear visual indication of the coupling device's status, reducing the need for close inspection and minimizing the risk of improper operation.
Implementation Method 1
the handle may include a light guiding portion which is configured to guide light... The light guiding portion may include a fiber optic material
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a handle, in particular a release handle, for a coupling device, in particular for a fifth wheel assembly, wherein the handle is configured to trigger a locking and/or opening of the coupling device, wherein the handle includes an end portion at a free axial end of the handle where at least the end portion of the handle is configured to actively emit light, and/or wherein the handle includes a signal portion that includes a light emitting element configured to emit a light signal, and/or wherein the handle includes a light guiding portion configured to guide light.