Air Spring Load Shifting for Commercial Vehicle Turning Circle Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial vehicles with large wheelbases and multiple rear axles face challenges in maneuvering tight spaces due to large turning circles, risking contact with obstacles during turns, and existing solutions like steering rear axles or lifting axles are complex, expensive, or limited by load conditions.
Innovation Solution
The method involves shifting the load from the last rear axle to the two front rear axles by adjusting air spring bellows pressure, allowing for a reduced effective wheelbase and turning circle, which can be activated automatically or by the driver, especially when approaching curves, within permissible overload limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the last rear axle is designed as a lifting axle, then the turning circle is reduced, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the axle configuration dynamic by allowing the load distribution to change automatically during turning maneuvers. The control system dynamically adjusts the air spring pressure on the last axle based on detected turning conditions, transforming a static axle system into a dynamic one that adapts to maneuvering requirements without permanent structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the existing axles rather than modifying their structural design. By adjusting the air spring pressure parameter on the last axle during turning, the system achieves a reduced turning circle without requiring complex mechanical lifting mechanisms or permanent structural changes to the axle configuration.
2Shape
If the last rear axle is designed as a lifting axle, then the turning circle is reduced, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses the existing air spring suspension system as a template, copying its load-bearing function to create a virtual lifting effect during turning. Rather than manufacturing dedicated lifting mechanisms, the system replicates the lifting function through controlled load transfer to the air springs, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The air spring suspension system, originally designed for load bearing and ride comfort, is made multi-functional by enabling it to also reduce the turning circle during maneuvers. This universal use of existing components eliminates the need for separate lifting mechanisms, reducing both manufacturing cost and device complexity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If lifting axles are used, then tire wear is reduced, but the solution is limited to partial load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts load distribution based on real-time conditions, enabling tire wear reduction during turning maneuvers regardless of overall vehicle load. The control system continuously monitors and adjusts air spring pressure to optimize both tire protection and load-bearing capacity under varying load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the air spring pressure parameter during turning events, the system achieves reduced tire wear on the last axle without being constrained by overall vehicle load conditions. The parameter adjustment is temporary and situation-specific, allowing the system to adapt to both partial and full load scenarios.
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
This approach reduces the turning circle effectively, enhances maneuverability in tight spaces, and evenly distributes tire wear, while adhering to load regulations, without the complexity and expense of traditional solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The air spring bellows (9) can be pressurized and deflated by means of compressed air
Data Source
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Figure 2
AI summary
The method involves carrying out a deliberate displacement of an axle load of a rear axle (HA3) to rear axles (HA1, HA2) in front of the axle (HA3), where the axle (HA1) is formed as a liftable axle. The axle (HA3) is balanced when exceeding a limiting speed at a partially loaded vehicle such that a reliable axle load of a front axle (VA2) is not exceeded. The displacement is carried out by automatically or by a driver-operated switch, and is carried out up to a limiting overload of the rear axles. The automatic displacement is carried out only below the limiting speed of the vehicle.