Articulated Vehicle Coupling Geometry for Compact Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting devices for articulated vehicles do not effectively reduce overall dimensions during transport while maintaining the integrity of components and ensuring safe movement on various road conditions.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a first rotary joint allowing horizontal movement and a second rotary joint enabling vertical movement, along with shock absorbers and connecting elements that can be configured to reduce dimensions during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connecting device maintains fixed dimensions for component integrity, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to transport logistics
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device incorporates variable geometry through rotatable connecting elements that can change their spatial configuration. The connecting elements can rotate around connection points to transition between an extended operational configuration and a compact transport configuration, allowing the same structure to serve multiple functional states without compromising component integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting elements are designed to fold or nest together during transport, with one element positioned within or adjacent to another. This nesting arrangement reduces the overall footprint of the connecting device during transport while maintaining all necessary components for reliable operation when deployed
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting device allows movement on horizontal and vertical planes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements serve multiple functions: they provide horizontal articulation through rotation around a vertical axis, enable vertical movement through rotation around a horizontal axis, and contribute to shock absorption through their articulated geometry. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines the functions of horizontal rotation, vertical rotation, and shock absorption into an integrated articulated structure. The connecting elements with dual rotary capabilities merge what would traditionally require separate joints and mechanisms into a unified system that achieves all movement capabilities through coordinated rotation of the same components
3Manufacturing precision
If the connecting device uses spacers for installation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements are designed with self-aligning features where the geometry of the connection points and the articulated structure itself provide the necessary alignment during installation. The device serves its own alignment function through its inherent geometry, eliminating the need for external spacers or specialized alignment tools
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the spacers from the assembly process entirely. By designing the connecting elements with inherent alignment capabilities through their articulated geometry and connection point configuration, the patent extracts the alignment function from separate spacer components and integrates it directly into the main structure
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 device allows for safe movement on horizontal and vertical planes, reduces overall dimensions during transport, and simplifies installation by eliminating the need for spacers, thereby reducing costs and logistical challenges.
Implementation Method 1
a first rotary joint (4) having a first portion (5A) and a second portion (5B) rotating relative to each other with respect to a vertical axis (XV)
Implementation Method 2
a second rotary joint (6) having a first portion (8A) and a second portion (8B) rotating relative to each other with respect to a horizontal axis (XO)
Implementation Method 3
a pair of shock absorbers (13A, 13B), each having a first end (14A, 14B) and a second end (15A, 15B), wherein the first end of each of the shock absorbers is connected respectively to the second end of one of the connecting elements
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a device (1) for connecting a first unit (2A) and a second unit (2B) of an articulated vehicle, comprising: - means (3) for connecting the first and second units (2A, 2B), configured to allow a movement on a horizontal plane of said first and second units (2A, 2B), to vary the relative position on said horizontal plane between said first and second units (2A, 2B), and a movement on a vertical plane of said first and second units (2A, 2B), for varying the relative position on said vertical plane between said first and second units (2A, 2B), said connecting means (3) comprising a first rotary joint (4) having a first portion (5A) and a second portion (5B) rotating relative to each other with respect to a vertical axis (XV) to allow the above-mentioned movement on the horizontal plane of said first and second units (2A, 2B); - a pair of connecting elements (10A, 10B), having a first end (11A, 11B) and a second end (12A, 12B), operatively connected, in use, on both sides to the first portion (5A) in a rotatable fashion at their first end (11A, 11B); - a pair of shock absorbers (13A, 13B), each having a first end (14A, 14B) and a second end (15A, 15B).