Automated Trailer Coupler with Integrated Support and Brake Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for connecting a trailer to a vehicle are cumbersome and lack assurance of secure attachment, as they do not automate the process of raising support means, disconnecting parking brakes, or indicating proper connection.
Innovation Solution
An automated trailer system that automatically raises or lowers support means, disengages parking brakes, and connects/disconnects power cords when attached to or detached from a tow bar, using sensors, motors, and wireless communication to ensure secure and easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual connection process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple manual steps required
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system performs automated actions including raising/lowering support means, engaging/disengaging parking brakes, and connecting power cords without requiring manual intervention for each step. The system serves itself by detecting connection status and automatically executing the sequence of operations needed to secure the trailer.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system prepares the connection in advance by automatically positioning support means, setting parking brakes, and establishing power connections before the vehicle departs. This preliminary automation eliminates the need for manual preparation steps at the time of connection.
2Ease of operation
If automated connection system is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases due to addition of sensors, motors, and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The automated connection system integrates multiple functions into a single coordinated mechanism: support means positioning, parking brake control, power cord connection, and connection status detection all work together as one unified system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate independent systems for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate connection tasks (manual positioning, brake disengagement, power connection) into a single automated sequence controlled by one system. The coupling mechanism merges mechanical connection with automated auxiliary functions into one integrated operation.
3Reliability
If traditional connection method is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to lack of connection confirmation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates sensors that detect whether the trailer is properly connected to the vehicle and provide feedback signals. This feedback mechanism confirms successful connection by detecting the presence and proper positioning of the trailer coupling, ensuring reliable attachment before departure.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer (102) for connecting to a vehicle (101), comprising a trailer coupler (103), at least one means for support (104) of the trailer (102) when not connected to the vehicle (101), and at least one parking brake (105) further characterized in that a control center (106) is connected to a at least one motor (108) for automatically raising and lowering said at least one means for support (104), and the control center (106) automatically engages and disengages said at least one parking brake (105) via a control mechanism (107) when the trailer coupler (103) is connected to a tow bar (201).