Automatic Locking Drawbar Coupling with Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for road vehicles lack automatic locking mechanisms and means to ensure correct positioning and locking of the coupling ring, leading to tedious and potentially hazardous manual operations, especially when coupling multiple vehicles, which can result in accidents due to incorrect locking or positioning.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with an automatic locking mechanism that includes a coupling pin movable between locking and unlocking positions, a detection device to ensure correct positioning of the coupling ring, and a moving device to actuate the pin's position, allowing for safe and secure coupling without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual coupling operations are used, then the coupling device structure remains simple, but the operation becomes tedious and hazardous requiring operator intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device automatically performs the coupling operation without operator intervention. The detection device detects when the coupling ring is correctly positioned, and the locking mechanism automatically engages the coupling pin to secure the connection, making the system self-servicing and eliminating manual handling of heavy mechanical parts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated system combining detection devices (sensors) and automatic locking mechanisms. The detection device uses sensors to detect coupling ring position, and the locking mechanism uses actuators to move the coupling pin, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with automated electromechanical systems
2Reliability
If manual coupling operations are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the risk of operator injury increases due to handling heavy mechanical parts
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-detection and self-locking operations, eliminating the need for operators to physically handle heavy coupling components. The detection device monitors the coupling process and the locking mechanism automatically secures the connection, making the system self-servicing and removing operators from hazardous zones
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device acts as an intermediary between the coupling ring position and the locking mechanism. It detects when the coupling ring is correctly positioned and triggers the locking mechanism to engage, serving as a mediator that eliminates direct human involvement in the hazardous coupling operation
3Loss of information
If no detection means are provided, then the device structure remains simple, but the operator cannot verify correct positioning leading to repeated maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device provides real-time feedback to the operator about the coupling ring's position relative to the coupling yoke. When the coupling ring is correctly positioned, the detection device generates a signal indicating proper alignment, enabling the operator to verify correct positioning without repeated trial maneuvers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and verification with an automated detection system using sensors. The detection device electronically monitors the coupling ring position and provides objective verification, substituting subjective human assessment with precise electronic detection
4Reliability
If no locking verification means are provided, then the device structure remains simple, but incorrect locking may go undetected causing serious accidents
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device provides feedback not only on coupling ring positioning but also on locking verification. It detects whether the coupling pin has properly engaged the coupling ring and provides confirmation signals to verify successful locking, ensuring the operator can confirm secure connection before proceeding
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification of the locking operation. The detection device automatically monitors whether the coupling pin has correctly engaged the coupling ring and provides self-verification of the secure connection, making the system self-checking and eliminating reliance on manual verification
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
The drawbar (6) attached to the second road vehicle (3) comprises a coupling eye (7) at its end, while the crossbar (10) attached to the first road vehicle (2) comprises a drawbar coupling (5) intended to accept the coupling eye (7) of the first road vehicle (2) that locks when the two road vehicles (2, 3) are coupled. An automatic locking mechanism is provided to lock the coupling eye (7) to the drawbar coupling (5) automatically when it enters the drawbar coupling (5) once the coupling eye (7) and the drawbar coupling (5) have been brought closer together.