Autonomous Yard Truck Trailer Coupling and Door Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The trucking industry relies on manual processes for connecting and disconnecting trailers from truck cabs, which is labor-intensive and not suitable for autonomous trucking environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of systems and methods for automating the connection and disconnection of trailers from truck cabs, including automated hitching, electrical and pneumatic line connections, and trailer door operations, using a combination of sensors, robotic manipulators, and computer-controlled systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual processes are used for connecting and disconnecting trailers from truck cabs, then human operators can perform tasks with flexibility and judgment, but labor intensity increases and automation is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables autonomous trucks to perform trailer connection and disconnection operations independently without human intervention. The automated manipulators, sensors, and control systems work together to allow the truck to service itself, connecting pneumatic lines, electrical cables, and securing trailers automatically
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations performed by drivers are replaced with automated robotic manipulators equipped with specialized end effectors. These manipulators use computer vision and control systems to replicate and automate complex manual tasks such as connecting hoses, securing latches, and managing electrical connections
2Reliability
If manual operations are used for trailer connection, disconnection, and door operations, then human drivers can handle various situations, but safety risks increase due to human error and exposure to hazardous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous truck performs all trailer connection, disconnection, and door operations without human presence in hazardous zones. The system eliminates exposure to blind spots, heavy moving parts, and unpredictable trailer behavior by having the vehicle service itself autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensors including cameras, LIDAR, and proximity sensors provide continuous feedback to the control system during automated operations. This enables real-time monitoring and adjustment of manipulator positions, detection of unexpected conditions, and safe execution of connection and disconnection tasks
3Productivity
If automated systems are implemented for trailer handling, then labor requirements are reduced and productivity increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated trailer handling system is divided into separate functional modules: manipulators for connection operations, end effectors for specific tasks (hose connection, latch securing), sensors for detection, and control systems for coordination. This modular architecture manages complexity by allowing independent development and testing of each component
Solution Approach 2:
The automated manipulators and end effectors are designed to perform multiple functions: connecting pneumatic lines, securing electrical cables, operating latches, and managing trailer doors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment for each task, managing overall system complexity
4Loss of time
If manual processes are used for connecting pneumatic and electrical lines, then simplicity is maintained, but time consumption increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares for connection operations in advance by positioning manipulators and end effectors in optimal locations before actual connection begins. Sensors pre-scan the trailer to identify connection points, and the control system pre-coordinates the sequence of operations to minimize idle time
Solution Approach 2:
Manual connection operations are replaced with automated manipulators that can quickly and precisely connect pneumatic hoses and electrical cables. The automated system performs multiple connection tasks simultaneously or in rapid sequence, dramatically reducing the time required for trailer turnaround
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for operation of an autonomous vehicle (AV) yard truck is provided. A processor facilitates autonomous movement of the AV yard truck, and connection to and disconnection from trailers. A plurality of sensors are interconnected with the processor that sense terrain/objects and assist in automatically connecting/disconnecting trailers. A server, interconnected, wirelessly with the processor, that tracks movement of the truck around and determines locations for trailer connection and disconnection. A door station unlatches/opens rear doors of the trailer when adjacent thereto, securing them in an opened position via clamps, etc. The system computes a height of the trailer, and/or if landing gear of the trailer is on the ground and interoperates with the fifth wheel to change height, and whether docking is safe, allowing a user to take manual control, and optimum charge time(s). Reversing sensors/safety, automated chocking, and intermodal container organization are also provided.