Booster Axle Automatic Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Booster axles are difficult and labor-intensive to attach and detach from payloads or trailers, posing challenges in efficiently increasing load-carrying capacity during heavy equipment transportation.
Innovation Solution
A booster axle system with a wheel axle, suspension system, and a lock assembly that automatically engages with the payload or trailer when backed into position, utilizing a cradle and pin mechanism for easy coupling and decoupling without manual tools or significant effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used for booster axles, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the attachment and detachment process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to automatically engage and lock when the booster axle is positioned on the trailer. The detent mechanism self-activates through the natural movement of the main link during coupling, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a dynamic detent mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states based on the position and movement of the main link. The detent automatically engages when the main link reaches its rearmost position and disengages when pulled forward, providing reliable connection during transport but easy release when needed
2Stability of the object's composition
If complex locking mechanisms are used to secure the booster axle, then the connection stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into distinct functional segments: the detent component for locking, the main link for positioning, and the cradle for support. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply while collectively providing stable connection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes complex locking mechanisms, bolts, and manual fastening devices from the coupling system. Only the essential elements (detent, main link, cradle) remain, reducing device complexity while maintaining connection stability through the detent's automatic engagement feature
3Reliability
If manual tools and significant physical effort are required for coupling, then the connection can be securely made, but the productivity and efficiency of the operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system performs the secure connection function automatically through the detent mechanism that engages when the main link reaches its rearmost position during the coupling process. This eliminates the need for manual tools and significant physical effort, allowing rapid coupling and decoupling operations while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The system is pre-configured so that the detent mechanism is positioned and oriented to automatically engage with the cradle when the main link is in its rearmost position. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the secure connection is made automatically during the natural coupling motion, eliminating the need for separate manual fastening steps
Data Source
AI summary
A booster axle assembly includes a wheel axle, a suspension system coupled to the wheel axle, a booster frame supported by the suspension system, a main link coupled via a first hinged connection to a rear portion of the booster frame and extending from the first hinged connection in an upward and forward direction, a lock assembly coupled to a forward end of the main link via a second hinged connection, and a lockup frame (with a curved bottom portion that defines a cradle) coupled to a front end of the booster frame by a third hinged connection and coupled to the lock assembly by a fourth hinged connection and a fifth hinged connection.