Cab Repositioning via Non-Rotating Control Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for accessing the engine compartment in Class 8 cab-over-engine trucks require cumbersome and time-consuming procedures involving significant pivoting of the cab, which can lead to damage from loose objects and is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A cab suspension and repositioning system with a control arm structure, drive cylinders, and a computerized control system that allows the cab to be moved away from the engine compartment without substantial rotation, using a U-shaped control arm assembly and hydraulic cylinders to reposition the cab between operating and access positions, while ensuring safety through sensor monitoring and latch engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the cab is pivotably mounted to allow repositioning, then access to the engine compartment is enabled, but the procedure becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The control arms are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing the cab to transition between operating and access positions dynamically. The control arms pivot and adjust their configuration during the repositioning process, enabling smooth movement without requiring complex manual procedures or significant cab rotation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cab is significantly pivoted to access the engine, then access is achieved, but loose objects may shift and cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs only the necessary movement to achieve access without excessive pivoting. The control arms are designed to move the cab just enough to provide access to the engine compartment while maintaining a relatively level position, avoiding the harmful effects of significant rotation on loose objects.
3Ease of operation
If a simple repositioning mechanism is used, then the system remains lightweight and simple to operate, but the ability to control cab sway and maintain stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control arms serve multiple functions simultaneously: they support the cab weight, control sway motion, enable repositioning, and maintain stability. This multi-functionality is achieved through the mechanical design of the control arms themselves, which are engineered to perform all these functions without requiring additional complex components.
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
Enables easier, safer, and more efficient access to the engine compartment by moving the cab without pivoting, reducing the risk of damage from loose objects and simplifying the repositioning process, while ensuring operational safety and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
One or more drive cylinders, for example hydraulic cylinders, are pivotably attached to the chassis and the control arm structure. A pump is fluidly connected to the drive cylinder, and is operable to selectively extend the drive cylinders to move the control arm structure
Implementation Method 2
a control arm structure with a first control arm with one end pivotably attached to the chassis and the other end pivotably attached to the cab, a second control arm also pivotably attached the chassis and cab
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of air springs and or a plurality of associated shock absorbers that are attached to the chassis and are positioned to support the cab on the chassis in the operating position
Implementation Method 4
an upper cross member suspended above the lower cross member with air springs and/or shock absorbers
Data Source
AI summary
A cab suspension and repositioning system (110) for a truck includes a control arm assembly (130) having two control arms (134, 136) with distal ends pivotably attached to a truck chassis (112) and proximal ends pivotably attached to a cab (102), and one or more follower control arms (144, 146) having a distal end pivotably attached to the chassis (112) and a proximal end pivotably attached to the cab (102). Cab suspension assemblies (114, 170) releasably lock the cab (102) to the chassis (112) during operation. The control arm assembly (130) further provides motion control to the cab (102). Hydraulic cylinders (140) engage the control arm assembly (130) and are operable to move the cab (102) between an operating position adjacent the chassis and an access position away from the chassis (112) substantially without rotating the cab (102). A control system (200) powers the cylinders (140) and controls the transition between the operating and access positions.