Cardan Angle Detection for Trailer Power Outlet Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for disconnecting a power outlet of a cardan in vehicles with trailers are inadequate, particularly for wheeled and tracked vehicles, as they require operator intervention and do not effectively manage angle thresholds to prevent cardan breakage during sharp bends.
Innovation Solution
A system using a magnetic device and electronic compass to detect angles between the cardan and vehicle/trailer, automatically switching the power outlet on and off based on predefined threshold values, ensuring the cardan's integrity by disengaging power when angles exceed or fall below certain thresholds, and re-engaging when safe angles are restored.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operator manually switches off the power outlet during sharp bends, then the cardan breakage is prevented, but the operator's attention is required and human error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a magnetic sensor and electronic compass to automatically detect the angle between the cardan and vehicle/trailer, and the control unit automatically switches the power outlet on or off based on detected angles, making the system self-regulating without operator intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensor continuously monitors the angular position of the cardan and provides feedback to the control unit, which compares the detected angle with threshold values and automatically adjusts the power outlet state accordingly
2Reliability
If the power outlet is manually switched off during bends, then cardan integrity is protected, but downtime and replacement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the power outlet state based on real-time detection of cardan angles, automatically switching off only when necessary (below first threshold or above second threshold) and switching back on when safe angles are restored, optimizing protection while minimizing downtime
3Reliability
If automatic angle detection systems are implemented, then operator error is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical operation with electronic automation using a magnetic sensor, electronic compass, and control unit that automatically monitors cardan angles and controls the power outlet switching based on detected threshold values
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
The system automatically manages power outlet engagement and disengagement, preventing cardan breakage and ensuring continuous operation by adapting to various vehicle types, including wheeled and tracked vehicles, while reducing operator error and downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a detector constituted by a magnetic device placed on the trailer or vehicle and by an electronic compass on the vehicle or on the trailer is capable of detecting measures related to said angle
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a vehicle (1) - preferably a tractor - with a trailer (2) operatively connected thereto with a cardan (3), said cardan (3) com¬ prising a power take-off, said power take-off being switched off when said cardan (3) builds with said vehicle (1) and/or with said trailer (2) an angle (ε) smaller than a first threshold value (a) and/or larger than a second threshold value (β) and being switched on when said angle (ε) exceeds again said first threshold value (β) thanks to suitable actuators, including detection means of the angle formed between the cardan (3) and said vehi- cle and/or trailer. According to the present invention, said angle (ε) is de¬ tected by a detector consisting of a magnetic device (4) placed on the trail¬ er (2) or the vehicle (1) and an electronic compass (5) placed on the vehicle (1) or on the trailer (2). Preferably, the angle (ε) insisting on the cardan (3) is obtained according to the formula: ε = 180 - Y - arcsen (l/m sen y) (3) where y is the angle the compass (5) forms with respect to the straight travel with the magnet (4), I is the distance between the cardan (3) and the compass (5), m is the distance between the cardan (3) and the magnet (4).