Convertible Stinger Steering for Tractor-Trailers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tractor-trailers with passive rear wheel steering struggle to maneuver in tight spaces due to the rear wheels not tracking with the front wheels, and active steering solutions often complicate the tractor units, reducing versatility.
Innovation Solution
The development of tractor-trailers and towing tractors that can convert between passive and active rear wheel steering configurations, utilizing a stinger steering system that can be deployed and locked for active steering, allowing the rear wheels to rotate relative to the load, and revert to a passive configuration for conventional hauling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If active steering is implemented with a stinger configuration, then maneuverability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stinger assembly is designed to be dynamically deployable and stowable. It can be extended from a retracted position to an operational position where it connects to the rear wheel assembly, enabling active steering only when needed. This dynamic configuration allows the system to transition between simple passive steering and complex active steering modes, improving maneuverability on demand while maintaining simplicity during conventional hauling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The active steering functionality is segmented into a separate, modular stinger assembly rather than being integrated into the main tractor structure. This segmentation allows the complex steering mechanism to be isolated as a distinct component that can be deployed independently, reducing the perceived complexity of the overall system while providing enhanced maneuverability when required.
2Ease of operation
If a stinger steering system is deployed, then rear wheel active steering is achieved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stinger assembly utilizes a telescopic structure with nested tubes that can extend and retract. The inner tube slides within the outer tube, allowing the stinger to extend from a compact retracted state to a fully extended operational state. This nesting mechanism enables the complex steering structure to be concealed within a simpler-looking retracted form, reducing structural complexity when active steering is not in use while providing full steering capability when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The stinger assembly incorporates dynamic extension and retraction capabilities, transitioning between a stowed configuration that integrates smoothly with the tractor body and a deployed configuration that enables active steering. This dynamic structural change allows the system to adapt its complexity level based on operational requirements, maintaining simplicity for conventional hauling while providing enhanced steering capability when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the stinger is made movable for alignment, then ease of attachment is improved, but stability during operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stinger assembly includes movable alignment features that enable preliminary positioning and alignment before final locking engagement. The coupling end can move laterally to align with the telescopic reach of the rear wheel assembly, facilitating easy attachment. Once aligned and connected, the system transitions to a locked state that provides operational stability, ensuring both ease of attachment and reliable stability during active steering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The stinger assembly transitions from a movable state during attachment to a fixed locked state during operation. The coupling mechanism includes movable components that allow alignment and engagement, then locks into place to provide structural stability. This dynamic transition ensures that the stinger is easy to attach while maintaining reliable stability when connected and in use.
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
This conversion enables improved maneuverability in urban environments while maintaining compatibility with standard trailer configurations, enhancing the versatility of tractor-trailer combinations and allowing for efficient handling of various loads.
Implementation Method 1
a lock which includes an inflatable member that is activated with a pressurized air system of the towing tractor
Data Source
AI summary
A tractor-trailer for hauling a load is provided which is convertible from a conventional steering arrangement to a stinger steering arrangement to maneuver relatively long loads around tighter corners, roundabouts and other obstacles. The tractor-trailer includes a rear wheel assembly with a telescoping reach and a towing tractor including a chassis and a stinger to selectively attach to the telescoping reach of the rear wheel assembly. The stinger is movably coupled to the chassis to move between a stowed configuration for conventional steering and a deployed configuration for stinger steering.