Modular Convoy Hydraulic Network Segmentation for Trailer Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular convoy systems for outsize loads face instability and control issues when combining trailers with different hydraulic suspensions, as they require matching suspensions for stable operation, necessitating the purchase of new trailers with identical features for forming large convoys.
Innovation Solution
A modular convoy system that connects trailers with different hydraulic suspensions through a shared hydraulic network with independent circuits and bistable connection valves, allowing trailers with varying maximum transportable loads to be coupled by adjusting the actuator's pressure and chamber configuration to equalize ground action across all trailers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If trailers with different hydraulic suspensions are connected to the same hydraulic line, then the convoy can include trailers with varying maximum transportable loads, but the support actions become different across the convoy causing instability and control difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic network is segmented into independent circuits, with each circuit serving specific trailers having identical suspension characteristics. This segmentation allows trailers with different suspensions to be grouped separately within the same convoy without interfering with each other's hydraulic operations, thus maintaining stability while enabling versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that manages the hydraulic connections between trailers and the network. This intermediary system ensures that only trailers with matching suspension characteristics are connected to the same circuit, preventing instability while allowing the convoy to accommodate diverse trailer types through proper circuit assignment.
2Stability of the object's composition
If trailers with matching suspensions are used to form a convoy, then the convoy remains stable and controllable, but new trailers must be purchased for every convoy formation despite available high-performance trailers with different suspensions
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic network is designed with universal compatibility through multiple independent circuits, allowing any trailer to be connected to an appropriate circuit based on its suspension characteristics. This multi-functional design enables the same convoy system to accommodate various trailer types without requiring identical suspensions, thus maintaining stability while maximizing the utilization of existing trailer assets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changes in hydraulic parameters (pressure, flow rate) for different circuits to match the specific requirements of trailers with different suspension characteristics. By adjusting these parameters, the convoy can maintain optimal performance and stability across trailers with varying maximum transportable loads and suspension designs.
3Reliability
If high-performance trailers with different suspensions are available, then modern transportation capabilities are enhanced, but they cannot be combined in convoys due to suspension incompatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic network is divided into segmented independent circuits, each capable of supporting trailers with specific suspension types. This segmentation preserves the high-performance characteristics of modern trailers with different suspensions while enabling their combination in convoys by assigning each trailer to its compatible circuit, thus maintaining both reliability and versatility.
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 the formation of large convoys using trailers with different suspensions without the need for new matching trailers, ensuring stability and control by equalizing the load support action across all units, thereby enhancing flexibility and reducing the need for redundant purchases.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic network (20) which extends through the trailers (3, 4) and comprises three mutually independent, closed hydraulic circuits (20a)
Implementation Method 2
for each of the actuators (12), a corresponding bistable connection valve (23)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A modular convoy (1) for outsize loads is formed by connecting a first tyred trailer (3) and at least a second (4) tyred trailer to each other, having first (6) and second hydraulic suspensions (10), respectively, which are reciprocally different; each of the first suspensions (6) having a first lever transmission (7) and a first simple-acting, linear hydraulic actuator (8) to exert on the ground a first load support action, and each of the second hydraulic suspensions (10) having a second mechanical lever transmission (11) and a second double-effect, linear hydraulic actuator (12), the chambers (15)(16) of which are connected to the same feeding line (21) for exerting on the ground a second load support action which is substantially equal to the first support action.