Trailer Coupling Force Sensing for Adaptive Vehicle Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling vehicle traction do not accurately account for the ground surface conditions, leading to inefficient traction and increased fuel consumption and risk of getting stuck, especially in off-road conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes a sensor device on a coupling element to measure coupling forces in all vehicle directions, determining the dynamics of these forces to adapt traction control measures based on the ground surface properties, including measures such as actuating drive axles, lifting axles, adjusting tire pressure, and modifying motor and transmission settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional traction control methods are used without accurate ground surface detection, then the system structure remains simple, but traction control accuracy deteriorates and fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the coupling element as an intermediary structure to mount sensor devices that detect ground surface conditions. The coupling element serves as a mediator between the tractor and trailer, allowing indirect measurement of terrain properties through coupling force variations, thereby achieving accurate detection without complex direct ground sensing systems
Solution Approach 2:
The evaluation unit continuously processes sensor signals from the coupling element and provides feedback to the traction control system. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables real-time adaptation of traction control parameters based on detected ground conditions, improving measurement precision while maintaining manageable system complexity through iterative optimization
2Use of energy by moving object
If traction control is not adapted to ground surface properties, then the control system remains simple, but fuel consumption increases and the vehicle risks getting stuck
Solution Approach 1:
The traction control system automatically adjusts traction parameters based on real-time ground condition detection without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the evaluation unit to process sensor data and automatically modify traction control settings, reducing fuel consumption and preventing getting stuck through autonomous adaptation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of traction control parameters based on varying ground conditions. The system transitions from static, fixed traction settings to dynamic, real-time adjustment of traction forces according to detected terrain properties, thereby optimizing fuel consumption and preventing vehicle immobilization across different operating conditions
3Use of energy by moving object
If high tire air pressure is used for firm road driving, then fuel consumption is reduced and driving properties are improved, but traction decreases on soft or loose ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the tire air pressure parameter based on detected ground surface conditions. On firm roads, higher pressure is maintained to reduce fuel consumption and improve driving properties. When soft or loose ground is detected through coupling force analysis, the system automatically adjusts pressure parameters to increase traction, resolving the contradiction between fuel efficiency and traction availability
4Use of energy by moving object
If drive axles are disconnected to reduce fuel consumption on firm roads, then fuel efficiency improves, but traction capability is reduced on off-road surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different drive axle configurations based on real-time ground condition detection. On firm roads, drive axles are disconnected to improve fuel efficiency. When off-road conditions are detected through coupling force analysis, the system automatically reconnects drive axles to ensure adequate traction reliability, thereby adapting the drivetrain configuration to match terrain requirements
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
Enhances traction control accuracy, reduces fuel consumption, and prevents vehicles from getting stuck by dynamically adapting to varying ground conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Under loading of the trailer device, the webs of the measuring plate are elastically deformed
Implementation Method 2
The sensor elements can be load cells, strain gauges, or SAW elements
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling traction of a wheeled vehicle or a vehicle combination having a tractor vehicle and at least one trailer vehicle. A sensor device on a coupling element of a trailer device transmits coupling forces in x, y, and z directions to the coupling element of the tractor vehicle, which are measured and emitted as force signals. From these force signals, an evaluation unit determines the coupling force acting in the respective vehicle direction and transmits them to a control unit. Traction of the tractor vehicle is adapted to suit the properties of the ground surface. Using sequences of the coupling forces, the dynamic fraction if filtered out and from these a characteristic value is determined and transmitted to the control unit. If the characteristic value exceeds a limit value, then at least one measure to improve the traction of the tractor vehicle is carried out.