Tractor-Trailer Coupling Head Alignment for Automated Line Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual docking and undocking of tractor trailers are time-consuming and costly due to the need for human intervention, which complicates the process and increases operational expenses in cargo yards and intermodal facilities.
Innovation Solution
An automatic tractor-trailer coupling system that employs movable coupling heads on both the tractor and trailer, allowing for controlled degrees of freedom to align and connect air and electrical lines, with active motion control on the tractor side and passive motion on the trailer side, utilizing a combination of actuators, sensors, and alignment features to facilitate automated coupling without the need for human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual docking and undocking operations are used, then human intervention is required, but the process becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate functional modules: a coupling head with air line connectors, an electrical connector, and a movable arm mechanism. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the system to be automated while keeping individual parts manageable in complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling head is mounted on a movable arm that can translate and rotate to accommodate different trailer positions. This dynamic positioning capability enables automated coupling without requiring precise manual alignment, reducing the need for complex control systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If coupling heads are positioned to accommodate all trailer positions, then alignment is improved, but the mechanism footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling head is mounted on a movable arm with translation and rotation capabilities, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to accommodate varying trailer locations. This dynamic positioning provides versatility without requiring a large fixed footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling head can be retracted into or positioned close to the tractor body when not in use, minimizing the footprint. The movable arm allows the coupling head to extend only when needed for coupling operations
3Manufacturing precision
If active motion control is implemented on tractor side, then coupling precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable arm with active motion control provides precise positioning of the coupling head through controlled translation and rotation. This dynamic control system achieves high alignment precision while maintaining manageable complexity through focused actuation
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for automatically coupling at least one of an air line or an electrical line of a tractor to a trailer that is configured to be pulled by the tractor. A moveable arm is mounted to the tractor and is configured to exhibit at least one degree of freedom (DOF) of motion relative to the tractor. The moveable arm carries at least one of an air line connector or an electrical connector. A trailer coupling head is mounted to the trailer and carries at least one of an air line connector or an electrical connector that are configured to be connected to the at least one of an air line connector or an electrical connector of the tractor. The trailer coupling head can be moved in at least a vertical DOF relative to the ground by the automatic coupling system.