Trailer Coupling Load Control Using Virtual Wheelbase
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing regulations limit the maximum load per axle for trailers, affecting operational efficiency and traction in vehicle combinations, particularly in electric vehicles, which may require lower payload due to the same load limits as internal combustion engine vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A computer system is used to control the vertical load on the coupling between units of a vehicle combination by acquiring current load values and virtual wheelbase, determining maximum and minimum load capabilities, and adjusting axle loads to optimize load distribution and traction characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If maximum load per axle regulations are applied to trailers, then road safety and surface longevity are improved, but operational efficiency and load carrying capacity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the virtual wheelbase to be adjusted in real-time based on road conditions, vehicle configuration, and payload distribution. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize load distribution continuously, maximizing payload capacity while maintaining compliance with axle load regulations, thereby resolving the contradiction between safety constraints and operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of virtual wheelbase length to optimize load carrying capacity. By calculating and adjusting the virtual wheelbase based on current operating conditions, the system can redistribute axle loads to maximize payload while staying within regulatory limits, thus improving operational efficiency without compromising road safety
2Use of energy by moving object
If electric vehicles are made heavier to accommodate energy storage systems, then energy capacity is improved, but axle load capacity and payload are reduced due to same load limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the virtual wheelbase parameter to optimize load distribution for electric vehicles. By adjusting the virtual wheelbase based on the heavier vehicle mass and energy storage system location, the system maximizes the allowable payload within axle load regulations, resolving the contradiction between increased energy capacity and reduced payload capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the virtual wheelbase calculation to account for the variable mass distribution in electric vehicles. This allows real-time optimization of payload capacity despite the heavier vehicle weight, enabling electric vehicles to maintain high operational efficiency while accommodating large energy storage systems
3Productivity
If axle loads are increased to maximize payload, then load carrying capacity is improved, but traction characteristics and vehicle control are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the virtual wheelbase parameter to optimize the distribution of axle loads. By adjusting this parameter, the system achieves an optimal balance between maximizing load carrying capacity and maintaining appropriate traction characteristics, ensuring that no single axle is overloaded while the total payload is maximized
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors monitoring actual axle loads, vehicle acceleration, and road conditions to continuously adjust the virtual wheelbase calculation. This feedback mechanism ensures that load distribution remains optimal for both payload capacity and traction, preventing excessive loads on any single axle while maximizing overall load carrying capacity
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system controls a vertical load on a coupling between units of a vehicle combination comprising a trailing unit and a preceding unit. The trailing unit has two or more axles and is coupled to the preceding unit via the coupling. The computer system has processing circuitry to acquire a current value of a vertical load on the coupling; determine a coupling load capability based on the current value of the vertical load on the coupling and a current value of a virtual wheelbase of the trailing unit; and determine a desired vertical load on the coupling based on the coupling load capability.