Crash-Attenuator Trailer Structure With Deflection Shields and Brake Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current towable crash-attenuating vehicles lack effective mechanisms for redirecting and absorbing kinetic energy from impacting vehicles, and their brake systems are not efficiently managed for secure towing and parking operations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates T-shaped ballast, deflection shields with angled sections to redirect impacting vehicles, an impact attenuator to absorb kinetic energy, and on-board air or hydraulic brake systems that can be locked and unlocked for secure towing and parking, with solar panels providing power for onboard systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If deflection shields with angled sections are added to redirect impacting vehicles, then the vehicle's ability to redirect and absorb kinetic energy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection shields are segmented into multiple angled sections that can independently redirect impacting vehicles. The shields are divided into separate functional zones (deflection zones, absorption zones) that work together to manage impact forces, allowing each segment to perform its specific function optimally while contributing to the overall crash attenuation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection shields utilize three-dimensional angled sections that redirect impacting vehicles in multiple directions. The shields are positioned at various angles and heights to create a multi-dimensional deflection system that can handle impacts from different vectors, transforming the impact force distribution across multiple spatial dimensions rather than a single plane.
2Reliability
If an impact attenuator is added to absorb kinetic energy, then the safety and crash attenuation capability is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The impact attenuator is pre-positioned and pre-configured to absorb kinetic energy before the actual impact occurs. The attenuator contains pre-compressed springs, hydraulic dampers, or other energy-absorbing mechanisms that are ready to activate immediately upon impact, providing beforehand cushioning that reduces the peak forces transmitted to the vehicle frame and occupants.
Solution Approach 2:
The impact attenuator utilizes materials and mechanisms that change their physical parameters during impact. The attenuator contains materials that undergo phase changes, density changes, or structural transformations when subjected to impact forces, allowing them to absorb kinetic energy efficiently. For example, hydraulic fluids change pressure, springs change compression, and foam materials change density during the absorption process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If T-shaped ballast is added to bias weight toward the front end, then the towing stability is improved, but the vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast is configured in an asymmetric T-shape rather than a symmetric distribution. The T-shaped ballast concentrates weight specifically at the front end of the vehicle frame, creating an asymmetric weight distribution that biases the center of gravity forward. This asymmetric placement improves towing stability by preventing sway and maintaining proper tongue weight without requiring uniform weight distribution throughout the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The T-shaped ballast acts as a counterweight positioned at the front end to balance the vehicle during towing. The ballast compensates for the weight of the impact attenuator and deflection shields located at the rear, creating a balanced weight distribution that optimizes towing stability. The ballast effectively counteracts the rearward weight bias introduced by the crash attenuation components.
4Reliability
If on-board brake systems with locking mechanisms are added, then the secure towing and parking capability is improved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The brake system incorporates self-service features including automatic locking mechanisms that engage when the vehicle is stationary, and self-diagnostic capabilities that monitor brake pad wear and hydraulic fluid levels. The system can automatically apply brakes when detecting unauthorized movement attempts, and the locking mechanisms self-engage without requiring constant manual intervention, reducing the operational complexity despite the increased mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake system utilizes pneumatic and hydraulic mechanisms to provide controlled braking force and locking capability. The hydraulic brake lines and pneumatic actuators enable smooth, controlled brake application and release, while the locking mechanisms use hydraulic pressure to maintain the locked state. This fluid-based approach provides more reliable and controllable braking compared to purely mechanical systems, justifying the increased complexity through superior performance.
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
The vehicle effectively redirects and absorbs kinetic energy from impacts, ensuring safety and secure towing and parking operations through its innovative design and integrated brake management system.
Implementation Method 1
an impact attenuator to absorb kinetic energy
Implementation Method 2
deflection shields with angled sections to redirect impacting vehicles
Implementation Method 3
T-shaped ballast oriented such that the weight of the ballast is biased toward the front end of the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A towable crash-attenuating vehicle is shown having a frame; at least two axles coupled to the frame, each of the axles having wheels attached thereto; a ballast coupled to the frame; deflection shields coupled to the right and left sides of the frame, wherein the deflection shields cover the frame and a majority of the wheels on each side of the vehicle; a tow connection coupled to the front of the frame; an impact attenuator coupled to the rear of the frame; wherein the vehicle is provided with a brake system, and wherein the vehicle is provided with an mechanism for locking and unlocking the brake system.