Dolly Tongue Locking Pin Position Detection

The patent replaces visual/apparent position assessment with a mechanical detection system. A sensor (optical, electrical, or mechanical) detects the actual position of the dolly tongue relative to the vehicle, providing objective feedback to the control system. This substitution eliminates reliance on apparent position alone, preventing misalignment and unintended activation while maintaining automated operation.

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sensor continuously monitors the dolly tongue position and communicates this information to the control system. The control system uses this feedback to determine the precise moment to activate the coupling mechanism, ensuring activation occurs only when the dolly tongue is correctly positioned. This feedback loop resolves the contradiction by providing reliable position confirmation without complicating the automated engagement process.

The patent employs a sensor that serves multiple functions: detecting dolly tongue position, confirming proper alignment, and providing feedback for timing the coupling activation. This multi-functional approach achieves high measurement precision without adding multiple separate detection mechanisms, thereby improving position detection accuracy while limiting the increase in system complexity.

The patent introduces a control system as an intermediary between the sensor and the coupling mechanism. The control system processes the sensor data and determines the optimal activation timing, acting as a mediator that simplifies the overall system architecture. This intermediary approach allows for precise position detection while maintaining manageable system complexity by centralizing the decision-making logic.