Fifth Wheel Camera Mount That Retracts During Trailer Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for towing vehicles face challenges in safely and effectively mounting object detection means, such as cameras, close to the longitudinal axis without risking damage from the coupling mechanism, especially during trailer coupling.
Innovation Solution
The object detection means is mounted within a coupling means guiding contour and can move between a functional position protruding into the available space and a dodged position, using a spring element or actuator to retract from the path of the coupling mechanism, ensuring protection and maintaining a clear view for precise coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the object detection means is mounted close to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle on the fifth wheel plate, then the image quality is improved (less distortion), but the risk of damage from the coupling mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The object detection means is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically change its position between a functional mounting position (close to the longitudinal axis for optimal imaging) and a protected position (away from the coupling mechanism path). This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to optimize image quality when needed while avoiding damage during coupling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by moving the object detection means to a protected position before the coupling mechanism operates, and positioning it optimally before coupling is completed. The control unit coordinates the positioning of the object detection means in advance of potential harmful interactions, preventing damage before it occurs while ensuring optimal imaging positions are achieved when safe.
2Manufacturing precision
If the object detection means is mounted in the area of influence of the coupling means, then the coupling precision is improved, but the reliability of the object detection means decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The object detection means transitions from a static mounted position to a dynamic positionable system. By being able to move between different positions, the system can achieve high coupling precision when required while maintaining reliability through protective repositioning, thus resolving the contradiction between precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that coordinates between the coupling mechanism and the object detection means. It manages the positioning of the object detection means to ensure optimal coupling precision is achieved while preventing harmful interactions, thereby maintaining system reliability. The intermediary controls the timing and positioning to balance precision requirements with safety.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the object detection means is moved between functional and dodged positions, then the protection against damage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces dynamic positioning capability with movable mounting mechanisms that allow the object detection means to transition between functional and protected positions. This dynamic feature provides protection against damage while the complexity is managed through coordinated control systems that automate the positioning decisions and execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The object detection means system is designed to self-manage its positioning through integration with the vehicle's existing control systems. The control unit automatically determines when positioning changes are needed and executes them, reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms and allowing the system to serve its own protection needs.
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
This solution allows for precise and safe coupling by minimizing the risk of damage to the object detection means while providing real-time data for visual or autonomous coupling assistance, reducing the likelihood of lateral misalignment and ensuring the object detection means remains operational.
Implementation Method 1
using a spring element or actuator to retract from the path of the coupling mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device for a towing vehicle with an object detection device attached to the coupling device, wherein the coupling device has a coupling body in form of a fifth wheel plate and a locking mechanism, with which a coupling device in form of a kingpin is releasably held on the coupling body in its end position (E), wherein the coupling body includes an available space which is limited by a coupling device guiding contour and extends along a longitudinal axis (x), wherein the coupling device is at least partially immersed during coupling into the available space until reaching an end position (E).