Fifth-Wheel Hitch Position Control for Autonomous Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for ensuring the proper position of a fifth-wheel hitch in autonomous vehicles require manual inspection and adjustment, which is inefficient and not feasible in fully autonomous systems, especially with the increasing use of aerodynamic technologies that make manual access difficult.
Innovation Solution
The system uses sensors within or proximate to the fifth-wheel hitch to automatically sense and adjust its position to a predetermined balanced load configuration, determining if a trailer is fully engaged and if the manual release lever is locked, and controlling the vehicle's operation based on sensor signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual inspection and adjustment of the fifth-wheel hitch is used, then the hitch position can be verified, but the process requires operator presence and manual intervention which is inefficient and not feasible in fully autonomous systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection and adjustment operations with an automated sensor-based detection system and actuator-based adjustment mechanism. Sensors detect the hitch position and engagement status, while actuators automatically adjust the hitch to the correct position, eliminating the need for manual intervention in autonomous vehicle operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fifth-wheel hitch system performs self-detection and self-adjustment through integrated sensors and actuators. The system autonomously monitors its own position, detects engagement status, and automatically corrects positioning without requiring external manual operation, enabling fully autonomous functionality.
2Productivity
If aerodynamic technologies are implemented to reduce drag, then fuel efficiency improves, but manual access to the fifth-wheel hitch for inspection and adjustment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical access with automated electronic sensing and actuation systems. Sensors positioned to detect hitch position and engagement status transmit data to a control system, which activates actuators to automatically adjust the hitch, eliminating the need for physical manual access while maintaining proper hitch configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors and control systems as intermediaries between the hitch mechanism and the operator. These intermediaries enable indirect monitoring and adjustment of the hitch position through electronic signals rather than direct physical contact, allowing aerodynamic designs to maintain functionality without compromising accessibility.
3Extent of automation
If automated sensors and actuators are installed on the fifth-wheel hitch, then autonomous management is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sensor and actuator systems to perform multiple functions: sensors detect both hitch position and engagement status, while actuators both adjust position and verify locking. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed and simplifies the control architecture, making the automated system more manageable despite the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the detection and adjustment functions into an integrated system where sensors and actuators work together as a unified automated management mechanism. The control system processes sensor data and activates actuators in a coordinated manner, merging multiple operations into a single automated workflow that reduces operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of this technical solution can include generating, by a processor, a first metric corresponding to a first signal from one or more first sensors, the first sensor configured to detect a position of a fifth-wheel hitch of a vehicle with the fifth-wheel hitch in a first position, generating, by the processor, a second metric corresponding to a second signal from a drive assembly, the drive assembly configured to reposition of the fifth-wheel hitch, generating, by the processor and based on the first and second metrics, a third metric, the third metric corresponding to a second position of the fifth-wheel hitch with a predetermined load balancing configuration and transmitting, by the processor and responsive to a determination that the second position of the fifth-wheel hitch corresponds to a predetermined load balancing configuration of the vehicle, the third metric to the drive assembly.