Fifth Wheel Quick Coupling for Safe Power-Operated Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fifth wheel coupling systems for semi-trailer trucks are costly due to complex safety mechanisms and valve arrangements, which increase the risk of accidental disengagement and require redundant actuation options.
Innovation Solution
A semi-trailer truck system utilizing a quick coupling mechanism that connects the compressed air supply line directly to the cylinder-piston assembly of the fifth wheel coupling, allowing manual reconnection to prevent accidental operation and simplify the coupling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power-operated closure with cylinder-piston assembly and valve arrangements is used, then the coupling can be opened reliably, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex valve arrangement from the compressed air supply line connecting to the cylinder-piston assembly. Instead of using valves with multiple safety mechanisms, the system directly connects the compressed air supply to the cylinder, eliminating unnecessary complexity while maintaining the reliable opening function through the existing power-operated closure mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressed air supply line serves dual purposes: it provides compressed air for the brake system of the semi-trailer and simultaneously powers the closure opening mechanism of the fifth wheel coupling. This multi-functional use eliminates the need for separate valve control systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If redundant actuation options with manual handling mechanisms are provided, then the system has backup capabilities, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains a single power-operated closure mechanism that serves as both the primary and backup actuation method. The compressed air supply automatically provides power to the cylinder-piston assembly when needed, eliminating the need for separate manual handling mechanisms while preserving reliability through the inherent redundancy of the power system.
3Reliability
If valve arrangements with multiple safety mechanisms are installed, then accidental disengagement is prevented, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the valve arrangement from the compressed air supply system connecting to the closure mechanism. By removing this complex component with multiple safety mechanisms, the manufacturing cost is significantly reduced while the prevention of accidental disengagement is maintained through the simplified direct connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a simple, cost-effective compressed air connection without expensive valve arrangements. The focus is on achieving the necessary safety function through a simpler, more economical design that eliminates costly components while maintaining adequate protection against accidental disengagement.
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 solution provides a cost-effective power-operated closure that ensures safe and secure coupling and uncoupling operations by preventing accidental opening during driving and simplifying the connection process, thereby reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
the cylinder-piston assembly can be connected directly to the compressed air supply line of the tractor by means of a quick coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A semi-trailer truck with a tractor and a semitrailer having a kingpin, wherein the tractor includes a fifth wheel coupling with a coupling plate, a closure for the king pin, an actuating mechanism for actuating the closure, and a cylinder-piston assembly engaging the actuating mechanism for moving the actuating mechanism. The tractor further includes a compressed air supply line to which the cylinder-piston assembly can be connected directly by a quick coupling. The quick coupling is formed from a first and a compatible second coupling element. The semitrailer includes a compressed air system, wherein the cylinder-piston assembly and the compressed air system of the semitrailer are each assigned the identical first coupling element, and the compressed air supply line is assigned the compatible second coupling element.