Fifth Wheel Connector With Stinger Hitch for Reduced Off-Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tractor-trailer systems face challenges in balancing payload capacity and maneuverability, particularly when using fifth wheel trailers, due to off-tracking issues during turns, and the need for specialized stingers that complicate trailer compatibility and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A connector system that integrates a stinger with a kingpin and trailer hitch, allowing for a trailer to be coupled to a fifth wheel plate, featuring a rotatable pivot and extendable tongue, along with stabilizers and an ejector system, to enhance maneuverability and payload capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a fifth wheel trailer with kingpin connection is used to maximize payload capacity, then the payload capacity is improved, but the maneuverability deteriorates due to increased off-tracking during turns
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is divided into two independent connection systems: a kingpin connection at the front for load bearing and a bumper pull hitch at the rear for steering control. This segmentation allows each system to perform its specialized function, resolving the contradiction between payload capacity and maneuverability
Solution Approach 2:
A long stinger acts as an intermediary mechanical link between the kingpin and the bumper pull hitch, transmitting forces and motions over an extended distance to coordinate the actions of the two connection points, enabling simultaneous load bearing and improved steering
2Quantity of substance
If a specialized logging stinger is welded to the tractor frame to enable long load hauling, then the payload capacity is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper pull hitch at the rear of the stinger provides a universal connection interface that can accommodate various trailer types beyond logging applications, making the system multi-functional and reducing complexity for specialized uses
Solution Approach 2:
The stinger is designed as a removable and replaceable component rather than a permanent welded structure, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of the tractor for different applications and improving ease of maintenance and adaptability
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
Enables trailers to navigate tighter turns with reduced off-tracking and supports versatile hauling options by allowing quick conversion between kingpin and hitch connections, improving operational efficiency and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The kingpin is configured to be received within the fifth wheel plate... While turning, the trailer rotates about the kingpin as it rotates within the fifth wheel plate 20
Implementation Method 2
The length of the stinger causes the trailer hitch to be positioned beyond the rear bumper of the tractor when the kingpin is received within the fifth wheel plate
Implementation Method 3
The trailer includes a chassis supported upon a trailer axle, a coupler configured to be received by a trailer hitch
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of a connector for a fifth wheel system of a tractor-trailer includes a stinger, a kingpin, a material support, and a trailer hitch. The stinger has a length extending from a first end to a second end. The kingpin is positioned at the first end of the stinger. The trailer hitch is positioned at the second end of the stinger. The material support is position above the kingpin and is rotatable with respect to the kingpin about a vertical axis of rotation. An embodiment of a trailer may be connected to both the kingpin and the trailer hitch, and material is loaded upon the material support.