Integrated Fifth-Wheel Coupler for Automatic Utility Line Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The industry faces complexity and high costs in configuring tractor and semi-trailer systems for automatic utility line connections, limiting the proliferation of this technology.
Innovation Solution
A semi-trailer with an integrated fifth-wheel coupler unit and a recessed cavity at the front wall, accommodating a utility line connection portion for automatic coupling with a tow vehicle, reducing the need for manual operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automatic utility line connection systems are implemented, then operational efficiency is improved and manual intervention is reduced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The utility line connection portion is integrated directly into the fifth-wheel coupler unit, merging two previously separate functions (coupling and utility connection) into a single unified structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate manual connection operations while avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple independent systems, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The fifth-wheel coupler unit is designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical coupling via the kingpin and simultaneous utility line connection through the integrated connection portion. This multi-functionality allows a single automated coupling action to accomplish both mechanical and utility connections, enhancing operational efficiency while utilizing existing structural elements rather than adding separate dedicated systems
2Ease of operation
If automatic utility line connection systems are implemented, then manual operations are reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the utility line connection portion into the fifth-wheel coupler unit, the invention combines two manufacturing processes into one unified structure. This approach reduces the need for separate assembly operations and reduces the need for separate assembly operations and reduces the need for separate assembly fixtures, tooling, and quality control procedures, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while achieving automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated design allows the fifth-wheel coupler unit to automatically establish both mechanical and utility connections through a single coupling action. The structure serves itself by incorporating the connection portion within the coupler unit, eliminating the need for external manual intervention and reducing the complexity of external control systems, thereby lowering manufacturing costs
3Extent of automation
If utility line connection portion is integrated into the fifth-wheel coupler unit, then automatic coupling is enabled, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The utility line connection portion is integrated directly into the fifth-wheel coupler unit, merging two previously separate functions (coupling and utility connection) into a single unified structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate manual connection operations while avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple independent systems, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler unit is designed as a modular assembly with the utility line connection portion as a distinct but integrated component. This segmentation allows for independent manufacturing and assembly of the connection portion, simplifying the overall structural complexity while enabling automated coupling functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A semi-trailer including a cargo area, and an integrated fifth-wheel coupler unit extending horizontally along a front lower portion of the semi-trailer. The coupler unit includes an upper coupler surface defining a floor level of the cargo area, a lower coupler surface spaced below the upper coupler surface, and a kingpin projecting downwardly from the lower coupler surface and configured for coupling with a tow vehicle fifth wheel. A utility line connection portion is provided for establishing connections between at least one utility source of the tow vehicle and at least one utility component of the semi-trailer. The integrated fifth-wheel coupler unit includes a front wall with a recessed cavity at a central widthwise location accommodating the utility line connection portion.