Semi-Trailer Coupling Alignment via King Pin Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The coupling process between a tractor and a semi-trailer is often delayed due to changes in the position and orientation of the semi-trailer, particularly the sagging of the king pin, making it difficult to align the fifth wheel and king pin for a successful connection.
Innovation Solution
An automated method that includes an analysis procedure to determine the feasibility of coupling, adjusting the king pin height and/or tilting the semi-trailer about a transverse axis using landing gears, air suspension, and tire pressure to ensure proper alignment before the coupling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the semi-trailer is loaded, then the cargo capacity is improved, but the king pin height changes causing coupling difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the king pin height and fifth wheel position before coupling. Based on the detected height difference, the system proactively adjusts the landing gear or tilts the semi-trailer in advance to bring the king pin to the correct height, ensuring proper alignment is achieved before the coupling procedure begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect the actual height of the king pin and the position of the fifth wheel, then feeds this information back to the control unit. The control unit processes this feedback and automatically commands the landing gear or tilt mechanism to adjust the king pin height, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures accurate alignment.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of king pin height is performed, then coupling alignment is improved, but coupling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the semi-trailer to adjust its own king pin height automatically without requiring manual intervention. The control unit receives sensor data about the height mismatch and autonomously commands the landing gear or tilt mechanism to make the necessary adjustments, allowing the system to self-correct the alignment issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses sensors, a control unit, and automated actuators (landing gear or tilt mechanism). This substitution of manual operation with an automated electromechanical system dramatically reduces the time required to achieve proper coupling alignment.
3Ease of operation
If the semi-trailer is tilted to adjust king pin height, then coupling alignment is improved, but the stability of the semi-trailer changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the tilt angle of the semi-trailer based on real-time sensor feedback about the king pin height and fifth wheel position. The control unit continuously monitors the situation and adjusts the tilt mechanism to achieve the optimal angle for coupling, allowing the system to adapt to different loading conditions and maintain stability throughout the process.
Data Source
AI summary
Method for coupling a tractor with a semi-trailer and semi-truck with a tractor and a semi-trailer.