Kingpin Force Sensing for Dynamic Trailer Anti-Jackknife Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tow control systems lack effective dynamic control mechanisms for trailers, leading to inefficiencies in force management and stability during towing, particularly in managing forces applied to the kingpin, which can result in jackknife events and increased fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a kingpin with integrated sensors for lateral and longitudinal force measurement, coupled with a controller that calculates and adjusts torque output to match applied forces, using a motor to dynamically adjust the trailer's wheel speeds and torque to maintain stability and reduce emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional passive towing is used, then device complexity is reduced, but towing stability deteriorates and jackknife events occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sensors to detect forces applied to the kingpin in real-time and feeds this information back to the controller, which adjusts motor torque accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables dynamic stabilization of the trailer during towing, preventing jackknife events while maintaining manageable system complexity through intelligent control algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer equipage with its own drive system and control capabilities, enabling it to actively manage its own stability and positioning during towing. The system autonomously adjusts torque and wheel speeds based on detected forces, making the trailer self-regulating rather than relying solely on the tow vehicle for control.
2Use of energy by moving object
If active torque control is implemented, then fuel consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts torque parameters and wheel speed parameters based on real-time force conditions detected by sensors. By optimizing these parameters continuously, the system reduces energy consumption and fuel usage while managing complexity through parameter-based control rather than mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces passive mechanical towing with an active electro-mechanical control system that uses motors and sensors to manage trailer behavior. This substitution enables more efficient energy utilization through precise control, reducing fuel consumption despite the added complexity of electro-mechanical components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If force management is improved, then towing stability increases, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively detects forces applied to the kingpin before they can cause instability or jackknife events. By measuring forces early and responding in advance, the system maintains stability while allowing for reasonable measurement precision thresholds, as the control system has time to react and correct potential issues before they escalate.
Data Source
AI summary
One variation of a system includes a kingpin including: a head; a base coupled to a proximal end of the trailer; a shank interposed between the head and the base; a first sensor configured to output signals representing lateral forces applied to the kingpin; and a second sensor configured to output signals representing longitudinal forces applied to the kingpin. The system further includes a controller configured to: access a first signal from the first sensor representing a lateral force applied to the kingpin; access a second signal from the second sensor representing a longitudinal force applied to the kingpin; calculate a direction and a magnitude of a force applied to the kingpin based on the first and second signals; and trigger a motor arranged on a distal end of the trailer to output a torque in the direction of the force and proportional to the magnitude of the force.