Trailer Kingpin Height Sensing for Automated Fifth-Wheel Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual height adjustments of trailer kingpins relative to tractor fifth wheels are error-prone and can lead to damage during towing, especially in scenarios involving autonomous or driverless vehicles where precise alignment is crucial.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle height sensing system equipped with a range sensor, such as a time-of-flight sensor, that measures the distance between the sensor and the ground to determine the kingpin height, communicating this data for automated adjustments of the trailer's landing legs to match the kingpin and fifth wheel distances, facilitating alignment for safe towing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual height adjustment is used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the alignment precision is poor and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical height adjustment with an automated system using sensors (optical, ultrasonic, or laser) to measure the distance between the kingpin and ground, eliminating the need for manual visual estimation and mechanical adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automated self-adjustment of trailer height by using sensors to detect kingpin position and automatically controlling the landing gear to achieve proper alignment, without requiring human intervention
2Reliability
If manual height adjustment is used, then the system is simple, but the safety is reduced due to potential damage during towing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor the kingpin height and provide data to a control system that automatically adjusts the landing gear to maintain proper alignment, ensuring safe towing conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary height adjustment automatically before towing begins by measuring the kingpin position and pre-adjusting the landing gear to the correct height, preventing potential damage during operation
3Extent of automation
If automated height adjustment is implemented, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic sensors and control systems that use optical, ultrasonic, or laser signals to measure height and automatically control landing gear positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces sensors as intermediary devices that mediate between the physical kingpin position and the control system, converting physical measurements into electrical signals for automated processing and control
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 system ensures accurate and automated height adjustments, enhancing safety and operational efficiency in towing operations, particularly for autonomous vehicles by providing real-time feedback for precise alignment and reducing the risk of damage.
Implementation Method 1
a range sensor configured to emit a signal toward the ground and to measure a distance between the range sensor and the ground
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing device includes a range sensor configured to emit a signal toward the ground and to measure a distance between the range sensor and the ground, a sensor housing configured to house the range sensor, the sensor housing having a first opening through which the range sensor is configured to emit the signal, and a coupling member attached to the sensor housing and configured to couple the sensor housing to a body of a trailer or a chassis.