Modular Vehicle Trailer Positioning on Uneven Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular vehicles with detachable semi-trailers face challenges in precise and secure coupling on uneven terrain due to imprecise air suspension systems and low rigidity, leading to relative shifts and functional arrangement issues.
Innovation Solution
A device with orthogonal guides and drive means allows independent horizontal adjustment of the semi-trailer relative to the chassis, combined with a chassis lifting device for vertical alignment, enabling precise leveling and alignment of vehicles for optimal coupling, using hydraulic or pneumatic units for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If air suspension system is used for vertical regulation of chassis, then vehicle can be adjusted to ground level, but adjustment precision is low and adjustment path is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle system is divided into independent modular units (chassis modules with individual trailers) that can be separately adjusted. Each module has its own positioning system, allowing independent vertical and horizontal adjustment without affecting other modules, thereby achieving high precision adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system is replaced with active hydraulic/pneumatic lifting devices that provide dynamic, multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment capabilities. These devices can independently control vertical position, horizontal position, and rotation angle of each module in real-time, overcoming the limited adjustment path of traditional air suspension.
2Strength
If air suspension and tires are used, then vehicle can operate on uneven terrain, but rigidity is low causing deflection and position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces passive elastic suspension with active hydraulic/pneumatic lifting devices that provide both high rigidity for maintaining structural position and active control for adapting to uneven terrain. The devices can dynamically adjust to compensate for ground irregularities while maintaining precise module positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
Each module is equipped with sensors and active lifting devices that automatically detect terrain unevenness and adjust the module position independently. The system self-corrects for ground irregularities without requiring external intervention, maintaining rigidity while adapting to terrain changes.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple vehicles are coupled on uneven terrain, then functional arrangements can be formed, but relative shifts occur due to weight distribution changes
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed with independent positioning control for each module. Each module has its own active lifting and alignment devices that work independently to maintain stable coupling, preventing relative shifts caused by weight distribution changes or terrain unevenness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor the position and orientation of each module. This feedback is used by the control system to dynamically adjust the active lifting devices, maintaining stable coupling and preventing relative shifts even when weight distribution changes or terrain conditions vary.
4Measurement precision
If traditional coupling methods are used, then vehicles can be connected, but accurate positioning is difficult achieving full functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling process is made dynamic and adaptive through active positioning systems. Each module can independently adjust its vertical position, horizontal position, and rotation angle in real-time during the coupling process, automatically achieving precise alignment without requiring manual positioning or complex manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are equipped with automatic positioning systems that use sensors and active lifting devices to self-align and self-couple with other modules. The system automatically achieves full functionality by detecting the presence of other modules and adjusting its position accordingly, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning operations.
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 secure and precise coupling of vehicles on uneven ground by compensating for terrain unevenness and allowing horizontal alignment of trailers, ensuring stable and balanced functional arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
said hydraulic unit (19) which is designed and set up exclusively for the vertical alignment of the semi-trailer (12) with respect to the chassis (11)
Implementation Method 2
or pneumatic unit can also be used
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a vehicle (10) of modular construction, namely with a chassis (11) and a trailer (12) which is fully detachable from the chassis (11), wherein the trailer (12) comprises at least one functional unit (13), the vehicle (10) being distinguished by being assigned a device (17) which is designed and set up in order to change the position of the trailer (12) relative to the chassis (11). Furthermore, the invention relates to a functional arrangement (25) formed from a plurality of vehicles.