Powered Dolly Suspension Control for Towed and Towing Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically powered dollies need to operate differently when connected to a tractor or semi-trailer and when autonomously transporting a semi-trailer, lacking the flexibility to adapt their axle height and load distribution for various operational modes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that controls the axle height and load distribution of an electrically powered dolly with individually controlled suspensions, allowing it to switch between towed and towing operational modes by adjusting suspension levels and axle load distribution based on connection status and recognition of preceding vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the dolly is designed to operate in multiple operational modes (towed and autonomous towing), then the adaptability and versatility of the dolly is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for mode detection, suspension control systems, and brake control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The dolly is designed with universal components that serve multiple functions across different operational modes. The suspension system can operate in both towed mode (with tractor) and autonomous towing mode (without tractor). The brake control system is configured to control both the dolly's own brakes and the semi-trailer's brakes, enabling the dolly to function as an independent towing vehicle when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The dolly incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow it to adapt its behavior based on operational conditions. The electronic control system dynamically adjusts suspension levels and brake force distribution according to the detected operational mode (towed or autonomous). The system can switch between different operational states, making the dolly's characteristics changeable rather than fixed.
2Productivity
If the dolly autonomously transports a semi-trailer without a tractor, then the productivity and operational flexibility are improved, but the reliability requirements increase due to the need for independent brake control and safety functions
Solution Approach 1:
The dolly is equipped with self-service capabilities for autonomous operation. It can independently detect its operational mode, control its own suspension system, and manage brake forces without requiring continuous input from a tractor operator. The electronic control system autonomously switches between towed and autonomous modes based on detection of the preceding vehicle's presence or absence.
Solution Approach 2:
The dolly incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor operational conditions and adjust control parameters accordingly. The system detects whether a preceding vehicle is present and uses this feedback to determine the appropriate operational mode. The brake control system provides feedback on force distribution and adjusts braking forces to maintain safe operation in autonomous mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method is performed by a system for controlling at least two axles including an individually, electronically controlled suspension in different operational modes of an electrically powered dolly comprising a fifth wheel. The method includes setting the dolly in a towed operational mode if the dolly is connected to a preceding vehicle, or setting the dolly in a towing operational mode if the dolly is not connected to a preceding vehicle, controlling the height and/or axle-load distribution of each axle by adjusting the suspension of each axle for each operational mode, wherein in the towed operational mode, a fifth wheel height is controlled to a predetermined height above ground and the axle-load distribution is set to a target value. In the towing operational mode, the dolly is controlled to be essentially parallel with the surface on which it is standing.