Self-Balancing Trailer Axle and Fluid Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional trailers lack the ability to self-balance their load, leading to instability, increased strain on suspension components, and potential accidents due to uneven weight distribution, which can cause swaying and loss of control during towing.
Innovation Solution
A self-balancing trailer system featuring movable axles and wheels that adjust based on load distribution, utilizing sensors and actuators to dynamically balance the load, with optional fluid tank systems for further stabilization, and steerable wheels for improved maneuverability and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed axles are used in trailers, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the trailer cannot adapt to changing load distributions, causing instability and swaying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements movable axles that can dynamically adjust their position along the trailer frame rather than being fixed. The axles are guided by slots or rails that allow them to move longitudinally, enabling the trailer to adapt to changing load distributions during towing. This dynamic configuration resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical guidance structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The axle system incorporates self-balancing mechanisms where the axles automatically move to optimal positions based on load distribution without requiring external control systems. The mechanical design allows the axles to respond passively to weight shifts, using the load itself to drive the repositioning action, thereby achieving adaptability without complex active control systems.
2Reliability
If movable axles with actuators are implemented, then the trailer can dynamically balance load distribution, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-balancing mechanisms where the movable axles automatically adjust their positions in response to load distribution changes without requiring external actuators or control systems. The mechanical design allows the axles to respond passively to weight shifts, using the load itself to drive the repositioning action through spring-loaded or gravity-assisted mechanisms, thereby achieving high reliability without complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect load distribution and provide feedback to control mechanisms, enabling automatic adjustment of axle positions. This feedback loop allows the trailer to maintain stability by continuously monitoring and responding to changes in weight distribution, achieving reliable self-balancing while keeping the control system relatively simple through automated rather than manual operation.
3Reliability
If fluid tanks are added for load balancing, then the trailer stability is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates fluid-filled tanks or bladders that can be inflated or deflated to adjust weight distribution. By using pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, the system can shift effective weight between different portions of the trailer without adding significant mass, as the fluid itself serves as the balancing mechanism. This approach improves stability while minimizing additional weight compared to solid counterweights.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state or distribution of fluid within tanks to achieve load balancing. By transferring fluid between tanks of different positions or changing the volume of fluid in specific tanks, the system can dynamically adjust weight distribution. This parameter-based approach allows for stability control with minimal added weight, as the same fluid serves multiple functions depending on its distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
Load balancing systems and methods, and trailers with components for load balancing across the trailers or portions (e.g., axles, springs, frame portions) thereof are provided herein. Some trailers comprise a frame, a suspension system configured to support the frame on a set of axles comprising a first axle, and wherein the first axle is movably coupled to the frame. Some trailers comprise a frame, a piping system coupled to the frame, and a set of tanks coupled to one another via the piping system. The piping system can comprise a set of pumps configured to pump fluid between the tanks for load balancing.