Self-moving car with articulated coupling for trailer maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current self-moving cars for crane towing lack maneuverability and autonomy, especially in difficult access and cramped spaces, and have inadequate solutions for ground anomalies and trailer coupling, leading to strain concentration and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A self-moving car with a compact and reliable system for connecting to a trailer machine, featuring adjustable mechanical linkages and an articulated connection apparatus that distributes stress, allowing for versatile anchoring modes and positions, and independent wheel steering for enhanced mobility and maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional self-moving cars are used for crane towing, then basic towing function is achieved, but maneuverability and autonomy are insufficient in difficult access and cramped spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements independent steering of the two rear wheels, allowing each wheel to be controlled separately. This dynamic steering capability enables the vehicle to navigate tight spaces, perform pivot turns, and adapt to cramped yard environments where conventional fixed-axle vehicles cannot maneuver effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle is divided into functionally independent sections with separate wheel control systems. The ability to steer wheels independently and the modular coupling apparatus create segmented control zones that enhance maneuverability in restricted spaces by allowing localized adjustments without affecting the entire vehicle system.
2Reliability
If conventional coupling systems are used for trailer attachment, then basic towing is achieved, but strain concentration occurs at the coupling point reducing safety and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling apparatus provides adjustment in multiple dimensions - vertical height adjustment via telescopic elements, angular orientation via articulation, and horizontal positioning. This multi-dimensional adjustability allows the coupling point to be positioned optimally on the trailer, distributing forces more effectively and avoiding concentrated stress at a single fixed point.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system allows dynamic changes in geometric parameters including the position, angle, and height of the coupling connection. These parameter adjustments enable optimization of force distribution based on load conditions, preventing strain concentration by varying the coupling configuration to match operational requirements.
3Ease of operation
If conventional self-moving cars are used, then basic mobility is achieved, but no effective devices exist for compensating ground anomalies and balancing uneven yard site configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The independent wheel steering system allows each wheel to be dynamically adjusted to compensate for uneven ground surfaces. The vehicle can adapt to slopes, bumps, and irregular terrain by steering individual wheels to maintain optimal contact and balance, providing effective operation on anomalous ground conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling systems are used, then basic attachment is achieved, but broad versatility of modes and positions for coupling to trailer machines is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling apparatus is designed as a multi-functional device that can operate in various modes - different attachment positions, multiple angular orientations, and adjustable heights. This universal design allows a single coupling system to accommodate diverse trailer types and coupling scenarios without requiring multiple specialized devices, achieving versatility through integrated multi-functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A self-moving car (1) for the moving of trailer machines (100), comprising a main chassis (2); wheels (4', 4") engaged with the chassis (2); a generating and feeding unit (5) and movable means (20) for coupling the car (1) with a trailer machine (100) to be towed; the car (1) further comprising an apparatus (80) for the articulated connection to the chassis (2) of the movable coupling means (20), comprising a pin (8) hinged to the chassis (2), the pin (8) having a first bottom end (9) connecting to actuating means (11) for the bilateral rotation (beta) of the pin (8), so that to the rotation of the pin (8) there corresponds a proportional variation of tilt of said movable coupling means (20) with respect to the ground plane; and a second top end (10) for the rotating coupling to the movable coupling means (20); the car (1) further comprising independent driving means, so that to a differential rotation of the wheels (4', 4") there corresponds a proportional rotation (gamma) of the movable coupling means (20) relative to the chassis (2), about a substantially longitudinal axis (C-C) of the pin (8).