Semitrailer Collision Prevention Guide Block System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semitrailer collisions with loading ramps occur due to varying distances between the rear wheels and the rear end of different semitrailer types, making it difficult to position a physical stop effectively, and drivers sometimes ignore optical warnings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a sensor that detects the semitrailer's approach to a loading ramp and triggers a guide block with wheel blocking means to lock the rear tire in place, ensuring the semitrailer does not collide with the ramp, independent of the semitrailer type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a physical stop is positioned in front of the rear wheels of the semitrailer, then the semitrailer collision with the loading ramp is prevented, but the device becomes complex and difficult to position due to varying semitrailer types
Solution Approach 1:
The guide block is made movable along the ramp opening, transitioning from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position. This allows the guide block to adapt to different semitrailer types by being repositioned manually or mechanically, thereby preventing collisions without requiring a completely new system for each semitrailer configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The guide block serves multiple functions: it acts as a physical stop to prevent collisions, a positioning reference for drivers, and an adjustable component that can accommodate various semitrailer types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized devices
2Loss of information
If optical warning devices are installed at the loading ramp, then drivers are alerted to their position, but drivers sometimes ignore the warning signals and collisions still occur
Solution Approach 1:
The guide block serves as a physical intermediary between the warning system and the semitrailer. While optical warnings alert drivers, the guide block provides a tangible, unavoidable physical barrier that stops the semitrailer even if the driver ignores or misses the optical warning, thereby ensuring collision prevention
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines optical warning (informational) with a mechanical guide block (physical enforcement). The mechanical component substitutes for purely informational systems by providing direct physical intervention when the semitrailer approaches too close to the ramp
3Reliability
If the guide block remains in a forward position to block semitrailers, then collisions are prevented, but the guide block interferes with normal loading operations when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The guide block is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be repositioned between a forward blocking position (when collision prevention is needed) and a retracted position (during normal loading operations). This dynamic adjustment eliminates interference with loading while maintaining safety when required
Solution Approach 2:
The guide block is positioned in advance at the appropriate location before the semitrailer arrives. During normal operations, it is retracted beforehand to avoid interference. When collision risk is detected or during specific operations, it is preliminarily positioned to block the semitrailer path
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for preventing semitrailer collisions with a loading ramp (10). The system comprises a sensor (100) and guide block (200). The sensor (100) is configured for sensing when the rear end of a semitrailer (12) is approaching a loading ramp (10). The guide block (200) is adapted to be positioned on the ground, and is here shown positioned laterally to the opening of the loading ramp (10). The guide block (200) comprises wheel blocking means (210) configured for supporting the tread of a rear tire of the semitrailer (12). The wheel blocking means (210) is configured to move from a forwarded position relative to the loading ramp (10) to a retracted position relative to the loading ramp (10) as the semitrailer (12) is reversing towards said loading ramp (10). The sensor (100) is configured to send a blocking signal to the guide block (200) when the distance between the rear end of the semitrailer (12) and the loading ramp (10) is below a preset threshold, thereby blocking the movement of the wheel blocking means (210).