Single-Axle Dolly Auto-Coupling With Variable Height Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-powered dolly vehicles require manual adjustment of height over ground for coupling, which is complex and time-consuming, and there is a need for improved handling and fuel efficiency in heavy-duty vehicle combinations.
Innovation Solution
A single axle dolly vehicle unit with an electrical energy source powering electric machines for wheel propulsion, featuring a variable height suspension system controlled by a control unit for auto-coupling, and a supporting member with a swiveling wheel for adjusting height over ground, enabling remote control and sensor-assisted alignment with trailer units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of height over ground is used for coupling, then the dolly vehicle can be coupled to trailer units, but the coupling procedure becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically controls the variable height suspension system to adjust the height over ground of the fifth wheel connection and drawbar to predetermined values, enabling the dolly vehicle to perform self-adjustment without manual intervention during coupling operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system stores predetermined height values for the fifth wheel connection and drawbar that are prepared in advance for different coupling scenarios, allowing the control unit to quickly retrieve and apply the appropriate height settings without manual calculation or adjustment
2Productivity
If manual adjustment of height over ground is used for coupling, then the dolly vehicle can be coupled to trailer units, but the operation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit replaces manual mechanical adjustment operations with automated electronic control of the variable height suspension system, substituting complex manual mechanical procedures with simplified electronic height adjustment commands
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages the height adjustment process through the control unit, which independently controls the suspension system to achieve proper coupling heights without requiring complex manual operations by the operator
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
Simplifies the coupling process, enhances fuel efficiency, and improves maneuverability and stability of heavy-duty vehicle combinations through automated height adjustment and remote control capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a variable height suspension system arranged to adjust a height over ground of the fifth wheel connection
Implementation Method 2
an electrical energy source arranged to power at least one electric machine configured to drive left and right wheels of the single axle
Implementation Method 3
a supporting member with a swiveling wheel arranged to adjust a height over ground of the drawbar
Data Source
AI summary
A single axle dolly vehicle unit for a heavy duty vehicle combination, the dolly vehicle unit comprising an electrical energy source arranged to power at least one electric machine configured to drive left and right wheels of the single axle, the dolly vehicle unit further comprising a drawbar and a fifth wheel connection for mating with first and second trailer units, respectively, wherein the fifth wheel connection is arranged to be adjusted in height over ground by a variable height suspension system, the dolly vehicle unit further comprising a control unit arranged to control the variable height suspension system.