Telescopic Sensor Arm for Driverless Semi-Trailer Reversing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Driverless transport vehicles face difficulties in detecting obstacles, especially in the rear area of longer vehicle/trailer combinations, which can lead to dangerous situations during navigation and reversing.
Innovation Solution
A driverless transport vehicle equipped with a telescopic arm and surroundings detection devices, such as laser or ultrasonic sensors, positioned to detect obstacles near the trailer, allowing for better navigation and avoidance of hazards. The vehicle can be coupled to a semi-trailer using a fifth-wheel coupling system and features omnidirectional movement for efficient maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hitch at the driverless transport vehicle is used to attach smaller trailers, then the vehicle can transport trailers in assembly lines, but sufficient detection of obstacles in the entire environmental area of the vehicle/trailer combination becomes very difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the obstacle detection system into multiple segments: a first surroundings detection device at the front of the driverless transport vehicle and a second surroundings detection device at the rear of the trailer. This segmentation allows each detection device to independently monitor its respective zone, solving the problem of obstacle detection in the entire vehicle/trailer combination while maintaining trailer attachment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an arm as an intermediary component that connects the second surroundings detection device to the driverless transport vehicle. The arm extends behind the vehicle to position the detection device in the rear area of the trailer, enabling obstacle detection in previously inaccessible zones without interfering with the hitch attachment function
2Productivity
If the vehicle/trailer combination is used for navigation in assembly lines, then transport efficiency is improved, but dangerous situations may occur during reversing due to poor rear area obstacle detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by positioning the second surroundings detection device on the arm to detect obstacles in the rear area before the vehicle/trailer combination reverses into dangerous situations. The detection device provides advance warning, allowing the control system to prevent reversing operations when obstacles are detected, thus maintaining both transport efficiency and safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where the second surroundings detection device continuously monitors the rear environment and provides real-time information to the control system. This feedback enables the system to make informed decisions about reversing operations, stopping or preventing dangerous maneuvers while maintaining efficient transport operations
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
Enhanced obstacle detection and navigation capabilities, particularly in reversing scenarios, prevent accidents and ensure safe operation of the vehicle/trailer combination by allowing timely intervention and obstacle avoidance.
Implementation Method 1
the surroundings detection device comprises at least one laser sensor or LIDAR sensor
Implementation Method 2
the surroundings detection device comprises at least one ultrasonic sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a driverless transport vehicle for moving a semi-trailer. The driverless transport vehicle comprises a base body and a telescopic arm protruding from the base body, said telescopic arm comprising a surroundings detection device on one end facing away from the base body. The invention also relates to a method for moving a semi-trailer using a driverless transport vehicle.