Automated Towing Coupling with Robotic Plug-In Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for automating the connection of media transmission between towing and towed vehicles are susceptible to environmental influences and lack flexibility and rigidity, making them unreliable for daily use and requiring manual, time-consuming processes that pose safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle combination with a multi-part connection system comprising plug-in units and a support device, including a transport device such as an articulated robot, and a support mechanism with actuators to ensure precise and automated plugging of electrical, compressed air, and data connections, using threaded components and locking mechanisms to secure the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual connection of transmission lines is used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but time consumption increases and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system enables automatic self-alignment and self-connection of plug-in units through the articulated robot transport device, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system performs the coupling operation autonomously by transporting the plug-in unit to the correct position and securing it mechanically
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical connection operations are replaced by an automated robot system that transports and positions plug-in units. The articulated robot performs the coupling function previously requiring human operators to physically connect transmission lines
2Extent of automation
If rigid automated connection systems are used, then automation extent increases, but flexibility to accommodate vehicle movements decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates flexible elements including hoses and cables that can dynamically adapt to vehicle movements. The articulated robot transport device can adjust its positioning to accommodate relative movements between towing and towed vehicles while maintaining the connection
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into modular plug-in units that can be independently positioned and connected. This segmentation allows each unit to be flexibly positioned by the robot while maintaining overall system connectivity and adaptability to vehicle movements
3Productivity
If automated connection systems are used, then productivity increases, but reliability under environmental influences decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates protective measures against environmental influences such as sealed connections and protected cable routing. The plug-in units are designed with protective features that cushion against dirt, moisture, and other environmental factors before they can affect the connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses robust, easily replaceable plug-in units that can withstand environmental conditions. If a connection component is damaged by environmental factors, it can be quickly replaced by the automated system, maintaining overall reliability through redundancy and ease of replacement
4Reliability
If precise automated plugging is implemented, then connection reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated robot transport device serves as an intermediary between the plug-in unit and the connection point. It provides precise positioning and controlled movement, ensuring reliable connection without requiring complex alignment mechanisms in the plug-in units themselves
Solution Approach 2:
The robot transport device performs multiple functions including transporting the plug-in unit, positioning it precisely, and potentially assisting in the connection process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized mechanisms, managing overall system complexity while achieving precise automated plugging
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
The system ensures reproducible and mechanically robust connections that withstand environmental conditions and vehicle movements, reducing manual intervention and safety risks while enhancing efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a transport device which can move the first plug-in unit to the second plug-in unit in such a way that a plugging operation can then take place
Implementation Method 2
a support device which mechanically assists the plugging operation between the first and second plug-in units
Implementation Method 3
using threaded components and locking mechanisms to secure the connection
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a vehicle combination, a coupling system and a method for coupling a towing vehicle with a towed vehicle.