Tractor Alignment Platform for Interchangeable Trailer Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work machines with permanently coupled tractor and trailer units have low utilization rates on worksites due to the need for multiple machines to cater to different applications, and designing dedicated machines is complex, time-consuming, and costly.
Innovation Solution
An alignment system that includes a platform for supporting the tractor unit and a platform transport system to move the platform relative to interchangeable trailer units, allowing for precise alignment and coupling of the tractor and trailer units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated machines are designed for different applications, then task-specific performance is improved, but machine utilization rate deteriorates due to idle time
Solution Approach 1:
The machine system is segmented into two independent but compatible components: a universal tractor unit and interchangeable trailer units. Each trailer unit is designed for specific tasks (dump body, ejector body, container carrier, etc.), allowing the tractor to be shared across multiple applications. This segmentation enables one tractor to replace multiple dedicated machines, improving utilization while maintaining task-specific performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The tractor unit is designed with universal coupling mechanisms and interface standards that allow it to work with various types of trailer units. The coupling system, platform interface, and control architecture are universally compatible across different trailer configurations, enabling a single tractor to perform multiple functions by simply changing the attached trailer unit.
2Device complexity
If permanently coupled tractor and trailer units are used, then structural simplicity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to interchange trailers
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic reconfigurable connection. The quick-coupling mechanism allows the tractor and trailer to be connected or disconnected rapidly, and the platform transport system dynamically repositions trailers between storage areas and coupling positions. This dynamic capability enables easy interchangeability while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform serves as an intermediary device between the tractor and the trailer units. It provides a standardized interface for coupling, supports the tractor during coupling operations, and facilitates the transfer of trailers between storage and operational positions. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the coupling process while enabling versatile trailer interchangeability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single tractor unit is used with interchangeable trailers, then adaptability is improved, but alignment complexity worsens due to inability of uncoupled tractor to move independently
Solution Approach 1:
The platform acts as a mediator that provides stable support and precise positioning for the uncoupled tractor unit. Since the uncoupled tractor cannot move independently without tipping, the platform serves as a temporary base that enables controlled movement and precise alignment with trailers during coupling operations, managing the complexity of the alignment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform transport system creates an equipotential working environment by providing a stable, level platform at the correct coupling height. This eliminates the need for complex active alignment mechanisms on the tractor itself, as the platform ensures proper positioning and orientation during the coupling process, simplifying the overall alignment system.
4Reliability
If dedicated machines are manufactured for each application, then task performance is improved, but manufacturing cost and time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the machine system into a universal tractor and specialized trailers, manufacturing is divided into modular components. The tractor is manufactured once with universal interfaces, while trailers are manufactured separately for specific tasks. This reduces overall manufacturing cost and time compared to building multiple complete dedicated machines, while maintaining task-specific performance through specialized trailer design.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of manufacturing multiple complete machines that would sit idle, the system allows for discarding underutilized trailer units and recovering the universal tractor for use with different trailers. This optimizes resource utilization and reduces the total manufacturing burden, as only the high-value tractor and individually needed trailers are manufactured and maintained.
Data Source
AI summary
The work machine system comprises a tractor unit releasably connectable to interchangeable trailer units by a coupling. When a trailer unit is coupled to the tractor unit a work machine is formed for performing work functions. The tractor unit may not be capable of movement between trailer units when uncoupled, for example because it comprises only one pair of wheels rotating about a single axis and as such would tip over without support. The alignment system comprises a platform for supporting and holding the tractor unit thereon and a platform transport system to move the platform relative to the trailer units. Therefore, alignment for coupling between the tractor and trailer units can be achieved.