Tractor-Trailer Utility Linkage With Automatic Adapter Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing connecting systems for tractors and trailers require manual connection of utility interfaces, which is labor-intensive and risky, especially in loading facilities where trailers need to be frequently rearranged over short distances.

Innovation Solution

A connecting system that includes a trailer adapter with a releasably connected trailer adapter element and a fastener, and a tractor adapter with a positioning device that automatically aligns and connects the tractor adapter element to the trailer adapter element using magnets and a camera for QR code detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual connection of utility interfaces is used, then the connection process is simple in structure, but the labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection operationVSAvoidconnection time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service through automated detection and connection. The tractor adapter element automatically detects the trailer adapter element's position and orientation using the QR code, then autonomously aligns and connects the utility interfaces without requiring manual intervention from operators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical connection operations with an automated system. A positioning device with camera and QR code detection substitutes for human operators physically connecting interfaces, while a positioning device with motors and sensors automates the alignment and connection process that would otherwise require manual mechanical manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual connection is performed by operators, then the connection can be made, but the risk to operators increases in limited spaces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidoperator safety risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary automated connection system between the tractor and trailer. This intermediary system, comprising the positioning device and automated alignment mechanism, performs the connection task that would otherwise require direct human intervention in hazardous limited spaces, thereby protecting operators from safety risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If frequent trailer rearrangement is performed, then logistical flexibility is improved, but the cumulative connection time and labor increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetrailer rearrangement flexibilityVSAvoidrearrangement efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by placing a QR code on the trailer adapter element in advance. This pre-prepared visual marker enables the tractor adapter element to quickly detect and identify the trailer's position and orientation without requiring complex manual inspection or alignment procedures during the rearrangement process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual connection operations with an automated system. A positioning device with camera and QR code detection substitutes for human operators physically connecting interfaces, while a positioning device with motors and sensors automates the alignment and connection process that would otherwise require manual mechanical manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables automatic and quick connection of utility interfaces between tractors and trailers without the need for manual intervention, reducing labor and risk, and facilitating efficient trailer rearrangement in loading facilities.

Implementation Method 1

a camera for detection of the QR code

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectQR code detection:

Implementation Method 2

using magnets and a camera for QR code detection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS12337908B2Connecting system and tractor linkage

Publication Date: 2025.06.24 ZF CV SYST GLOBAL GMBH

AI summary

A connecting system may be included for connecting tractor utility interfaces to corresponding trailer utility interfaces. Without limitation, the connecting system may include a trailer adapter that has a trailer adapter connector and a fastener, where the trailer adapter is configured to be releasably connected to the respective trailer utility interfaces, and where the fastener is configured to releasably fasten the trailer adapter to the trailer. The connecting system may also include a tractor adapter that has a tractor adapter connector and a positioning device, where the tractor adapter connector is configured to be connected to the respective tractor utility interfaces, and where the positioning device is configured to automatically move the tractor adapter connector in relation to the tractor in order to position the tractor adapter connector on the trailer adapter connector to obtain a functional connection between the respective utility interfaces.