Tractor-Trailer Coupling Verification Using Automated Pull Tests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual pull tests for verifying tractor-trailer couplings are time-consuming, especially in large articulated vehicle combinations, and there is a need for more efficient and robust automated methods to ensure secure connections and functional brakes.
Innovation Solution
Automated methods for verifying tractor-trailer couplings by engaging wheel brakes, generating propulsion torque, and determining coupling force using force sensing bearings and suspension system sensors to ensure mechanical linkage and braking capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual pull tests are performed by the driver, then the coupling and brakes can be verified, but the process is time-consuming especially for larger articulated vehicle combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical pull test performed by the driver with an automated system using sensors (load sensors, wheel speed sensors, acceleration sensors) and electronic control units to detect and verify coupling status and brake functionality, thereby reducing test time while maintaining verification reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the vehicle to automatically perform its own coupling verification and brake testing through integrated sensors and control systems that autonomously detect coupling status and brake performance without requiring driver intervention, thus eliminating the time-consuming manual process
2Reliability
If traditional manual pull tests are used, then coupling security can be verified, but the complexity of the verification process increases with multiple trailer units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the verification process into distinct functional segments: load sensor detection for coupling status, wheel speed sensor monitoring for brake engagement, acceleration sensor measurement for resistance detection, and control unit processing for verification logic. This segmentation simplifies the overall complexity while maintaining comprehensive verification across multiple trailer units
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs universal sensors and control units that can verify couplings across different vehicle configurations (single trailer, multiple trailers, dollies) using the same fundamental detection principles, thereby reducing process complexity regardless of the number of units in the articulated combination
3Productivity
If automated pull tests are implemented, then efficiency is increased, but additional sensors and control systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes sensors and control units that serve multiple functions: load sensors detect both coupling status and force magnitude, wheel speed sensors monitor both rotation and brake engagement, acceleration sensors measure both longitudinal and vertical acceleration. This multi-functionality increases verification efficiency while minimizing the number of separate components required
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor coupling status and brake performance, the control unit processes this data in real-time, and the system automatically adjusts or confirms verification based on detected parameters. This feedback mechanism streamlines the automated verification process while reducing the need for complex manual intervention systems
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
Provides efficient and robust verification of tractor-trailer couplings, ensuring operational mechanical linkage and braking capability, applicable to various brake types, and preventing operation until successful verification is achieved.
Implementation Method 1
determining a first coupling force between the tractor and the first trailer unit based on a force sensing bearing arranged in connection to a fifth wheel coupling
Implementation Method 2
engaging a wheel brake on the first trailer unit
Implementation Method 3
generating a propulsion torque by the tractor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for automatically verifying a coupling between a tractor and a first trailer unit, the method comprising engaging a wheel brake on the first trailer unit, generating a propulsion torque by the tractor, determining a first coupling force between the tractor and the first trailer unit, and verifying the coupling between the tractor and the first trailer unit based on the determined first coupling force.