Trailer Braking System Motor-Driven Worm Screw Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer braking systems face challenges such as reduced operability in cold weather, cumbersome operation, difficulty in retrofitting, inadequate power supply, and improper braking force adjustment, leading to potential collisions and damage.
Innovation Solution
A trailer braking system utilizing a motor-driven worm screw and worm gear mechanism, with a wheel speed monitor to adjust braking force and store power for increased reliability, and an anti-lock feature to prevent skidding, which automatically engages in case of disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic braking systems are used in trailers, then braking force can be applied to the trailer, but the system operates less efficiently or not at all in very cold weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic braking system with an electric motor-driven braking system. The electric motor (124) drives a worm screw (118) that engages with a worm gear (136) to actuate the brake pads (180, 182) against the rotor (184). This mechanical-electric system eliminates the temperature sensitivity of hydraulic fluids, ensuring reliable braking operation in cold weather conditions.
2Reliability
If pneumatic braking systems are used in trailers, then braking force can be applied to the trailer, but the system requires an air compressor adding weight, maintenance, and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the air compressor and associated pneumatic components from the trailer braking system. Instead, it uses an electric motor (124) that can be powered by the tractor's electrical system through the seven-pin connector, significantly reducing system complexity, weight, and maintenance requirements while maintaining reliable braking functionality.
3Reliability
If prior art trailer braking systems are used, then braking can be applied to the trailer, but a separate hand actuator is required which is cumbersome and may lead to late or incomplete actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the trailer braking system actuation with the tractor's existing brake pedal operation. When the tractor driver presses the brake pedal, the electrical signal simultaneously actuates both the tractor brakes and the trailer electric motor (124), ensuring coordinated braking action without requiring a separate hand actuator. This integration ensures timely and complete brake application in critical situations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable braking systems are used in trailers, then braking force can be modified, but the difficulty in anticipating the exact amount of trailer braking needed leads to too much or too little braking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism through the worm gear (136) and worm screw (118) mechanical advantage system, which provides precise control over brake pad (180, 182) application force. The self-locking nature of the worm drive allows for accurate positioning and maintenance of the desired braking force level, enabling precise adaptation to different load conditions without manual adjustment errors.
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 reliable and efficient trailer braking, preventing trailer pushback, reducing skidding, and maintaining effective braking performance in cold weather without additional power sources, while allowing for precise braking force adjustment and automatic engagement.
Implementation Method 1
A motor (124) drives a worm screw (118) against a worm gear (136)
Implementation Method 2
the brake pad (180, 182) into engagement with a brake rotor (184) to slow the trailer
Data Source
AI summary
A system for braking a trailer pulled by a vehicle. A trailer braking system is provided on a trailer. An electrically actuated motor drives a worm screw against a worm gear. The worm gear drives a brake actuator to push brake pads into a rotor coupled a wheel on the trailer. A wheel speed monitor reduces braking force of the trailer braking system in response to a predetermined change in wheel speed. An anti-lock braking system reduces trailer wheel skid under braking. Multiple trailer braking systems can be applied to multiple wheels on the trailer to provide more or less braking.