Trailer Coupling Rest Position Locking With Hall Sensor Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer couplings lack a reliable and unambiguous method to detect the rest and operating positions, which can lead to potential defects in the rest position locking device and inconsistent detection by the detector unit.
Innovation Solution
A trailer coupling with a detector unit that contactlessly detects the active and inactive positions of the rest position locking device using a magnetic field sensor, such as a Hall sensor, and a state evaluating unit to generate signals indicating a secured rest position, independent of the rotation blocking device, with a deactivating unit to transition the rest position locking device into an inactive state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a touch contact switch is used to detect the position of the rest position locking device, then the detection function is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex and requires integration into the locking device structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical touch contact switch with a magnetic field-based detector unit. The detector unit uses a magnet and magnetic field sensor to detect the position of the rest position locking device contactlessly, eliminating the need for mechanical contact and reducing structural complexity while maintaining detection functionality.
2Reliability
If the detector unit contactlessly detects the position using magnetic field, then the device structure is simplified and reliability is improved, but requires additional magnetic components
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet in the detector unit serves multiple functions: it generates the magnetic field for detection and also acts as a positional indicator for the rest position locking device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate magnetic components while achieving reliable contactless detection.
3Reliability
If the rest position locking device is independent of the rotation blocking device, then the detection of rest position is more reliable, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the locking system into two independent functional modules: the rotation blocking device for blocking rotation and the rest position locking device for securing the rest position with independent detection. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function reliably while the detector unit provides independent verification of the rest position locking status.
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
Ensures reliable detection and secure locking of the pivot bearing body in the rest position, preventing defects and ensuring consistent operation by providing unambiguous signals for the rest and operating positions.
Implementation Method 1
the detector unit detects the at least one position of the rest position locking device by means of a magnetic field influenced by the at least one position of the rest position locking device
Implementation Method 2
A magnetic field sensor of this type is, for example, a Hall sensor
Data Source
AI summary
In a trailer coupling, in order to detect the rest position and/or the operating position by means of an unambiguous signal, it is proposed that a detector unit is associated with the rest position locking device, said detector unit detecting at least one active position of the rest position locking device.