Trailer Coupling Lock Position Detection Using Magnetic Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer couplings face challenges in detecting the rest and working positions clearly, leading to uncertainty about the locking status of the pivot bearing body, which can result in potential malfunctions or defects.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a detector unit that uses a magnetic field sensor to detect the active and inactive positions of the rest position locking device without physical contact, allowing for reliable locking confirmation and defect detection, and ensuring independent operation from the rotation blocking device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a pushbutton 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 pushbutton switch with a magnetic field-based detector unit. The detector unit uses a magnetic field sensor to detect the position of the rest position locking device without mechanical contact, thereby eliminating the need for structural integration and reducing device complexity while maintaining detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the detector unit and the rest position locking device. The magnetic field sensor detects changes in the magnetic field caused by the movement of magnetizable components in the locking device, enabling indirect detection without mechanical contact or structural integration.
2Reliability
If the detector unit detects both active and inactive positions, then defect detection capability is improved, but the detection system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector unit automatically detects both active and inactive positions of the rest position locking device through magnetic field changes, enabling self-diagnosis and defect detection without requiring additional sensors or complex detection systems. The system uses the existing magnetic field environment to derive multiple detection functions.
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 solution provides clear signals for secured rest and working positions, enabling reliable locking confirmation and defect detection, thus enhancing the operational safety and reliability of the trailer coupling.
Implementation Method 1
the detector unit detects the at least one position of the rest position locking device by a magnetic field influenced by the at least one position of the rest position locking device
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to detect the rest position and/or the working position of a trailer coupling by means of a clear signal, it is proposed that a detector unit be assigned to the rest position locking device which detects at least one active position of the rest position locking device.