Trailer Coupling Suspension Layout for Stable Rear-Wheel Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicles designed for trailer hauling lack a robust and reliable coupling/locking mechanism, leading to insecure attachment and detachment, safety risks, and operational inefficiencies. Additionally, they often lack an effective suspension system to maintain alignment and provide a stable ride, especially on uneven terrains.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an innovative coupling/locking mechanism and advanced suspension system specifically designed for vehicles engaged in trailer hauling. The coupling mechanism ensures secure attachment and compatibility with various trailer configurations, while the suspension system maintains proper alignment and provides a smooth ride even on rugged terrains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hitches and couplings are used for trailer attachment, then the vehicle can be equipped with trailer-hauling capabilities, but the attachment becomes insecure and detachment becomes unreliable during vehicle maneuvers or when towing heavy loads
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates a dynamic locking system with a locking member that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The locking member is biased by a spring and can be actuated to engage or disengage from the coupling member, providing reliable attachment during towing while allowing controlled detachment when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the coupling function into distinct components: a coupling member on the trailer and a locking member on the vehicle. This extraction of functions allows the locking mechanism to operate independently to secure the attachment, while the coupling member remains available for connection and disconnection operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional suspension systems are used in vehicles, then the vehicle structure remains simple, but the vehicle cannot maintain alignment with the trailer or provide a stable ride on uneven or rough roads
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system merges the vehicle's existing frame structure with additional suspension components including a suspension arm, shock absorber, and spring assembly. This integration allows the suspension to maintain vehicle-trailer alignment stability while being centrally positioned within the vehicle frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension arm is positioned at an angle relative to the vehicle frame, creating a diagonal support structure. This angular configuration provides both vertical shock absorption and lateral stability, helping to maintain alignment with the trailer while absorbing uneven terrain forces.
3Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used for trailer coupling, then the mechanism structure remains simple, but the attachment becomes insecure and constant monitoring and adjustments are required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates a spring-biased locking member that automatically engages with the coupling member when the vehicle is connected to the trailer. The spring provides continuous force to maintain the locked state, eliminating the need for constant monitoring or manual adjustments while ensuring secure attachment.
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 significantly improves the safety, efficiency, and versatility of automated vehicles for trailer hauling, reducing safety risks and operational complexities, and enhancing their ability to operate effectively across diverse terrains and trailer configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a shock absorber, comprising a first end, coupled to the suspension bracket, and a second end, coupled to the suspension brace
Implementation Method 2
the suspension apparatus... provides a smooth ride even on rugged terrains
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension apparatus, configured for a center-positioned rear wheel apparatus of a vehicle comprising two front wheels. The suspension apparatus includes a suspension bracket, coupled to the center-positioned rear wheel apparatus and to a first frame portion of a frame of the vehicle, as well as a suspension brace, centrally coupled to a second frame portion of the frame of the vehicle, the suspension brace including a diagonally raised connection end. The suspension apparatus further includes a shock absorber, having a first end, coupled to the suspension bracket, and a second end, coupled to the suspension brace, wherein the shock absorber is configured in a raised diagonal direction towards the connection end of the suspension brace. A method for configuring the suspension apparatus is further disclosed.