Automated Trailer Door Opening With Robotic Lock-Rod Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of connecting and disconnecting trailers to trucks is labor-intensive and hazardous for drivers, and automated solutions have not effectively addressed the need for automated opening of trailer swing doors, which is a repetitive and dangerous task.
Innovation Solution
A mobile platform with a manipulator arm and end effector is used to unlock and open trailer doors, equipped with a force sensor and camera assembly for safety and cargo inspection, and employs machine learning for cargo integrity verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual processes are used for connecting and disconnecting trailers from trucks, then labor flexibility is maintained, but labor intensity increases and safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, machine learning algorithms, and robotic manipulators to perform trailer door operations, thereby reducing labor intensity while managing system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system enables the trailer door operation to be performed autonomously without human intervention, with the system self-regulating through sensors and machine learning to detect cargo conditions and execute appropriate door operations
2Ease of operation
If automated systems are implemented for trailer door operation, then labor intensity is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, machine learning algorithms, and robotic manipulators to perform trailer door operations, thereby reducing labor intensity while managing system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces intermediary components such as sensors, machine learning models, and control systems that mediate between the physical trailer door and the automated control, simplifying the operation interface while managing overall system complexity
3Reliability
If manual door opening is performed, then system simplicity is maintained, but safety hazards increase due to driver exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, machine learning algorithms, and robotic manipulators to perform trailer door operations, thereby reducing labor intensity while managing system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system enables the trailer door operation to be performed autonomously without human intervention, with the system self-regulating through sensors and machine learning to detect cargo conditions and execute appropriate door operations
4Productivity
If automated cargo inspection is implemented, then inspection efficiency is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, machine learning algorithms, and robotic manipulators to perform trailer door operations, thereby reducing labor intensity while managing system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor cargo conditions, machine learning models analyze the data, and the system adjusts its door operation decisions based on the analyzed information, improving both efficiency and precision through iterative learning
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a station for opening trailer swing doors that uses a sled with a manipulator arm and associated end effector/tool to perform the unlocking of the trailer lock rod, swinging open of the door, holding the door in the opened position and applying an resilient/flexible/springy retention clip thereto. The sled moves into and out of a confronting position relative to the trailer rear/doors to allow that trailer to drive into or out of the station at the beginning or end of the task. Closing of doors can also be performed at the station in the reverse order of steps. The door retention clip can be adapted with features that allow it to perform the various opening and closing tasks herein. The station can include tracks for guiding the sled between a non-interfering and interfering position with respect to the path of travel of the truck/trailer.