Trailer Hitch Evaluation Device Using Spring Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch evaluation systems face measurement errors and deviations in determining trailer mass, necessitating a more precise method.
Innovation Solution
An evaluation device with sensors and a control unit that considers the spring and damping properties of the trailer hitch components, using force signals and acceleration data to calculate trailer mass through differential equations and mathematical modeling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the trailer mass is determined based on acceleration and force signals without considering spring properties, then the evaluation is simpler, but measurement errors and deviations occur reducing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by incorporating spring parameters (stiffness coefficients) into the mass determination calculation. The evaluation unit now considers not only acceleration and force signals but also the spring characteristics of the coupling components, transforming the evaluation from a simple force-acceleration relationship to a more comprehensive model that accounts for the elastic properties of the trailer hitch system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring parameters act as an intermediary element that mediates between the force signals and the mass determination. By introducing these intermediate parameters that characterize the elastic behavior of the coupling arm and bracket, the system can more accurately translate measured forces into mass values while accounting for the dynamic compliance of the hitch components.
2Measurement precision
If the trailer coupling is treated as a rigid unit, then the evaluation model is simpler, but measurement errors occur due to ignoring dynamic spring behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining the spring parameters in advance through finite element analysis or physical testing. These pre-determined spring characteristics are then stored and used during actual trailer mass evaluation, eliminating the need for real-time measurement of spring properties while still accounting for their influence on mass determination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for direct mechanical measurement of spring properties with computational methods. Finite element analysis and physical tests are used to determine spring parameters, which are then incorporated into the evaluation algorithm, substituting complex mechanical characterization with more manageable computational and experimental approaches.
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
This approach allows for precise determination of trailer mass by accounting for the dynamic behavior of the trailer hitch, reducing measurement errors and improving accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element 42, in particular a torsion spring, whose spring constant c is used as a basis for the mathematical model
Implementation Method 2
a damper element 43, in particular a viscous damper, whose damping value d is used as a basis for the mathematical model
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 6
AI summary
The invention relates to a trailer coupling (30) for a towing vehicle (11), comprising in particular a coupling arm (31), at the free end of which a coupling body (33), in particular a coupling ball (34), is arranged for attaching a trailer (20) and which is fixedly or movably arranged on a bracket (45) attached or attachable to the towing vehicle (11), and with a sensor arrangement (50) comprising at least one sensor (51, 52) for detecting a tractive force (Fx) and/or thrust force acting on the coupling element during towing of the trailer (20) and for outputting a force signal (fx) representing the tractive force (Fx) and/or thrust force, and with an evaluation device (60) comprising evaluation means (68) for determining a trailer mass value (ah) of the trailer (20) on the basis of the force signal (fx).It is provided that the evaluation means (68) for determining the trailer mass value (ah) are designed by means of an evaluation of at least one spring parameter (c) which represents at least one spring property of the trailer coupling (30), in particular of the coupling support (32).