Trailer Steering and Axle Load Redistribution for Tight Turns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Longer vehicles with three or more rear wheel axles face challenges in maneuvering tight spaces and turning around physical hindrances, requiring multiple attempts and risking damage due to limited turning radius and swept path, which existing systems either increase tire wear, reduce payload, or demand high maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system with controlled steered rear axles and axle suspension redistributes weight to reduce the turning radius and swept path, allowing trailers to navigate tighter spaces without reversing, maintaining vehicle traction and grip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If controlled steered axles are used to reduce turning radius, then maneuverability is improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the trailer's own steering movement to automatically generate the counter-steering angle for the controlled axle through a mechanical linkage, eliminating the need for external sensors, controllers, and power sources. The system self-regulates based on the trailer's natural steering geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
A mechanical intermediary linkage connects the trailer's steering mechanism to the controlled rear axle, transmitting the counter-steering motion passively. This mechanical mediator enables coordinated steering without requiring electronic control systems or additional power sources.
2Ease of operation
If weight is redistributed to reduce turning radius, then maneuverability is improved, but vehicle traction and grip may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the weight distribution and steering angle of the controlled axle based on the trailer's position and steering input during the turn. This dynamic adaptation allows optimal maneuverability while maintaining sufficient traction throughout the maneuver.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the steering angle parameter of the controlled axle in response to the trailer's steering input, creating a counter-steering effect that reduces the turning radius. This parameter adjustment is proportional to the trailer's steering angle, maintaining traction while improving maneuverability.
3Ease of operation
If existing controlled steering systems are used, then turning radius is reduced, but tire wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controlled axle applies only the necessary counter-steering angle proportional to the trailer's steering input, rather than maximum steering at all times. This partial action reduces tire wear while still achieving the desired reduction in turning radius during the maneuver.
4Ease of operation
If existing controlled steering systems are used, then turning radius is reduced, but payload capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the trailer's own steering mechanism and weight distribution to achieve the counter-steering effect, without adding heavy electronic control systems, motors, or complex actuators. This self-service approach minimizes additional weight and preserves payload capacity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for optimizing steering of trailers having three or more rear wheel axles (4a, 4b, 4c; 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) and being pulled by a vehicle, wherein - one or more of the rear wheel axles (4a, 4b, 4c; 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) are controlled steered axles (4c, 24d), and - one or more of the wheel axles (4a, 4b, 4c; 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) has a system for axle suspension and control of the weight per axle, wherein the total weight on the axles may be redistributed. The present invention further relates to a method for optimizing steering of trailers having three or more rear wheel axles (4a, 4b, 4c; 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) and being pulled by a vehicle, wherein the trailer (2, 22) has a system according to the invention. The method comprises steps of - detecting parameters of speed, axle load and steer angle between vehicle and trailer, and - controlling the steering of one or more of the rear wheel axles having controlled steered axles (4c, 24d), and - redistributing the weight on the wheel axles (4a, 4b, 4c; 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) having a system for axle suspension, according to the parameters detected.