Trailer Tandem Position Sensor System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current truck-trailer systems rely on manual and visual methods for adjusting the tandem position, which can lead to non-compliance with state regulations regarding minimum and maximum tandem lengths, affecting ride control, handling, and turning radius.
Innovation Solution
A tandem position sensing system mounted to the underside of a trailer or chassis, equipped with a range sensor that measures the distance of the sliding tandem to a fixed position, and communicates this data to the driver and/or dispatcher, ensuring compliance with regulations and improving vehicle performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual visual methods are used to adjust tandem position, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and regulatory compliance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual measurement methods with an automated sensor-based system. A sensor mounted on the trailer body measures the distance to the tandem, and a controller automatically determines tandem position, eliminating the need for manual intervention while improving measurement precision and regulatory compliance.
2Ease of operation
If manual visual observation is used for tandem position, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of compliance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors tandem position through sensors and provides feedback to the driver via displays or alerts. This automated feedback mechanism ensures reliable regulatory compliance by continuously verifying tandem position within legal limits, while remaining easy to operate as it functions automatically without driver intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The tandem position measurement system performs self-service by automatically measuring and monitoring its own function. The sensor continuously measures distance to the tandem, the controller processes this data to determine position, and the system self-verifies compliance without requiring external manual observation, thereby ensuring reliable regulatory adherence.
3Measurement precision
If automated sensor system is implemented, then measurement precision and compliance are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall complexity. The same sensor and controller setup measures tandem position for regulatory compliance, provides data for optimizing turning radius, and can monitor for safety conditions, thereby achieving multiple objectives with a single integrated system rather than multiple separate devices.
4Device complexity
If tandem position is not monitored, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information regarding vehicle performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors tandem position and provides feedback information to the driver and fleet managers. This includes real-time data on wheelbase length, turning radius implications, and regulatory compliance status, eliminating information loss while maintaining acceptable system complexity through efficient data processing and communication.
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 system automates the measurement and reporting of tandem position, reducing the risk of regulatory violations and enhancing vehicle handling and safety by providing real-time data on wheelbase and turning radius.
Implementation Method 1
the range sensor includes a time-of-flight (ToF) sensor, and the signal includes a light signal or a sound wave
Implementation Method 2
a receiver configured to receive a reflected signal from the sliding tandem
Data Source
AI summary
A tandem position sensing system includes a range sensor configured to emit a signal toward a sliding tandem and to measure a distance between the range sensor and the sliding tandem, a sensor housing configured to house the range sensor, the sensor housing having a first opening through which the range sensor is configured to emit the signal, and a coupling member attached to the sensor housing and configured to couple the range sensor housing to a body of a trailer or a chassis.