Truck-Trailer Connector Alignment for Automated Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies require manual intervention for establishing pneumatic and electrical connections between towing and trailer vehicles, which is inefficient and not suitable for autonomous driving applications.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an outrigger, alignment device, and gripper arm that automatically aligns and connects truck and trailer connectors, allowing for automated establishment of connections without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual intervention is used for establishing pneumatic and electrical connections, then the connection process is simple to implement, but the productivity is low and not suitable for autonomous driving
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device automatically aligns the outrigger to the trailer vehicle using the trailer's own front side as a reference, without requiring external alignment mechanisms or manual intervention. The system uses the trailer vehicle itself to perform the alignment function through the pushing action on the alignment device.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment device acts as an intermediary element between the outrigger and the trailer vehicle front side. It translates the pushing force from the trailer into rotational movement of the outrigger, mediating the interaction between these two components during the connection process.
2Manufacturing precision
If a special end effector with spring assembly is used to align adapters, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases and sensitivity to impurities and mechanical impacts worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the alignment function from a complex end effector with spring assemblies and separates it into a dedicated alignment device that slides on the outrigger. This separation simplifies the overall structure while maintaining alignment precision, as the alignment device can focus solely on its alignment function without the complexity of a multi-functional end effector.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: the outrigger for positioning, the alignment device for alignment, and the gripper arm for connector manipulation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall system complexity while improving reliability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the outrigger is made rigid for stable connection, then the connection stability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to difficulty in alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The outrigger is designed to pivot around a fastening point on the towing vehicle, transforming it from a completely rigid structure to a dynamically adjustable one. This allows the outrigger to automatically adapt its angle to match the trailer vehicle's position while maintaining structural stability during the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The outrigger automatically aligns itself with the trailer vehicle through the action of the alignment device being pushed by the trailer front. This self-alignment mechanism eliminates the need for manual adjustment while maintaining connection stability once positioned.
Data Source
AI summary
A device automatically establishes at least one connection between a towing vehicle and a trailer vehicle. The device includes an outrigger, an alignment device, a gripper arm and a gripper arm drive. A system includes the device. A towing vehicle includes a device or a system. A trailer vehicle is configured to be connected to a towing vehicle including the device or the system. A truck-trailer combination includes a towing vehicle and a trailer vehicle. Further, a method automatically establishes connections between a towing vehicle and a trailer vehicle.