Tugger Train Trailer Data Processing for Dynamic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tugger train systems lack flexibility in automated operation due to rigid configurations between tractors and trailers, leading to potential errors and reduced adaptability for special trips or maintenance, as the number and type of trailers affect driving characteristics and collision monitoring areas.
Innovation Solution
A trailer for a tugger train equipped with a data processing device that transmits parameter data, including dimensions and driving characteristics, via a signal connection to the tractor, allowing for flexible assembly and adaptation of vehicle control for different trailer configurations, reducing manual input and downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated tugger trains use predefined rigid configurations between tractors and trailers, then control reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the monitoring area and control parameters based on the actual trailer configuration. The vehicle control device receives data about the number and types of trailers from the trailers themselves, then automatically adjusts the monitoring area and safety distances accordingly, transitioning from static predefined configurations to dynamic adaptive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailers autonomously provide their own configuration data to the vehicle control device through their data processing devices. Each trailer transmits information about its type, dimensions, and characteristics, enabling the system to self-configure without manual intervention or predefined settings, thereby improving both reliability and adaptability.
2Productivity
If the number and type of trailers are increased to improve transport capacity, then productivity is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback loops where trailers continuously transmit their configuration data to the vehicle control device, which then adjusts the monitoring area and safety parameters in real-time. This automated feedback mechanism allows the system to handle variable trailer configurations without increasing operational complexity, supporting higher productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle control device automatically changes control parameters such as monitoring area size, safety distances, and collision detection thresholds based on the received trailer configuration data. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain simple operation while handling complex multi-trailer configurations with different characteristics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual entry of configuration data is used to improve adaptability, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The trailers autonomously provide their own configuration data through integrated data processing devices that automatically transmit trailer type, dimensions, and characteristics to the vehicle control device. This eliminates manual data entry entirely, preventing human errors while maintaining full configuration flexibility and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of entering configuration data with an automated electronic data transmission system. The signal connection between trailers and the vehicle control device substitutes human operators, eliminating the potential for entry errors while maintaining adaptability through programmable parameters.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the monitoring area for collision detection is increased to improve safety, then safety is improved, but loss of time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring area is dynamically adjusted based on the actual trailer configuration rather than using a fixed conservative size. The vehicle control device calculates the appropriate monitoring area based on received data about trailer numbers, types, and positions, reducing the monitored area when fewer or smaller trailers are present while maintaining adequate safety coverage, thus reducing time loss without compromising collision safety.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
In the case of a trailer for a tugger train (1) with a towing device (8), in particular a front drawbar (9) and a rear trailer coupling, as well as a signal connection (10) for transmitting data to a tractor and/or other trailers, a data processing device (7) is assigned to the trailer (2), which can transmit parameter data of the trailer (2) via the signal connection (10), wherein the parameter data include in particular dimensions of the trailer (2) and/or geometric driving characteristics such as curve paths depending on a steering angle of the drawbar (9) and/or available information from personal protection devices.