Vehicle Docking Assembly With Self-Alignment on Uneven Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tow hitch systems require precise alignment, are difficult to use on uneven terrain, and are not suitable for autonomous systems or harsh environments, limiting their adaptability and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A docking system with rotatable components allowing self-alignment and a compliance mechanism that enables vehicles to connect securely, even on uneven surfaces, and provides electrical and fluid connections without manual intervention, suitable for autonomous systems and harsh environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tow hitch systems are used, then mechanical coupling between vehicles is achieved, but precise alignment is required and usability on uneven terrain deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly incorporates rotatable components including a receiver that rotates about a pitch axis and a plug that rotates about yaw and roll axes. These dynamic elements allow the coupling mechanism to adapt its orientation automatically, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment while maintaining reliable mechanical coupling between vehicles on uneven terrain
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the docking components by introducing multiple degrees of freedom through rotational joints. The pitch, yaw, and roll rotations enable the coupling interface to accommodate varying angles and positions, transforming a rigid alignment requirement into a flexible adaptive connection
2Reliability
If traditional tow hitch systems are used, then mechanical connection is achieved, but adaptability to harsh environments and autonomous systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly serves multiple functions: mechanical coupling through the receiver-plug interface, electrical connection through integrated connectors, and adaptability to various terrains through rotational degrees of freedom. This multi-functional design enhances versatility for both autonomous systems and harsh environment operations while maintaining reliable connections
3Ease of operation
If rotatable components with multiple degrees of freedom are added, then alignment ease is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly is segmented into distinct rotational components: the receiver with pitch rotation, the plug with yaw and roll rotations, and the mounting interfaces. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific alignment adjustments independently, simplifying the overall self-alignment process while managing complexity through modular design
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for docking vehicles for towing are disclosed herein. An example docking system to mechanically couple a first vehicle and a second vehicle includes a first docking assembly and a second docking assembly. The first docking assembly includes a first mounting interface to be coupled to the first vehicle and a receiver rotatably coupled to the first mounting interface to enable the receiver to rotate about a pitch axis relative to the first vehicle. The receiver defines an opening. The second docking assembly includes a second mounting interface to be coupled to the second vehicle and a plug to be inserted into the opening of the receiver. The plug is rotatably coupled the second mounting interface to enable the plug to rotate about a yaw axis relative to the second vehicle and rotate about a roll axis relative to the second vehicle.