Adjustable Wheel Locking for Disabled Vehicle Transport Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles may become disabled or unable to drive safely, necessitating secure transport to prevent damage to the vehicle and potential hazards during retrieval and transport.
Innovation Solution
A securement system with adjustable locking mechanisms engages vehicle wheels to a transport surface, using prongs or fingers to hold the wheels in place, with adjustable bar arrangements to constrain movement during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a disabled vehicle is transported on a flatbed truck, then the vehicle can be moved to a safe location or repair facility, but the vehicle may become dislodged during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism includes adjustable components that can dynamically adapt to different wheel positions and transport conditions. The mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states based on transport phase, providing dynamic security during movement while allowing easy access during loading/unloading.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the locking parameter from unlocked to locked state during transport. The adjustable locking mechanism modifies its engagement depth and force application based on the wheel position and transport requirements, ensuring optimal securing without damaging the vehicle.
2Reliability
If locking mechanisms are used to secure vehicle wheels, then the vehicle remains stationary during transport, but the mechanisms add complexity to the transport system
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional segments: positioning components, locking components, and actuating components. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall design and maintenance of the securement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on wheel position detection, reducing the need for manual operation. The system self-adjusts to different wheel sizes and positions, minimizing the complexity of manual adjustment procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable locking mechanisms are used to accommodate different wheel positions, then the system can secure various vehicle types, but the adjustment mechanism increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed as a universal system that can accommodate multiple wheel types, sizes, and positions through a single adjustable device. The mechanism performs multiple functions: positioning, locking, and adapting to different vehicle types, replacing the need for multiple specialized locking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable components enable the locking mechanism to dynamically adapt its configuration based on the detected wheel position and characteristics. This dynamic adjustment capability provides versatility for different vehicle types while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect, a securement system configured to secure wheels of a vehicle against a surface, e.g., a surface on a transport vehicle, includes one or more locking mechanisms that are dynamically adjustable to engage the wheels. A locking mechanism may include mechanical structures such as prongs or fingers which are configured to apply forces to a wheel to effectively hold the wheel in place. The securement system may also include a bar arrangement which cooperates with the locking mechanisms to further constrain the movement of a vehicle that is secured to a surface using the securement system.