AU2016238872A1 - Coupling Actuated Landing Gear Systems and/or Methods for Articulated Vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a coupling actuated landing gear system for an articulated vehicle comprised of at least two separable vehicle sections, the system including: a first vehicle section having a first coupling portion and a second vehicle section having a second coupling portion, the first and second vehicle sections being releasably coupleable to one another via the first and second coupling portions; coupling sensor means disposed on the second vehicle section, for determining whether the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged or disengaged with one another; landing gear means disposed on the second vehicle section, the landing gear means including drive means for extending or retracting at least one landing gear leg of the landing gear means upon command; and, control means disposed on the second vehicle section, for actuating the drive means of the landing gear means, for extending or retracting the at least one landing gear leg, dependent on the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means; wherein the control means is configured to only actuate the drive means to retract the at least one landing leg upon the coupling sensor means determining that the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged. Also provided are associated methods for coupling and uncoupling an articulated vehicle in accordance with the present invention. CO< C-, U.) -j j _o Of 't, CN-J LU 't

Description

-1 - 2016238872 05 Oct 2016

COUPLING ACTUATED LANDING GEAR SYSTEMS AND/OR METHODS FOR

ARTICULATED VEHICLES

CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001 ] This application claims benefit of and priority to, Australian Provisional Patent Application No.: 2015904082, filed on 7 October 2015, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to coupling actuated landing gear systems and/or methods for articulated vehicles, and relates particularly, though not exclusively, to coupling actuated landing gear systems and/or methods for tractor vehicles, trucks, trailers and/or semi-trailers. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and/or methods for automatically actuating semi-trailer landing gear upon detecting correct engagement or disengagement of the semi-trailer kingpin with a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable or fifth wheel.

[0003] It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in relation to coupling actuated landing gear systems and/or methods for tractor vehicles, trucks, trailers and/or semi-trailers, which utilise a kingpin and turntable or fifth wheel coupling arrangement, however it should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that use only. For example, the systems and/or methods of the present invention could also be used with other trailer coupling devices or arrangements and/or with other forms of articulated vehicles without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as herein defined. A skilled person will appreciate many possible uses and modifications of the systems and/or methods of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention as hereinafter described should not be construed as limited to any one or more of the specific examples provided herein, but instead should be construed broadly within the spirt and scope of the invention as defined in the description and claims that now follows. 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 1 -2- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention. It should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms a part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia or elsewhere, on or before the priority date of the disclosure herein.

[0005] Unless stated otherwise, throughout the ensuing description, the expressions “tractor vehicle” and/or “truck” refer to any form of powered or motorised vehicle that can be used to haul or tow one or more trailers in accordance with the systems and/or methods of the present invention. Similarly, the expressions “trailer” and/or “semi-trailer” refer to any form of vehicle (whether non-motorised or motorised), preferably without a front axle, that is designed to be hauled or towed by at least one powered or motorised tractor vehicle or truck in accordance with the systems and/or methods of the present invention. In embodiments where only a single trailer is required, it should be understood that a trailer may be directly coupled to a tractor vehicle, truck or other form of powered or motorised vehicle in accordance with the invention. Alternatively, in embodiments where multiple trailers are required, it should be understood that a first or lead trailer may be directly coupled to a tractor vehicle, truck or other form of powered or motorised vehicle, whilst one or more trailing trailer(s) may be coupled to the or a lead(ing) trailer either directly, or by way of a ‘dolly’, in accordance with the invention. Finally, where the expressions “coupling”, “coupling apparatus”, “interlocking coupling assembly”, “coupling assembly”, “hitch”, “pin”, “kingpin”, “turntable”, “turntable assembly” and/or “fifth wheel” are used, same are intended to refer to any suitable form of mechanical and/or electrical device or arrangement which can be used to connect a trailer to a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer, etc., in accordance with the systems and/or methods of the present invention. A skilled person will appreciate many such vehicles and/or coupling devices or arrangements that can be used in accordance with the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention should not be construed as limited to any one or more of the specific examples provided herein. Finally, the definitions of the expressions hereinbefore described are only provided 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 2 -3- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 for assistance in understanding the nature of the invention, and more particularly, the preferred embodiments of the invention as hereinafter described. Such definitions, where provided, are merely examples of what the expressions refer to, and hence, are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0006] A ‘semi-trailer’ is a term used to refer to a trailer which has one or more rear axles, but no front axle(s). A large proportion of the weight of a semi-trailer is therefore supported by a tractor vehicle, a truck, a detachable front axle assembly known as a ‘dolly’, or the tail of another trailer (i.e. a lead trailer). For this reason, a semi-trailer is normally equipped with landing gear (e.g. legs which can be raised and lowered) to support the semi-trailer when it is uncoupled. Typical landing gear must be selectively and manually deployed by an operator when required.

[0007] To couple a semi-trailer to a tractor vehicle (or truck, dolly, lead trailer, etc.) an interlocking coupling assembly comprised of components on both the tractor vehicle, etc., and the semi-trailer, mate to achieve a mechanical connection. Typically, the tractor vehicle, etc., is equipped with a coupling assembly, known as a ‘fifth wheel’ or ‘turntable’ assembly, whilst the semi-trailer includes a steel pin or the like, known as a ‘kingpin’, for engaging (and interlocking with) the turntable. The turntable includes a hitch plate having a throat with its open end facing rearwardly to receive the kingpin, and a locking mechanism (typically jaws) for locking the kingpin in the throat of the hitch plate. In use, the underside surface of the semitrailer (with the kingpin at the centre) rotates against the hitch plate of the turntable, which does not rotate. To reduce friction, grease is typically applied to the hitch plate of the turntable.

[0008] Although turntable/kingpin coupling assemblies are considered very effective for towing purposes, offering significantly improved towing stability as compared to other coupling assemblies, a problem with turntable/kingpin coupling assemblies is that it can be difficult to determine if the semi-trailer kingpin is correctly engaged or disengaged from the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable. Even though the kingpin and turntable may appear coupled, if the kingpin is not seated properly in the turntable jaws a ‘high couple’ may result leading to an unsafe 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 3 -4- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 and potentially hazardous condition. Additionally, even if the kingpin and turntable are at proper engaging height relative to one another, the turntable throat and the kingpin may be laterally misaligned. In either case, a ‘positive coupling’ is not achieved, and the kingpin/turntable coupling assembly and/or the tractor vehicle (or truck, dolly, lead trailer, etc.) may be damaged or unsafe.

[0009] If a semi-trailer kingpin is not correctly engaged (i.e. positively coupled) with a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable, an unsuspecting operator may retract the semi-trailer landing gear (i.e. wind up the landing legs) and attempt to drive away leading to what is commonly referred to as a ‘drive-off’ incident, resulting in the semi-trailer becoming disconnected from the tractor vehicle, etc., and dropping to the ground. Disengagement of the kingpin from a turntable may be accidental, as discussed previously, or may be as a result of sabotage. In either case, if a drive-off incident occurs, such can lead to heavy fines and/or significant costs (such as, for example, repair costs for the vehicle and/or ground surface, or costs associated with damage to cargo and/or delays associated with the delivery of cargo, etc.).

[0010] A need therefore exists for improved systems and/or methods for detecting correct engagement or disengagement of a semi-trailer kingpin with a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable, and for only allowing actuation of the semi-trailer landing gear upon correct engagement or disengagement being detected - such that a drive-off incident is prevented or at least significantly less likely to occur. More particularly, a need exists for a system and/or method for automatically actuating semi-trailer landing gear upon detecting correct engagement or disengagement of the semi-trailer kingpin with a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable. A need also exists for a system and/or method for a preventing movement of a semi-trailer relative to a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer if disengagement of the kingpin is detected. Finally, a need also exists for easily identifiable visual and/or audible warning devices which can alert an operator of the state of engagement or disengagement of a semi-trailer kingpin relative to a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable. 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 4 -5- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a coupling actuated landing gear system for an articulated vehicle comprised of at least two separable vehicle sections, the system including: a first vehicle section having a first coupling portion and a second vehicle section having a second coupling portion, the first and second vehicle sections being releasably coupleable to one another via the first and second coupling portions; coupling sensor means disposed on the second vehicle section, for determining whether the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged or disengaged with one another; landing gear means disposed on the second vehicle section, the landing gear means including drive means for extending or retracting at least one landing gear leg of the landing gear means upon command; and, control means disposed on the second vehicle section, for actuating the drive means of the landing gear means, for extending or retracting the at least one landing gear leg, dependent on the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means; wherein the control means is configured to only actuate the drive means to retract the at least one landing leg upon the coupling sensor means determining that the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged.

[0012] Preferably, the first vehicle section includes at least one air and/or electrical supply line for releasably connecting to at least one air and/or electrical supply connector disposed on the second vehicle section.

[0013] Preferably, the system further includes supply line connector sensor means disposed on the second vehicle section, for determining whether the at least one air and/or electrical supply line is connected or disconnected to/from the at least one air and/or electrical connector.

[0014] Preferably, the control means is further configured to only actuate the drive means to retract the at least one landing leg upon the connector sensor means determining that the at least air and/or electrical supply line is connected to the at least one air and/or electrical connector. 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 5 -6- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 [0015] Preferably, the control means is further configured to only actuate the drive means to extend the at least one landing leg upon the coupling sensor means determining that the first and second coupling portions have been disengaged.

[0016] Preferably, the control means is further configured to only actuate the drive means to extend the at least one landing leg upon the connector sensor means determining that the at least air and/or electrical supply line have been disconnected from the at least one air and/or electrical connector.

[0017] Preferably, the first and second vehicle sections further include brake means, and the control means is preferably further configured to activate or deactivate the brake means of the second vehicle section dependent on the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means.

[0018] Preferably, the control means is further configured to activate the brake means of the second vehicle section until such time that the coupling sensor means determines that the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged and the at least one landing leg of the landing gear means has been fully retracted.

[0019] Preferably, the system further includes at least one warning light and/or audible alarm disposed on the second vehicle section, for alerting an operator of the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means, and/or for alerting the operator of the process of retracting and/or extending of the at least one landing leg of the landing gear means.

[0020] Preferably, the landing gear means further includes at least one landing leg sensor position means for determining the position of the at least one landing leg, and the control means is preferably further configured to utilise the at least one landing leg position sensor means during actuation of the at least one landing leg so as to know when the at least one landing leg is fully retracted or extended. 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 6 -7- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 [0021 ] In a practical preferred embodiment, the first vehicle section is a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer, and the second vehicle section is a semi-trailer. In this practical preferred embodiment, it is preferred that the first coupling portion is a turntable, and the second coupling portion is a kingpin. Preferably, the turntable includes jaw means for releasably and pivotally holding the kingpin captive when correctly engaged. Preferably, the coupling sensor means includes at least one ultrasonic sensor for determining whether the turntable jaw means are fully closed, and hence whether the kingpin is correctly engaged with the turntable. Preferably, the coupling sensor means further includes at least one magnetic sensor for determining whether the second vehicle section is vertically aligned with the first vehicle section so as to ensure correct engagement of the kingpin with the turntable.

[0022] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an articulated vehicle, including the coupling actuated landing gear system of any one of the preceding paragraphs.

[0023] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a semi-trailer, including the second vehicle components of the coupling actuated landing gear system of any one of the preceding paragraphs.

[0024] According to still yet a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of coupling a semi-trailer to a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer; the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer including a turntable, and the semi-trailer including a kingpin which can be selectively engaged and disengaged with the turntable; the semi-trailer including landing gear means including drive means for automatically extending and retracting at least one landing leg of the landing gear means upon command; the method including the steps of: moving the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly, lead trailer or semi-trailer so as to engage, or attempt to engage, the kingpin with the turntable; determining whether the kingpin is correctly engaged with the turntable by way of sensor means disposed on the semi-trailer, and if it is correctly engaged, actuating the drive means of the landing gear means so as to automatically retract the at least one landing leg, otherwise alert an operator 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 7 -8- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 of the incorrect engagement of the kingpin with the turntable by way of at least one warning light and/or audible alarm disposed on the semi-trailer.

[0025] Preferably, the semi-trailer includes brake means, and the method further includes the step of: holding the brake means in an engaged or applied state until such time that it is determined that the kingpin is correctly engaged with the turntable and the at least one leg of the landing gear means is fully retracted.

[0026] According to still yet a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of uncoupling a semi-trailer from a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer; the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer including a turntable, and the semi-trailer including a kingpin which can be selectively engaged and disengaged with the turntable; the semi-trailer including landing gear means including drive means for automatically extending and retracting at least one landing leg of the landing gear means upon command; the method including the steps of: determining whether the kingpin has been disengaged from the turntable by way of sensor means disposed on the semi-trailer, and if it has been disengaged, actuating the drive means of the landing gear means so as to automatically extend the at least one landing leg; and, moving the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly, lead trailer or semitrailer so as to complete the uncoupling process.

[0027] Preferably, the method of uncoupling a semi-trailer from a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer, further includes the step of: providing a visual and/or audible warning to an operator of the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly, lead trailer or semi-trailer to indicate to the operator that the semi-trailer kingpin has been disengaged from the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable.

[0028] These and other essential or preferred features of the present invention will be apparent from the description that now follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] In order that the invention may be more clearly understood and put into practical effect there shall now be described in detail preferred constructions of 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 8 -9- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 coupling actuated landing gear systems and/or methods for articulated vehicles, preferably tractor vehicles, trucks, trailers and/or semi-trailers, in accordance with the invention. The ensuing description is given by way of non-limitative examples only and is with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: [0030] Fig. 1 is a partial perspective view from above of a semi-trailer, shown connected to a tractor vehicle, the semi-trailer incorporating a coupling actuated landing gear system made in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; [0031 ] Figs. 2 to 4 are similar views to that of Fig. 1, illustrating in stages how the preferred coupling actuated landing gear system may be operated in order to un-hitch the semi-trailer from the tractor vehicle; [0032] Fig. 5 is a similar view to that of Fig. 4, this time shown partly in cross-section so as to illustrate a preferred arrangement of sensors relative to the semitrailer kingpin; [0033] Fig. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the semi-trailer kingpin and tractor vehicle turntable, showing the semi-trailer kingpin disengaged from the tractor vehicle turntable; [0034] Fig. 7 is a similar view to that of Fig. 6, this time showing the semitrailer kingpin correctly engaged with the tractor vehicle turntable; [0035] Figs. 8 to 10 are similar views to that of Figs. 2 to 5, this time illustrating in stages how the preferred coupling actuated landing gear system may be operated in order to hitch the semi-trailer to the tractor vehicle; and, [0036] Fig. 11 is a block diagram illustrating preferred electrical and/or electromechanical components of the preferred coupling actuated landing gear system shown in Figs. 1 to 10. 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 9 -10 - 2016238872 05 Oct 2016

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0037] In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout, and which are intended to show by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilised and that procedural and/or structural changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0038] In Fig. 1 there is shown a preferred embodiment of a system 10 for automatically actuating a semi-trailer’s 12 landing gear 14 upon detecting correct engagement or disengagement of the semi-trailer’s kingpin 16 (see, for example, Fig. 5) with a tractor vehicle’s 18 (or dolly’s or lead trailer’s - not shown) fifth wheel or turntable 20 (see, for example, Fig. 4). Although a semi-trailer 12 and tractor vehicle 18 are described and shown in the drawings, is should be appreciated that system 10 of the present invention could also be used with other forms of articulated vehicles (whether motorised or non-motorised). Similarly, although a kingpin 16 and turntable 20 coupling assembly is described and shown in the drawings, it will be appreciated that other forms of coupling assembly may be readily used in accordance with system 10 of the present invention. A skilled person will appreciate many alternative articulated vehicles and/or coupling assemblies suitable for use with system 10 of the present invention, and as such, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the specific examples provided.

[0039] As can be best seen in Figs. 6 and 7, turntable 20 preferably includes an upper surface which defines a hitch plate 22 (which bears the weight of the forward end of semi-trailer 12), and a throat 24 having its open end facing rearwardly (toward semi-trailer 12) to receive kingpin 16. Turntable 20 also includes a locking mechanism 26, for example a set of jaws 26 as shown, for locking kingpin 16 in throat 24, of turntable 20, when required. Jaws 26 are preferably configured to lock automatically (e.g. are biased to their locked state, etc.) upon kingpin 16 being driven into throat 24, typically by way of reversing tractor vehicle 18 into alignment with semi-trailer 12. In order to selectively (and manually) release kingpin 16 from 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 10 - 11 - 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 turntable 20, for example, when it is desired to uncouple or unhitch semi-trailer 12 from tractor vehicle 18, turntable 20 preferably includes a jaw release activator or lever 28 (which includes a handle portion 28a, as shown) which may be pulled or otherwise manipulated generally in the direction of arrow x (see, Figs. 2 &amp; 6).

[0040] Referring, for example, to Figs. 4 &amp; 10, it can be seen that landing gear 14, of semi-trailer 12, preferably includes two landing legs 14a that can be automatically extended (Fig. 4) or retracted (Fig. 10), as required (e.g. in order to unhitch or hitch semi-trailer 12 to tractor vehicle 18) by way of at least one drive/motor means 30 (hereinafter simply referred to as “drive means 30”). In order to readily determine whether landing legs 14a are extended or retracted, landing gear 14 also preferably includes at least one leg position sensor 32. Although the use of one or more leg position sensor(s) 32 is shown and described, it will be appreciated that other forms of electrical/mechanical/electromechanical means or methods could be used to readily determine the position of landing legs 14a. For example, if drive means 30 were a stepper motor, then the position of landing legs 14a could be determined by counting the amount of rotations (in steps) that the motor has moved. A skilled person will appreciate this and other alternative means of determining the position of landing legs 14a, and as such, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the specific example provided.

[0041] As can be seen in, for example, Figs. 5 to 8, in order to readily determine whether kingpin 16 is correctly engaged with turntable 20, a number of sensors 34n are disposed (preferably) on semi-trailer 12. A first sensor 34i (or sensors) is preferably a magnetic sensor (but may be any other suitable form of proximity sensor) which is used to determine the presence of the rear end of tractor vehicle 18, and turntable 20, under the forward end of semi-trailer 12 (relative to kingpin 16). First sensor 34i is also preferably used to determine whether semitrailer 12 is correctly vertically aligned with tractor vehicle 18 so as to ensure correct vertical engagement of kingpin 16 with turntable 20 (i.e. so as to avoid a ‘high coupling’, etc.). A second sensor 342 (or sensors) is preferably an ultrasonic sensor (but may be any other suitable form of sensor(s)) which is used to determine whether jaws 26 are correctly locked around kingpin 16, and hence, whether kingpin 16 is 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 11 - 12 - 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 correctly engaged with turntable 20. As can be seen in Figs. 6 &amp; 7, second sensor(s) 342 is positioned such that it can readily see when jaws 26 wrap around kingpin 16 as same passes to the closed end of throat 24. Although specific examples of sensors 34n, and the position and/or arrangement thereof, have been provided, a skilled person will appreciate many variations in design, or choice of sensor(s), which could be used in accordance with the present invention. For example, instead of using an ultrasonic sensor(s) 342 to determine whether jaws 26 are correctly engaged with kingpin 16, the kingpin 16 could include a hollow shaft with an internal sensor that could readily detect when jaws 26 are wrapped around kingpin 16. Further, should the tractor vehicle 18 already include suitable sensing means for determining whether kingpin 16 is correctly engaged with turntable 20, such as, for example, the sensing means incorporated into the design of Saf Holland or Jost tractor vehicles), separate sensors 34n may not be required in accordance with the invention as the existing sensor data could be transferred to the system 10 controller (discussed later), as required. Accordingly, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the specific examples provided.

[0042] In order to power and/or control components of semi-trailer 12, such as, for example, the semi-trailer’s 12 brakes (not shown) and taillights (not shown), tractor vehicle 18 includes at least one air and/or electrical supply line 36n for releasably connecting to at least one air and/or electrical supply connector or coupling 38n disposed on semi-trailer 12. The, or each, air and/or electrical supply connector 38n includes, or is associated with, a supply connector sensor or means 40n (see, Fig. 11) for determining whether the air and/or electrical supply line(s) 36n is/are connected or disconnected to/from semi-trailer 12. It should be appreciated that supply connector sensor(s) or means 40n may simply be basic components (and may include existing typical semi-trailer components) that detect whether an air and/or electrical supply is present at semi-trailer 12.

[0043] In order to alert an operator (not shown) of the state of kingpin 16 relative to turntable 20, i.e. in order to inform the operator as to whether or not kingpin 16 is correctly engaged with turntable 20, and/or in order to inform the operator of the process of retracting and/or extending landing legs 14a, of landing 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 12 -13 - 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 gear 14, semi-trailer 12 preferably includes a signal box 42, which may include one or more warning lights, for example, two lights - one green 42a, and one red 42b, as shown, and an audible alarm or speaker 42c. Warning lights 42a, 42b, and audible alarm 42c, of signal box 42, may be actuated as desired, in any particular arrangement, in accordance with the invention. Certainly preferred examples of how these lights 42a, 42b, and alarm 43c, may be utilised in accordance with the present invention will be provided hereinafter. It should be appreciated that the lights 42a, 42b, and alarm 42c, are not essential to the operation of system 10, but instead are preferred components included for safety purposes, etc. Accordingly, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the specific examples provided.

[0044] Referring to Fig. 11, in order to enable system 10 to automatically actuate semi-trailer’s 12 landing gear 14 upon detecting correct engagement or disengagement of kingpin 16 (using, for example, sensors 34n), relative to the turntable 20, system 10 includes a controller 44 (preferably disposed on semi-trailer 12) which is configured to receive sensor data from: leg position sensor(s) 32nof landing gear 14; kingpin/turntable sensors 34n; and, air/electrical supply line connector sensor(s) or means 40n. Controller 44 is also configured to utilise the sensor data received in order to activate and/or deactivate the drive means 30 (of landing gear 14) and signal box 42 (including warning lights 42a, 42b, and audible alarm 42c), as required, dependent on the correct engagement or disengagement of kingpin 16 relative to turntable 20.

[0045] Although not shown in Figs. 1 to 10, system 10 may also be configured to receive inputs 46 (see, Fig. 11) from other areas of semi-trailer 12, thereby preventing actuation of landing gear 14, and/or the deactivation of semi-trailer 12 brakes 48n preventing movement of semi-trailer 12 (as will be discussed in further detail below), until such time that matters other than kingpin 16 engagement with turntable 20 are rectified. For example, system 10 may include additional sensors (not shown) for detecting that a door (not shown) and/or curtain (not shown) of semitrailer 12 has been left open, or that charging leads have been left connected to semi-trailer 12 batteries (not shown) and/or components (not shown). A skilled person will appreciate these and many other examples of additional inputs 46 that 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 13 - 14- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 could be supplied to controller 44 in accordance with the invention. Accordingly, the present invention should be construed as including within its scope, any suitable form of additional sensor/input 46 that could be supplied to controller 44 in accordance with system 10 of the present invention.

[0046] Further, and as already briefly described above, in accordance with a further preferred aspect of the present invention, controller 44 of system 10 may be configured to control the braking units 48n (see, Fig. 11 - which may be in electronic or non-electronic form) of semi-trailer 12 (and/or possibly those of tractor vehicle 18), so as to prevent semi-trailer 12 from moving (e.g. being hauled by tractor vehicle 18) until such time that it is determined by controller 44 that kingpin 16 is correctly engaged with turntable 20, landing legs 14a have been fully retracted, and/or, air/electrical supply lines 36n have been connected to semi-trailer 12 (by way of air/electrical supply line connectors 38n). The braking units 48n of semi-trailer 12, may also be held active/engaged, by controller 44, until any other matters are rectified (e.g. concerning other inputs 46, etc.), as desired.

[0047] In order to provide a better understanding of the preferred operation of system 10 of the present invention, and how semi-trailer 12 may be un-hitched and hitched to tractor vehicle 18 as desired, reference will now be made to Figs. 2 to 4, and Figs. 8 to 10.

[0048] Figs. 2 to 4 illustrate, in stages, how preferred system 10 may be operated in order to un-hitch semi-trailer 12 from tractor vehicle 18. The preferred process of un-hitching semi-trailer 12, from tractor vehicle 18, preferably starts (at Fig. 2) by an operator: pulling (or otherwise manipulating - generally in the direction of arrow x) jaw release lever handle 28a, such that kingpin 16 is released from jaws 26, of turntable 20, and/or, disconnecting air/electrical supply lines 36n from semitrailer 12 (e.g. the preferred un-hitching process shown in Figs. 2 to 4 may start by either pulling handle 28a and then releasing the air/electrical supply lines 36n- or -by releasing the air/electrical supply lines 36n and then pulling handle 28a, etc.). This results in controller 44, via second sensor(s) 342 and/or supply connection sensor(s) or means 40n, detecting that kingpin 16 is no longer engaged with 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 14 - 15- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 turntable 20, and/or, that air/electrical supply lines 36n have been disconnected from semi-trailer 12. Upon determining that kingpin 16 is no longer engaged with turntable 20 (and/or that air/electrical supply lines 36n have been disconnected), controller 44 may then immediately activate drive means 30, of landing gear 14, so as to cause landing legs 14a to start to extend toward the ground - as indicated by arrow y in Fig. 2. At this stage, controller 44 may also illuminate red warning light 42b (which may flash, if desired) and sound audible alarm 42c, so as to alert the operator that the un-hitching process is in effect. The red warning light 42b, and audible alarm 42c, will ideally continue to operate until such time that it is determined by controller 44, via leg position sensor(s) 32, that landing legs 14a have been fully extended, and hence, that it is now safe to move the tractor vehicle 18 away from semi-trailer 12. Once controller 44 has determined that landing legs 14a have been fully extended to their operating position, controller 44 may then deactivate drive means 30, of landing gear 14, the red warning light 42b, and audible alarm 42c, of signal box 42, and instead illuminate the green warning light 42a (which may flash, or be illuminated as a solid light, as desired), so as to alert the operator that is it now safe to move the tractor vehicle 18 away from semi-trailer 12 - as is indicated by the stage of the preferred un-hitching process shown in Fig. 3. The operator may then move the tractor vehicle 18 away from semi-trailer 12, as is indicated by the stage of the preferred un-hitching process shown in Fig. 4. The controller 44 may be configured to deactivate the green warning light 42a after a predetermined time (such as, for example, 30 seconds), or may be configured to deactivate upon first sensor 34i determining that the rear end of tractor vehicle 18 is no longer present under the forward end of semi-trailer 12.

[0049] If desired, during the preferred un-hitching process shown in Figs. 2 to 4, should, for example, the process of extending landing legs 14a, of landing gear 14, be configured to commence before air/electrical supply lines 36n are disconnected from semi-trailer 12, controller 44 may activate the semi-trailer 12 (and/or tractor vehicle 18) braking units 48n so as to prevent the operator from moving the semi-trailer 12 (and/or tractor vehicle 18) during the un-hitching process. Alternatively, the operator may simply need to rely on the warning lights 42a, 42b, 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 15 -16- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 and/or audible alarm 42c, as a means of knowing that he/she is to keep semi-trailer 12 and tractor vehicle 18 stationary during the un-hitching process.

[0050] Figs. 8 to 10 illustrate, in stages, how preferred system 10 may be operated in order to hitch semi-trailer 12 to tractor vehicle 18. The preferred process of hitching semi-trailer 12, to tractor vehicle 18, preferably starts (at Fig. 8) by an operator: manipulating tractor vehicle 18 (e.g. reversing) so that kingpin 16 is received within throat 24 of turntable 20. As tractor vehicle 18 approaches semitrailer 12, controller 44, via first sensor(s) 34i, detects the presence of tractor vehicle 18 relative to semi-trailer 12. At this point, controller 44 preferably illuminates (in flashing form) red warning light 42b so as to alert the operator that the kingpin 16 is not yet correctly engaged with turntable 20. When the operator correctly aligns tractor vehicle 18 with semi-trailer 12, and hence, when kingpin 16 is correctly captured/engaged by jaws 26, of turntable 20 (as determined by controller 44, via second sensor(s) 342), the red warning light 42b preferably (and temporarily) switches from flashing form to solid form, so as to alert the operator that he/she has correctly engaged kingpin 16 with turntable 20. At this point, controller 44 may also briefly activate audible alarm 42c so as to ensure that the operator is aware of the correct engagement of kingpin 16 with turntable 20. Shortly thereafter, controller 44 may then activate drive means 30, of landing gear 14, so as to cause landing legs to start to retract toward the underside of semi-trailer 12 - as indicated by arrow z in Fig. 8. At this stage, controller 44 may also illuminate red warning light 42b (in flashing form) and sound audible alarm 42c, so as to alert the operator that the hitching process is in effect - as is indicated by the stage of the preferred hitching process shown in Fig. 9. The red warning light 42b (flashing), and audible alarm 42c, will ideally continue to operate until such time that it is determined by controller 44, via leg position sensor(s) 32, that landing legs 14a have been fully retracted. Once controller 44 has determined that landing legs 14a have been fully retracted to their transit position, controller 44 may then deactivate drive means 30, of landing gear 14, the red warning light 42b, and audible alarm 42c, of signal box 42, and instead illuminate the green warning light 42a (which may flash, or be illuminated as a solid light, as desired), so as to alert the operator that the hitching process is complete, and that it is now safe to haul semi-trailer 12 using tractor vehicle 18 - as 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 16 - 17- 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 is indicated by the completed stage of the preferred hitching process shown in Fig. 10. The operator may then haul semi-trailer 12 using tractor vehicle 18 as desired. The controller 44 may be configured to deactivate the green warning light 42a after a predetermined time, such as, for example, 30 seconds.

[0051] It is preferred that during the hitching process shown in Figs. 8 to 10, that controller 44 activates (and holds active) the semi-trailer 12 (and/or tractor vehicle 18) braking units 48n so as to prevent the operator from moving the tractor vehicle 18 away from the semi-trailer 12 during and until the hitching process is complete. Thus, any ‘drive-off incidents are prevented or at least substantially less likely to occur by way of system 10 of the present invention.

[0052] It is also preferred that the air/electrical supply lines 36n may be connected to semi-trailer 12 at any time prior to, during, or after the preferred hitching process shown in Figs. 8 to 10. However, it is also preferred that controller 44 will not deactivate semi-trailer 12 (and/or tractor vehicle 18) braking units 48n until such time that it is determined (by controller 44, via air/electrical supply line sensor(s) or means 40n) that air/electrical supply lines 36n have been connected to semi-trailer 12.

[0053] The present invention therefore provides a novel and useful system 10 for automatically actuating a semi-trailer’s 12 landing gear 14 upon detecting correct engagement or disengagement of the semi-trailer’s kingpin 16 with a tractor vehicle’s 18, etc., turntable 20. Also provided, as will be apparent from the disclosure herein, and the appended claims, are associated novel methods for coupling and uncoupling a semi-trailer 12 in accordance with the invention. Many advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the detailed description of the preferred embodiments provided hereinbefore.

[0054] While this invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modification(s). The present invention is intended to cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the invention following in general, the principles of the invention and 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 17 - 18 - 2016238872 05 Oct 2016 including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth.

[0055] As the present invention may be embodied in several forms without departing from the spirit of the essential characteristics of the invention, it should be understood that the above described embodiments are not to limit the present invention unless otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the attached claims. Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the specific embodiments are to be understood to be illustrative of the many ways in which the principles of the present invention may be practiced.

[0056] Where the terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprised” or “comprising” are used in this specification, they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components referred to, but not to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components to be grouped therewith. 05/10/16, complete patent specification, 18

Claims (21)

1. CLAIMS:

   1. A coupling actuated landing gear system for an articulated vehicle comprised of at least two separable vehicle sections, the system including: a first vehicle section having a first coupling portion and a second vehicle section having a second coupling portion, the first and second vehicle sections being releasably coupleable to one another via the first and second coupling portions; coupling sensor means disposed on the second vehicle section, for determining whether the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged or disengaged with one another; landing gear means disposed on the second vehicle section, the landing gear means including drive means for extending or retracting at least one landing gear leg of the landing gear means upon command; and, control means disposed on the second vehicle section, for actuating the drive means of the landing gear means, for extending or retracting the at least one landing gear leg, dependent on the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means; wherein the control means is configured to only actuate the drive means to retract the at least one landing leg upon the coupling sensor means determining that the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged.
2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first vehicle section includes at least one air and/or electrical supply line for releasably connecting to at least one air and/or electrical supply connector disposed on the second vehicle section.
3. 3. The system of claim 2, further including supply line connector sensor means disposed on the second vehicle section, for determining whether the at least one air and/or electrical supply line is connected or disconnected to/from the at least one air and/or electrical connector.
4. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the control means is further configured to only actuate the drive means to retract the at least one landing leg upon the connector sensor means determining that the at least air and/or electrical supply line is connected to the at least one air and/or electrical connector.
5. 5. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means is further configured to only actuate the drive means to extend the at least one landing leg upon the coupling sensor means determining that the first and second coupling portions have been disengaged.
6. 6. The system of claim 5, when appended to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the control means is further configured to only actuate the drive means to extend the at least one landing leg upon the connector sensor means determining that the at least air and/or electrical supply line have been disconnected from the at least one air and/or electrical connector.
7. 7. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second vehicle sections further include brake means, and wherein the control means is further configured to activate or deactivate the brake means of the second vehicle section dependent on the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means.
8. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the control means is further configured to activate the brake means of the second vehicle section until such time that the coupling sensor means determines that the first and second coupling portions are correctly engaged and the at least one landing leg of the landing gear means has been fully retracted.
9. 9. The system of any one of the preceding claims, further including at least one warning light and/or audible alarm disposed on the second vehicle section, for alerting an operator of the state of the first and second coupling portions as determined by the coupling sensor means, and/or for alerting the operator of the process of retracting and/or extending of the at least one landing leg of the landing gear means.
10. 10. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the landing gear means further includes at least one landing leg position sensor means for determining the position of the at least one landing leg, and wherein the control means is further configured to utilise the at least one landing leg position sensor means during actuation of the at least one landing leg so as to know when the at least one landing leg is fully retracted or extended.
11. 11. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first vehicle section is a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer, and wherein the second vehicle section is a semi-trailer.
12. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the first coupling portion is a turntable, and wherein the second coupling portion is a kingpin.
13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the turntable includes jaw means for releasably and pivotally holding the kingpin captive when correctly engaged.
14. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the coupling sensor means includes at least one ultrasonic sensor for determining whether the turntable jaw means are fully closed, and hence whether the kingpin is correctly engaged with the turntable.
15. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the coupling sensor means further includes at least one magnetic sensor for determining whether the second vehicle section is vertically aligned with the first vehicle section so as to ensure correct engagement of the kingpin with the turntable.
16. 16. An articulated vehicle, including the coupling actuated landing gear system of any one of the preceding claims.
17. 17. A semi-trailer, including the second vehicle section components of the coupling actuated landing gear system of any one of claims 1 to 15.
18. 18. A method of coupling a semi-trailer to a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer; the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer including a turntable, and the semi-trailer including a kingpin which can be selectively engaged and disengaged with the turntable; the semi-trailer including landing gear means including drive means for automatically extending and retracting at least one landing leg of the landing gear means upon command; the method including the steps of: moving the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly, lead trailer or semi-trailer so as to engage, or attempt to engage, the kingpin with the turntable; determining whether the kingpin is correctly engaged with the turntable by way of sensor means disposed on the semi-trailer, and if it is correctly engaged, actuating the drive means of the landing gear means so as to automatically retract the at least one landing leg, otherwise alert an operator of the incorrect engagement of the kingpin with the turntable by way of at least one warning light and/or audible alarm disposed on the semi-trailer.
19. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the semi-trailer includes brake means, and wherein the method further includes the step of: holding the brake means in an engaged or applied state until such time that it is determined that the kingpin is correctly engaged with the turntable and the at least one leg of the landing gear means is fully retracted.
20. 20. A method of uncoupling a semi-trailer from a tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer; the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer including a turntable, and the semi-trailer including a kingpin which can be selectively engaged and disengaged with the turntable; the semi-trailer including landing gear means including drive means for automatically extending and retracting at least one landing leg of the landing gear means upon command; the method including the steps of: determining whether the kingpin has been disengaged from the turntable by way of sensor means disposed on the semi-trailer, and if it has been disengaged, actuating the drive means of the landing gear means so as to automatically extend the at least one landing leg; and, moving the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly, lead trailer or semi-trailer so as to complete the uncoupling process.
21. 21. The method of claim 20, further including the step of: providing a visual and/or audible warning to an operator of the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly, lead trailer or semi-trailer to indicate to the operator that the semi-trailer kingpin has been disengaged from the tractor vehicle, truck, dolly or lead trailer turntable.