Patent · US Active

Systems and methods for automated operation and handling of autonomous trucks and trailers hauled thereby

US12366856B2 · kind B2 · utility

0Cited by
29References
13Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMay 28, 2024
Grant dateJul 22, 2025
Priority date
Expiry dateMay 28, 2044

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02T90/14
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A system and method for operation of an autonomous vehicle (AV) yard truck is provided. A processor facilitates autonomous movement of the AV yard truck, and connection to and disconnection from trailers. A plurality of sensors are interconnected with the processor that sense terrain/objects and assist in automatically connecting/disconnecting trailers. A server, interconnected, wirelessly with the processor, that tracks movement of the truck around and determines locations for trailer connection and disconnection. A door station unlatches/opens rear doors of the trailer when adjacent thereto, securing them in an opened position via clamps, etc. The system computes a height of the trailer, and/or if landing gear of the trailer is on the ground and interoperates with the fifth wheel to change height, and whether docking is safe, allowing a user to take manual control, and optimum charge time(s). Reversing sensors/safety, automated chocking, and intermodal container organization are also provided.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.