Method and system of determining load characteristics of a trailer
US8380390B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 24, 2009 |
| Grant date | Feb 19, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 19, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60T2230/06
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for determining characteristics of a trailer being towed by a vehicle. The trailer is coupled to the vehicle using a trailer hitch using at least one intelligent bolt or fastener. The intelligent fastener has structural characteristics similar to those of traditional bolts for fastening a trailer to a vehicle (e.g., shear strength, diameter, etc.), but the intelligent fastener is configured to sense forces at a junction between the trailer and the vehicle. An ESC system receives force readings from the intelligent fastener sensors along with signals from a plurality of other sensors and determines one or more characteristics of the trailer. The ESC system compensates the motion of the vehicle based on the forces sensed at the junction and the characteristics of the trailer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.