Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle that is capable of providing a means to spread various sized gravels in front of rear tires of a heavy-duty vehicle in order enhance the traction of heavy-duty vehicle for preventing the vehicle from skidding.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Improving traction in heavy-duty vehicles is crucial for enhancing their performance, safety, and operational efficiency, particularly in challenging terrains such as snow, mud, or loose gravel. Traction enhancement technologies, such as advanced tire designs, differential locks, traction control systems, and the integration of auxiliary devices like automatic tire chains or track systems, play a vital role in maintaining stability and preventing slippage. These technologies work by optimizing the contact between the vehicle's tires and the ground, distributing power more effectively across the wheels, and automatically adjusting to changing surface conditions. Consequently, improved traction reduces wear and tear, minimizes fuel consumption, and ensures the safe and efficient transport of goods and passengers in various environments.

[0003] Traditional methods of improving traction in heavy-duty vehicles include the use of tire chains, sand or gravel spreading, and manually engaged differential locks. While tire chains can enhance grip on snow and ice, they are cumbersome to install and remove, prone to wear, and can cause damage to road surfaces. Sand or gravel spreading offers temporary traction but requires frequent application, can be environmentally harmful, and loses effectiveness as the material disperses. Manually engaged differential locks provide better wheel power distribution but can lead to increased tire wear and drivetrain stress, especially when used improperly. These methods are often labour-intensive, less effective in rapidly changing conditions, and may not provide consistent traction improvements across different terrains.

[0004] US6577944B1 discloses about an invention which includes traction control system, comprises of there is provided a method for controlling the driving traction of a wheel on a surface to reduce slippage of the wheel on the surface without the need to monitor the rotational speed of the wheel where the wheel is driven by a power unit. A threshold value of maximum acceptable acceleration for the power unit is established. The rotational speed of the power unit is measured for a first selected time interval. The rotational speed of the power unit is measured for a second selected time interval. The difference between the rotational speed of the power unit in the second time interval and the rotational speed of the power unit in the first-time interval is determined. The difference between the rotational speed of the power unit in the second- and first-time intervals are compared with the established threshold value. If the difference in rotational speed of the power unit is greater than the established threshold value, a corrective action is initiated to reduce the rotational speed of the power unit. Although US’944 relates to a device for traction control system, however, prior art lacks in spreading gravel in front of rear tires of the vehicle in order to enhance traction.

[0005] WO2018002949A1 discloses about an invention which includes traction improvement system, traction is very important for the operation of the vehicle. Vehicles with high power to weight ratio sometimes struggle to gain enough traction to use all the power effectively. From this, it should be apparent that a need exists for an apparatus and system that improves/ offer high traction to vehicle on demand. This system can be used to provide traction that can help a great deal with acceleration, braking and handling. The, design of the TIS includes actuating mechanisms and computer-based control unit mounted on the vehicle as described in the complete specification. This system using actuating mechanism, exerts pressure on wheels which in turn provide high traction between wheels and the track's surface. This increase in traction is highly effective for torque utilization, acceleration, braking and handling of the vehicle. Therefore, I conclude that such a system can be used as a traction improvement system which can significantly increase the traction available which in turn will help in improving the torque utilization, acceleration, braking and handling of the vehicle. WO’949 relates to a device for improving traction, however, the prior art lacks in detecting the possibilities of skidding of the tires of heavy-duty vehicle.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of improving traction and controlling traction of the heavy-duty vehicle over the road surface. However, these devices are incapable of enhancing traction of heavy-duty vehicle on the smooth surface. Additionally, these devices are incapable of detecting the probability of skidding of the tires.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of improve the traction by spreading gravels in front of rear tires to enhance the traction and detects the possibility of skidding of the tires, upon detection, release more gravels to prevent the vehicle from skidding.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of dispensing various type of gravels on a road surface while the heavy-duty vehicle is maneuvering on a smooth/slippery surface in order to aid in enhancing the traction of the wheel while maneuvering on the road surface.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of deterring the type of surface and accordingly dispense the suitable size of gravel on the surface.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device which is capable to determine the possibility of skidding of heavy-duty and upon detecting drop the gravels to prevent from skidding.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle that is capable of dropping different size gravel on the snowy surface in view of enhancing the traction of the wheels while maneuvering on the road surface.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle, comprise of a frame affixed with each side of chassis of a heavy duty vehicle in between front and rear wheel, by means of U-shaped clamps, nuts and bolts, plurality of chambers suspended underneath the frame by means of a motorized slider to store gravels, a communication module integrated on the frame, to establish a wireless connection between the device and a computing unit of a driver of the vehicle , to allow the driver to provide input command for spreading gravels in front of tires of rear portion, an imaging unit captures multiple images of the surface in order to detect type of surface, based on the detected type of the surface, a database linked with the microcontroller and evaluates type of gravel required to enhance traction of the tires, a iris lid integrated in bottom of each the chamber, lid of the chamber stored with evaluated type of the gravel, in order to drop the gravels in front of the rear tire, in view of enhancing traction of the tires for preventing skidding of the tires on the surface.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprise in case the driver via the computing unit provide command regarding adjustment in positioning of the chamber in between front and rear wheel drive, actuates the slider to provide movement to the chambers to change location of the chamber, a load cell is integrated in each the chamber to detect weight of the gravels remaining in the chambers, in case of receding of the detected weight beyond a pre-defined threshold value, sends an alert on the computing unit to notify the user to refill the chambers, in case imaging unit detects possibilities of skidding of the tires over the surface, iris lids to release more gravels to prevent skidding of the tires, a curved channel attached in continuation to the iris lids, to ensure spreading of the gravels in front of the tires, a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle that is capable of intensifying the traction by providing a mean to store different size gravels which is used in releasing gravels on different ground surface.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, illustrate an isometric view of a traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle, comprising of a frame 101 affixed with each side of chassis of a heavy-duty vehicle, plurality of chambers 102 suspended underneath the frame 101 by means of a motorized slider 103 to store different sized gravels, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the frame 101, a motorized iris lid 105 integrated in bottom of each the chamber, a curved channel 106 attached in continuation to the iris lids 105, to ensure spreading of the gravels in front of the tires.

[0023] The proposed device includes a frame 101 that is affixed to each side of the chassis of a heavy-duty vehicle. The frame 101 is made up of any material but not limited to plastic or rubber-like materials. The frame 101 is positioned between the front and rear wheel drives and secured by means of a U-clamp, nuts and bolts. The frame 101 is integrated with multiple chambers 102 designed to store different sizes of gravel, which is used in various traction conditions. These chambers 102 are attached to the frame 101 via a motorized slider 103.

[0024] Each motorized slider 103 consists of a motorized carriage mounted on a rail, which allows controlled linear movement of the chambers 102. When actuated by a microcontroller, the motorized slider 103 enables the precise sliding of the chambers 102 towards or away from the sides of the frame 101. This controlled movement allows for precise adjustment of the compartments, ensuring that the correct size of gravel is made available for the vehicle's needs based on current traction requirements. The device thus optimizes gravel distribution and enhances the vehicle's performance in varying driving conditions.

[0025] The frame 101 is integrated with a communication module which is designed to establish a wireless link between the device and a computing unit operated by the vehicle's driver. The communication module supports wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, to enable seamless and real-time communication. Using the wireless connection, the driver remotely sends commands to the device through the computing unit. Specifically, the driver instructs the device to spread gravel in front of the vehicle's rear tires to enhance traction. The capability is particularly useful in improving the vehicle’s performance under various driving conditions. When the microcontroller receives these commands via the communication module, then the microcontroller processes the input and activates the motorized sliders 103. The sliders 103 then adjust the position of the gravel distribution system, ensuring that the gravel is spread appropriately to optimize traction.

[0026] Upon receiving the commands from the user, the microcontroller actuates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 which is installed on the frame 101 for capturing multiple images of the surface. The imaging unit 104 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surface, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 104 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 104 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines the type of surface.

[0027] Based on the type of surface detected by the imaging unit 104, the microcontroller compares this information with a pre-established database linked to it. The database contains various surface conditions, such as muddy, smooth, snowy, and roads with potholes. Once the microcontroller matches the detected surface with the corresponding data in the database, the microcontroller evaluates the type and amount of gravel required to enhance tire traction for that specific surface condition. For example, if the imaging unit 104 captures images indicating a muddy road, the microcontroller will assess the extent of the mud and calculate the appropriate type and quantity of gravel needed. Similarly, for smooth, snowy, or pothole-ridden surfaces, the microcontroller determines the specific gravel type and amount suitable for each condition. After the evaluation, the microcontroller identifies the corresponding storage chamber containing the required gravel type. Then the microcontroller actuates the motorized sliders 103 to release the calculated amount of gravel, thereby improving the vehicle's traction and stability according to the detected surface conditions.

[0028] Upon determine the storage chamber of required shape of gravel, the microcontroller actuates a motorize iris lid 105 which is integrated in bottom of the chamber stored with evaluated size of gravel. The iris lid 105 typically refers to the iris or aperture mechanism in the camera or optical instruments as it works in a similar manner to that of a human eye for opening and closing the mouth portion of the storage chamber. The iris consists several thin and overlapping blades that forms an adjustable opening of the lid. Upon actuation of the iris lid 105 by the microcontroller the blades move apart resulting in the widening of mouth portion, in view of dropping the gravels in front of the tire on the surface for improving the traction as well as also prevents from skidding of the tires on the surface.

[0029] Upon dropping the gravels on the surface via iris lids 105, a curved channel 106 is attached in continuation to the iris lids 105. The curved channel 106 is made up of any material but not limited to plastic and rubber. The channel is responsible for spreading the gravels on the surface in front of rear tire. The design of the channel is specifically engineered to facilitate the effective spreading of gravel in front of the rear tires.

[0030] The imaging unit 104 is designed to assess the likelihood of tire skidding by analyzing surface conditions and tire behavior. Skidding can occur due to factors such as insufficient traction on slippery surfaces, abrupt changes in road texture, or inadequate gravel coverage. The imaging unit 104 detects these conditions by capturing real-time data on the road surface and the interaction between the tires and the surface. The imaging unit 104 uses sensors and algorithms to evaluate factors such as tire slip rates, surface texture, and vehicle dynamics. When the imaging unit 104 determines a high probability of skidding, it sends a signal to the microcontroller. In response, the microcontroller processes this data and actuates the iris lids 105 to release the appropriate amount of gravel. This action helps to enhance traction and prevent skidding by ensuring that the tires have a better grip on the road surface.

[0031] The chambers 102 mentioned above are integrated with load cells designed to detect the weight of the gravel as it is dispensed onto the surface. Each load cell comprises a convoluted diaphragm and a sensing module. The diaphragm deforms under the weight of the gravel in the chamber, and these deformations are detected by the sensing module. The sensing module measures the changes in the diaphragm's shape and converts this mechanical change into an electrical signal. This signal is then forwarded to the microcontroller, which processes the data to accurately determine the remaining weight of the gravel in the chamber. If the detected weight falls below a predefined threshold value, the microcontroller sends an alert to the computing unit, notifying the user that the chamber needs to be refilled.

[0032] Furthermore, a battery (not shown in fig.) is installed with the device to power all electrical and electronic component necessary for their operation. The battery is linked to the microcontroller and provides (DC) Direct Current to the microcontroller. And then, based on the order of operations, the microcontroller sends that current to those specific electrical or electronic components so they effectively carry out their appropriate function.

[0033] The proposed device works best in the following manner, where the proposed device is designed for improving the traction, comprises the frame 101 affixed with each side of chassis of the heavy-duty vehicle in between front and rear wheel drive by means of U-shaped clamp, nuts and bolts. The frame 101 is integrated with the plurality of chambers 102 which stores different size of gravels. Upon storing the gravels in chamber, then the communication module is integrated with the frame 101 which connects the device and the user wirelessly and once connection establishes, user provides input commands for spreading the gravels on the surface. Further, the type of surface is detected by the imagining unit which determines the type of surface and which sized gravel is required to drop on the surface. Moreover, the imaging unit 104 also detects the possibility of skidding on the surface and based on the detection gives signal to the microcontroller to drop the gravels in view of preventing from the skidding. Furthermore, the chamber has iris lid 105 in bottom side which open/close the chamber after receiving signal from the microcontroller. While dropping the gravel on the surface, the channel spreads the gravels towards the tires in an effective manner. Then, the load cell detects the weight of the chamber as the gravels as the gravels are falling on the surface and notifies the user to refill the chamber.

[0034] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A traction improving device for heavy-duty vehicle, comprising:

i) a frame 101 affixed with each side of chassis of a heavy-duty vehicle in between front and rear wheel drive, by means of U-shaped clamps, nuts and bolts, wherein plurality of chambers 102 suspended underneath said frame 101 by means of a motorized slider 103 to store different sized gravels;
ii) a communication module integrated in a microcontroller inbuilt on said frame 101, to establish a wireless connection between said device and a computing unit of a driver of said vehicle, to allow said driver to provide input command for spreading gravels in front of tires of rear portion in order to improve traction;
iii) an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 104 having a processer, installed on said frame 101 that is actuated by said microcontroller on receiving said input command, to capture and process multiple images of said surface in order to detect type of surface, wherein based on said detected type of said surface, said microcontroller scrutinize a database linked with said microcontroller and evaluates type of gravel required to enhance traction of said tires along with determining storage location of said evaluated type of gravel; and
iv) a motorized iris lid 105 integrated in bottom of each said chamber, wherein said microcontroller actuates said lid of said chamber stored with evaluated type of said gravel, in order to drop said gravels in front of said tire, in view of enhancing traction of said tires for preventing skidding of said tires on said surface.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said driver via said computing unit provide command regarding adjustment in positioning of said chamber in between front and rear wheel drive, then said microcontroller actuates said slider 103 to provide movement to said chambers 102 to change location of said chamber in between said front and rear wheel drive.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a load cell is integrated in each said chamber to detect weight of said gravels remaining in said chambers 102, wherein in case of receding of said detected weight beyond a pre-defined threshold value, said microcontroller sends an alert on said computing unit to notify said user to refill said chambers 102.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case imaging unit 104 detects possibilities of skidding of said tires over said surface, then said microcontroller actuates said iris lids 105 to release more gravels to prevent skidding of said tires.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a curved channel 106 attached in continuation to said iris lids 105, to ensure spreading of said gravels in front of said tires.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.