Claims:1. A system (100) for balancing a load on a vehicle (101) and a trailer (103) attached thereto, said system (100) comprising:
a plurality of tow hook mounting brackets (201M, 201B, 201T) connected to said vehicle (101);
a tow hook (203) movably supported onto said tow hook mounting brackets (201M, 201B, 201T);
a frame (211) attached to said trailer (103);
a movable link member (205) interconnecting said frame (211) with said tow hook (203);
a first lifting mechanism (301H), said first lifting mechanism (301H) coupled to said tow hook (203);
a second lifting mechanism (301F), said second lifting mechanism (301F) coupled to said movable link member (205);
at least one sensor (401) mounted at a predetermined position of said vehicle (101); and
a controller (403) provided in communication with said at least one sensor (401), said first lifting mechanism (301H) and said second lifting mechanism (301F),
wherein,
said sensor (401) is adapted to monitor and communicate at least one sensory information to said controller (403), where said sensory information is a parameter relevant to balancing load on said vehicle (101) and said trailer (103); and
said controller (403) is adapted to operate said first lifting mechanism (301H) and second lifting mechanism (301F) to move said tow hook (203) and said movable link member (205) respectively in a synchronized manner for balancing load on said vehicle (101) and said trailer (103), thereby preventing a front-end lift of said vehicle (101) based on said sensory information from said sensor (401).
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensory information includes at least one of a position of said vehicle from a normal position to a lifted position due load acting on a rear end of said vehicle (101), geographical terrain data and a wheel slip during movement of said vehicle (101); and
said controller (403) compares said sensory information with predefined data(s) and accordingly said controller (403) operates said first and second lifting mechanisms (301H, 301F) if there is a deviation between said sensory information and said predefined data(s).
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tow hook mounting brackets (201M, 201B, 201T) includes a plurality of main mounting brackets (201M), a bottom mounting bracket (201B) and a top mounting bracket (201T), where said bottom mounting bracket (201B) and said top mounting bracket (201T) is connected at a bottom end and a top end of said main mounting brackets (201M) respectively, where each of said main mounting bracket (201M) defines a first guide way (201G);
said frame (211) defines a second guide way (211G); and
a first end (205A) of said movable link member (205) is connected to said tow hook (203), and a second end (205B) of said movable link member (205) is slidably connected with said second guide way (221G) defined in said frame (211),
wherein
said tow hook (203) is slidably connected with said first guide way (201G) of said main mounting bracket (201M); and
said controller (403) is adapted to operate said first lifting mechanism (301H) and said second lifting mechanism (301F) to move said tow hook (203) and said movable link member (205) respectively in the synchronized manner thereby adjusting a position said tow hook (203) and said movable link member (205) with respect to said main mounting brackets (201M) and said frame (211) respectively, thereby preventing backward tip or front-end lift of said vehicle (101).
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said first lifting mechanism (301H) includes,
a first electric motor (301HM) adapted to be mounted below said bottom bracket (201B), where said first electric motor (301HM) is in communication with said controller (403);
a first worm wheel (303HW) adapted to be mounted onto an output shaft of said first electric motor (301HM);
a first worm gear (303HG) adapted to be rotatably connected to said first worm wheel (303HW), where both ends of said first worm gear (303HG) are rotatably supported onto said bottom mounting bracket (201B);
a pair of first lead screws (207H), where one end of each of said first lead screw (207H) is rotatably supported onto said bottom mounting bracket (201B) and another end of each of said first lead screw (207H) is rotatably supported onto said top mounting bracket (201T); and
a pair of first pinion gears (207G), where each of said first pinion gear (207G) is mounted onto a bottom end of corresponding said first lead screw (207H), where each of said first pinion gear (207G) is rotatably connected to said first worm gear (303HG),
wherein
said tow hook (203) is movably connected onto said first lead screws (207H).
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said second lifting mechanism (301F) includes,
a second electric motor (301FM) adapted to be mounted below a bottom mounting portion (211B) of said frame (211), where said second electric motor (301FM) is in communication with said controller (403);
a second worm wheel (303FW) adapted to be mounted onto an output shaft of said second electric motor (301FM);
a second worm gear (303FG) adapted to be rotatably connected to said second worm wheel (303FW), where both ends of said second worm gear (303FG) are rotatably supported onto the bottom mounting portion (211B) of said frame (211);
a pair of second lead screws (207F), where one end of each of said second lead screw (207F) is rotatably supported onto the bottom mounting portion (211B) of said frame (211) and another end of each of said second lead screw (207F) is rotatably supported onto a top supporting portion (211T) of said frame (211); and
a pair of second pinion gears, where each of said second pinion gear is mounted onto a bottom end of corresponding said second lead screw (207F), where each of said second pinion gear is rotatably connected to said second worm gear (303FG),
wherein
said second end (205B) of said movable link member (205) is movably connected to said second lead screws (207F);
said first and second electric motors (301HM, 301FM) is adapted to drive first and second lead screws (207H, 207L) thereby moving said tow hook (203) and said movable link member (205) with respect to said main mounting bracket (201M) and said frame (211) respectively, in the synchronized manner thereby preventing front end lift of said vehicle (101) when said first and second electric motors (301HM, 301FM) is operated by said controller (403); and
said sensor (401) is at least one of an inclinometer, a tilt sensor, a slope sensor, a position sensor, a level gauge, a slope gauge, a camera and a radar sensor.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claims 1, wherein said first lifting mechanism (301H) and said second lifting mechanism (301F) is at least one of an electric linear actuator, a hydraulic linear actuator and a pneumatic linear actuator.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an amount of displacement/movement of said tow hook (203) and said movable link member (205) is dependent on at least one of an angle of said vehicle (101) with respect to said ground surface in said lifted position and a wheel slip ratio, wherein said displacement of said tow hook (203) and said movable link member (205) between said tow hook mounting brackets (201M) and said frame (211) is in one of an upper direction and a lower direction.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said controller (403) includes a memory unit (407), said memory unit (407) is configured to store geographic terrain data in which said vehicle (101) is operated, said geographic terrain data is received from a navigation unit (405), said navigation unit (405) is disposed on said vehicle (101), said controller (403) is configured to determine a deviation in a path of said vehicle (101) from a normal path to an upslope or a downslope with respect to the ground surface and accordingly said controller (403) is configured to provide an control signal in advance to said first lifting mechanism (301H) and said second lifting mechanism (301F) to displace said tow hook (203) and movable link member (205), to avoid backward tip or front-end lift of said vehicle (101).
9. A method (600) for balancing a load on a vehicle (101) and a trailer (103) attached thereto, said method (600) comprising:
monitoring, by at least one sensor (401), at least one sensory information which is a parameter relevant to balancing load on said vehicle (101) and said trailer (103);
receiving, by a controller (403), said sensory information from said sensor (401);
comparing, by said controller (403), said sensory information with predefined data(s) stored in a memory unit (407) of said controller (403);
determining, by said controller (403), a deviation between said sensory information and predefined data(s); and
operating, by said controller (403), a first lifting mechanism (301H) and a second lifting mechanism (301F) to move a tow hook (203) and a movable link member (205) respectively in a synchronized manner for balancing load on said vehicle (101) and said trailer (103) thereby preventing front-end lift of said vehicle (101).
10. The method (600) as claimed in claim 9, wherein said sensory information includes at least one of a position of said vehicle from a normal position to a lifted position due to load acting on a rear end of said vehicle (101), geographic terrain data and a wheel slip during movement of said vehicle (101).
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure relates to a system and a method for balancing a load on a work vehicle and a trailer attached thereto, while performing haulage applications in various terrains.
BACKGROUND
[002] Generally, work vehicles used in an agricultural and constructional environment include tractor, bulldozer, excavator, harvester, cultivator, cargo vehicle, utility vehicle, multifunctional vehicle, multipurpose vehicle, leisure vehicle, pickup vehicle, transport vehicle, agricultural vehicle, farm vehicle, skid loader, industry vehicle, load vehicle and the like which are specially designed for off-road applications. Often, in addition to the agricultural work such as ploughing, puddling, tilling, shoveling, harrowing in a field, these vehicles are used for haulage purposes such as to transport a load from one place to another place. Typically, a trailer is attached to the vehicle and is used for carrying loads. In these vehicles, an internal combustion engine is a primary source of power which is located in the front of the vehicle while one of a three-point linkage, a hitch and a tow hook is provided at rear of the vehicle to attach the trailer.
[003] Stability and load balancing is very important for the off-road vehicles while carrying out works in agricultural fields or while transporting heavy goods. The longitudinal stability of the vehicle is essential at all times, irrespective of whether the trailer or implements are attached. Generally, 20% of an overall vehicle load should be on the vehicle front axles. If the weight goes below 20% then a momentum acts on the vehicle and a weight transfer happens which affects the longitudinal stability of the vehicle. If the vehicle is not stable, there is a possibility of loss of contact with the road or rollover. Therefore, an optimum weight distribution is necessary for vehicle stability. When the trailer is attached at the rear of the vehicle, the load on the vehicle tends to pull the vehicle back due to an uneven ground surface or a sudden change in acceleration. Owing to such pull, the vehicle tends to lift and topple or rollover thereby leading to fatal accidents. Hence there is a need to stabilize the vehicle at all times.
[004] Traditionally, the vehicle is stabilized by adding a weight or dead mass approximately around 15 kilograms to 50 kilograms to front bumper manually. The weight such as sand packs, rock, steel scraps, solid iron have been conventionally used to balance the vehicle. This addition of weight manually at the front bumper requires a huge effort. The weight added to the front of the vehicle is based on a rough estimate and experience and may vary depending on the type of implement or the load which is attached to the vehicle.
[005] However, carrying and storing the dead weights in the agricultural field when not in use poses a drawback to the off-road vehicle. In addition, when the implement is removed from the vehicle after completion of the work, there is a need for adjusting the weight added in the front of the vehicle. It requires lot of time and effort for removal and storage of the weight in the field.
[006] Yet another problem in the conventional method of balancing is that the load acting on the vehicle during haulage operation is not constant. The load changes according to the working requirement of the vehicle, type of load attached, various unloading locations etc., Another aspect to be considered is that during field operation, the rear weight of the vehicle should be more than front weight of the vehicle for getting more traction whereas during haulage, the front weight should be more than the rear weight to avoid front lifting of the vehicle.
[007] Therefore, there exists a need for developing a simple, efficient, adjustable system for balancing the load of the work vehicle and the trailer, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks. Further, there exists a need for the system which is capable of counterbalancing the vehicle front-end lifting while load carrying operation. Further, there exists a need for a method for balancing the work vehicle, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks.
OBJECTS
[008] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:
[009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system for balancing a load on a vehicle and a trailer attached thereto, while performing haulage applications in various terrains.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide methods for balancing the vehicle and the trailer attached thereto, while performing haulage applications in various terrains.
[0011] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide the load balancing system which is adaptable for an agricultural vehicle or other work vehicle.
[0012] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the load balancing system for the work vehicle to which the trailer is attached thereto.
[0013] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the load balancing system which is simple in design.
[0014] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the load balancing system which is cost effective.
[0015] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the load balancing system which involves no manual effort.
[0016] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the system which predicts the vehicle position with respect to ground surface and balance a load acting on it in real-time.
[0017] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide the system which predicts a path deviation from a normal path to an upslope or a downslope with respect to the ground surface and provides adjustments in advance for balancing load on vehicle.
[0018] These and other objects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0019] The embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which:
[0020] Figure 1 depicts a side view of a vehicle attached to a trailer, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;
[0021] Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of a system for balancing a load on the vehicle, according to the embodiment as disclosed herein;
[0022] Figure 3A depicts an exploded view of the system for balancing the load on the vehicle, according to the embodiment as disclosed herein;
[0023] Figure 3B depicts another exploded view of the system for balancing the load on the vehicle, according to the embodiment as disclosed herein;
[0024] Figure 4 depicts a block diagram of the system for balancing the load on the vehicle, according to the embodiment as disclosed herein;
Figure 5A to 5D illustrates working of the system for balancing the load on the vehicle, according to the embodiment as disclosed herein; and
Figure 6 depicts a flowchart indicating a method for balancing a vehicle, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein. Referring now to the drawings and more particularly to Figure 1 through Figure 6, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
[0026] For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the system and method thereof is explained herein below with reference to balancing load on a work vehicle such as tractor to which a trailer is attached thereto. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to use this system and method for balancing load in any other vehicle without otherwise deterring the intended function as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
[0027] As discussed herein, the longitudinal stability of the vehicle is essential at all times during the running of the vehicle. Particularly when the trailer is attached to the rear of the vehicle, the load on the vehicle tends to pull the vehicle back due to an uneven ground surface or a sudden change in acceleration. Owing to such pull, the vehicle tends to lift and topple or rollover thereby leading to fatal accidents. Therefore, an optimum weight distribution is necessary for vehicle stability. So, it is essential to have the load balancing system for the vehicles such as agricultural, work vehicles, and tractor which are attached to the load trailers, having both on-road and off-road applications.
[0028] Figure 1 depicts a side view of a vehicle (101) attached to a trailer (103), according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the vehicle (101) considered herein is an agriculture vehicle such as but not limited to a tractor. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to consider the vehicle (101) as any other off-road work vehicle. The vehicle (101) includes a system (100) for balancing a load on the vehicle (101) and the trailer (103). The vehicle (101) in ordinary course of operation remains in a normal position that is all the tires of the vehicle (101) is in contact with a ground surface. In normal position, a front axle of the vehicle (101) is positioned parallel to the ground surface. However, when the vehicle (101) is under overload or extreme loaded conditions at rear-end, the vehicle (101) tends to get unbalanced and the tires move to a lifted position, whereby front-end of the vehicle (101) is in the air. The vehicle (101) is said to be in a deviation position when the front axle defines an angle with respect to the ground surface that is when the vehicle (101) is in the lifted position or when a wheel slip occurs during the movement of the vehicle (101). The vehicle (101) is considered to be in the lifted position if the vehicle (101) is lifted by at-least 5º (five degree) with respect to the ground surface. The system (100) of the present invention compensates or overcomes such imbalance and maintains the vehicle (101) in the normal position.
[0029] Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of a system (100) for balancing a load on the vehicle (101), according to the embodiment as disclosed herein. In the embodiment, the system (100) for balancing the load on the vehicle (101) includes a plurality of tow hook mounting brackets (201), a tow hook (203), a movable link member (205), a frame (211), a first lifting mechanism (301H), a second lifting mechanism (301F), a controller (403), a sensor (401) and a navigation unit (405). In the present embodiment, the tow hook mounting bracket (201) is mounted to a rear end of the vehicle (101) and used to couple the trailer (103) or other trailed implements to the vehicle (101). However, it is also within the scope of the invention, to consider the tow hook mounting bracket (201) mounted at a front end of the vehicle (101). In the present embodiment, the plurality of tow hook mounting brackets (201) are connected to the vehicle (101) and a tow hook (203) is used for coupling the trailer (103) or implements with the tow hook mounting brackets (201M, 201B, 201T). The plurality of tow hook mounting brackets (201) includes a plurality of main mounting brackets (201M), a bottom mounting bracket (201B) and a top mounting bracket (201T). The bottom bracket (201B) and the top bracket (201T) is connected at a bottom end and a top end of the main mounting brackets (201M) respectively. Each main mounting bracket (201M) defines a first guide way (201G). A pair of tow hook brackets (201H) is slidably attached over the main mounting brackets (201M). Each main mounting bracket (201M) is mounted to a transmission rear housing (not shown) of the vehicle (101). The tow hook (203) is movably supported onto the tow hook mounting bracket (201) through tow hook brackets (201H). The tow hook (203) is used to attach or tow the trailer (103) or any other implements (not shown). The tow hook (203) is connected to the tow hook brackets (201H) by means of welding or any other similar joining means. The tow hook (203) includes a top bracket (203T), a bottom bracket (203B) and a pair of side brackets (203S), where the side brackets (203S) are positioned between the top and bottom brackets (203T, 203B). The tow hook (203) defines a cavity (203C) between the top bracket (203T), the bottom bracket (203B) and the pair of side brackets (203S). The top bracket (203T) and bottom bracket (203B) defines a through locking portion (opening) which is co-axial to each other.
[0030] The system (100) for balancing the load on the vehicle (101) further includes a frame (211) which is adapted to be attached to the trailer (103). The frame (211) includes a movable link member (205). The movable link member (205) can be interchangeably called as drawbar or trailer connecting bar. The movable link member (205) interconnects the frame (211) with the tow hook (203) thereby connecting the trailer (103) to the vehicle (101). The movable link member (205) is a ‘T’ shaped solid member. A first end (205A) of the movable link member (205) defines a through movable link locking portion (205L) which is co-axial to the locking portions defined on the tow hook (203). The cavity (203C) receives the movable link locking portion (205L) of the movable link member (205). The movable link member (205) is locked with the tow hook (203) by inserting at least one lock pin (209), co-axially through the locking portion of the top bracket (203T), the link locking portion (205L) of the movable link member (205) and the locking portion of the bottom bracket (203T). The movable link member (205) is connected to the tow hook (203) using the lock pin (209) at the first end (205A) and is adapted to be slidably engaged with the frame (211) at a second end (205B). The tow hook mounting brackets (201M, 201B, 201T), the frame (211) and the movable link member (205) are made of cast iron or steel or aluminum or any other suitable material.
[0031] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, each main mounting bracket (201M) defines a first guide way (201G). The tow hook brackets (201H) include a first engaging portion (201E) corresponding to the first guide way (201G) defined on the main mounting brackets (201M). The frame (211) defines a second guide way (211G). The second end (205B) of the movable link member (205) includes a second engaging portion (211E) corresponding to the second guide way (211G) defined in the frame (211). The second end (205B) of the movable link member (205) is slidably connected with the second guide way (221G) defined in the frame (211), and the tow hook (203) is slidably connected with the first guide way (201G) of the main bracket (201M).
[0032] In the embodiment of present disclosure, the frame (211) includes a plurality of side portions ((211S) (only one of which is shown in fig. 2)), a top supporting portion (211T) and a bottom mounting portion (211B), where the bottom mounting portion (211B) is opposite to the top supporting portion (211T). The second guide way (211G) is defined in the side portions (211S) of the frame (211).
[0033] Figure 3A depicts an exploded view of the system (100) for balancing the load on the vehicle (101) and Figure 3B depicts another exploded view of the system (100) for balancing the load on the vehicle (101), according to the embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the first lifting mechanism (301H) is coupled to the tow hook (203). The second lifting mechanism (301F) is coupled to the movable link member (205). The first and second lifting mechanisms (301H, 301F) are configured to displace the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) simultaneously based on instructions from the controller (403). In an embodiment, the first lifting mechanism (301H) includes a first electric motor (301HM), a first worm wheel (303HW), a first worm gear (303HG), a pair of first lead screws (207H) and a pair of first pinion gears (207G). The tow hook (203) is movably connected to the first lead screws (207H). In the present embodiment, the tow hook brackets (201H) includes a threaded engaging portion (201HE) adapted to be movably engaged with first lead screw (207H). The first electric motor (301HM) is adapted to be mounted below the bottom mounting bracket (201B). The first electric motor (301HM) is in communication with the controller (403). The first worm wheel (303HW) adapted to be mounted onto an output shaft of the first electric motor (301HM). The first worm gear (303HG) is adapted to be rotatably connected to the first worm wheel (303HW), where both ends of the first worm gear (303HG) are rotatably supported onto the bottom mounting bracket (201B) through bearings or bushes (not shown). One end of each first lead screw (207H) is rotatably supported onto the bottom mounting bracket (201B) and another end of each first lead screw (207H) is rotatably supported onto the top mounting bracket (201T) through bearings or bushes (not shown). Each first pinion gear (207G) is mounted onto a bottom end of corresponding first lead screw (207H), where each first pinion gear (207G) is rotatably connected to the first worm gear (303HG). The tow hook (203) is movably connected onto the first lead screws (207H).
[0034] In an embodiment, the second lifting mechanism (301F) includes a second electric motor (301FM), a second worm wheel (303FW), a second worm gear (303FG), a pair of second lead screws (207F) and a pair of second pinion gears (not shown). The second electric motor (301FM) is adapted to be mounted below a bottom mounting portion (211B) of the frame (211), where the second electric motor (301FM) is in communication with the controller (403). The second worm wheel (303FW) is adapted to be mounted onto an output shaft of the second electric motor (301FM). The second worm gear (303FG) is adapted to be rotatably connected to the second worm wheel (303FW), where both ends of the second worm gear (303FG) are rotatably supported onto the bottom mounting portion (211B) of the frame (211) through bearings or bushes (not shown). One end of each second lead screw (207F) is rotatably supported onto the bottom mounting portion (211B) of the frame (211) and another end of each second lead screw (207F) is rotatably supported onto a top supporting portion (211T) of the frame (211). In the present embodiment, the second end (205B) of the movable link member (205) includes at least two threaded engaging portion ((211FE) (only one of which is shown in fig. 3A and fig. 3B)) adapted to be movably engaged with the second lead screws (207F). Each second pinion gear is mounted onto a bottom end of corresponding second lead screw (207F). Each second pinion gear is rotatably connected to the second worm gear (303FG). The first and second electric motors (301HM, 301FM) is adapted to drive first and second lead screws (207H, 207L) thereby moving the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) with respect to the main mounting bracket (201M) and the frame (211) respectively, in the synchronized manner thereby preventing front end lift of the vehicle (101) when the first and second electric motors (301HM, 301FM) is operated by the controller (403). However, it is also within the scope of the invention to use at least one of an electric linear actuator, a hydraulic linear actuator and a pneumatic linear actuator including a hydraulic cylinder, pneumatic cylinder, a spindle type linear actuator, an electronic actuator, a hydraulic actuator and a pneumatic actuator.
[0035] Figure 4 depicts a block diagram of the system (100) for balancing the load on the vehicle (101), according to the embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment the system (100) includes the at least one sensor (401) mounted which is mounted at a predetermined location of the vehicle (101). In an embodiment, the sensor (401) is mounted towards a front end of the vehicle (101). In the example embodiment, the sensor (401) is an inclinometer sensor. The inclinometer sensor is used for measuring angles of slope or elevation of an object with respect to gravity's direction. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to use at least one of a tilt sensor, a slope sensor, a level gauge, a slope gauge, a position sensor, camera and a radar sensor. In the present embodiment, the sensor (401) is mounted on a king pin of a front wheel axle (not shown) and is used to sense the position information of the vehicle (101) with respect to the ground surface. In an alternate embodiment, the sensor (401) is configured to detect and communicate a wheel slip of the vehicle (101) to the controller (403). In another embodiment, the sensor (401) is adapted to capture images of terrain in which the vehicle (101) is operated.
[0036] In an embodiment, the system (100) includes a controller (403) which is provided in communication with the sensor (401), the first lifting mechanism (301H) and the second lifting mechanism (301F). In an embodiment, the controller (403) is an electronic control unit of the vehicle (101). In another embodiment, the controller (403) is a dedicated control unit mounted on the vehicle (101). The sensor (401) is adapted to monitor and communicate at least one sensory information to the controller (403), where the sensory information is a parameter relevant to balancing load on the vehicle (101) and the trailer (103). In the present embodiment, the sensor (401) is adapted to generate at least one output signal (sensory information) based on at least one of a position of the vehicle (101) from a normal position to a lifted position due load acting on a rear end of the vehicle (101), geographical terrain data and a wheel slip during movement of the vehicle (101). The controller (403) receives at least one input signal (sensory information) from the sensor (401). The controller (403) compares the sensory information with predefined data(s) and accordingly the controller (403) operates the first and second lifting mechanisms (301H, 301F) if there is a deviation between the sensory information and the predefined data. In the present embodiment, the controller (403) determines at least one of a deviation in a position of the vehicle (101) from a normal position to a lifted position with respect to a ground surface and a wheel slip of the vehicle (101). As soon as the controller (403) determines that the vehicle (101) has deviated from its normal position to the lifted position or there is a wheel slip, the controller (403) moves the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) through the lifting mechanisms (301H, 301F). In an embodiment, first lifting mechanism (301H) and the second lifting mechanism (301F) are adapted to move the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205), respectively in a synchronized manner for balancing the load on the vehicle (101) and the trailer (103) thereby preventing front-end lift of the vehicle (101) based on the input from the controller (403). When the vehicle (101) tries to tip backward, the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) moves or displaces to a lower position to compensate weight distribution and thus provide the stable pull force to the trailer (103). In an embodiment, the controller (403) adapted to provide at least one control signal to the first electric motor (301HM) and the second electric motor (301FM) to drive the pair of first lead screws (207H) and the pair of second lead screws (207F) respectively, to adjust the position of the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) with respect to the main mounting brackets (201M) and the frame (211) respectively thereby balancing load on the vehicle (101) and the trailer (103) thus preventing front end lift of the vehicle (101). The an amount of displacement/movement of the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) is dependent on at least one of an angle of the vehicle (101) with respect to the ground surface in the lifted position and a wheel slip ratio, wherein the displacement of the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) between the tow hook mounting brackets (201M) and the frame (211) is in one of an upper direction and a lower direction.
[0037] In another embodiment, the controller (403) includes a navigation unit (405) and a memory unit (407). The memory unit (407) is configured to store a geographic terrain data which is received from the navigation unit (405). In the present embodiment, Global Positioning System (GPS) is used as a navigation unit (405). However, it is also within the scope of the invention to use NavIC, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo or Quasi-Zenith or any other suitable navigation system. In an embodiment, the memory unit (407) is integral part of the controller (403) and the navigation unit (405) is provided on the vehicle (101). The controller (403) is configured to determine a deviation in the path of the vehicle (101) from a normal path to an upslope or a downslope with respect to the ground surface in advance by comparing the current geometric data of the path with a predetermined geographic terrain data stored in a memory unit (407) of the controller (403). According to the determination, the controller (403) is configured to provide a control signal in advance to the first lifting mechanism (301H) and the second lifting mechanism (301F) to displace the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205), to overcome reaction time required by the system (100) to adjust the position of the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) with respect to the main mounting brackets (201M) and the frame (211) respectively.
[0038] Figures 5A to 5D illustrate a working of the system (100) for balancing the load on the vehicle (101), according to the embodiment as disclosed herein. In Figure 5A, the vehicle (101) is in a normal position. In the normal position, a center of gravity (G) of the vehicle (101) is about the center of the vehicle (101) and the tow hook (203) which is connected to the movable link member (205) is in the middle or up position with respect to the main mounting bracket (201M). As shown in Figure 5B, when the vehicle (101) is under load/overload condition, whereby the vehicle (101) has deviated from its normal position to the lifted position. At this instant, the center of gravity (G) of the vehicle (101) shifts away from the center of the vehicle (101) which is (G’). The controller (403) detects that the vehicle (101) is in the lifted position, whereby the controller (403) of the system (100) simultaneously operate the first lifting mechanism (301H) and the second lifting mechanism (301F) to adjust the position of the tow hook (203) and the movable link member (205) with respect to the main mounting brackets (201M) and the frame (211) respectively. As the position is adjusted, the tow hook (203) is positioned down (as shown in Figure 5C, the center of gravity point (G’) shifts to point (G) of the vehicle (101). The shift or correction in the center of gravity point causes the vehicle (101) to stabilize and restore itself to the normal position as shown in Figure 5D.
[0039] Figure 6 depicts a flowchart indicating a method (600) for balancing a vehicle (101), according to the embodiment as disclosed herein. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the method (600) is explained herein below with reference to balancing the load on agricultural vehicle. However, it is also within the scope of this invention to practice/implement the entire steps of the method (600) in a same manner or in a different manner or with omission of at least one step to the method (600) or with any addition of at least one step to the method (600) for balancing load of any other vehicle, without otherwise deterring the intended function of the method (600) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings. In an embodiment, at step 601, the method (600) includes, monitoring, by at least one sensor (401), at least one sensory information which is a parameter relevant to balancing load on the vehicle (101) and the trailer (103). At step 603, the method (600) includes receiving, by a controller (403), the sensory information from the sensor (401). At step 605, the method (600) includes comparing, by the controller (403), the sensory information with predefined data(s) stored in a memory unit (407) of the controller (403). At step 607, the method includes determining, by the controller (403), a deviation between the sensory information and predefined data(s). At step 609, the method (600) includes operating, by the controller (403), a first lifting mechanism (301H) and a second lifting mechanism (301F) to move a tow hook (203) and a movable link member (205) respectively in a synchronized manner for balancing load on the vehicle (101) and the trailer (103) thereby preventing front-end lift of the vehicle (101).
[0040] Advantageously, the system (100) of the present disclosure provides simple, efficient system (100) for corrects or stabilizes position of the vehicle (101) which has unbalanced or lifted due to overload, thereby avoiding fatal accidents. Also, the system (100) reduces the risk of the vehicle (101) roll over by adjusting the stability for on road such as haulage and off-road applications. The simple and cost-efficient system (100) provides positive traction to the vehicle (101) and higher tractive efficiency.
[0041] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments.
[0042] It is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation. The exemplary embodiments described in this specification are intended merely to provide an understanding of various manners in which this embodiment may be used and to further enable the skilled person in the relevant art to practice this invention.
[0043] Although, the embodiments presented in this disclosure have been described in terms of its preferred embodiments, the skilled person in the art would readily recognize that these embodiments can be applied with modifications possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention as described in this specification by making innumerable changes, variations, modifications, alterations and/or integrations in terms of materials and method used to configure, manufacture and assemble various constituents, components, subassemblies and assemblies, in terms of their size, shapes, orientations and interrelationships without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.
[0044] The numerical values given of various physical parameters, dimensions and quantities are only approximate values and it is envisaged that the values higher or lower than the numerical value assigned to the physical parameters, dimensions and quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure unless there is a statement in the specification to the contrary.
[0045] Throughout this specification, the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, shall be understood to imply including a described element, integer or method step, or group of elements, integers or method steps, however, does not imply excluding any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or method steps.
[0046] The use of the expression “a”, “at least” or “at least one” shall imply using one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as used in the embodiment of the disclosure in order to achieve one or more of the intended objects or results of the present invention.
[0047] The description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description, relative terms such as “lower”, “upper”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “above”, “below”, “up”, “down”, “top”, and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g. “horizontally”, “downwardly”, “upwardly” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion.
[0048] These relative terms are for convenience of description and do not require that the corresponding apparatus or device be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected”, refer to a relationship, wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERAL
100 - System
101 - Vehicle
103 - Trailer
201 – Tow hook mounting brackets
201M – Main mounting bracket
201T – Top mounting bracket
201B – Bottom mounting bracket
201H - Tow hook brackets
201E - First engaging portion
201G - First guideway
201HE - Threaded engaging portion of tow hook bracket
201FE - Threaded engaging portion of movable link member
203 – Tow hook
203T - Top bracket
203B - Bottom bracket
203C - Cavity
203S - Side bracket
205 - Movable Link member
205A – First end of movable Link member
205B – Second end movable Link member
205L - Movable link locking portion
207H - First lead screws
207F – Second lead screws
207G – First pinion gear
209 - Lock pin
211 - Frame
211T - Top supporting portion of Frame
211B - Bottom mounting portion of Frame
211G - Second Guideway
301H - First lifting mechanism
301F - Second lifting mechanism
301HM – First electric motor
301FM – Second electric motor
303HG – First worm gear
303FG – Second worm gear
303HW – First worm wheel
303FW – Second worm wheel
401 - Sensor
403 - Controller
405 - Navigation Unit
407 - Memory unit