D-Train Configurations: Tractor, Dumps and Flat Decks
Every one of the vehicles highlighted above comes fitted with an exclusive D-TRAiN 5th Wheel Compound Hitch system. Essentially, these vehicles fall into two fundamental groups: Straight Trucks, or Work Trucks, and Tractors designed to tow Semi-trailers. Despite the difference in wheelbase, both categories are outfitted as tractors, employing a sliding 5th wheel with an extended after-frame.
In the presented image of a “RED” KW tractor, the 5th wheel is demonstrated transitioning from its rear position to a forward-operating stance. It’s crucial to note that there’s just one 5th wheel. Necessary equipment includes an air/vacuum line kit, a seven-wire cable, and a Wet-line kit for hydraulic operations found in vehicles like dump trucks.
This applies to all Straight truck configurations, including those with additional equipment like dump trailers, Flat Decks, Van bodies, Garbage packers, and Salt spreaders. In these scenarios, a tractor package becomes essential. Any attachments need a kingpin, landing gear, and rear axle for distributing the load-bearing weight and for the vehicle to be self-supporting when disassembled.
CO Extended length 73′ Semi-trailer
ACCORD-Stinger Semi-trailer
Semi-trailers are generally fitted with a kingpin for towing purposes. The inventive D-TRAiN 5th Wheel Compound Hitch relocates this articulation point from the tractor to the trailer’s “Stinger,” permitting the semi-trailer to be significantly extended (by about 10.5 feet), thereby reducing the “GAP” to a half-foot and decreasing wind turbulence. This results in an approximate fuel saving of 422 gallons. A glove assembly is incorporated onto the trailer and between the dolly jacks, facilitating the connection with the tractor chassis after-frame and compound hitch. By doing so, the yaw angle of the tractor is limited, transferring the turning forces to the “Stinger” location. This innovative design enhances safety while simultaneously boosting maneuverability by 50%. Furthermore, it prevents a full jackknife situation, ensuring the trailer never rotates beyond 52°, which is adequate to meet all necessities without impacting the tractor cab.
The key aims of this design are as follows:
- Removal of yaw articulation at the tractor
- Transfer of articulation to the trailer’s stinger
- Prevention of a full jackknife situation
- Increase in cubic capacity by 20%
- Enhancement of maneuverability by 50%
- Reduction of the trailer’s forward length by 19%
- Decrease in “GAP” turbulence, which saves fuel (estimated 422 gallons or 1566 liters per tractor per year)
The D-TRAiN hitch system presents a solution to the challenges faced by the industry in 2021, including capacity constraints, driver shortages, and GHG Emission costs. By boosting both tractor and semi-trailer performance and improving driver safety, this system offers a quick return on investment (approximately one year). It integrates seamlessly with tractors, requiring only minor modifications.
The adage “where the rubber meets the road” continues to be crucial for tractor-trailer operators and designers, and the ACCORD compound hitch offers improved stability, especially on slippery surfaces under powered or braking jackknife conditions. The mechanical design, which stops at 52°, not only provides enhanced stability but also restricts roll-over, making it a fundamental aspect of this design.
Removable, Platform Semi-trailers
52 Degree rotation Semi-trailer
