AU2024201755B2

AU2024201755B2 - Heavy Vehicle Configuration

Info

Publication number: AU2024201755B2
Application number: AU2024201755A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Gary Byford
Original assignee: Byford Equipment Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Byford Equipment Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2014-02-28
Filing date: 2024-03-18
Publication date: 2026-04-23
Anticipated expiration: 2035-02-27
Also published as: AU2015227498B2; AU2021240194B2; AU2015227498A1; AU2018100199A4; AU2024201755A1; AU2017245467A1; AU2021240194A1; AU2017245467B2; AU2019240700A1; AU2019240700B2

Abstract

A large vehicle combination 1,100 including one or more tag trailers 16,116 each having a plurality of wheel sets 14,14’,24’24’,18,18’ with trailer axles arranged in group sets, wherein the rearmost wheel set 18’of at least one group set is caster steered; and the spacing between adjacent in-line wheels in the same group set is greater than in traditional groups sets, the spacing of adjacent axles being between about 1.5m and about 2.5m, and the swept path of the vehicle during turning is less than 6m. Fig. 6

Description

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TITLE OF TITLE OF INVENTION INVENTION

Heavy Vehicle Configuration Heavy Vehicle Configuration

TECHNICALFIELD TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention concerns large combination vehicles (LCVs). This invention concerns large combination vehicles (LCVs).

5 5 BACKGROUND BACKGROUND 2024201755

The following references to and descriptions of prior proposals or products are not intended The following references to and descriptions of prior proposals or products are not intended

to be, to be, and andare arenot nottotobebe construed construed as, as, statements statements or admissions or admissions of common of common general general knowledge in the art. In particular, the following prior art discussion does not relate to what knowledge in the art. In particular, the following prior art discussion does not relate to what

is is commonly commonly or or well well known known byperson by the the person skilledskilled in thein thebut art, art,assists but assists in theinunderstanding the understanding 10 10 of the inventive step of the present invention of which the identification of pertinent prior of the inventive step of the present invention of which the identification of pertinent prior

art proposals is but one part. art proposals is but one part.

In In Australia Australiathe themaximum widthofofroad maximum width roadvehicles vehicles is is 2.5m and the 2.5m and the maximum maximum height height is is 4.3m. 4.3m.

Vehicles may exceed these limits but are restricted to selected road routes having a general Vehicles may exceed these limits but are restricted to selected road routes having a general

classification. classification.

15 15 The most popular configurations of trailer combinations have a prime mover with dual drive The most popular configurations of trailer combinations have a prime mover with dual drive

axles, axles, with three axles with three axles ononeach each trailerand trailer and four four tires tires on on eacheach axle. axle. In lighter In lighter duty duty

combinationsthe combinations thetrailer trailer may have only may have only two two(tandem) (tandem)axles axlesorormay mayhave have a a single,normally single, normally wide track wheel on each end of each axle. wide track wheel on each end of each axle.

In In trailer trailerdesign design it itisis usual usualtoto limit thetheload limit loadcarried carriedtoto9 9tonnes tonnes per per axle. axle. When the When the trailerhas trailer has 20 20 tandemaxles, tandem axles,the thepair pair in in practice practice can can only only support support1717tonnes. tonnes.This This would would normally normally be be overcome bybyusing overcome usinga triple a tripleaxle axleconfiguration configuration but butthis this inin turn turnintroduces introducesother other disadvantages. disadvantages.

Bulk liquid tankers Bulk liquid tankers face face special special design design requirements in that requirements in that the thesteering steeringcharacteristics characteristics change moving change moving fromfrom full full to empty. to empty. If theIftrailer the trailer is being is being used used for collection for milk milk collection from farm from farm

25 25 to milk to milk processing processing centres, centres, the the farm farm access access road road may notbebeideal may not ideal for for aa long long vehicle. vehicle. The The

vehicle’s turning vehicle's turning circle circle may be too may be too large large for for some collection areas some collection areas having havingregard regardtotothe the layout of farm buildings and other obstacles. If the vehicle combination has to travel over layout of farm buildings and other obstacles. If the vehicle combination has to travel over grassy areas these may become muddy in wet weather and the prime mover may lose 01 Apr 2026 traction.

Reducing the length of the vehicle to reduce turning circle tends to proportionally reduce load capacity. This affects the economics of the collection operation. B-doubles are limited 5 to a length of 26m if they are fitted with front underrun protection devices and have a maximum weight limit. Milk tankers must be able to travel in all parts of the territory in which they collect on behalf of a business. In turning, such vehicle combinations commonly have a turning circle of about 15m and a swept path of at least 8m. The swept path is the 2024201755

distance between where the outside front tyre tracks and the innermost trailer tracks. The 10 swept path is a critical measure of the manoeuvrability of a LCV. An object of the present invention is to ameliorate the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art or to at least provide a useful alternative thereto. SUMMARY OF INVENTION The invention according to one or more aspects is as defined in the independent claims. 15 Some optional and/or preferred features of the invention are defined in the dependent claims. Accordingly, in one aspect the invention provides: A large vehicle combination including: a prime mover with a steered axle, a front trailer having a trailing tandem wheel 20 set with trailer axles also arranged in group sets; and a rear trailer having a trailing tandem wheel set; and three axes of articulation in the form of a fifth wheel mount for the front trailer, a king pin coupling a dolly to the front trailer and a second fifth wheel mount coupling the rear trailer to the dolly, 25 a rearmost axle of each of the trailing tandem wheel sets of the front and rear trailers being self-steered; the rear trailer tandem axles being spaced from one another by between 1.5m and 2.2m; and the combined effect of having three axes of articulation is that a turning circle 30 diameter of the large vehicle combination is less than a distance separating a steered axle of the prime mover and the rearmost axle of the rear trailer. The steering of the rear set of wheels may be achieved by a variety of configurations, including self-tracking or steerable axles, individually steered wheels or other mechanisms whereby the wheels track in response to the direction of travel of a lead towing vehicle. The 18 Mar 2024 whereby the wheels track in response to the direction of travel of a lead towing vehicle. The steerability of the rear-most wheels greatly reduces wear on the tyres, enabling an extension steerability of the rear-most wheels greatly reduces wear on the tyres, enabling an extension of the life of the tyres of the rear steerable wheels by a factor of over 3 times, reducing of the life of the tyres of the rear steerable wheels by a factor of over 3 times, reducing lateral ororhorizontal lateral horizontaldrag across drag road across and road ground and groundsurfaces surfacesthereby therebyavoiding avoidingdamaging damaging wear wear

5 5 and tear and tear on on roads roads and groundsurfaces. and ground surfaces.

Anotheradvantage Another advantageofofproviding providingsteerable steerablerearmost rearmostwheel wheel setsisisthe sets thereduction reductioninin the the ring ring 2024201755

feeder pin and king pin loads during turning. Structural fatigue and wear on component parts feeder pin and king pin loads during turning. Structural fatigue and wear on component parts

of the vehicle are substantially reduced. For example, a king pin load that would normally of the vehicle are substantially reduced. For example, a king pin load that would normally

be 2500kginin aa non-steered be 2500kg non-steeredtrailer trailer combination maybebereduced combination may reducedbybya afactor factorofof22 -– 3, 3, down down

10 10 to about to 900kg. about 900kg.

The positioning of the ring feeder is preferably immediately behind the first trailer’s end to The positioning of the ring feeder is preferably immediately behind the first trailer's end to

minimise thedistance minimise the distancebetween betweenthethe endend of the of the first first trailerand trailer andthethetagtagtrailer's trailer’s dolly dolly or or forecarriage, whilst providing sufficient clearance for turning. Preferably the ring feeder forecarriage, whilst providing sufficient clearance for turning. Preferably the ring feeder

coupling is located within 300mm - 600mm of the rear of the first trailer. coupling is located within 300mm - 600mm of the rear of the first trailer.

15 15 The swept path of the vehicle is preferably less than about 6m, preferably less than 5.8m, The swept path of the vehicle is preferably less than about 6m, preferably less than 5.8m,

and most and mostpreferably preferably5.7m. 5.7m.Such Sucha asmall smallswept sweptpath pathisisachieved achievedunder underthe theinvention inventionbybythe the combination of the spacing of the larger spacing of the wheel axles and the provision of at combination of the spacing of the larger spacing of the wheel axles and the provision of at

least least one steerablewheel one steerable wheel set set in the in the group group set. set. However, However, the of the length length of the also the vehicle vehicle is aalso is a

contributing factor. contributing factor.AAstandard standard 25m B Double 25m B Doubleswept sweptpath pathisis about about8.5m, 8.5m,whereas whereas a 26m a 26m A A 20 20 Double fitted with Double fitted with wheel groupsets wheel group sets according according to to the the invention invention has has aa swept pathof swept path of about about 6.33m. AA standard 6.33m. standard 19m 19mBBDouble Doublehas has aa swept swept path path of of about about 6.7m, 6.7m, whereas whereas aa 20m A-B 20m A-B

Double fitted with Double fitted with wheel groupsets wheel group sets according according to to the the invention invention has has aa swept pathof swept path of about about 5.8m. 5.8m. A Astandard standard 30,000L 30,000L long long tri-axlesingle tri-axle singlevehicle vehiclehas hasa aswept swept path path of about of about 6.7m, 6.7m,

whereasa a26m whereas 26m A Double A Double single single lead lead trailerfitted trailer fitted with with wheel wheelgroup groupsets setsaccording accordingtotothe the 25 25 invention has invention has a a swept swept path path of of about about 5.7m. 5.7m.

By providinga asteerable By providing steerable final final wheel wheel set set on each on each tag trailer, tag trailer, thetrailer the tag tag trailer is to is able able to pivot pivot

about aa vertical about vertical axis axis corresponding to the corresponding to the wheel wheelset setimmediately immediatelyininfront frontofofthe thetrailing trailing steerable wheel steerable set and wheel set and the the steerable steerable wheel wheelset setgenerally generally turns turns onto ontothe thedirection direction of of the the

path thatthe path that thelead leadvehicle vehicleisisfollowing. following.

3

Preferably thegroup group sets comprise a pair of axles in tandem. Preferably the setsthe of sets of wheels 18 Mar 2024

Preferably the sets comprise a pair of axles in tandem. Preferably wheels

have pairsofofwheels, have pairs wheels,oneone wheel wheel on each on each end end of theof the so axle, axle, soonly that thatone only one steerable steerable

wheel set is required for each group set. However, group sets may comprise triple axle group wheel set is required for each group set. However, group sets may comprise triple axle group

sets. sets.

5 5 The vehicle combination may have a front trailer and a rear trailer. The rear of the front The vehicle combination may have a front trailer and a rear trailer. The rear of the front

trailer may trailer may have have a a tandem group,the tandem group, therear reartrailer trailer may have aa leading may have leading tandem tandemgroup groupand and a a 2024201755

trailing tandem trailing group. The tandem group. Theleading leadingtandem tandem group group of the of the rearrear trailermaymay trailer support support a fifth a fifth

wheel set of the rear trailer. A fifth wheel coupling describes a trailer hitch support structure wheel set of the rear trailer. A fifth wheel coupling describes a trailer hitch support structure

comprising comprising aa substantially substantially horizontal horizontal wheel wheel commonly located commonly located onon thethe tailend tail endofofa aprime prime 10 10 mover mover oror dolly. dolly.

Although counter-intuitive, the spacing of the wheel sets in the tandem (or triple) group is Although counter-intuitive, the spacing of the wheel sets in the tandem (or triple) group is

preferably preferably greater greater than than is iscustomary. This greater customary. This greater spacing spacing was thoughttoto be was thought beundesirable undesirable because of the because of thetrade tradeoff off with with regard regardtotovertical vertical load load capacity capacity for for the the relevant relevant group set group set

supporting a vertical loading. However, with regard to this invention, the spacing from axle supporting a vertical loading. However, with regard to this invention, the spacing from axle

15 15 axis to axle axis of adjacent axles in the tandem or tri-group set is advantageously in the axis to axle axis of adjacent axles in the tandem or tri-group set is advantageously in the

range 1.5-2.5m. The range 1.5-2.5m. Thespacing spacingbetween between adjacent adjacent axlesinineach axles eachofofthe thetandem tandemgroups groups may may be be

adjusted so that the load is better distributed and the total load limit or capacity of the adjusted so that the load is better distributed and the total load limit or capacity of the

vehicle is maximised. The spacing allows each axle set to be categorised as an independent vehicle is maximised. The spacing allows each axle set to be categorised as an independent

or separate or axle set separate axle set that that can can be be rated rated to to carry carry aa 10T 10T load, load, compared tothe compared to thesmaller smallerload load 20 20 ratings per axle ratings per axle set set of of about about7T7Tfor fortandem tandemand and triple triple axleaxle groups. groups. This This greatly greatly increases increases the the total load total load able ableto tobe becarried carriedbybya LCV. ForFor a LCV. example, a 20m example, a 20mB BDouble Double made according to made according to the the

invention invention with with axles axles in inthe thesame same group group widely widely spaced by about spaced by 1500-- 2500mm, about 1500 2500mm, preferably preferably

about 1800 about 1800- –2200mm, 2200mm,and and mostmost preferably preferably aboutabout 2200mm, 2200mm, is designed is designed to carryto63.5T, carry 63.5T, compared compared totothe theequivalent equivalentprior priorart artvehicle vehicle (a (a 19m 19mB BDouble) Double) having having a load a load capacity capacity of of

25 25 57.5T. Another 57.5T. exampleisis aa 26m Another example 26m BB Double Doublemade madeaccording accordingtotothe theinvention inventionthat that has has aa prime prime

mover with a typical load carrying capacity of 23.5T, but due to the wide spacing of the axles mover with a typical load carrying capacity of 23.5T, but due to the wide spacing of the axles

sets within sets withingroups groupsofofabout about1.5 1.5– -2.5m, 2.5m,preferably preferablyabout 1800 about 1800– -2200mm, 2200mm, and and most most

preferably about 1900mm, the first trailer and tag trailer, being supported by 6 wheel sets preferably about 1900mm, the first trailer and tag trailer, being supported by 6 wheel sets

each rated as a single and independent axle set and engineered to carry a load of up to 10T, each rated as a single and independent axle set and engineered to carry a load of up to 10T,

4 results in aa significantly significantly larger larger load loadcapacity capacityof ofover over 70T, preferably 75T, 75T, most preferably 18 Mar 2024 results in 70T, preferably most preferably over 80Tand over 80T andspecifically specifically83.5T, 83.5T,ororwhere where single single axles axles areare rated rated to carry to carry up9T, up to to 9T, a maximum a maximum capacity of 77.5T for a LCV that is between 25 - 26m in length. capacity of 77.5T for a LCV that is between 25 - 26m in length.

In In aa preferred preferred arrangement thevehicle arrangement the vehicle combination combinationhas hasa athree threeaxle axleprime primemover mover with with a a

5 5 fifth wheel and connected to this fifth wheel is the lead tanker, via its king pin. This trailer fifth wheel and connected to this fifth wheel is the lead tanker, via its king pin. This trailer

is supported is at its supported at its rear rear by by two axles, spaced two axles, widely apart spaced widely apart(between (between 1.5m 1.5m andand 2.5m) 2.5m) to to 2024201755

improvethe improve theperformance performanceofof thesteer the steeraxle axlethat that the the rear rear axle axle possesses. A tandem possesses. A tandemdolly dollyis is connected to the rear of the lead trailer via a ring feeder, and may or may not have a steer connected to the rear of the lead trailer via a ring feeder, and may or may not have a steer

axle at its rear. The dolly supports a fifth wheel and connected to this fifth wheel is the king axle at its rear. The dolly supports a fifth wheel and connected to this fifth wheel is the king

10 10 pin of the pin of the tag tagtrailer. trailer. The Thetag tagtrailer trailerisisalso alsosupported supported by tandem by tandem axles axles at itsat its (the rear rear tag (the tag trailer axles trailer axlesspaced spacedfrom fromone one another another by by between 1.5mand between 1.5m and 2.2m), 2.2m), with with therearmost the rearmost axle axle

being self-steering. The being self-steering. Theking kingpins pinsand and fifthwheels fifth wheelsareare located located in positions in positions to to optimize optimize weight weight

distribution. distribution.

The tandem The tandemaxles axlesofof both bothtrailers trailers may may be be 1900-2100mm apart. 1900-2100mm apart.

15 15 The tandem The tandemaxles axlesofof the the dolly dolly may be 1400-1600mm may be 1400-1600mm apart. apart.

The rear The rear axle axle of of the front trailer the front trailerand andthe thefront frontofofthe thedolly dollyframe framemay may be be 3300-3800mm 3300-3800mm

apart. The distance between the rear tow point of the first trailer to the centre of the fifth apart. The distance between the rear tow point of the first trailer to the centre of the fifth

wheelsupported wheel supportedbybya adolly dollyfor forthe theshorter shorter(20m (20mvehicle) vehicle)ininthe theform formofofa aforecarriage forecarriageisis 3000-4500mm. 3000-4500mm. TheThe rearrear towtow point point maymay be abe a commercially commercially available available RINGFEDER® RINGFEDER® coupling. coupling.

20 20 The rear axle of each trailer pair may be self-steering. Self-steering for the rear axle of the The rear axle of each trailer pair may be self-steering. Self-steering for the rear axle of the

dolly pair dolly pair is is optional, optional, but but preferable preferable and steerageofofthis and steerage this wheel wheelsetsetmitigates mitigatesagainst against unwanted horizontal unwanted horizontal forces forces whenwhen the vehicle the vehicle is turning. is turning.

The self-steered wheels preferably have castor action. The self-steered wheels preferably have castor action.

The vehicle The vehicle combination accordingto combination according to one oneembodiment embodiment provides provides a prime a prime mover mover withwith a fifth a fifth

25 25 wheel, a front tanker trailer with a pin for coupling to the fifth wheel of the prime mover wheel, a front tanker trailer with a pin for coupling to the fifth wheel of the prime mover

and tandem axles at the trailer rear, a rear tanker trailer with a pin for coupling to a fifth and tandem axles at the trailer rear, a rear tanker trailer with a pin for coupling to a fifth

wheel and tandem axles at the trailer rear, and a dolly with a frame for supporting said fifth wheel and tandem axles at the trailer rear, and a dolly with a frame for supporting said fifth

wheel, a draw bar for mutually connecting the two trailers, the dolly frame being supported wheel, a draw bar for mutually connecting the two trailers, the dolly frame being supported

5 by tandemaxles, axles,wherein whereinififthe themutual mutualspacing spacingofofthe thetandem tandem axles is is X, x, theseparation separation 18 Mar 2024 by tandem axles the between therear between the reardriven driven wheel wheelofof the the prime primemover moverand and thetandem the tandem axle axle of of thefront the fronttrailer trailer and the separation between the rear dolly axle and the tandem axle of the and the separation between the rear dolly axle and the tandem axle of the second trailer is about 2.5x. The extent of variation may be ±5%. second trailer is about 2.5x. The extent of variation may be +5%.

5 5 The dolly aspect of the invention provides a dolly for joining a rear trailer to a front trailer The dolly aspect of the invention provides a dolly for joining a rear trailer to a front trailer

comprising comprising aa frame framefor forsupporting supportinga afifth fifth wheel, wheel,ananA-configuration A-configurationdraw draw barbar extending extending 2024201755

forwardly of forwardly of the the frame, frame, aa pair pair of of wheel axles and wheel axles andwheel wheelassemblies assembliesrendering rendering thethe frame frame

mobile, wherein the wheels of the trailing axle are self-steering. mobile, wherein the wheels of the trailing axle are self-steering.

The trailer aspect of the invention provides a trailer with a locating pin for a fifth wheel The trailer aspect of the invention provides a trailer with a locating pin for a fifth wheel

10 10 coupling at the front end and a pair of axles at the rear end, wherein the leading axle has coupling at the front end and a pair of axles at the rear end, wherein the leading axle has

wheels and the trailing axle has self-steered wheels. wheels and the trailing axle has self-steered wheels.

AdvantageousEffects Advantageous Effectsof of Invention Invention

1. 1. The The purpose of this purpose of this arrangement is to arrangement is to share share the the load load more moreevenly evenlybybyspacing spacingthe theaxles axles differently, which is kinder to roads and bridges. The combination can carry three lots of differently, which is kinder to roads and bridges. The combination can carry three lots of

15 15 the capacity of two axles, instead of two lots of the capacity of three axles. Therefore, as the capacity of two axles, instead of two lots of the capacity of three axles. Therefore, as

the load is better distributed, the limit on the mass is increased. Currently in Victoria, the the load is better distributed, the limit on the mass is increased. Currently in Victoria, the

higher masslimit higher mass limit(HML) (HML)of of three three axles axles is is 21T21T (7.5T (7.5T perper axle), axle), andand the the HML HML of twoofaxles two is axles 17T is 17T

(8.5T peraxle). (8.5T per axle). This Thismeans means by using by using tandem tandem axles, axles, all of all theofaxles the axles in thein the configuration configuration can can carry an extra tonne each. Moreover, advantageously according to the invention, where axle carry an extra tonne each. Moreover, advantageously according to the invention, where axle

20 20 sets in a group set are spaced between 1.5 – 2.5m apart, they still can function as a group sets in a group set are spaced between 1.5 - 2.5m apart, they still can function as a group

set, but are rated as independent or single axles with a load carrying capacity of 10T each. set, but are rated as independent or single axles with a load carrying capacity of 10T each.

In In aa20m 20m B B Double madeaccording Double made accordingtotothe theinvention, invention, the the prime moversteering prime mover steering set set of of wheels wheels

can carry 6.5T, the prime mover tandem axles can carry 17T, and the 4 separate single axles can carry 6.5T, the prime mover tandem axles can carry 17T, and the 4 separate single axles

supporting the supporting thetrailers trailers (see Fig. 4) (see Fig. 4) can can each support10T, each support 10T,for fora avehicle vehicletotal totalofof63.5T. 63.5T. 25 25 Substantial elimination Substantial of sideways elimination of sidewaysdrag dragfrom from trailingtandem trailing tandem pairs pairs of of wheel wheel setssets and and substantial increase in load capacity of the vehicle are achieved by this new configuration. substantial increase in load capacity of the vehicle are achieved by this new configuration.

2. 2. The self-steering axles used in this invention also decrease the swept path of the The self-steering axles used in this invention also decrease the swept path of the

combination. combination. By By having having the self-steer the self-steer axles, axles, the swept the swept path path can be can less be less than than that of athat 19m of a 19m

6

B-double. The self-steer axles areare also designed to lock up atup at higher speed,speed, so thatsothey thatact they act 18 Mar 2024

B-double. The self-steer axles also designed to lock higher

as a rigid axle which improves the stability at said higher speeds. as a rigid axle which improves the stability at said higher speeds.

3. 3. The self-steering axles will reduce the tyre scrub caused by horizontal tracking when The self-steering axles will reduce the tyre scrub caused by horizontal tracking when

cornering, which in turn reduces the tyre wear. This in turn means less friction, less fuel cornering, which in turn reduces the tyre wear. This in turn means less friction, less fuel

5 5 consumptionand consumption andlower loweremissions. emissions.

In In another aspectthere another aspect there is is provided provided a longer a longer vehicle vehicle combination combination fortransport for road road transport of bulk of bulk 2024201755

goods comprising a prime mover, a front trailer and a rear trailer, wherein the trailer axles goods comprising a prime mover, a front trailer and a rear trailer, wherein the trailer axles

are arranged in three tandem sets, the rear of the front trailer has a tandem set, the rear are arranged in three tandem sets, the rear of the front trailer has a tandem set, the rear

trailer has a leading tandem set and a trailing tandem set and the leading tandem set of the trailer has a leading tandem set and a trailing tandem set and the leading tandem set of the

10 10 rear trailer isispart rear trailer partof ofaadolly dollywhich which supports supports aafifth fifth wheel wheelofofthe therear reartrailer. trailer.

The spacing The spacing of of the the tandem setsmay tandem sets maybebe1.5-2.5m, 1.5-2.5m,preferably preferably1900-2100mm. 1900-2100mm. The rear The rear axle axle

of the tandem sets preferably has a pair of self-steered wheels which have a caster action of the tandem sets preferably has a pair of self-steered wheels which have a caster action

as herein as herein defined. defined. The Theendmost endmost axleaxle of the of the combination combination is preferably is preferably devoid devoid of caster of caster

action. The prime mover may have three axles with a fifth wheel and connected to the fifth action. The prime mover may have three axles with a fifth wheel and connected to the fifth

15 15 wheelmay wheel maybebethe thefront fronttrailer. trailer. A A tandem dolly may tandem dolly maybebeconnected connectedto to the the rearofofthe rear thefront front trailer bybyaacoupling trailer coupling and and may haveaarear may have rearaxle axle with withself- self- steered wheels. The steered wheels. Thedolly dollymay may support aa fifth support fifth wheel wheel and and aa tag tag trailer trailermay may be be connected to the connected to the fifth fifth wheel. Thetandem wheel. The tandem axles of the dolly are preferably 1400-1600mm apart. The tandem axles of both trailers are axles of the dolly are preferably 1400-1600mm apart. The tandem axles of both trailers are

preferably preferably 1900-2100mm apart. 1900-2100mm apart. TheThe distance distance between between the point the tow tow point of first of the the first trailertoto trailer

20 20 the centre of the fifth wheel supported by the dolly is preferably 3000-4500mm, preferably the centre of the fifth wheel supported by the dolly is preferably 3000-4500mm, preferably

about 3030mm, about and most 3030mm, and most preferably preferably 3035mm. 3035mm.

In In still stillanother another aspect of the aspect of theinvention, invention,there there is is provided provided a longer a longer vehicle vehicle configuration configuration for for the road transport of bulk goods comprising a prime mover with a fifth wheel, a front tanker the road transport of bulk goods comprising a prime mover with a fifth wheel, a front tanker

trailer with a pin for coupling to the fifth wheel of the prime mover and tandem axles at the trailer with a pin for coupling to the fifth wheel of the prime mover and tandem axles at the

25 25 trailer rear, a rear tanker trailer with a pin for coupling to a fifth wheel and tandem axles at trailer rear, a rear tanker trailer with a pin for coupling to a fifth wheel and tandem axles at

the trailer rear, and a dolly with a frame for supporting said fifth wheel, a draw bar for the trailer rear, and a dolly with a frame for supporting said fifth wheel, a draw bar for

mutually connectingthe mutually connecting thetwo twotrailers, trailers, the the dolly dolly frame beingsupported frame being supportedbyby tandem tandem axles, axles,

whereinif wherein if the the separation separation between the rear between the rear drive drivewheel wheel of ofthe theprime primemover mover and and the the tandem tandem

axle of the front trailer is x, the separation between the rearmost wheel of the second trailer axle of the front trailer is X, the separation between the rearmost wheel of the second trailer

7 and the rearmost wheel of the first trailer is about 2.5x. The extent of the variation of the 18 Mar 2024 and the rearmost wheel of the first trailer is about 2.5x. The extent of the variation of the separation is preferably ±5%. separation is preferably +5%.

In In still still another another aspect of the aspect of invention,there the invention, thereisisprovided provided a dolly a dolly forjoining for joininga arear reartrailer trailertotoaa front trailer in a longer vehicle combination for the road transport of bulk goods comprising front trailer in a longer vehicle combination for the road transport of bulk goods comprising

5 5 a frame for supporting a fifth wheel, an A-configuration draw bar extending forwardly of the a frame for supporting a fifth wheel, an A-configuration draw bar extending forwardly of the

frame, aa pair frame, pair of ofwheel wheelaxles axlesand andwheel wheel assemblies assemblies rendering rendering the the frame frame mobile, mobile, wherein the wherein the 2024201755

wheels of the trailing axle are self-steering. wheels of the trailing axle are self-steering.

Broadly stated,the Broadly stated, thelarge largevehicle vehiclecombination combination may include: may include:

one or more tag trailers each having a plurality of wheel sets with trailer axles arranged in one or more tag trailers each having a plurality of wheel sets with trailer axles arranged in

10 10 group sets, group sets,

wherein:: wherein

the rearmost wheel set of at least one group set are steered; and the rearmost wheel set of at least one group set are steered; and

the spacing the spacing between between adjacent adjacent in-linewheels in-line wheels in the in the same same groupgroup set isset is greater greater than than in in traditional groups traditional groups sets, sets,the spacing the ofof spacing adjacent axles adjacent being axles between being betweenabout about1.5m 1.5m and and about about

15 15 2.5m. 2.5m.

The steering of the rear set of wheels may be in the form of caster steered wheels. The steering of the rear set of wheels may be in the form of caster steered wheels.

The vehicle The vehicle may maybebeananA-A-ororA-B- A-B-Double Double vehicleandand vehicle thethe horizontal horizontal load load on on thethe king king pinpin

coupling the coupling the lead lead trailer trailertotothe theprime primemover mover of of the the A- A- or or A-B- A-B- Double Double vehicle vehicle may be less may be less than 1000kg than 1000kgduring duringaa 180 180degree degreeturn turnon onaa normal normaldry dryroad roadsurface. surface.

20 20 The swept The sweptpath pathofof the the vehicle vehicle may be less may be less than than about about 6m. 6m.

BRIEF BRIEF DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION OF OF DRAWINGS DRAWINGS

The invention The invention may maybebe better better understood understood fromfrom the following the following non-limiting non-limiting description description of of preferred preferred embodiments, embodiments, ininwhich: which:

Figure Figure 11 is is aa side side view view of of a a 26m 26m AADouble Double vehicle vehicle combination combination according according to one to one of aspect aspect the of the

invention; 25 invention; 25

Figure 2aisis aa schematic Figure 2a sideview schematic side view of of a prior a prior artart 25m 25m B Double; B Double;

8

Figure 2b is a schematic side view of a prior art 19m B Double; 01 Apr 2026

Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the 26m A Double shown in Fig. 1;

Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a 20m A-B Double vehicle combination according to another aspect of the invention;

5 Figure 5 is a comparative Table of the respective king pin loadings of various vehicle combinations according to the prior art and embodiments of the invention; and 2024201755

Figure 6 is a side elevation of a dolly hitch arrangement of the embodiment shown in Fig. 1.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, in Fig. 2a a conventional vehicle 30 made according to the 10 prior art is shown having trailers 12,16 with supported by trailing group triplet wheel sets 40,80 that are fixed and non-steerable. Such wheel sets 40,80 operate well when the vehicle 2 is travelling in a relatively straight direction. However, the very nature of LCVs is that they are often required to be driven into tight spots with limited room for turning. In such situations, the middle set of wheels 46 in the wheel group set 40, tend to turn with little 15 sideways force as they are located close to the pivot point 20 of the tag trailer 16 mount. However, the front 42 and rear 44 wheel sets tend to drag sideways, causing road or ground infrastructure damage, and a high rate of tyre wear.

In Fig. 2, there is shown a 19m B Double 30a having a prime mover with a typical front set of steerable wheels rated to support 6.5T and a trailing tandem group set rated to bear a 20 load of 17T. The front trailer is supported by a forecarriage 21a that has, at its rear, a tandem set of non-steerable wheels 40a, as does the rear tag trailer with the tandem set of wheels 80a, each tandem wheel set having a load supporting capacity of 17T. The total load bearing capacity of the vehicle 30a is therefore: 6.5 + 3 x 17T = 57.5T compared to 63.5T for the inventive equivalent vehicle 100 shown in Fig. 4 as described below.

25 A vehicle 1 having a prime mover 2 is shown in Figs. 1 and 3, which vehicle 1 has steered wheels 4 beneath cab 6 and a pair of driver axles 8, 8' in conventional manner. A fifth wheel assembly 10 between the driver axles supports the forward end of a front trailer 12, 8560mm in length. The trailer 12 has tandem axles 14, 14' at its rear having an unusually large spacing spacing of of1924mm. Thelatter latterspacing spacingis is economical andimproves improvesload loaddistribution, distribution, 18 Mar 2024 large 1924mm. The economical and reduces the horizontal reduces the horizontal forces forces to to which the non-steered which the non-steeredwheels wheels might might be be subjected. subjected. The The distance between axle 8' and axle 14 is 5053mm. Front trailer 12 articulates about the axis distance between axle 8' and axle 14 is 5053mm. Front trailer 12 articulates about the axis of the fifth wheel 10. of the fifth wheel 10.

5 5 Rear trailer 16 Rear trailer is likewise 16 is likewise 8560mm in length 8560mm in length and and has has a a tandem tandem axle assembly axle assembly 18, 18'. 18, 18'. Again, Again,

the spacing the spacing between betweenthethetrailer trailer axles axles is is 1924mm. 1924mm. TheThe forward forward end end of rear of the the rear trailer trailer is is 2024201755

supported by a fifth wheel 20 borne by dolly frame 22. The tandem axles 24,24' of the dolly supported by a fifth wheel 20 borne by dolly frame 22. The tandem axles 24,24' of the dolly

frame are frame are 1500mm 1500mm apart. apart. TheThe dolly dolly frame frame 22 22 hashas an an A-frame A-frame draw draw bar bar 26 which 26 which hitches hitches to to the rear of front trailer 12 via a RINGFEDER® coupling. The distance from the king pin 25 at the rear of front trailer 12 via a RINGFEDER® coupling. The distance from the king pin 25 at

10 10 the rear of trailer 12 supporting the A-frame 26 to the front of the dolly frame 22 is 3614mm, the rear of trailer 12 supporting the A-frame 26 to the front of the dolly frame 22 is 3614mm,

which allows the dolly to articulate. which allows the dolly to articulate.

The fifth wheel 20 allows the trailer 16 to articulate. The combined effect of three axes of The fifth wheel 20 allows the trailer 16 to articulate. The combined effect of three axes of

articulation isistoto articulation reduce the reduce turning the circle turning to 21m circle diameter to 21m instead diameter of of instead thethe 23780mm 23780mm which which

is the is the distance distanceseparating separatingsteered steered axle axle44and andthe therearmost rearmost axle axle 18'. 18'. The The improved weight improved weight

15 15 distribution of three tandem axle sets 14,18,24 over the prior art twin triplet combination distribution of three tandem axle sets 14,18,24 over the prior art twin triplet combination

enables the enables the General General Mass MassLimit Limit (GML) (GML)totobe beup uptoto 68.5TN 68.5TNand andthe theHigher HigherMass Mass Limit(HML) Limit (HML) to be up to 74.5TN. In particular, the spaced apart wheel sets 8,8’; 24,24’; and 18,18’, each to be up to 74.5TN. In particular, the spaced apart wheel sets 8,8'; 24,24'; and 18,18', each

individually have a load rating of 10T, (currently 9T in the State of Victoria, Australia, but individually have a load rating of 10T, (currently 9T in the State of Victoria, Australia, but

engineered to support 10T), so that the total load carrying capacity for vehicle 1 is 6.5 + 17 engineered to support 10T), so that the total load carrying capacity for vehicle 1 is 6.5 + 17

20 20 + 6 Xx 10T 10T == 83.5T, 83.5T,compared compared to the to the equivalent equivalent priorprior art 25m art 25m B Double B Double vehiclevehicle 30 represented 30 represented

in in Fig. Fig. 2a 2a of of 6.5 6.5 + + 17 (for the 17 (for the prime primemover mover 6) +6)21+ +21 + 21T 21T (21T (21T for of for each each the of the tri-group tri-group sets sets 40,80) = 65.5T. This represents a significant load carrying advantage for the inventive vehicle 40,80) = 65.5T. This represents a significant load carrying advantage for the inventive vehicle

11 over its prior over its prior art art equivalent vehicle30. equivalent vehicle 30.

The wheel The wheelaxles axlesofofthe thewheel wheel sets sets 14,14’,18,18’24,24’areare 14,14',18,18'24,24' connected connected to the to the two two trailer trailer

25 25 chassis 12,16 and to the dolly frame 22 by trailing arm suspension units incorporating air chassis 12,16 and to the dolly frame 22 by trailing arm suspension units incorporating air

bags. bags.

Conventional retractable Conventional retractable legs legs maymay be provided be provided to extend to extend from from the the underside underside of both trailer of both trailer

chassis. chassis.

The axles The axles of of wheel sets 14', wheel sets 14', 24' 24' and and 18' 18' are are fitted fittedwith withself-steered self-steeredwheels wheels which which have have aa

10 caster action whereby to trail the direction generally determined by the prime mover 6. This 18 Mar 2024 caster action whereby to trail the direction generally determined by the prime mover 6. This is is effected effected by by the useof the use of truncated truncatedcone cone mounts mounts 15the 15 for for wheels the wheels withwheel with each eachset wheel set joined joined by by aa horizontal horizontaltie tie rod rod17'. 17`. Caster Casteraction action only only occurs occurs in in wheel wheel setssets 14',14', 24' 24' and and 18' 18' at speeds at speeds of up to 40kph in order to confine this assistance to steering to the part of the vehicle journey of up to 40kph in order to confine this assistance to steering to the part of the vehicle journey

5 5 requiring turnsatatslow requiring turns slowspeeds. speeds.At At cruising cruising speed speed (above (above 40kmph) 40kmph) the the wheel wheel sets sets 14’,18,24’ 14',18,24"

are locked are and there locked and there is is no caster action. no caster action. The speedatat which The speed whichthe theaxles axlesofof the the wheel wheelsets sets 2024201755

14’,18’,24’ 14',18',24"are arelocked lockedand and unlocked is programmed unlocked is programmed byby anan electronicbraking electronic brakingsystem system (EBS) (EBS)

provided withthethe provided with trailer12,16. trailer 12,16.

Another version of the vehicle combination of the invention is shown in Fig. 4 in the form of Another version of the vehicle combination of the invention is shown in Fig. 4 in the form of

10 10 a 20m A-B Double 100 having a prime mover 106, hauling a first trailer 112 and a tag trailer a 20m A-B Double 100 having a prime mover 106, hauling a first trailer 112 and a tag trailer

116. Thefirst 116. The first trailer trailer isissupported atits supported at its front front end endbybya afifth fifthwheel wheel coupling coupling 110 110 and and a a single single

fixed wheel set 114 at its rear end. The tag trailer 116 trails the rear end of the first trailer fixed wheel set 114 at its rear end. The tag trailer 116 trails the rear end of the first trailer

112 bya aring 112 by ringfeeder feeder coupling coupling 125.125. A forecarriage A forecarriage frame frame 122 supports 122 supports the frontthe end front of theend of the

tag trailer tag trailer116 116and andisis drawn drawnby byan anA-frame A-frame drawbar 126 in drawbar 126 in aa manner similar to manner similar to the the A-frame A-frame

15 15 drawbar 26ofof the drawbar 26 the embodiment embodiment shown shown in Figs. in Figs. 1 1 and and 3.3.The The frontend front end ofof thetag the tagtrailer trailer 116 116

is mounted is mounted onon theforecarriage the forecarriage122122 forfor articulationbybya afifth articulation fifthwheel wheelcoupling coupling 120. 120. TheThe

forecarriage 122 is supported by a wheel group set of widely spaced front 124 and rear 124’ forecarriage 122 is supported by a wheel group set of widely spaced front 124 and rear 124'

wheel sets in a manner similar to the wheel sets 24,24’ shown in Figs. 1 and 3, their spacing wheel sets in a manner similar to the wheel sets 24,24' shown in Figs. 1 and 3, their spacing

being ofthe being of theorder orderof of about about 2.2m2.2m so that so that the wheel the wheel sets 124,124’ sets 124,124' are ratedare as rated single as single axles axles

20 20 with an with an engineered engineeredload loadcapacity capacityofof10T. 10T.The Thetrailing trailing wheel wheelset set124' 124’ininsteerable steerableatat low low speeds (less speeds (less than than 40kmph) 40kmph) totoeffectively effectively mitigate mitigate sideways forces to sideways forces to which which non-steerable non-steerable wheels would be subjected when a vehicle made according to the prior art, such as a vehicle wheels would be subjected when a vehicle made according to the prior art, such as a vehicle

30 shown 30 shown in in Fig.2,2,isis turning. Fig. turning.InInthe thepresent present embodiment embodiment 100, 100, the thepair front frontofpair of wheels wheels 124 124 follow the lead of the first trailer with limited sideways drag and the trailing wheel set 124’ follow the lead of the first trailer with limited sideways drag and the trailing wheel set 124'

25 25 is is steered byaa caster steered by casteraction actionsosothat thatthere there is is little or little or no nosideways sideways drag drag by the by the trailing trailing pair pair of of

wheels 124’. The rearmost wheel set 118 is fixed and trails effectively without steering. wheels 124'. The rearmost wheel set 118 is fixed and trails effectively without steering.

The vehicle The vehicle 100 100 advantageously advantageouslycomprises comprises 4 wheel 4 wheel setssets 114,124,124’,118 114,124,124',118 on trailers on the the trailers 112,116, that are 112,116, that are well well spaced spaced(the (the distance distancebetween betweenthethe paired paired wheel wheel setssets 124,124’ 124,124' on on

which the which the dolly dolly 122 is mounted 122 is beingbetween mounted being between about about 1.9 1.9 – 2.0m) - 2.0m) to better to better distribute distribute the the

11 load. This wide base support and more dispersed distribution of load support is achievable 01 Apr 2026 by providing a steerable wheel set 124’.

With reference to Fig. 5, a Table of a king pin 10,110 load of various LCV combinations is shown, including that for vehicles 1,30,100 as they travel through a 180˚ turn. A like for like 5 comparative study may be made between prior art vehicle 30 and the preferred embodiment vehicle 1 which haul similar massed loads of about 60T. It can be seen that, at 2024201755

the high load mid-point of the turn (around 30 – 40 seconds into a turn that takes about 40 – 50 seconds to complete), the king pin 10 load of the prior art vehicle 30 is about 3 times the loading on the king pin 10 of the preferred comparable vehicle 1, despite hauling similar 10 loads. Accordingly, this demonstrates the large advantage of the preferred wider spacing of the wheel sets within each group set to permit improved load distribution and the steerability of the trailing wheel sets 14’,24’,18’ have a direct effect on reducing the load applied to the king pin 10 when the vehicle 1 is turning. Accordingly, a A_B or A Double vehicle 1,100 is provided that subjects the king pin coupling 10,110 to a maximum load on a 15 flat standard road surface of less than 1000kg.

In Fig. 6, the ring feeder arrangement 25 of the 26m B Double vehicle 1 is showing in greater detail. The position of the ring feeder 25 and particularly the vertical axle hitch point 27 is mounted to the front trailer 12 as far forward as possible towards the centre C of the axle group 14,14’ to greatly improve the dynamics of the dolly 22 connected to the

20 ring feeder 25. The ring feeder coupling 25 is located within 300mm - 600mm (when considered in plan view) of the rear axle of wheel set 14’ of the first trailer12, preferably about 500mm in distance, and most specifically in the embodiment shown, within about 520mm. The wheel sets 14,14’, axle to axle, are advantageously spaced between 1700 - 2200mm of each other, preferably 1900 – 2000mm, and most specifically, about 1920mm 25 of each other, so that the pair of wheel sets 14,14’ operate ostensibly as separate, single axles.

It is to be understood that various modifications of and/or additions to the invention can be made without departing from the basic nature of the invention. These modifications and/or additions are therefore considered to fall within the scope of the invention.

Throughoutthethespecification specificationandand claims thethe wordword “comprise” and its derivatives are 18 Mar 2024

Throughout claims "comprise" and its derivatives are

intended intended totohave havean an inclusive inclusive rather rather than than exclusive exclusive meaning meaning unless unless the contrary the contrary is expressly is expressly

stated or the context requires otherwise. That is, the word “comprise” and its derivatives stated or the context requires otherwise. That is, the word "comprise" and its derivatives

will be taken to indicate the inclusion of not only the listed components, steps or features will be taken to indicate the inclusion of not only the listed components, steps or features

5 5 that it directly references, but also other components, steps or features not specifically that it directly references, but also other components, steps or features not specifically

listed, listed, unless unless the contraryisis expressly the contrary expresslystated statedororthethe context context requires requires otherwise. otherwise. 2024201755

In In the the present present specification, specification,terms termssuch suchas as“apparatus”, "apparatus",“means”, "means", “device” "device" and and “member” "member"

may refertotosingular may refer singularororplural pluralitems items andand are are terms terms intended intended to to to refer refer to of a set a set of properties, properties,

functions or functions or characteristics characteristicsperformed performed by by one one or or more items or more items or components having components having one one or or

10 10 more parts. It more parts. It isisenvisaged envisagedthat thatwhere where an an “apparatus”, "apparatus", “means”, “device” or "means", "device" or "member" “member” or or

similar term is described as being a unitary object, then a functionally equivalent object similar term is described as being a unitary object, then a functionally equivalent object

having multiplecomponents having multiple components is considered is considered towithin to fall fall within the scope the scope of the of the and term, term, and similarly, similarly,

whereanan"apparatus", where “apparatus”,"assembly", “assembly”,"means", “means”, “device” "device" or or “member” "member" is described is described as having as having

multiple components, multiple components, a functionally a functionally equivalent equivalent but unitary but unitary object object is also is also considered considered to fall to fall

15 15 within the scope of the term, unless the contrary is expressly stated or the context requires within the scope of the term, unless the contrary is expressly stated or the context requires

otherwise. otherwise.

Orientational terms Orientational terms used used in the in the specification specification and claims and claims such as such as vertical, vertical, horizontal, horizontal, top, top, bottom,upper bottom, upperand andlower lowerare aretotobebeinterpreted interpretedasasrelational relational and and are are based on the based on the premise premise that the component, item, article, apparatus, device or instrument will usually be considered that the component, item, article, apparatus, device or instrument will usually be considered

20 20 in in a a particular particular orientation, typically with orientation, typically withthe thewheels wheels 14,14’, 14,14', etc. etc. lowermost. lowermost.

13

Claims

The Claims Defining the Invention are as Follows: 01 Apr 2026

1. A large vehicle combination including: a prime mover with a steered axle, a front trailer having a trailing tandem wheel set with trailer axles also arranged in group sets; and a rear trailer having a trailing tandem wheel set; and three axes of articulation in the form of a fifth wheel mount for the front trailer, a king pin coupling a dolly to the front trailer and a second fifth wheel 2024201755

mount coupling the rear trailer to the dolly, a rearmost axle of each of the trailing tandem wheel sets of the front and rear trailers being self-steered; the rear trailer tandem axles being spaced from one another by between 1.5m and 2.2m; and the combined effect of having three axes of articulation is that a turning circle diameter of the large vehicle combination is less than a distance separating a steered axle of the prime mover and the rearmost axle of the rear trailer.

2. A large vehicle combination according to Claim 1, wherein the large vehicle combination’s General Mass Limit (GML) is up to 68.5TN and the Higher Mass Limit (HML) is up to 74.5TN.

3. A large vehicle combination according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the large vehicle combination is an A double and includes 3 sets of wheel sets in which the wheels within each wheel set are spaced apart relative to each other, including: (a) the trailing tandem wheel set of the front trailer; (b) the dolly wheel sets of the dolly; and (c) the trailing tandem wheel set, wherein each of the 3 wheel sets individually have a load rating of 10T.

4. A large vehicle combination according to Claim 3, wherein the total load carrying capacity for the vehicle is (6.5 + 17) + (6 x 10)T = 83.5T.

5 A large vehicle combination according to Claim 3 or 4, wherein the wheels of the trailing tandem wheel sets each have wheel axles that are respectively connected to the front trailer, the rear trailer and to the dolly by trailing arm suspension units incorporating air bags.

6. A large vehicle combination according to any one of Claims 3 to 5, wherein the axles of the front, dolly and rear trailing wheel sets and are fitted with self- steered wheels which have a caster action whereby to trail a direction generally determined by the prime mover. 01 Apr 2026

7. A large vehicle combination according to Claim 6, wherein the caster action is effected by the use of truncated cone mounts for the wheels with each wheel set joined by a horizontal tie rod. 2024201755

2024201755

18'

18

24'

20

24 22 16

26 FIGURE 1

25 14'

1

14

2 8 8'

10

12

4

80 84

16 86

80a 82

40 44

20 46

40a 42 FIG. 2a (Prior Art)

FIG. 2b (Prior Art)

21a

10

the 8 23 8a 8 12

o o

4 6 30a

18'

18 118

116

20 24' 124

120

24 122 124

22 (20m A-B Double) (26m A Double)

26 126

FIG.3 FIG.4

25 125

15 & 14 17 14 114

112 10

'8'

110 12

8 o o 106

4 6 100