ZF technology streamlines load management
ZF has highlighted the load optimisation functions of its Intelligent Trailer Program, which it says allows fleets not just to prevent overload, but also to optimise cargo distribution and vehicle stability throughout the journey for the best possible performance.
“The effect of cargo on the trailer and, ultimately, the truck has implications for safety, driver comfort, fuel efficiency and maintenance,” said the company.
“ZF offers the Intelligent Trailer Program (ITP) mobilised by Wabco Trailer Solutions for trailer OEMs and fleets with a range of innovative trailer functions that increase operational effectiveness, safety and driver comfort. The ZF ITP is an award-winning program that is based on the Electronic Braking System, but extends into intelligent brake, suspension, sensor and connectivity systems.
“Grouped into five main categories of advanced safety, operational efficiency, driver comfort, load optimisation and fuel and CO2 reduction, the ITP program offers a range of up to 40 innovative trailer functions, based on the EBS system, helping trailer builders and fleets customise trailers to their specific needs.”
The load optimisation functions include OptiLoad, an automated load control to help avoid overload on the fifth wheel. It measures the weight on the trailer axles and automatically lifts the last axle of the trailer if the first and second axles are not fully loaded.
Additionally, it automatically respects the total permitted weight per trailer axle and helps to optimise load distribution to its maximum allowed capacity. This in turn, helps reduces risk of damage to the truck’s drive axle caused by overload and avoid penalties from overload on the truck’s drive axle.
OptiLoad is integrated in the Trailer EBS and can be retrofitted with Trailer EBS E Premium version 1 or higher.
Meanwhile, OptiLevel electronic air suspension control helps keep the trailer platform of glass inloaders or drawbar trailers parallel to the ground when the cargo is unequally loaded.
This level control system automatically adjusts the trailer platform independently between left and right or front and rear. This allows for an easier unloading process by lowering the front or rear of the trailer.
In addition to load optimisation functions for the trailer, ZF also provides a host of solutions to enhance the efficiency and safety of commercial vehicles.
“ZF’s suspension control solutions improve driver comfort through better ride quality, enable lifting and lowering of the chassis for more efficient handling and enabling time savings, in addition to numerous other value-added functions,” said the company.
“OptiRide, the electronically controlled air suspension for trucks, improves operational efficiency, vehicle handling and comfort through superior suspension quality and remote-controlled chassis height adjustments.
“This in turn enables easier, faster and safer coupling procedures which supports quicker and simplified loading and unloading. It also helps the driver adhere to permitted axle load while allowing for superior traction on all surfaces during start-up and smart axle adaptation to different load conditions.”
