Maneuvering aid
A maneuvering aid (also: mover ) is a device to move a non-powered vehicle over short distances at low speed.
Construction of permanently mounted maneuvering aids
The maneuvering aid consists of the actual drive unit, a control unit, an accumulator with charger and a remote control. The drive unit is mounted on the frame in front of or behind the wheels of the vehicle. It consists of the electric motors, the drive rollers and the swivel mechanism. The drive rollers are swiveled to the wheels manually - usually via a connecting rod - or via a servo motor.
The control unit communicates with the remote control and converts the control commands from the remote control into releases for the drive motors. The maneuvering aid can be operated using the remote control (forwards, backwards, swiveling).
The accumulator provides the electrical power to operate the motors.
Attachment of permanently mounted maneuvering aids
Most maneuvering aids are supplied with approvals (ABE) for common frame designs and detailed installation instructions. If necessary, adapter sets must be used. The empty weight of the trailer increases considerably when the maneuvering aid is installed (70 kg and more; depending on the version).
Operation of permanently installed maneuvering aids
After switching on the power supply (main switch, "Natoknochen") and the remote control, the remote control and control unit synchronize. The drive rollers are brought into the operating position manually or via servos. The trailer can now be moved using the buttons on the remote control. A "soft start" to protect the suspension and the chassis is the rule. Common inclines can be mastered - depending on the mass of the trailer. When the drive rollers are swiveled in, the trailer is also held on inclines.
Construction of external maneuvering aids
This type of maneuvering aid contains the drive via rubber caterpillars, the accumulator and the control unit in one unit. Like fixed maneuvering aids, the external maneuvering aid is also operated via a remote control. The weight is 20–40 kg.
Operation of external maneuvering aids
External maneuvering aids are connected to the trailer under the drawbar (a holder may have to be fitted for this). Compared to fixed maneuvering aids, external maneuvering aids have some limitations: The nature of the ground has a greater influence. When maneuvering on inclines, some safety measures must be observed.