Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing self-contained brake release capabilities in a tractor trailer to facilitate autonomous movement of the trailer within a controlled environment such as in a yard, depot or other facility. Pressurized air is stored in a reservoir of the trailer while the trailer is in a stationary, parked position. Upon receipt of a wirelessly transmitted brake release command, a trailer controller circuit transitions a flow valve to interconnect the reservoir to a brake assembly to apply pressure sufficient to release the brake assembly and enable rolling movement of a wheel assembly of the trailer. In this way, a yard shifter or other transport vehicle can mechanically engage and move the trailer without the need to provide pressurized air or electrical power to the tractor trailer in order to release the brakes. Security protocols can be used to ensure the brake release operation is performed under authorized conditions.

Abstract: An inflation system can be configured for a rotary environment with a supply conduit passing through a rotary union to a hub. The hub can consist of a diaphragm contacting a force mechanism with the diaphragm separating the supply conduit from a lead conduit. The force mechanism may allow selective bi-directional fluid flow between the supply conduit and the lead conduit in response to fluid pressure that differs from a predetermined threshold pressure.

Abstract: A combination includes at least: an air line disposed between a rotary union and a tire; and a tire pressure management safety valve disposed within the air line. The air line facilitates pressurized fluid transferred between the rotary union and a valve stem of the tire, to inflate the tire, and the tire pressure management safety valve includes: a valve housing providing a valve activation chamber; a fluid conduit having a downstream end and an upstream end; a check valve disposed within the valve activation chamber, the check valve responsive to pressurized fluid within the air line, at a predetermined pressure the check valve automatically precludes air transfer through the fluid conduit; and a fitting communicating with the check valve activation chamber and the valve stem of the tire. The combination further includes a tire pressure measurement sensor interacting with the check valve activation chamber and the inflated tire.