Colorado Patent of the Month – March 2025
Outrider, a leader in autonomous yard operations, has introduced a patented robotic system that could revolutionize the trucking industry. The invention automates how service lines—both air and electric—are connected between a truck and a trailer.
A Hands-Free Connection
Traditionally, truck drivers must exit the cab, climb onto the chassis, and manually attach heavy hoses and cables. Now, Outrider’s system removes the need for that step. A robotic arm, mounted on the truck, uses cameras to locate trailer connectors. Then, it aligns and joins the lines without human input.
Smart, Safe, and Precise
The robot uses image-based guidance and fiducial markers to find exact connection points. Once aligned, it completes the hookup of brake air lines and power cables. After that, the robotic arm retracts, leaving the system ready to roll.
Why It Matters
This invention does more than just save time. It reduces injury risks, increases yard efficiency, and supports the growing move toward fully autonomous vehicles. Especially in ports and railyards—where speed and precision matter most—this kind of automation can be a game changer.
Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.
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The Research & Experimentation Tax Credit (or R&D Tax Credit), is a general business tax credit under Internal Revenue Code section 41 for companies that incur research and development (R&D) costs in the United States. The credits are a tax incentive for performing qualified research in the United States, resulting in a credit to a tax return. For the first three years of R&D claims, 6% of the total qualified research expenses (QRE) form the gross credit. In the 4th year of claims and beyond, a base amount is calculated, and an adjusted expense line is multiplied times 14%. Click here to learn more.
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