Adjustable Cross-Members for Anhydrous Ammonia Tank Trailers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior anhydrous ammonia tank trailers are inflexible and can only accommodate specific sizes of tanks in fixed positions, limiting their adaptability for different tank sizes and configurations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates adjustable cross-members that are selectively removably and longitudinally adjustably secured to the trailer's frame members, allowing for the mounting of anhydrous ammonia tanks of various sizes in different positions, including side-by-side configurations, and enabling the trailer to be secured to a fertilizer applicator for transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tanks are secured to the trailer frame in a pre-designated position, then the trailer structure is simple and stable, but the trailer cannot accommodate various sizes of tanks in different positions
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-members are made adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the trailer frame, allowing their positions to be dynamically changed. This enables the trailer to accommodate tanks of various sizes at different positions while maintaining structural simplicity through a standardized adjustable mechanism rather than multiple fixed configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable cross-members serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable position adjustment for different tank sizes, and allow selective removal for reconfiguration. This universal component replaces the need for multiple specialized fixed-position mounting structures
2Adaptability or versatility
If cross-members are made selectively removable and longitudinally adjustable, then the trailer can accommodate various tank configurations, but the mounting and dismounting process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-members are designed as separate, modular components that can be independently adjusted and removed. Each cross-member is a discrete unit with standardized adjustment mechanisms, allowing for simplified installation and removal procedures compared to integrated fixed structures
Data Source
AI summary
An anhydrous ammonia trailer including first and second longitudinally extending frame members having first and second cross-members selectively removably secured to the frame member with the cross-members being longitudinally adjustably secured to the frame member. The cross-members enable the trailer to have first and second ammonia tanks mounted on the trailer. The trailer also enables a single ammonia tank to be supported on the adjustable cross-members.