Adjustable Motorcycle Trailer Assembly with Winch-Actuated Pivoting Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorcycle trailers require the use of external ramps for loading and unloading, which can be hazardous and inefficient, and often necessitate decoupling and recoupling from a vehicle hitch, increasing the time and effort required for transportation.
Innovation Solution
A transportable motorcycle trailer assembly that allows for loading and unloading without external ramps, featuring a winch assembly and pivot points to lower and raise the trailer frame independently while remaining coupled to a vehicle hitch, distributing weight evenly and maintaining a planar surface for easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a motorcycle trailer uses external ramps for loading and unloading, then the loading process can be completed, but the ramps can slip causing damage to the motorcycle or the person loading the motorcycle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the external ramp from the system by integrating the loading function directly into the trailer frame. The frame itself becomes the loading surface through pivotal movement, eliminating the need for separate ramps and their associated safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the loading ramp function with the trailer frame structure. The frame sections are configured to pivot and create a loading surface that is structurally integrated with the trailer, merging two previously separate functions (frame support and loading ramp) into one unified system.
2Ease of operation
If a motorcycle trailer lowers to allow loading and unloading without a ramp, then loading becomes easier, but the trailer becomes unstable when the motorcycle is being loaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the trailer frame into multiple sectionseach with specific pivot points that allow controlled movement. This segmentation enables the frame to lower for loading while maintaining structural stability through the distributed pivot point configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions pivot points and frame sections in advance to ensure that when the frame lowers, it does so in a controlled manner that maintains stability. The pre-configured pivot points guide the lowering action to preserve trailer stability throughout the loading process.
3Ease of operation
If a motorcycle trailer tilts to load and unload, then loading without a ramp is achieved, but the motorcycle requires a running start to climb the steep angle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic frame sections that can pivot and adjust their angle. This allows the loading surface to transition from a steep fixed angle to a more gradual dynamic angle, enabling motorcycles to be loaded without a running start while still eliminating the need for external ramps.
4Ease of operation
If a motorcycle trailer uses frames connected at two or more pivot points, then loading without a steep ramp is achieved, but the motorcycle is not kept on a generally planar surface when translating from loading to transporting position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures the frame sections and pivot points to work together in a coordinated sequence. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the frame translates from loading to transporting position, the motorcycle remains on a generally planar surface throughout the movement.
5Ease of operation
If a motorcycle trailer uses hydraulic pumps or actuators to lower and raise the trailer, then the trailer can be operated, but the systems are costly to purchase and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the frame and pivot point system to function using the natural weight and movement of the trailer itself. The frame sections pivot and lower/raise through their own gravitational force and mechanical advantage, eliminating the need for external hydraulic pumps or actuators and their associated costs.
6Adaptability or versatility
If a motorcycle trailer requires decoupling and recoupling from a vehicle hitch, then the trailer can be detached for storage, but the time and effort required for transportation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the hitch connection with the frame structure itself, creating a unified system where the frame and hitch work together. This integration streamlines the coupling and decoupling process, reducing the time and effort required while maintaining the ability to detach for storage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables safe, efficient, and time-saving loading and unloading of motorcycles without external ramps, reducing the effort needed and maintaining stability during transportation by centralizing the mass moment of inertia and keeping the surface planar.
Implementation Method 1
a winch assembly having a securing member coupling the second frame section to at least one of the first frame section and third frame section, the winch assembly operably configured to both lower the second frame section and raise a portion of the first frame section
Implementation Method 2
The proximal end of the second frame section is rotatably coupled to the proximal end of the first frame section. The proximal end of the second frame section is rotatably coupled to the proximal end of the first frame section at a first pivot point
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer assembly is disclosed that is operable to transport vehicles. The trailer assembly includes at least two tires and a first frame section, a second frame section, and a third frame section. The tires are coupled to the first frame section. The second frame section includes a platform configured to support at least a front wheel of a vehicle. The second frame section and the third frame section are each rotatably coupled to the first frame section. The third frame section includes a portion adapted to be directly selectively couplable to a trailer hitch of an automobile. A winch assembly couples the second frame section to at least one of the first frame section and third frame section. The winch assembly is operably configured to both lower the second frame section and raise a portion of the first frame section independent and without rotation of the third frame section.