Adjustable Height Trailer Suspension for Off-Road Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have limited carrying capacity for supplies and gear due to their small size, and towing trailers in off-road conditions is challenging due to steep inclines and transverse slopes, making it difficult to access remote locations effectively.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable height tow-behind trailer with a frame connected to an adjustable suspension system, allowing for varying clearance and wheel position, and an adjustable tongue to accommodate different terrain and loading conditions, enhancing maneuverability and carrying capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a trailer is attached to an ATV to increase carrying capacity, then the quantity of supplies and gear that can be transported is improved, but the ability to navigate off-road terrain with steep inclines and transverse slopes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the suspension system adjustable rather than fixed. The suspension linkage includes adjustable elements that allow the trailer height and wheel position to be changed dynamically based on terrain conditions. This enables the trailer to adapt its configuration for different off-road scenarios, improving both carrying capacity and maneuverability depending on the situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing adjustment of the suspension system's geometric parameters. The linkage can be reconfigured to change the trailer's ride height, wheelbase length, and suspension characteristics. These parameter adjustments enable optimization of the trailer's performance for specific terrain types and loading conditions, resolving the contradiction between carrying capacity and off-road maneuverability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the trailer has fixed suspension, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different terrain conditions and loading scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the suspension system into modular linkage components that can be independently adjusted. The suspension is broken down into separate arms, pivots, and connection points that can be reconfigured. This modular approach allows for adaptability without requiring a completely complex integrated system, as each segment can be adjusted independently to achieve the desired configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a suspension system that serves multiple functions through a single adjustable mechanism. The same suspension linkage provides both ride comfort and terrain adaptation capabilities. The adjustable geometry allows the system to function effectively across various terrain types and loading conditions, reducing the need for multiple specialized systems and thereby managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer is disclosed. The trailer may be pulled behind a vehicle such as, but not limited to, a jeep, dune buggy, or ATV. Embodiments of the trailer may include a frame and an adjustable suspension. The adjustable suspension may be used to vary the height of the trailer in order to accommodate different types of terrain and loading. By changing the height, the clearance and/or approach angle of the trailer may be varied. Additional embodiments may include a tongue connected to the frame, which tongue may have an adjustable length and/or height. Where the trailer includes a cover and a tailgate, an optional locking system may be used. In one embodiment, the locking system includes a handle that may release both the tailgate and cover. In some embodiments, the handle may be partially pulled to release the cover while fully pulling the handle may release the tailgate.