Adjustable Trailer Tow Connection with Modular Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current open-flatbed-type utility trailers have limitations in adaptability, efficiency, and performance due to fixed-height kingpin connections, leading to inflexibility and reduced payload capabilities, especially when used with different towing vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A heavy-duty wheeled trailer with a rotatable transition portion and adjustable frame, featuring a four-bar link mechanism and modular design, allowing for customizable positioning and orientation of the tow connection point to accommodate various vehicle types and sizes, and incorporating a double 'Y' support beam structure for load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-height kingpin connection point is used, then the trailer structure is simple, but the adaptability to different towing vehicles is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the kingpin connection point adjustable in height through a mechanical linkage system. The transition portion allows the kingpin to move between multiple fixed height positions, transforming a static fixed-height design into a dynamic adjustable-height system. This enables the trailer to adapt to different towing vehicle heights while maintaining structural integrity through the rigid linkage mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the trailer body into distinct sections: a front deck, a main deck, and a transition portion. This segmentation allows the transition portion to be independently adjusted relative to the main deck, enabling height adjustment of the kingpin connection point. The segmented design provides the flexibility needed for adaptability while keeping each segment's structure relatively simple.
2Productivity
If present trailer designs are used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but payload capabilities and performance are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality through the modular design where the transition portion can be configured in multiple ways and used with different trailer types. The same transition portion mechanism can adjust kingpin height for various applications, and the modular frame structure can be adapted for different payload requirements. This multi-functionality increases payload capabilities while using common components that simplify manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of kingpin connection height from a fixed value to an adjustable parameter. By introducing the transition portion with mechanical linkages, the system allows parameter variation in the kingpin height position, enabling optimization for different payload types and towing configurations. This parameter change enhances payload capabilities without requiring entirely different trailer designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized components are used for specific trailer types, then performance for that type is optimized, but the number of different components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transition portion is designed as a universal component that can be used across different trailer types and configurations. The mechanical linkage system provides a standardized interface that works with various kingpin positions and trailer body styles. This universality reduces the number of specialized components needed while maintaining optimized performance through the consistent mechanical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple specialized components into a single integrated transition portion assembly. Instead of having separate mechanisms for height adjustment, kingpin mounting, and structural support, these functions are combined into one unified component system. This merging reduces component count and simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the performance benefits of specialized design.
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
Enhances usability and payload capacity by enabling the trailer to adapt to different towing vehicles, improving robustness and durability, and simplifying manufacturing through common components, thus increasing versatility and performance in extreme duty situations.
Implementation Method 1
the transition portion is rotatable about pivot points to change the angular position and orientation of the transition potion relative to the main deck
Implementation Method 2
the front deck is rotatable about pivot points to change the angular position of the front deck relative to the transition portion
Implementation Method 3
The first Y utilizes truss members connected to structure supporting the trailer tow connection point to further distribute the loads on the trailer frame imposed on the connection point
Data Source
AI summary
A heavy duty wheeled trailer for use in towing the trailer behind a vehicle. The trailer includes an adjustable height tow connection point to adjust and connect to different types of tow vehicles while maintaining the front deck substantially parallel to the trailer main deck. The trailer further includes a modular support frame allowing the trailer to be easily scaled in length and performance capabilities through removal or addition of modular frame cells.