Combination Tray Rack and Trailer for ATV
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solutions require separate equipment for an ATV to function as both a tray rack and a trailer, lacking a unified solution for these dual functions.
Innovation Solution
A combination tray rack and trailer device that can switch between tray rack and trailer modes, featuring a hitch assembly, swivel bar, draw bars with wheels, and adjustable components to attach to an ATV receiver, allowing it to serve as both a loading platform and a towable trailer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate equipment is used for tray rack and trailer functions, then each function can be performed reliably, but the device complexity and quantity of equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tray rack and trailer into a single integrated device that can perform both functions. The tray rack assembly includes a hitch assembly with drawbars and wheels that can be configured to operate as either a stationary tray rack when attached to the ATV or a towable trailer when detached, eliminating the need for separate equipment for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple purposes. The tray rack can be used as a loading platform when attached to the ATV, and the same assembly can be detached and used as a standalone trailer. The hitch assembly and drawbars are designed to accommodate both configurations, providing multi-functionality in a single device.
2Device complexity
If a single piece of equipment performs both tray rack and trailer functions, then equipment quantity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt between different functional states. The drawbars are designed to be adjustable in angle and position, and the wheels can be attached or detached as needed. This dynamic configuration enables the same basic structure to adapt to both tray rack and trailer functions without requiring completely separate equipment.
3Shape
If the draw bars are angled away from ground in tray rack mode, then proper attachment geometry is achieved, but the draw bars must be repositioned for trailer mode
Solution Approach 1:
The drawbars are designed as dynamic components that can be adjusted between different angular positions. In tray rack mode, the drawbars are angled away from the ground to achieve proper attachment geometry. When switching to trailer mode, the drawbars can be repositioned to be substantially parallel with the ground, facilitating easy mode transitions while maintaining proper geometry for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination tray rack and trailer device attaches to a vehicle, such as an ATV. The device may be used in a first mode as a tray rack and may be used to help load game or equipment into the tray rack. The device may also be used in a second mode, as a two wheel cart or trailer. The device may plug into the ATV receiver. In still another embodiment, the device may be removed from the ATV and may be used as a two-wheeled cart.