Collapsible Utility Trailer Deck Sliding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional collapsible utility trailers face issues with support distribution, leading to weight imbalances and inefficiencies, making them difficult to maneuver and store due to central support systems and heavy materials.
Innovation Solution
A portable, collapsible utility trailer design featuring a support frame with low friction blocks and a spring-biased locking pin system, allowing the deck to slide and fold compactly for upright storage, eliminating the need for heavy components like hinges and telescoping tubing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a short flange is used to support the back platform portion, then the trailer structure is simpler and lighter, but the support is insufficient at the ends of the platform causing the flange to become a pivot point for further rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into multiple vertical supports distributed at different locations (front and rear of the platform) rather than relying on a single central flange. This segmentation allows the load to be distributed across multiple support points, preventing the flange from becoming a pivot point while maintaining structural integrity and minimizing weight.
2Strength
If the underhang is extended to provide greater support, then the support at the ends of the platform is improved, but an inordinate amount of material such as steel tubing is required adding weight to the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of extending the underhang uniformly across the entire platform, vertical supports are strategically positioned at specific locations (front and rear ends) where they are most needed for support. This localized approach provides the necessary support strength at critical points while minimizing the overall amount of material required, thereby reducing weight.
3Strength
If a leaf spring arrangement is used for wheel support, then the wheel support function is achieved, but additional bars affixed to the subframe are required to provide connection points adding weight to the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical supports serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the platform, act as attachment points for the leaf spring arrangement, and eliminate the need for additional connection bars. This multi-functionality reduces the overall material requirement and weight while maintaining the wheel support function.
4Device complexity
If all support is provided at the center of the open platform, then the support structure is simplified, but the platform forms a square with solid bedding increasing the trailer's weight and moving the weight away from the center making it difficult to place in upright position for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple vertical supports positioned at the front and rear of the platform rather than a single central support. This segmentation creates a more distributed support system that maintains structural simplicity while reducing weight and improving storage positioning by keeping the center of gravity more centrally located.
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
The design enhances maneuverability and storage efficiency by reducing weight and material usage, enabling safe and convenient transport and storage of the trailer without relying on heavy or complex components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring biased locking pin mounted to the support frame. The locking pin is configured to operatively engage at least one locking aperture defined by the first side rail
Implementation Method 2
at least four low friction blocks mounted atop the support frame. Preferably, at least two of the at least four low friction blocks operatively engages the first side rail in a slidable arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
A portable utility wagon trailer is provided having a support frame connected to a single axle operatively connected to two opposing wheels. The support frame includes at least four low friction blocks mounted thereon. The portable utility wagon trailer includes a deck having a pair of opposing side rails disposed beneath the deck. Two of the low friction blocks operatively engages one side rail in a slidable arrangement, and the other two of the low friction blocks operatively engage the opposing side rail in a slidable arrangement. A spring biased locking pin removably engages an aperture defined by at least one side rail, for locking the deck in a fixed position for transport. The deck is configured to be collapsed by a user and then stood upright for storage.