Adjustable Dock Caddie Wheel Assembly for Variable Rail Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing article transport devices, such as trolleys, are limited to specific rail systems due to fixed wheel spacing and lack of adjustable wheel configurations, making them ineffective for transporting goods between vehicles and boats with varying dock rail spacings.
Innovation Solution
A dock caddie with adjustable wheel and guide wheel assemblies that can accommodate different dock rail spacings, featuring a frame with adjustable support members and wheels that can be positioned to fit various dock rail geometries, optionally equipped with a motor for remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed wheel spacing is used in transport devices, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different dock rail spacings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the wheel assemblies adjustable along the frame members. The wheels are no longer fixed in position but can be moved to different locations to accommodate varying dock rail spacings. This is achieved through adjustable support members that allow repositioning of wheel assemblies while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the transport device into modular components, specifically separating the wheel assemblies from the main frame structure. Each wheel assembly can be independently adjusted along its corresponding frame member, allowing the device to adapt to different rail configurations without requiring complete redesign of the entire structure.
2Productivity
If multiple trips are made to transport gear, then all gear can be transported, but time and effort are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing a large-capacity tray that can hold all necessary gear in a single load. Users can prepare and load all required items onto the tray before making the journey to the dock, eliminating the need for multiple trips. The tray's substantial cargo capacity enables complete gear transport in one go.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable wheel assemblies are added, then adaptability to different docks is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the adjustable support members to serve multiple functions. These support members not only enable wheel position adjustment but also provide structural support, positioning for guide wheel assemblies, and mounting points for various components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
A dock caddie is translatable along a dock having a first dock rail including a first top surface and a first side surface and a second dock rail including a second top surface and a second side surface. The dock caddie includes a frame member. A first wheel configured to ride on the first top surface is arranged on the frame member. A second wheel configured to ride along the second top surface is arranged on the frame member. The first wheel and the second wheel are adjustably positionable on the frame member. A first guide wheel assembly configured to ride along the first side surface is arranged on the frame member. A second guide wheel assembly configured to ride along the second side surface is arranged on the frame member. The first guide wheel assembly and the second guide wheel assembly are selectively adjustably positionable on the frame member.