Drag Link Stand With Slip-Resistant Surface For Truck Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tractor-trailer truck maintenance requires a stable and non-slip surface for technicians to perform services on the steering system, as standing on the curved tire surface can lead to slippage or injury.
Innovation Solution
A drag link stand with a slip-resistant top surface, a spring flange, and a drag link flange that securely attaches to the vehicle's spring and drag link, providing full foot support and stability, and is constructed from durable materials like aluminum with a unibody design and no moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the user stands on the tire to service the steering system, then the user can access the work area, but the curved surface causes slippage and potential injury
Solution Approach 1:
The drag link stand serves as an intermediary device between the user and the work area. Instead of standing directly on the tire, the user stands on the flat, slip-resistant top surface of the drag link stand, which is positioned between the spring and drag link. This mediator provides stable footing while maintaining access to the steering system components.
2Ease of operation
If the user stands on the tire to reach the steering system, then the user can perform maintenance, but the awkward surface increases risk of severe injury
Solution Approach 1:
The drag link stand provides a pre-prepared, safe standing surface that cushions and protects the user from the harmful effects of standing on the tire. The flat top surface with slip-resistant texture and raised edges creates a safe zone before the user even steps on it, preventing slippage and potential injury during maintenance operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable drag link stand is used, then the apparatus can be stored when not in use, but the construction must be simple for portability
Solution Approach 1:
The drag link stand is designed as a segmented, removable device with distinct components: a top surface, a spring flange, and a drag link flange. These segments can be assembled and disassembled easily, allowing the stand to be removed from the vehicle for storage when not in use, while maintaining structural integrity during use.
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 drag link stand prevents falls and reduces the risk of foot thrombosis, offering a safer and more comfortable working environment while meeting OSHA and ANSI standards, and is lightweight and portable for easy storage.
Implementation Method 1
A top surface of the drag link stand comprises a slip resistant surface to help prevent falls
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a drag link stand which releasably couples to a spring and drag link of a vehicle. A top surface of the drag link stand comprises a slip resistant surface to help prevent falls. The top surface also provides full foot support to reduce the chance of foot thrombosis. A spring flange extends from a rear of the top surface and engages the spring. A drag link flange extends downward from the top surface and engages the drag link. The drag link stand employs a unibody construction and has no moving parts which provides additional durability.