Dump Trailer Storage Unit with Lockable Doors and Raised Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dump trailers lack secure storage options for tools and equipment when the dump box is either empty or full, leading to inefficiencies and increased overhead costs due to the need to constantly switch between carrying tools and specialty equipment like salt spreaders in tow vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A dump trailer design featuring a storage unit with lockable doors and adjustable shelves adjacent to the dump box, allowing secure storage of tools and equipment regardless of the dump box's position, along with a raised platform for additional item support and secure attachment options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If tools are carried in the tow vehicle bed, then tools are accessible, but the tow vehicle must be repeatedly stopped to swap tools and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tow vehicle and dump trailer into a single integrated transport system, where the trailer's storage unit and raised platform provide tool and equipment storage. This merging eliminates the need to repeatedly stop the tow vehicle to swap tools, as they can be accessed on the trailer during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dump trailer is designed with multiple storage locations (storage unit with lockable doors and raised platform) that can accommodate various tools and equipment types. This multi-functional storage system allows the trailer to serve both as material transport and tool storage, reducing the need for separate tool carrying arrangements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a salt spreader is installed in the tow vehicle bed, then salt spreading capability is provided, but tools cannot be stored in the tow vehicle bed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage functions between the tow vehicle and dump trailer. The trailer's storage unit with lockable doors provides secure storage for tools, while the raised platform provides additional open storage. This segmentation allows the tow vehicle bed to be dedicated to specialty equipment like salt spreaders while tools are stored on the trailer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space by incorporating a raised platform above the storage unit. This dimensional expansion provides additional tool and equipment storage capacity without increasing the horizontal footprint, allowing more tools to be stored on the trailer rather than in the tow vehicle bed.
3Quantity of substance
If tools are stored in the dump box, then storage is available, but tools are not secure and may be stolen when unattended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the trailer into distinct functional zones: the dump box for material storage and the storage unit with lockable doors for secure tool storage. This segmentation allows tools to be stored securely in the enclosed storage unit rather than in the open dump box, preventing theft while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage unit with lockable doors acts as an intermediary between the dump box and the tools. Instead of storing tools directly in the open dump box, the lockable storage unit provides a secure intermediate storage location that protects tools from theft while allowing easy access when needed.
4Quantity of substance
If the dump box is used for both material and tool storage, then storage capacity is maximized, but tools are exposed when the dump box is raised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates tool storage from material storage by providing a dedicated storage unit with lockable doors and a raised platform. This segmentation ensures that tools remain accessible and secure regardless of the dump box position, eliminating the problem of tools being exposed or inaccessible when the dump box is raised for dumping operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A dump trailer comprises a frame that is supported by at least one axle coupled to two wheels. The dump trailer includes a hitch operatively coupled to the frame and is configured to be attached to a tow vehicle. The dump trailer further includes a dump box pivotably coupled to the frame. The dump box has a front wall and is moveable between a lowered position and a raised position. The dump trailer also includes a storage unit supported by the frame and positioned adjacent to the front wall when the dump box is in the lowered position. The storage unit has at least one door and an interior configured to store items placed therein. The door is openable and the interior of the storage unit is accessible when the dump box is in either the lowered position or the raised position.