Extendable Trailer Deck Structure for Heavy Machinery Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extendable and retractable trailers lack the necessary strength and rigidity to safely tow two pieces of heavy machinery without compromising the structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
The trailer features a sliding deck portion with left and right stationary frame rails, a hydraulic drive mechanism, and locking mechanisms to securely extend and retract the deck, along with folding deck portions and deck lift arms for enhanced stability and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the deck is extended to hold two vehicles or two pieces of heavy machinery, then the loading capacity is improved, but the structural strength and rigidity of the trailer deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The deck is divided into a stationary portion and a movable extendable portion. The movable portion can be extended to increase loading capacity when needed, and retracted to maintain structural integrity when not needed. This segmentation allows the trailer to adapt its capacity while maintaining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The deck transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with movable portions that can extend and retract. The movable deck portion is supported by frame rails and controlled by hydraulic mechanisms, allowing it to change position based on loading requirements while maintaining structural strength through proper support and positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a sliding deck portion is added to extend and retract the deck, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A hydraulic mechanism is used to control the sliding deck portion, providing powered extension and retraction. The hydraulic system includes a pump, cylinder, and control valves that automate the movement, reducing the need for complex mechanical linkages and manual operation while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Frame rails serve as intermediaries between the stationary deck and the movable deck portion. These rails guide and support the sliding movement, providing a simple yet effective mechanism for extension without requiring complex structural modifications to the main trailer body.
3Reliability
If locking mechanisms are added to hold the sliding deck portion in place, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the sliding deck portion reaches its extended or retracted position. The hydraulic system and mechanical linkages work together to ensure the deck is securely locked without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems, maintaining reliability while minimizing added complexity.
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 solution provides superior strength and rigidity, allowing safe towing of two heavy machinery pieces while maintaining structural integrity and ease of operation.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic drive mechanism that extends and retracts the sliding deck portion
Implementation Method 2
one or more folding deck portions at the front of the trailer that extends and retracts by folding like an accordion
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer is disclosed with an extendable and retractable deck where the deck may be extended to hold two vehicles or two pieces of heavy machinery and also the deck may be retracted to hold only one vehicle or one piece of heavy machinery. This allows the user to travel with a smaller trailer, which is much more convenient and easier to travel with, except under the rare condition when the user is obliged to tow two vehicles or two heavy machines. The trailer uses a sliding frame rail system that is slidably attached to a stationary frame rail system. The trailer also uses a folding deck section system that extends and retracts like an accordion. The expanding and contracting frame systems used are a superior design that allows the trailer to carry and tow two pieces of extremely heavy equipment, i.e., two a bull dozers at one time.