Extruded One-Piece Trailer Side Rail With Integrated Rub Rail
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flat bed trailers lack an efficient and integrated side rail structure to securely transport loads of various sizes and configurations, relying on separate components like retaining straps, chains, and stakes which can be cumbersome and less effective.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece, integrally formed side rail structure with an outer side rail wall and rub rail, featuring upper and lower connector walls with holes for securing straps, chains, and stakes, and optionally including a floor section, all made from extruded metal, providing a unified and robust solution for load retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate components like retaining straps, chains, and stakes are used to secure loads, then the trailer can transport loads of various sizes and configurations, but the load securing system becomes cumbersome and less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate load securing components (side rails, rub rails, floor sections, and attachment points) into a single integrally formed side rail structure. This unified structure eliminates the need for multiple separate components while maintaining the ability to secure loads of various sizes and configurations through strategically positioned holes and attachment points.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrally formed side rail structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, enables load securing through built-in attachment points, and accommodates various securing methods (straps, chains, stakes) through its design. The structure is universally applicable to different load types and configurations.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate components are used for the side rail structure, then manufacturing flexibility is maintained, but the overall structure lacks integration and effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the side rail, rub rail, and floor sections into a single integrally formed structure manufactured as one piece through extrusion. This eliminates the need for assembly of multiple components while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through the extrusion process, thereby improving both integration and structural effectiveness.
3Reliability
If a one-piece integrally formed side rail structure is used, then load security is enhanced through unified construction, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple structural elements into a single extruded piece that maintains the functional complexity of separate components while achieving the reliability benefits of integration. The unified structure eliminates weak points from assembly joints while preserving all necessary attachment points and structural features.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved side rail structure is used to form a portion of a flat bed trailer. The side rail structure is integrally formed as one piece. The side rail structure includes an outer side rail wall which is integrally formed as one piece with a rub rail that projects from the outward surface of the side rail wall.