Universal Fender Step with Trapezoidal Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trailer steps, especially those integrated with fenders, face issues of high cost, instability due to material limitations, and slipperiness, particularly when wet, which complicates safe and efficient access to boat trailers.
Innovation Solution
A universal fender step made from an extruded C-channel with slanted side walls and a trapezoidal cross-section, featuring a slip-resistant surface and adaptable mounting for easy installation on both sides and faces of the fender, using push-pins for end plate attachment and bolt holes for secure mounting, accommodating various trailer sizes and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If steps are made from molded plastic or fiberglass to reduce cost, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the steps become extremely slippery when wet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding ribs only to the top surface of the step where foot contact occurs, while the rest of the step structure remains smooth. This localized texturing provides slip resistance exactly where needed without affecting other areas of the step.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the surface parameter of the step by adding vertical ribs that alter the surface geometry. This physical modification increases friction between the foot and step surface, providing slip resistance while maintaining the original material properties and manufacturing process.
2Strength
If steps are made from metal plate, beam, or channel to improve strength and stability, then durability and stability are improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite construction by combining a metal C-channel structure for structural strength with a plastic or fiberglass top surface for cost-effective manufacturing. This composite approach achieves the stability of metal with the manufacturing advantages of molded materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the step into two functional parts: a metal C-channel providing structural support and stability, and a separate top surface layer providing slip resistance and aesthetic finish. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function.
3Shape
If steps are made as extensions of fenders to integrate with trailer design, then aesthetic integration is improved, but the steps require additional clamping and reinforcement at stress points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal step assembly that can be mounted on various fender types and trailer configurations through standardized mounting brackets. This multi-functional design allows the same step unit to serve different aesthetic and structural requirements without custom fabrication.
4Ease of operation
If steps are mounted on or near wheel fenders to provide accessible entry, then ease of climbing onto trailer is improved, but the steps are exposed to wet and slippery conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the surface parameters of the step by adding vertical ribs that increase surface friction. This physical change to the surface geometry provides slip resistance that counteracts the harmful effects of wet conditions, allowing the step to maintain ease of operation even when exposed to water.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal fender step for a boat trailer and the like includes a channel of trapezoidal-shaped cross-section. Longitudinally extending gutters at each of the four corners of the trapezoid shape extend the length of the channel. A slip resistant surface is provided on the top face. The channel is formed as a long beam and then cut to a length needed for a particular step. An end plate is attached to an open end of the channel with four push-pins, screws or other type fasteners which each engage a respective end of one of the gutters. A pair of mounting holes is each positioned in each side wall juxtaposed from each other. These mounting holes accommodate bolts for attaching a side wall to a trailer fender. An elongate hole in the channel's top face permits the positioning of a further mounting bolt with a trailer side rail. A lamp may be mounted to one side wall with the wiring harness extending in a longitudinal gutter and held therein by clips.