Flush-Mount Chain Anchor Storage for Theft-Resistant Flatbeds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for securing equipment on flatbed trailers face challenges in protecting chains and other securing lines from theft, managing their location, and ensuring effective securement of loads.
Innovation Solution
A tie-down chain anchor and storage system that includes a container with a flat top surface and a lid, featuring chain slots for secure storage and deployment of chains, which is integrated flush with the trailer surface to prevent obstruction and theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If chains and securing lines are stored on flatbed trailers, then they are readily accessible for securing equipment, but they become vulnerable to theft and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nested storage by placing chain storage containers within wheel wells or under deck structures of the trailer. The chains are stored inside these containers which are themselves nested within the trailer's structural cavities, providing secure storage while maintaining accessibility during loading operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts chains from general trailer surfaces and places them in dedicated, locked storage containers. This separation removes chains from vulnerable locations while providing controlled access through locked mechanisms, addressing both theft prevention and operational accessibility
2Object-affected harmful factors
If chains are stored in containers on the trailer, then theft is prevented, but the containers may obstruct trailer operations if not properly integrated
Solution Approach 1:
Storage containers are nested within wheel wells and under deck structures where they do not protrude into operational spaces. This nesting approach provides secure storage while maintaining clear pathways for equipment loading and trailer operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical and lateral spaces within the trailer structure (wheel wells, under deck areas) to position storage containers. By moving storage to these alternative dimensions rather than horizontal trailer surfaces, the containers remain secure and accessible without obstructing standard loading operations
3Ease of operation
If multiple chain storage locations are provided, then chain management is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs storage containers that serve multiple functions: securing chains during transport, providing locked storage to prevent theft, and facilitating organized chain management. Each container acts as a universal storage solution for different chain types and lengths, reducing the need for multiple specialized storage locations
Data Source
AI summary
A tie-down chain anchor and storage system for use on trailers, such as flatbed trailers. The system includes a container for holding the chain when not in use a top opening that has anchor slots for securing the chain at a given distance when using the chain to secure equipment on the trailer. The container has a flat top, and the container is coupled to other aspects of the trailer with the flat top flush with a flat portion of the trailer. The system allows for storage of the securing line, e.g., chain, point of pull, and no impediment in loading the trailer. Other embodiments are presented.