Foldable Trailer Steering Linkage for Stable Control on Rough Slopes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable trailers with inclined-fork universal wheels face difficulties in steering control, particularly on sloped surfaces and bumpy roads, leading to loss of control and deviation from the intended direction, especially with heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
A foldable trailer steering system featuring a gathering-type frame with a steering structure between the wheels, a steering rod assembly, and a pin-fixed clamping device to limit vertical rotation, allowing for controlled steering wheel movement and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If inclined-fork universal wheels are used for easy steering, then steering convenience is improved, but steering control becomes difficult on sloped surfaces and bumpy roads
Solution Approach 1:
A steering rod assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the steering wheel and the inclined-fork universal wheel. The steering rod transmits and controls the steering force, allowing the user to maintain precise control over the wheel's orientation even on sloped surfaces and bumpy roads, while still benefiting from the inherent steering convenience of the inclined-fork design
2Adaptability or versatility
If inclined-fork universal wheels are used with free steering characteristics, then steering flexibility is improved, but the wheels deviate from original direction on bumpy roads
Solution Approach 1:
The steering rod assembly provides a feedback mechanism that connects the steering wheel to the inclined-fork universal wheel. When the wheel encounters bumps or attempts to deviate from its intended path, the steering rod transmits corrective forces back to the wheel, maintaining directional stability while preserving the flexibility of the inclined-fork design
3Force
If inclined-fork universal wheels are used, then initial steering effort is reduced, but larger forward force is required to overcome compression on sloped surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The steering rod assembly acts as a mechanical intermediary that leverages the inclined-fork geometry to amplify steering forces. The rod transmits user input forces through the inclined-fork mechanism, providing mechanical advantage that reduces the initial steering effort required, while the same mechanism helps overcome compression forces on sloped surfaces through controlled force transmission
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 system enables simple and stable steering, enhances safety and stability, and simplifies steering operations by converting inclined-fork universal wheels to straight-fork steering wheels, improving user experience on various terrains.
Implementation Method 1
the steering rod assembly is capable of rotating vertically and horizontally relative to the support assembly
Implementation Method 2
one end of the foldable frame where the steering rod assembly is located is further provided with a pin-fixed clamping device configured for limiting a vertical rotation of the steering rod assembly
Implementation Method 3
the swing steering arm is configured for rotating horizontally relative to the steering structure
Implementation Method 4
either side of a bottom of one end of the foldable frame is rotatably connected to a steering wheel respectively
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a foldable trailer steering system, including a foldable frame. Either side of a bottom of one end of the foldable frame is rotatably connected to a steering wheel respectively, a steering structure is arranged between the two steering wheels, and the steering structure is foldably arranged for folding with the foldable frame. The steering structure is further connected to a steering rod assembly, and the steering rod assembly is configured for controlling movement of the steering structure. The steering structure is arranged between the two steering wheels, and the steering structure controls the rotation of the steering wheels. The steering structure is capable of switching states between an unfolded state and a folded state to adapt to the folding of the foldable frame. This structure enables the steering wheels to be replaced with straight-fork steering wheels.