Universal Folding Boom Trailer Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for towing multiple trucks exceed weight limits set by the Department of Transportation, leading to potential tire blowouts and safety hazards due to improper weight distribution and inadequate steering wheel immobilization.
Innovation Solution
The Universal Folding Boom Trailer allows for safe and legal transportation of multiple vehicles by supporting weight on dual wheeled axles, elevating steering tires, and using a winch for loading and unloading, enabling towing in either direction and converting to a crane for versatile vehicle handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the current towing method is used to transport multiple trucks, then the delivery capacity is improved (two semi tractor trucks at a time), but the weight on steering tires exceeds the Department of Transportation limit of 12,000 lbs
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer structure is segmented into multiple support points including dual axles with multiple tires, distributing the total weight across many contact points with the ground rather than concentrating it on the steering tires of the towed vehicle
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer frame and support structure act as a counterweight system, with the majority of the trailer's weight and the transported vehicles' weight borne by the trailer's own axles and tires rather than the steering tires of the towed semi tractor
2Productivity
If the current towing method is used, then the delivery capacity is improved, but the steering tires may blow out due to excessive weight
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is designed with substantial structural support and multiple tires in advance, creating a cushioning effect that prevents excessive stress from being transmitted to the steering tires during normal operation, thereby preventing blowouts before they can occur
3Ease of operation
If the towed truck is pulled backwards, then the towing arrangement is simplified, but the castering effect causes the steering tires to turn left or right instead of staying straight
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer acts as an intermediary between the towing vehicle and the towed semi tractor, with the trailer's own steering and support systems mediating the forces and movements, thereby isolating the towed vehicle's steering tires from the destabilizing castering effects
4Stability of the object's composition
If the driver's seat belt is used to hold the steering wheel straight, then the steering stability is improved, but it is inadequate to prevent lane changes in case of a tire blowout
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer's structural design provides beforehand cushioning and support that prevents tire blowouts from occurring in the first place by distributing weight properly, and in the event of a blowout, the trailer's framework and multiple support points provide a safety buffer that prevents catastrophic loss of control and lane changes
Data Source
AI summary
A towing system includes a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion. The front portion is for removably interfacing with a towing vehicle. The rear portion is for adjustably and removably mounting to an axle and a frame of a towed vehicle and supporting the towed vehicle from underneath. The front portion and the rear portions are joined to the middle portion in a rigid configuration. The rear portion has a front axle connector configured to be attached to the axle of the towed vehicle and a single central beam with a frame connector at an end of the single central beam. The frame connector is configured to be attached to the frame of the towed vehicle. The rear portion is adjustable and slides forward and aft for hauling various lengths of the towed vehicle in a forward-facing direction.