Folding Horse Tack Compartment for Clear Trailer Entry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional horse trailer tack compartments are fixed, obstructing trailer entry, creating safety hazards, increasing weight, and limiting versatility by not allowing removal or collapse when additional hauling space is needed.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible and removable horse tack compartment that can be affixed to the rear door of a trailer, featuring a folding mechanism for space efficiency and a mounting system for secure attachment and easy removal, allowing unobstructed access during loading and unloading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fixed tack compartment is attached to the trailer door, then the compartment provides stable storage for horse tack, but it obstructs the path when loading or unloading horses and creates safety hazards

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage stabilityVSAvoidobstruction and safety hazard

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The compartment is designed with a folding mechanism that allows it to transition between a deployed storage position and a collapsed flat position. When not in use, the compartment folds flat against the trailer door, eliminating obstruction and safety hazards during horse loading and unloading operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a permanently fixed compartment is attached to the trailer door, then the compartment provides secure storage, but it cannot be removed when additional hauling space is required, limiting trailer versatility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage securityVSAvoidtrailer flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The compartment incorporates a folding mechanism that enables it to collapse flat against the trailer door when additional hauling space is needed, allowing the trailer to be used for transporting items other than horses while maintaining secure storage capability when folding is engaged

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The compartment is divided into multiple sections that can fold independently, allowing it to collapse into a compact flat configuration while maintaining structural integrity when deployed for storage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If a fixed compartment is welded or bolted directly to the trailer door, then the compartment is securely attached, but it increases weight and complicates repairs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment securityVSAvoidcompartment weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is designed as a separate removable component that can be detached from the trailer door without removing the entire compartment. This allows the compartment to be securely attached when needed while enabling easy removal and reducing the permanent weight burden on the trailer structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is divided into separate components including mounting brackets and fasteners that can be independently attached to the trailer door, allowing the compartment to be securely mounted while facilitating easy removal and repair without compromising trailer structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If a fixed compartment is attached to the trailer door, then the compartment provides stable storage, but it reduces trailer entry clearance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage stabilityVSAvoidtrailer entry clearance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The compartment folds flat against the trailer door when not in use, maximizing trailer entry clearance and allowing horses to be loaded and unloaded without obstruction. The folding mechanism enables the compartment to transition between providing stable storage and maintaining clear entry paths

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20260070478A1Collapsible and removable horse tack compartment for a trailer

Publication Date: 2026.03.12 HEATH BRAD

AI summary

A collapsible and removable tack storage compartment for horse trailers is disclosed. The compartment includes a housing defined by panels and a front door, hinge assemblies that permit folding between extended and collapsed configurations, latch assemblies that secure the door, and mounting brackets that attach to a trailer door or wall while enabling removal. In certain embodiments the housing is trapezoidal or rectangular and may include saddle racks, bridle hooks, and shelving. Modular construction allows shipment as a kit and end-user assembly. Quick-release mounting and optional reinforcement members provide durability for transport while allowing tool-free removal to increase trailer clearance. The design improves safety and usability by providing full-sized storage when deployed, compactness when collapsed, and compatibility with various trailer geometries.