Cable-Stayed Folding Trailer Structure for Light Weight and High Load
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current folding trailers are either too heavy, require multiple tools for assembly, and do not fold small enough to fit in limited storage spaces, such as closets or car trunks, while also lacking sufficient carrying capacity for small passenger vehicle owners.
Innovation Solution
A trailer frame with a cable-stayed design using tension members and pivotally connected towers to support a folding bed frame, allowing it to fold into a compact configuration, combined with removable wheel assemblies and a lightweight fabric or material for the bed surface, to achieve a weight under 100 pounds and a carrying capacity of 800-900 pounds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional folding trailers are used, then carrying capacity is achieved, but weight becomes too heavy (approximately 250 pounds) for easy storage and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer frame is divided into multiple collapsible sections that can be folded into each other, reducing the overall size and weight while maintaining carrying capacity. The frame sections are designed to nest within one another when collapsed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional rigid metal framing with flexible composite materials and thin-walled structures that provide sufficient strength for carrying capacity while dramatically reducing weight. The flexible materials allow the trailer to collapse into a compact form.
2Volume of moving object
If existing folding trailers are designed for compact storage, then storage space is reduced, but they still cannot fit in small spaces like closets or car trunks
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer frame employs a nested doll configuration where smaller frame sections are inserted within larger ones during collapse, achieving maximum compactness. The wheels and other components are designed to nest within the folded frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer incorporates dynamic collapsing mechanisms with hinges and pivot points that allow the structure to transform from a rigid extended state to a compact folded state. The design enables the trailer to adapt its volume based on storage requirements.
3Strength
If traditional trailers are constructed, then structural strength is achieved, but multiple tools are required for assembly and the purchaser must supply additional materials like plywood
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials that combine strength with ease of fabrication. These materials can be easily cut, shaped, and assembled using basic tools, eliminating the need for specialized equipment or additional materials like plywood.
Solution Approach 2:
The design integrates all necessary structural components into a single unified construction that requires no additional materials. The frame, bed, and support structures are combined into one assembly process using pre-fabricated components.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer includes a trailer frame using suspension cables supported from vertically extending towers on opposite sides of the trailer frame and connected to distal ends of the trailer frame for supporting distal portions of the trailer frame. The trailer bed frame comprises a plurality of folding frame sections which can be unfolded into planar alignment to form the trailer frame and folded into an overlapping or stacked alignment for storage. Left and right wheels are rotatably mounted on left and right suspensions which are removably securable to left and right sides of the trailer frame. The suspensions may comprise quarter elliptical leaf spring suspensions.