Folding Trailer with Offset Hinges for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trailers face challenges in compact storage due to their design, which often results in a high center of gravity and safety issues, requiring additional mechanisms like cables or pins for operation and storage.
Innovation Solution
A utility trailer design that allows for easy conversion between open, compact, and stored configurations using collapsible frame sections and offset hinge mechanisms, minimizing overall stack height and eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms by utilizing gravitational forces for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional trailer designs are used, then the trailer structure is simple, but the center of gravity becomes high and safety issues arise during storage
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is divided into multiple collapsible sections (front, center, rear) that can be folded independently. Each section has its own frame and bed floor that collapse inward, allowing the trailer to be segmented into a compact configuration with low center of gravity while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer employs dynamic folding mechanisms that allow transition between open and compact configurations. The collapsible side barriers and frame sections enable the trailer to adapt its structure based on operational needs, achieving low center of gravity in stored position while maintaining simplicity through mechanical motion rather than complex locking systems
2Reliability
If additional mechanisms like cables or pins are added, then the trailer can be secured in compact position, but the device complexity increases and safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer utilizes its own structural design to maintain the compact configuration without external locking mechanisms. The collapsible sections are positioned and secured through their geometric arrangement and gravitational forces, allowing the trailer to secure itself during folding and storage without requiring additional cables, pins, or clasping mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potential harm of unsecured moving parts into benefit by using gravitational forces and geometric constraints to automatically secure the compact configuration. The folding mechanism itself provides the securing function, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability
3Volume of moving object
If the trailer is designed for compact storage, then the storage space is reduced, but the maneuverability and stability in open configuration may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is segmented into collapsible sections that can be folded inward to minimize storage volume. Each section (front, center, rear) has independent folding capability, allowing the trailer to achieve compact storage while maintaining full maneuverability when opened, as the segments can be deployed to their full operational length
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer employs dynamic folding mechanisms that allow easy transition between compact and open configurations. The collapsible side barriers and frame sections can be quickly deployed or folded, enabling the trailer to adapt between storage and maneuvering modes without compromising ease of operation or requiring complex locking procedures
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 trailer achieves stability and safety in both unfolded and folded states without additional parts, facilitating quick and efficient folding into a compact form with a low center of gravity, ensuring maneuverability and secure storage.
Implementation Method 1
eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms by utilizing gravitational forces for stability
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems and methods for a folding vehicle trailer. The trailer design is able to be made of various lengths and widths from as well as multiple axle configurations. This trifold design is compact and allows for vertical stacking of sectionalized components to minimize space, while maintaining great flexibility and simplicity for the end user.