Interchangeable Trailer Modules for Equipment Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trailers are not customizable to accommodate various types of equipment, leading to inefficiencies in storage and transportation, as well as the need for additional trailers and storage space for heavy or large items.

Innovation Solution

A customizable trailer with detachable fenders and interchangeable modules that can be configured to secure and transport various types of equipment, including a single module trailer and removable camper box attachment, allowing for flexible use as a base for different configurations or numbers of modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a dedicated trailer is purchased for specific equipment, then the equipment can be securely transported, but storage space is wasted when the trailer is unused and additional trailers are needed for other equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrailer configurabilityVSAvoidtrailer system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trailer system is divided into a base trailer and separate interchangeable modules. Each module is an independent unit that can be attached or detached as needed, allowing the trailer to be reconfigured for different equipment types without requiring multiple dedicated trailers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base trailer is designed with universal attachment features that can accommodate multiple types of modules and equipment configurations. This multi-functional design allows a single trailer to replace multiple dedicated trailers, improving adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If items are secured to a flatbed trailer using straps and chains, then items can be transported, but the tie-down devices may move relative to the item and require periodic stopping to readjust

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring reliabilityVSAvoidtransport interruption time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The module acts as an intermediary between the trailer and the equipment. The module includes integrated securing features that directly attach to the equipment, eliminating the need for separate straps and chains that can shift during transport. This intermediary structure provides more reliable securing without requiring periodic adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple dedicated trailers are purchased for different equipment types, then each equipment type has appropriate transport capability, but storage space and equipment costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment accommodation capabilityVSAvoidnumber of trailers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The trailer system employs a universal base trailer that can accommodate multiple types of modules through standardized attachment interfaces. This allows a single trailer to perform the functions of multiple dedicated trailers, reducing the total number of trailers needed while maintaining the ability to transport various equipment types appropriately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

By segmenting the trailer into a reusable base and interchangeable modules, the system eliminates the need to own multiple complete trailers. Each module can be attached to the base trailer as needed, reducing the quantity of trailers required from multiple dedicated units to one base trailer with several modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12221183B2Trailer and interchangeable modules
Publication Date: 2025.02.11 REPP TERRY
  • US12221183B2 patent drawing
  • US12221183B2 patent drawing
  • US12221183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A trailer and interchangeable modules for transporting objects on public and private roadways are provided.