Load Securement Block for Flatbed Trailer Cargo
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load securing devices for flatbed trailers, such as ratcheting straps, often loosen during transit, leading to shifting or falling loads, especially with irregularly shaped items, and can damage goods due to uneven pressure.
Innovation Solution
A load securing device comprising a base with angled side supports and a groove system, made from durable materials like closed-cell high-density foam, that allows for even pressure distribution and securement using existing straps or chains, with optional coatings for durability and additional grooves for versatile alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ratcheting straps are used to secure loads on flatbed trailers, then the loads can be held during transit, but the straps loosen during transit causing loads to shift or fall
Solution Approach 1:
The foam block serves as an intermediary device between the securing strap and the load. It provides a compliant interface that maintains consistent contact and pressure distribution, preventing strap loosening while protecting the load from damage. The foam block translates the strap's securing force into distributed pressure across the load surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of pressure distribution from concentrated (direct strap contact) to distributed (foam block contact). The foam material's compressibility allows it to deform and conform to the load surface, maintaining constant contact pressure even as the strap tension varies during transit.
2Reliability
If securing straps are tightened to hold loads securely, then the loads remain in place, but the high forces can damage easily damaged loads especially at corners or sharp edges
Solution Approach 1:
The foam block provides locally adaptive quality by conforming to the specific shape and surface characteristics of each load. The material's compressibility allows different regions of the foam to deform by different amounts, distributing pressure evenly across contact points and eliminating high-stress concentration zones that would damage corners or sharp edges.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam block serves as pre-positioned cushioning between the securing mechanism and the load. It absorbs and distributes the securing forces before they reach the load surface, preventing direct contact between the rigid strap and vulnerable load surfaces. This protective function is built into the system design rather than added as a separate protective layer.
3Ease of operation
If traditional load securing devices are used, then the setup is simple, but the devices cannot adapt to irregularly shaped loads causing uneven pressure distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The foam block changes from a rigid geometric form to a compliant, shape-adaptable form through material selection. The compressible foam material allows the block to deform and conform to irregular load surfaces while maintaining structural integrity. This parameter change enables the same simple device design to adapt to various load shapes without complex adjustment mechanisms.
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
Prevents load shifting and pressure point damage by distributing force evenly across irregularly shaped loads, ensuring secure transport and reducing wear on the securing devices.
Implementation Method 1
The device comprises compressible material
Data Source
AI summary
A load securement block includes a rectangular central block and two (2) rhomboid side blocks integral to opposite lengthwise sides of the central block and positioned in mirror image to each other. The block is made of closed cell high density foam. The block is configured to provide a protective and deformable barrier between a cargo strap and a cargo load being secured in place by the cargo strap. Alternate embodiments having different geometries are also disclosed.