Mini Side Dump Trailer With Self-Contained Hydraulic System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing side dump trailers are too large for smaller-scale dumping needs and lack self-contained power, making them impractical for smaller vehicles like UTVs and ATVs, which often lack hydraulic or electrical systems necessary for operation.

Innovation Solution

A mini-sized side dump trailer with a self-contained power system, including a 12-volt DC battery, motor, hydraulic pump, and electronically controlled valve, allowing for remote radio control, and capable of being powered by the vehicle's systems, featuring a pivotable side dump body with locking mechanisms and hydraulic cylinders for efficient dumping on either side.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If existing side dump trailers are used, then dumping function is provided, but size is too large for smaller-scale needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrailer capacityVSAvoidcompatibility with small vehicles
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The side dump body is divided into multiple sections with hinge pins and receptacles that allow it to be folded into compact segments for transport, while maintaining full dumping capacity when deployed. This segmentation enables the trailer to adapt to both small-scale and larger dumping needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If power is derived from prime mover, then dumping operation is enabled, but trailer is not self-contained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedumping operationVSAvoidself-containment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The trailer is equipped with an onboard power system including a battery, motor, and hydraulic pump that enables it to operate independently without relying on the prime mover's hydraulic or electrical systems. This self-service capability allows the trailer to be universally compatible with various small vehicles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Speed

If small vehicle is used, then maneuverability is improved, but hydraulic or electrical system may be lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidpower system availability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The trailer carries its own battery-powered motor and hydraulic pump system, making it independent of the prime mover's power systems. This allows the trailer to be operated with small, maneuverable vehicles that lack hydraulic or electrical systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If side dump body is pivotable, then dumping to either side is enabled, but locking mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedumping directionVSAvoidlocking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism uses asymmetric hinge pin receptacles with specific geometric features that engage with corresponding features on the hinge pins. This asymmetric design provides reliable locking in both dumped positions while maintaining simplicity through the inherent mechanical advantage of the asymmetric geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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 mini-sized side dump trailer is more maneuverable, economical, durable, and versatile, accommodating smaller vehicles, and enables efficient dumping operations in various settings such as landscapers, farms, and parks, with a capacity of approximately 34 cubic feet and additional heaping capacity.

Implementation Method 1

a hydraulic pump, and an electronically controlled valve for controlling the operation of the first and second hydraulic cylinders

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

a 12-volt DC battery, a 12-volt DC motor, a hydraulic pump

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7722126B2Mini sized side dump trailer
Publication Date: 2010.05.25 SIDE DUMP IND LLC
  • US7722126B2 patent drawing
  • US7722126B2 patent drawing
  • US7722126B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mini-sized side dump trailer comprising a wheeled frame having a pair of wheels supporting the rearward end thereof and a steerable front wheel assembly of the forward end thereof with a forwardly extending tongue extending from the front wheel assembly for connection to a small vehicle such as a utility terrain vehicle, an all terrain vehicle or a small tractor. The small side dump body may be pivoted to either the first side of the trailer or to the second side of the trailer.