Modular Corner Uplift Assembly for Tarpaulin Bow Warping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tarpaulin systems for flatbed vehicles and trailers are susceptible to warping and deformation under external pressures due to the twisting or bending of bars or bows, particularly at the corners, which compromises the structural integrity and effectiveness of the cover.
Innovation Solution
A joint system for tarpaulin systems that includes a corner component with coupling members and supports that securely engage with the bows, providing enhanced structural support and resistance to external forces through a quarter annulus shape and optional bracket configurations that form a hinge, ensuring consistent arch geometry and pressure distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid tubes are used for bows in the uplift system, then the structural support is improved, but the bows twist or bend when large external pressures are applied
Solution Approach 1:
The corner component is divided into multiple segments including first and second coupling members, first and second supports, and a quarter annulus shape. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively providing structural support and resistance to external forces without twisting or bending.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner component features localized reinforcement at critical areas through the quarter annulus shape and strategically positioned supports. This local quality enhancement provides targeted strength where external pressures are most likely to cause deformation, while maintaining overall bow stability.
2Device complexity
If conventional joints are used at the corners of the uplift, then the device complexity is reduced, but the corners are particularly susceptible to warping and deformation when external pressures are applied
Solution Approach 1:
The corner component merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: coupling members for connecting bows, supports for additional reinforcement, and a quarter annulus shape for structural stability. This merging provides enhanced corner strength while maintaining reasonable device complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner component functions as a composite structure combining different structural elements (coupling members, supports, and the quarter annulus shape) that work together to provide superior structural integrity at the corners, resisting warping and deformation under external pressures.
3Ease of manufacture
If the uplift system uses simple bar connections, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the arch geometry becomes inconsistent under load
Solution Approach 1:
The quarter annulus shape in the corner component provides a curved, geometrically precise structure that maintains consistent arch geometry under load. This curvature is designed to distribute forces evenly while preserving the intended arch shape, ensuring manufacturing precision is maintained even under external pressures.
4Ease of operation
If releasable coupling members are used instead of permanent connections, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the connection under external pressures may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling members are designed with preliminary engagement features that ensure secure connection before external pressures are applied. The releasable design incorporates pre-positioned engagement points and locking mechanisms that maintain reliable connections under load while allowing for easy release and replacement when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint system for use with a plurality of bows in an uplift of a tarpaulin system having a joint and a base insert with, a body component with a first base end and a second base end, a third coupling member extending from the first base end, the third coupling member adapted to releasably engage with a free end of one of the plurality of bows, a fourth coupling member fixed to the second base end, the fourth coupling member adapted to be securable to a component of the uplift, and a third support extending from the first base end proximate the third coupling member for engaging with the bow releasably secured with the third coupling member.