Modular Inflatable Tarpaulin Support Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for covering heavy truck bodies with tarpaulins are inconvenient and hazardous for operators due to the need for manual handling and installation of complex, high-cost mechanical support structures, which require special equipment integrated into the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A modular, inflatable tarpaulin system using pneumatic structures that can be assembled on the ground without external or integrated vehicle components, featuring tubular elements with anchor points and fastening systems like Velcro for easy coupling and removal, ensuring minimal operator effort and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and mechanical support structures are used to cover truck bodies, then the tarpaulin can be securely covered, but the operator faces hazards and increased operating times
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable tubular element enables the tarpaulin to be self-placed through inflation, eliminating the need for operators to manually climb onto the truck body. The element automatically forms a rigid support structure when inflated, allowing the tarpaulin to be secured without direct operator contact with hazardous surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses an inflatable tubular element that transitions from a deflated state during transport to an inflated rigid structure during operation. The pneumatic inflation provides the necessary structural support to hold the tarpaulin securely on the truck body without requiring manual positioning.
2Reliability
If complex mechanical support structures are installed on the vehicle, then the tarpaulin can be supported, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into a modular inflatable tubular element that can be independently deployed and removed. This segmented approach replaces complex integrated mechanical structures with a simple, standalone pneumatic component that provides equivalent support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is extracted from the vehicle itself and implemented through a separate, removable inflatable element. This eliminates the need to integrate complex mechanical support systems into the vehicle structure, reducing overall device complexity and cost.
3Extent of automation
If vehicle-integrated equipment is used for tarpaulin deployment, then the covering operation can be automated, but the versatility and adaptability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable tubular element is designed as a universal support structure that can be applied to various truck body types and configurations. The same basic element provides automatic deployment functionality while adapting to different vehicle geometries, maintaining both automation and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable element transitions dynamically between deflated and inflated states, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements. This dynamic capability enables automatic deployment while maintaining flexibility for various tarpaulin sizes and truck configurations.
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
Enables self-placement of tarpaulins with reduced operator risk and cost, providing a lightweight, rigid support structure that can be easily adapted for various configurations, supporting the weight of large tarpaulins without the need for vehicle-integrated equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The core of the invention is represented by a modular element that can be inflated to a working shape, from an initial rest shape in which the element is fully or partially deflated
Implementation Method 2
As the tarpaulin is deflated, it tends to be restored to its cylindrical rest position, due to the provision of resilient return ribs
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an inflatable tubular element, which is inflated to a working shape from an initial rest shape in which the element is deflated or partially deflated. The tubular element is of modular type and has anchor points (801) for tubular elements of the same type, such that it may form a multiplicity of support structures for a protective tarpaulin, which may thus be laid in different manners, when such tubular element/s are coupled to said tarpaulin.