Modular Semi-Trailer Support Device with External Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for semi-trailers have high construction costs due to the need for individual adaptation and complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular support device design featuring a separate actuating device and transmission device, allowing for individual component cutting and assembly with reduced effort, using a straight outer and inner support tube with a spindle mechanism, and a mounting plate for attaching the actuating device to the semi-trailer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the actuating device is arranged inside the outer support tube, then the support device can be actuated, but the construction effort and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into separate modular components: the outer support tube, the actuating device, and the mounting plate are manufactured and assembled as distinct units. This segmentation allows each component to be produced independently with standard processes, reducing overall construction effort and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate serves multiple functions: it attaches the support device to the semi-trailer frame and provides a mounting surface for the actuating device. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying assembly while maintaining ease of manufacture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual adaptation to each semi-trailer is required, then the support device can be precisely fitted, but the construction cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is designed as a universal component that can be adapted to different semi-trailer configurations through standardized attachment methods. This allows the same basic support device design to serve multiple applications without requiring custom manufacturing for each semi-trailer, thereby reducing construction costs while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device allows for parameter adjustments such as the position of the mounting plate and the length of the support tube to accommodate different semi-trailer specifications. These parameter changes can be achieved through modular assembly rather than custom manufacturing, reducing construction costs while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of manufacture
If the actuating device is arranged outside the outer support tube, then the construction effort is reduced, but the mounting structure must extend beyond the tube
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is designed to extend beyond the outer support tube to provide a mounting surface for the actuating device. This extended configuration serves dual purposes: it facilitates easy assembly by allowing external mounting of the actuating device while also providing structural attachment to the semi-trailer frame, thus accepting the shape modification as a functional necessity rather than a drawback.
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 cost-effective and flexible production of support devices with various variants, reducing construction effort and enabling easy adaptation to different semi-trailer sizes through a modular system with interchangeable components.
Implementation Method 1
The support device has an outer support tube and an inner support tube, the inner support tube being arranged telescopically in the outer support tube and being able to be moved in the axial direction relative to the outer support tube by means of a spindle mechanism installed inside
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
A support device (100) for a semi-trailer or the like, comprising an outer support tube (110) and an inner support tube (120), wherein the inner support tube (120) is telescopically arranged within the outer support tube (110) and can be moved axially (L) relative to the outer support tube (110) by means of a spindle mechanism installed inside. This support device (100) further comprises an actuating device (140) for actuating the spindle mechanism, which is designed as a separate unit and is arranged outside the outer support tube (110). The invention also relates to a semi-trailer with at least one such support device (100), as well as an actuating device (140) and a gear unit (160) for use in such a support device (100).