Modular Trailer with Telescopic Ramp for Compact Vertical Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-use trailers face challenges in easy loading and convenient storage, particularly for motorcycles and other wheeled vehicles, due to narrow ramps and space constraints, which require additional structures and complex designs for alignment and storage.
Innovation Solution
A modular trailer with a three-piece platform configuration, including a forward platform, a rear platform that tilts and pivots, and a fold-up tail platform, allowing for easy drive-on loading and semi-vertically storable design, utilizing a hydraulic system for controlled movement and a latch mechanism for secure positioning, along with storage casters for upright orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a narrow loading ramp is used, then the trailer structure is simpler, but motorcycle loading becomes difficult and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The loading ramp is made dynamically adjustable in width through telescopic side rails that can extend outward during loading operations. This allows the ramp structure to adapt its configuration - narrow during transport for simplicity, and wide during loading for ease of operation and safety.
2Ease of operation
If a large loading ramp is provided, then motorcycle loading is easier, but additional holding brackets and structure are required
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp width is dynamically adjusted only when needed for loading. During normal transport, the ramp remains compact and simple. When loading is required, the side rails extend outward to provide the necessary width, eliminating the need for permanent additional brackets and structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic side rails serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the ramp, enable width adjustment for easy loading, and act as guiding structures for motorcycles during loading. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components.
3Device complexity
If the trailer is designed for traditional storage, then structural support is simpler, but storage space consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is designed to fold vertically into an upright configuration for storage, transitioning from horizontal floor space occupation to vertical space utilization. This dimensional change allows the trailer to be stored in narrow corridors or against walls, dramatically reducing the storage footprint while maintaining structural simplicity through the folding mechanism.
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 efficient loading and compact storage of wheeled vehicles, reducing storage space requirements and eliminating the need for additional components, while maintaining operational functionality.
Implementation Method 1
actuation of the hydraulic system causes the rear platform and tail platform to tilt
Implementation Method 2
The caster assembly includes a caster, a caster bracket and a mounting structure
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-purpose trailer provides further utility by being easily configurable in a carrying orientation, a drive-on loading orientation, and a storage orientation. The storage orientation is capable of near vertical storage, thus taking up very limited amounts of floor space in a garage or storage area. The drive-on loading orientation provides a ramped portion which easily accommodates the loading of wheeled vehicles without the need for additional ramp components or members. Further, mechanisms are provided to easily adjust between the various orientations including hydraulically lifting from a loading orientation to a transport orientation. To provide additional utility, provisions are made on the trailer surface for the attachment of multiple modular accessories.