Modular Vehicle Tow Platform with Tilting Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tow trailers and dollies are not practical for transporting vehicles like motorcycles and ATVs, as they require substantial physical strength for loading and unloading and lack compatibility with various vehicle types, leading to issues with weight distribution and stability during towing.
Innovation Solution
A modular, easily manipulated vehicle support platform with a unitary body construction, featuring stepped or planar designs that allow for weight adjustment and easy tilting, compatible with various trailers and dollies, ensuring proper support and stability for diverse vehicle types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional extended trailer with flat upper segment is used, then vehicles can be driven on and off easily, but the vehicle must be secured in place and the entire trailer must be manipulated requiring substantial physical strength
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is divided into a stationary base portion and a movable platform portion. The platform can be independently tilted and manipulated, while the base remains fixed. This segmentation allows the platform to be loaded and unloaded separately without moving the entire trailer structure, reducing the physical strength required.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is made dynamically tiltable relative to the stationary base. The platform can be tilted to a loading position and then returned to a horizontal towing position, providing dynamic adaptability for loading/unloading while maintaining stability during towing.
2Device complexity
If a tow dolly supporting only front wheels is used, then the structure is simplified, but it is not practical for transporting motorcycles, ATVs or other vehicle types
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is designed with a large flat surface area that can accommodate various vehicle types including motorcycles, ATVs, golf carts, and cars. The platform's universal design allows it to support different vehicle configurations (front wheels, rear wheels, or all wheels) making it versatile for transporting multiple vehicle types.
3Ease of operation
If weight is not properly adjusted on the trailer, then loading is simpler, but excessive weight on the hitch or rear leads to swaying during use
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is tilted to a loading position that facilitates easy vehicle placement. After loading, the platform is returned to a horizontal position which automatically positions the vehicle weight optimally over the trailer axle, preventing excessive weight on the hitch or rear and eliminating swaying during towing.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle tow platform adapted for mounting on a two-wheeled trailer or dolly. The vehicle tow platform includes at least one platform segment adapted to support a wheeled vehicle. An upwardly projecting wall segment positioned forward of the platform segment is adapted to block forward rolling of the wheeled vehicle.