Motorized Tarp Deployment System for Flatbed Trailers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling tarp systems for flatbed trailers face challenges in accurate and efficient deployment and tensioning, leading to premature wear and delayed shipping due to manual positioning and tensioning processes, which can result in improper tension causing excessive wear or failure.
Innovation Solution
A deployment system featuring motorized roller assemblies and tensioning assemblies with actuators to automate the positioning and tensioning of bows along the flatbed trailer, ensuring consistent and accurate tensioning of the tarp system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning and tensioning processes are used for the rolling tarp system, then the system structure remains simple, but the deployment accuracy and tensioning consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and tensioning operations with an automated motorized system. Motors are integrated into the roller assemblies to automatically position bows along guide tracks, and actuators are incorporated into tensioning assemblies to automatically apply consistent tension to the tarp fabric, eliminating the need for manual intervention and ensuring precise, repeatable results.
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling tarp system is designed to perform its own positioning and tensioning operations through integrated motorized roller assemblies and actuator mechanisms. The system automatically deploys and tensions itself without requiring external manual operation, with the motors and actuators controlling the movement and tensioning processes autonomously once initiated.
2Productivity
If manual positioning and tensioning processes are used for the rolling tarp system, then the device complexity remains low, but the shipping time and deployment efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated motorized systems. Motorized roller assemblies automatically position bows along the trailer length, and actuator mechanisms automatically tension the tarp fabric, dramatically reducing deployment time and increasing productivity compared to manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning and tensioning actions automatically through the motorized assemblies before the tarp is fully deployed. The motorized roller assemblies pre-position the bows along the guide tracks, and the actuators pre-apply tension to the fabric, ensuring smooth and efficient subsequent deployment operations.
3Reliability
If improper tensioning is applied to the tarp system, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the reliability and durability of the tarp fabric deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual tensioning judgment and application with automated actuator mechanisms that precisely control tension forces. The actuators apply consistent, predetermined tension levels to the tarp fabric through the motorized system, eliminating the variability and imprecision inherent in manual tensioning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust tension levels during deployment. Sensors detect the tension state of the tarp fabric and provide feedback to the control system, which then adjusts the actuator output to maintain optimal tension levels, preventing both under-tensioning and over-tensioning that could compromise tarp durability.
Data Source
AI summary
A rolling tarp deployment system includes a trailer, a bulkhead fixed to the trailer, first and second bows movable along the trailer, first and second tensioning assemblies, and a cover. The first tensioning assembly has a first member secured to the first bow, a second member secured to the bulkhead, and a first actuator configured to engage the first and second members to restrain the first bow to the bulkhead. The second tensioning assembly has a third member secured to the second bow, a fourth member fixed to the trailer, and a second actuator configured to engage the third and fourth members and move the second bow away from the bulkhead. The cover is tensioned when both the first and second members and the third and fourth members are engaged.