Movable Panel Closure for Goods Storage Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
Goods storage trailers face challenges in maximizing space utilization due to conflicts between trailer dimensions and cargo size, particularly with roll cages, and issues with access openings, including insufficient height and inflexible second floors, which hinder movement and accessibility, especially in confined areas.
Innovation Solution
A goods storage area with independently movable panels for the access opening, allowing configurations for partial overlap to accommodate different heights and provide increased space, featuring pulley systems, weights for balance, and locking mechanisms for secure positioning, enabling flexible access and maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a second floor is provided to increase storage capacity, then storage space utilization is improved, but the fixed second floor reduces flexibility and hinders maneuverability of goods
Solution Approach 1:
The second floor is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be repositioned vertically to create different storage configurations. This dynamic floor enables the system to adapt between maximizing storage capacity and providing maneuvering space, resolving the contradiction between fixed storage structure and operational flexibility
2Ease of operation
If the access opening height is increased to accommodate roll cages, then ease of operation is improved, but storage capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The movable second floor allows dynamic adjustment of the access opening height. When roll cages need to be loaded, the floor can be repositioned to increase the opening height for ease of operation. When not in use, the floor returns to its storage position to maximize storage capacity, thus resolving the contradiction
3Ease of manufacture
If hinged doors are used for the access opening, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates in confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The door system is segmented into multiple independent panels that can move separately. This segmentation allows the door to be opened in a compact manner suitable for confined delivery areas, while each panel can still be manufactured using standard hinged door techniques, balancing ease of manufacture with operational ease
4Ease of operation
If shutter arrangements are used to avoid door opening issues, then ease of operation in confined areas is improved, but device complexity and storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The door panels are equipped with self-balancing mechanisms using weights and pulleys that automatically counteract gravity. This self-service system eliminates the need for complex motorized drive mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to operate easily in confined spaces
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
The solution enhances accessibility and flexibility in goods storage areas by allowing adjustable panel configurations, improving the ability to move roll cages and pallets through access openings, even in confined spaces, and optimizing space usage without reducing storage capacity.
Implementation Method 1
The panels are moveable along respective guide means provided at opposing edges of the same. Typically the panels are mounted on pulleys in order to allow the same to be moved.
Implementation Method 2
Typically the pulley members are attached to one or more weights. Typically the weights are selected so as to act to balance against the weight of the panel and hence maintain the panels in the position to which the same have been moved until a further movement force is exerted thereon.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to apparatus in the form of a goods storage area (2). The apparatus includes closure means for an access opening (12) in the goods storage area (2). The closure means includes first and second panels (44, 46)which are movable between different configurations to allow selective opening and closing of the access opening (12). The goods storage area may also be provided with a base (4) and a further floor (6) spaced from the same and the further floor (6) and/or roof (14) are provided with a portion (20) and /or section which are moveable to allow the improved loading and/or unloading of the goods to and/or from the goods storage area (2).