Nested Bolster Assembly for Semi-Trailer Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable bolster assemblies for semi-trailers are not suitable for extendable trailers as they project above the rear part, preventing full collapse and sliding beneath the front part in the collapsed position.
Innovation Solution
A semi-trailer with a pair of adjustable bolster assemblies, comprising an inner and outer bolster that are nestable and pivotally movable relative to each other, allowing the inner bolster to be exposed for use and stored beneath the trailer's top surface, with a common pivot pin for mounting and locking mechanism to facilitate sliding and collapsing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single bolster is used in an extendable trailer, then the trailer structure is simple, but the bolster projects above the rear part and prevents full collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The single bolster is divided into two separate bolsters (first bolster and second bolster) that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows one bolster to be lowered below the top surface while the other remains in use, enabling full trailer collapse without compromising operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second bolsters are arranged in a nested configuration where one bolster can be positioned within or alongside the other. This nesting allows the bolsters to be compacted together, with one lowered below the top surface of the rear part, enabling the trailer to fully collapse while maintaining bolster functionality.
2Ease of operation
If bolsters are lowered below the top surface for full collapse, then trailer sliding is enabled, but container support capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bolsters are designed to be dynamically repositionable between different height levels. Each bolster can be independently adjusted between a raised position for container support and a lowered position below the top surface for trailer collapse, providing dynamic adaptability for both operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bolster assembly serves multiple functions: it can support containers when raised, enable full trailer collapse when lowered, and provide adjustable height positioning. The first and second bolsters work together to fulfill both container support and trailer sliding requirements simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bolsters are made adjustable for different container heights, then versatility is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable bolster is segmented into a first bolster and a second bolster that can be independently positioned at different heights. This segmentation provides height adjustability for different container types while keeping each individual bolster structurally simple and manageable.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 7~10
AI summary
An adjustable bolster assembly for mounting on a semi-trailer (10) has a pair of bolsters (2, 3) each carrying a twistlock (4). The pair of bolsters (2, 3) comprise an inner bolster (2) and an outer bolster (3) which are nestable together. Each bolster (2, 3) is pivotally movable on a pivot pin (7) between a raised in-use position and a lowered stored position. The bolsters (2, 3) are nestable together in both the raised and lowered positions.