Powered Trailer Side Panel with Reciprocating Lever Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer side panels are cumbersome, difficult to store, and require manual handling, which can lead to injuries and inefficiencies in loading and unloading goods, while also encroaching on usable space and violating width regulations when temporary panels are used.
Innovation Solution
A powered side panel system for trailers that includes a pivoting side panel with a lever arm and reciprocating assembly, controlled by a unit that can be powered by a vehicle's hydraulic or air system, allowing for easy operation and linkage of multiple panels for simultaneous control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual side panels are used, then the trailer can be loaded and unloaded, but the side panels are cumbersome and difficult to store, requiring multiple people or machinery to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical handling system with a powered reciprocating assembly that automatically raises and lowers side panels. This substitution eliminates the need for multiple people or external machinery to handle the panels, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panel system becomes self-operating through the reciprocating assembly that automatically performs the raising and lowering actions. The system serves itself by integrating the actuation mechanism directly into the panel structure, eliminating dependence on external manual intervention or additional machinery.
2Reliability
If temporary side panels are used, then the trailer can be secured, but the panels encroach on usable space and increase overall width beyond regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal extension (panels protruding outward) to vertical movement (panels raising and lowering). By changing the dimension of panel deployment from lateral to vertical, the system maintains security functionality while eliminating encroachment on usable trailer bed space and compliance with width regulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panels are designed to be dynamically movable rather than statically fixed. The reciprocating assembly enables panels to move between raised and lowered positions, allowing the trailer to maintain a compact, regulation-compliant profile when secured while still providing security when needed.
3Productivity
If manual side panels are used, then the trailer can be loaded and unloaded, but manual handling leads to injuries and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated reciprocating assembly system. This substitution eliminates direct human contact with heavy panels during operation, removing injury hazards while simultaneously improving loading and unloading efficiency through automated, rapid panel movement.
4Extent of automation
If a powered reciprocating assembly is added, then side panels can be automatically raised and lowered, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reciprocating assembly directly with the side panel structure, integrating the actuation mechanism into the panel itself rather than treating it as a separate external system. This merging reduces overall system complexity by eliminating additional mounting hardware, control linkages, and structural support requirements while maintaining full automation capability.
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 system eliminates the hazards of manual handling, maximizes trailer space, and ensures compliance with width regulations by providing a safe, efficient, and easy-to-operate solution for loading and unloading goods without increasing the trailer's overall width.
Implementation Method 1
A lever arm extends between the side panel and a reciprocating assembly. The reciprocating assembly pivots the lever arm about a lever axis.
Data Source
AI summary
A powered side panel system is used in conjunction with a loading bed found on trailers and other flatbed vehicles. The system includes a side panel having a vertical member. The side panel is configured to pivot about a panel axis in communication with the trailer. A lever arm extends between the side panel and the trailer. The system includes a reciprocating assembly to operate the lever arm between a lowered and raised orientation. The reciprocating assembly communicates with the lever arm through a cable. The lever arm controls the rate of radial motion of the side panel about the panel axis. A control unit is configured to regulate the operation of the actuator device.