Semi-Trailer With Foldable Deck Panels For Two-Tier Vehicle Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trailers cannot efficiently transport wide vehicles like golf carts and ATVs side by side due to width constraints, and modifying trailers for multi-tier stacking limits their versatility for general freight transport.
Innovation Solution
A semi-trailer with upstanding logistic posts, foldable panels, and a collapsible ramp assembly that allows for two-tier vehicle stacking and easy conversion to general freight transport by storing the panels vertically and removing beams, enabling the transportation of vehicles up to 90 inches wide and accommodating various sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fixed deck is installed between the floor and roof of the semi-trailer to enable multi-tier stacking, then the hauling capacity for vehicles is doubled, but the trailer cannot be used for shipping other general freight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the deck structure movable rather than fixed. The deck includes panels that can be folded along hinge lines, allowing it to transition between a raised position (for multi-tier vehicle stacking) and a lowered/stored position (for general freight transport). This dynamic configuration enables the trailer to adapt its internal space according to different cargo requirements, resolving the contradiction between hauling capacity and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The deck is segmented into multiple panels that can be independently folded or positioned. Each panel is connected to the trailer body or adjacent panels through hinges, allowing flexible reconfiguration. This segmentation enables the deck to be stored in a compact manner when not in use, freeing up the trailer interior for general freight while still providing the capability for multi-tier stacking when needed.
2Ease of operation
If ramps are permanently installed in the trailer for loading vehicles, then vehicle loading is facilitated, but the ramps occupy space and must be removed and stored when converting to general cargo transport
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp assembly is designed as a dynamic, movable structure rather than a permanent fixture. The ramps can be folded or collapsed and stored in a compact configuration within the trailer when not in use. This allows the loading function to be available when needed while minimizing interference with general cargo transport, reducing the complexity of conversion between different cargo types.
3Device complexity
If conventional trailers are used to transport wide vehicles, then the trailer structure is simple, but the vehicles cannot be loaded side by side due to width constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by incorporating a raised deck that creates a second tier for loading vehicles. Instead of attempting to load vehicles side by side horizontally (which is constrained by trailer width), the system stacks vehicles vertically on different levels. This dimensional change allows two vehicles to be transported simultaneously while maintaining a relatively simple trailer structure, thereby increasing productivity without excessive complexity.
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
This configuration doubles the hauling capacity for golf carts and ATVs while allowing the trailer to be used for general freight, reducing damage and costs, and enabling immediate visual inspection of transported vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
each panel connected with an outer edge thereof hingedly mounted to a respective one of the side walls of the trailer; the panels being pivotally movable about a hinge line at the respective side wall
Data Source
AI summary
A semi-trailer for is converted for transporting motorized golf carts and side by side recreational vehicles which are loaded onto the floor and an upper support level with detachable two tier loading ramps and receivers. The upper support level includes transverse shore beams connected to the logistic posts in the side wall of the semi-trailer which then supports and stabilizes a foldable floor system defined by pivotal panels which hinge upwardly into a stored position. The ramps are carried in a rack under the trailer floor.