Sliding Load-Bearing Panels for Non-Sequential Trailer Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional truck trailers face inefficiencies in loading and unloading cargo due to fixed access openings, leading to suboptimal use of interior space and potential empty trips.

Innovation Solution

The access system features independently moveable load-bearing panels that can be positioned along upper and lower tracks to occlude or expose the access opening, allowing for flexible access to cargo without the need for sequential loading/unloading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If fixed access openings are used in traditional truck trailers, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the loading and unloading efficiency is reduced due to sequential access requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading and unloading efficiencyVSAvoidaccess system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The access opening is segmented into multiple independently movable panels instead of a single fixed opening. Each panel can be moved independently along tracks to expose different portions of the interior, enabling non-sequential loading and unloading operations without requiring the entire access opening to be open.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The access system transitions from a static fixed opening to a dynamic configuration where panels can be moved along upper and lower tracks. This dynamic capability allows the access opening to be adjusted during operation to expose only the necessary portions of the interior, improving loading and unloading efficiency while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed size and shape access openings are used, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the adaptability to different cargo configurations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecargo access flexibilityVSAvoidaccess opening manufacturing

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The access opening is divided into multiple panels that can be independently positioned along tracks. This segmentation allows the effective size and shape of the access opening to be adjusted by moving individual panels, providing adaptability to different cargo configurations while using standardized manufactured components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The access system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can fully open for complete cargo access, partially open for selective access to specific portions, and maintain a closed secure position during transit. The same panel structure supports all these configurations, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple specialized access openings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250196940A1Access System for a Container of Goods

Publication Date: 2025.06.19 BERNA GREG E

AI summary

An access system for a container of goods, cargo or people having an access opening, a track and a plurality of load bearing panels. The panels are arranged in a flush orientation in a first plane to occlude the access opening. Each panel is individually moveable to a second plane then slidable along the second plane to enable access to the interior.