Solid Semi-Solid Lubricant Block for Fifth Wheel Hitches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semi-solid lubricants are difficult to apply due to their tacky nature, especially at low temperatures, and their packaging materials often interfere with lubrication and contribute to environmental litter.
Innovation Solution
A transformable solid to semi-solid lubricant made from bio-renewable materials, which is non-tacky and clean to handle, transforming into a semi-solid form under pressure, eliminating the need for packaging and maintaining lubrication properties similar to conventional semi-solid greases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional semi-solid lubricants are used, then lubrication effectiveness is improved, but ease of application deteriorates due to tackiness and high viscosity at low temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the lubricant from a semi-solid state during storage to a solid state during application. This phase transition allows the lubricant to be easily handled and applied in cold conditions, then transforms under pressure to provide effective lubrication, resolving the contradiction between ease of application and lubrication effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The lubricant exhibits dynamic state changes based on environmental conditions and applied pressure. It remains solid at ambient temperatures for easy handling, then dynamically transforms to semi-solid under the high pressure and shear forces of the fifth wheel joint, providing optimal lubrication while maintaining ease of initial application
2Reliability
If semi-solid lubricant is applied manually, then lubrication is achieved, but packaging materials interfere with lubrication and create environmental litter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the packaging material entirely from the system. The lubricant is applied directly in solid form without encasement, removing the source of environmental litter and packaging interference while maintaining effective lubrication delivery to the fifth wheel joint
Solution Approach 2:
The solid lubricant pad is self-contained and self-applying. It adheres directly to the fifth wheel surface without requiring packaging or additional application tools, and the trailer weight itself activates the transformation and distribution of the lubricant, eliminating packaging waste and interference
3Reliability
If grease is made tackier to improve lubrication retention, then lubrication effectiveness is improved, but difficulty of cleaning and handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lubricant dynamically adjusts its tackiness based on applied pressure. In the solid state during handling and application, it exhibits low tackiness for easy cleaning. Under the high pressure and shear forces of the operating fifth wheel joint, it transforms to a semi-solid state with appropriate tackiness for lubrication retention, resolving the contradiction between retention and ease of handling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes through phase transition, where the lubricant changes from solid to semi-solid under operational conditions. This transformation optimizes both handling characteristics (solid state, low tackiness) and lubrication retention (semi-solid state, controlled tackiness), eliminating the need to compromise either parameter
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 lubricant provides convenient, long-lasting lubrication without residue or packaging waste, adhering well to surfaces and maintaining effectiveness at various temperatures, thus addressing the challenges of application and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
The block transforms into a semi-solid when pressurized, such as by mechanical loading, so as to reduce friction between two surfaces
Data Source
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AI summary
A lubricant composition includes a mixture of grease and wax formed into a block which is solid at atmospheric pressure and temperatures up to 150° F, and which transforms into a semi-solid under mechanical loading. The mixture is formed with 5-25% of melted wax. The block may be coated to form a shell to remain solid at elevated temperatures. The block may include other additives. The grease block is suitable for use in various applications, including on a 5th wheel trailer hitch plate.