Split-Tilt Trailer Deck Layout for Narrow Equipment Loading

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trailer designs are inefficient for loading narrow equipment, as they either require full tilt or rigid decks, leaving unused space and complicating the loading process.

Innovation Solution

A split-tilt deck trailer design with an elongate tilt deck and stationary deck that pivots relative to the frame, featuring a locking mechanism for secure transport and an optional ramp for easy loading, allowing for efficient use of space and safe handling of narrow equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a full tilt trailer design is used, then loading of equipment is facilitated, but the entire deck must be tilted which complicates the structure and reduces stable loading area

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveloading easeVSAvoidtrailer structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The deck is divided into two independent segments: a tilt deck for loading equipment and a stationary deck for stable storage. This segmentation allows the tilt deck to be tilted independently for loading while the stationary deck remains level, avoiding the need to tilt the entire deck and thus reducing structural complexity while maintaining loading ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If a rigid deck trailer is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but loading of narrow equipment becomes difficult and space utilization is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrailer structure simplicityVSAvoidloading ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rigid deck is segmented into a movable tilt deck and a fixed stationary deck. The tilt deck can be tilted to facilitate loading of narrow equipment like directional drills, while the stationary deck provides stable support. This segmentation adds minimal complexity while dramatically improving loading ease and space utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a full tilt deck is used, then equipment loading is enabled, but space for accessories and materials is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment loading capabilityVSAvoidstorage area for accessories
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the deck into tilt and stationary portions, the stationary deck can be optimized for storage of accessories and materials while the tilt deck handles equipment loading. This allows both functions to occur simultaneously without compromising storage area, as the stationary deck remains level and accessible even when the tilt deck is in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If the tilt deck is made fully movable for loading, then loading flexibility is improved, but stability during transport is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveloading flexibilityVSAvoidtransport stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The segmentation allows the tilt deck to be movable during loading while the stationary deck provides a stable base. During transport, both decks can be secured in their respective positions, with the stationary deck ensuring overall stability while the tilt deck remains locked in place, thus maintaining both flexibility and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

5Area of stationary object

If a stationary front deck is added to a tilt trailer, then storage space is increased, but the loading process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidloading process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The front deck is segmented as a separate stationary component that does not interfere with the tilt deck's loading function. This segmentation allows the stationary front deck to provide additional storage space while the tilt deck independently handles equipment loading, avoiding any increase in loading process complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Facilitates quicker, safer, and more efficient loading of narrow equipment like directional drills and scissor lifts, while maintaining space for accessories and materials, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Implementation Method 1

an elongate first deck operatively engaged with the frame such that the elongate first deck is pivotable relative to the frame

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivoting: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS12515575B2Split tilt deck trailer and associated systems and methods
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 BEHNKE ENTERPRISES INC
  • US12515575B2 patent drawing
  • US12515575B2 patent drawing
  • US12515575B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosed devices, systems and methods relate to a split-tilt deck trailer. A tilting deck and stationary deck are disposed in parallel on the trailer to provide a tilting deck for the loading of various equipment and providing an elongate stationary platform simultaneously.