Tandem Axle Trailer Locking Mechanism for Self-Propelled Bin Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for removing construction waste from building sites are inefficient, as they often require manual labor and large trucks, which can damage landscapes, and there is a need for a vehicle that can maneuver around buildings and position storage bins effectively.

Innovation Solution

A self-propelled tandem axle trailer with a rear extending storage bin and a movable front axle, equipped with a locking mechanism and hydraulic drive assembly, allowing the trailer to be towed by a power vehicle and independently move to position the storage bin near workers, supporting the trailer's chassis and extending the front wheel assembly for self-propelled operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a large truck is used to remove construction waste, then the waste removal capacity is improved, but the landscape (fences, lawns, shrubs) is damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaste removal capacityVSAvoidlandscape damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the waste removal function into two separate components: a large-capacity disposal container for waste storage and a small maneuverable trailer for transportation. The trailer can navigate through landscaped areas to position the container near the building, while the large truck remains outside the landscaped area for waste loading, thus preventing landscape damage while maintaining high waste removal capacity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The maneuverable trailer with disposal container serves as an intermediary between the building (where waste is generated) and the large truck (which provides waste removal capacity). The trailer positions the container close to the building for efficient waste transfer, then transports it to the truck without the truck needing to enter landscaped areas

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If manual labor is used to move building materials and debris, then equipment cost is reduced, but time consumption and labor intensity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment costVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The trailer is equipped with a self-propelled capability through a drive assembly with clutch mechanism, allowing it to move independently under its own power between towing and disposal positions. This automation reduces the need for manual labor while keeping the overall system relatively simple and cost-effective

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides dynamic adaptability by allowing the trailer to switch between two operational modes: being towed by a power vehicle for long-distance transport and self-propelling for short-distance positioning near buildings. This dynamic capability optimizes both time efficiency and cost-effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the front wheel assembly is extended for self-propelled operation, then maneuverability is improved, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The front wheel assembly is designed with an extension mechanism that allows it to move between a retracted position (when being towed) and an extended position (when self-propelling). This dynamic structural change enables the trailer to adapt to different operational modes, improving maneuverability while maintaining structural simplicity when the extension is not needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The drive assembly is segmented into separate components including a clutch mechanism, driveshaft, and wheel hub assembly. This segmentation allows the drive components to be selectively engaged or disengaged, enabling self-propelled operation only when needed, thus improving maneuverability without permanently increasing structural 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

The trailer enables efficient and damage-free movement of construction waste, allowing for the independent positioning of a storage bin near the work site, reducing manual labor and minimizing landscape damage, while supporting the trailer's chassis and enabling self-propelled operation.

Implementation Method 1

The introduction of fluid through the first port creates a fluid pressure that causes the pushing member to move from the first position to the second position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

a detent, the pushing member configured to reciprocate between a first position and second position; an urging member secured at one end by a pivot pin, and having a roller capable of at least partially residing within the detent of the pushing member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical engagement: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 3

the urging member being normally biased in a first direction, and moved in a second direction by the pushing member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS20240083529A1Locking mechanism for self-propelled tandem axle trailer
Publication Date: 2024.03.14 NEW HEIGHTS LLC
  • US20240083529A1 patent drawing
  • US20240083529A1 patent drawing
  • US20240083529A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A trailer for towing by a power vehicle is provided and generally includes a frame, a tandem wheel assembly and an extension assembly. The frame forms an undercarriage chassis and the tandem wheel assembly is positioned under the undercarriage chassis. The tandem wheel assembly includes a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly having a drive assembly. The extension assembly moves the front wheel assembly between trailing position and a self-propelled position.