Integrated Trailer Conveyor Assembly With Laser Obstacle Stop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trailers lack integrated conveyor assemblies that facilitate efficient loading and unloading of pallets and packages without the need for pallet jacks, while ensuring safety and durability at a low maintenance cost.
Innovation Solution
A trailer with an incorporated conveyor assembly featuring a motorized pulley system, rollers, and a motion detector system, where the conveyor belt runs longitudinally between trailer floor edges, and the motion detector system uses lasers and sensing electronics to automatically stop the conveyor belt when obstacles are detected, preventing accidents and allowing for wireless operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conveyor assembly is integrated into the trailer, then loading and unloading efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor assembly is merged with the trailer structure by mounting the frame directly onto the trailer base assembly, integrating two separate functions (trailer support and material handling) into a unified system. This reduces the need for separate loading equipment and improves productivity while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor belt assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as both a transportation mechanism for pallets and packages, and as a structural component of the trailer system. The frame serves both as support for the conveyor mechanism and as part of the overall trailer structure, demonstrating multi-functionality that improves efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Reliability
If a motion detector system with laser is installed, then safety is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motion detector system with laser and sensing electronics provides automatic safety monitoring that operates independently without requiring constant human supervision. The system self-regulates by detecting obstacles and automatically controlling the conveyor belt, improving safety while managing complexity through automated self-monitoring and self-control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the conveyor belt runs longitudinally between floor edges, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor belt is implemented as a flexible element that can be positioned and adjusted within the trailer frame. The belt's flexibility allows for easier installation and positioning between the floor edges, compensating for minor manufacturing variations while maintaining proper alignment for operational ease.
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
Enables easy, fast, and safe loading and unloading of pallets and packages without pallet jacks, reducing the risk of accidents and maintaining a durable, cost-effective design.
Implementation Method 1
The motion detector system comprises at least one laser, at least one detector, and sensing electronics. The at least one laser and the at least one detector are mounted opposite to each other, whereby the laser emits at least one laser beam received by the detector.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer with an incorporated conveyor assembly, having at least one conveyor belt assembly with a conveyor belt and a frame. A trailer base assembly has a trailer floor, whereby the frame is mounted onto the trailer base assembly. Further having a trailer frame assembly. The at least one conveyor belt assembly further has a motorized pulley connected to a motor that is mounted onto the frame. The at least one conveyor belt assembly further has rollers and a switch. The trailer base assembly has first and second trailer floor ends. The trailer base assembly further has at least first and second trailer floor edges, and at least one exterior conveyor belt cover. The conveyor belt is positioned between the first and second trailer floor edges.