Trailer Door-Ramp Assembly With Barn Door and Ramp Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trailers are limited in their access configurations, with rear doors typically only able to open in a ramp configuration, restricting access to the trailer's interior.
Innovation Solution
A door and ramp assembly system that allows the door to pivot between a closed, open, and ramp position, utilizing actuators, latching mechanisms, and a control system to manage the door's movement, enabling it to function as both a barn door and a ramp without the need for tension cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the door is configured to open only in a ramp configuration, then the trailer has a simple door structure, but the access flexibility to the trailer's interior is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The door is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a traditional barn door that swings open horizontally, as a ramp that tilts downward for loading, or in combination modes. This multi-functionality allows the same door structure to provide versatile access options without requiring separate door and ramp components, thereby improving access flexibility while controlling structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The door incorporates dynamic movement capabilities with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing it to transition between different operational states (barn door mode, ramp mode, combined mode). The door can pivot on hinges and simultaneously tilt on ramps, creating a dynamic structure that adapts to different access requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall design.
2Reliability
If overhead springs and tension cables are used to support the ramp door, then the ramp mechanism is simple, but safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the dangerous overhead springs and tension cables from the system entirely. Instead of using these high-tension components to support and control the ramp door, the invention employs alternative mechanisms such as hydraulic cylinders or electric motors that provide controlled movement without the safety hazards associated with stored elastic energy in springs and tensioned cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical spring-and-cable system with an actuated system using hydraulic or electric actuators. This substitution eliminates the safety risks of stored elastic energy while providing more precise and controllable door movement. The actuated system can be integrated into the door structure itself, maintaining complexity while dramatically improving safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer having a chassis, one or more wheels and a frame coupled to the chassis is provided for storing or hauling cargo. The frame includes a top member, a bottom member, a first side member, and a second side member which at least partially define an opening to an interior of the trailer. The trailer includes a door coupled to the frame and movable between a closed position, an open position, and a ramp position. A control system controls movement of the door and includes an actuator and a latching mechanism. In the open position, the door is pivotally coupled to the first side member of the frame, while in the closed position the door is coupled to the first side member and at least one of the top member and bottom member. In the ramp position, the door is pivotally coupled to the bottom member.