Deployable Trailer Enclosure for Tire Chain Installation in Snow
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of attaching tire chains to the drive wheels of a semi-trailer truck during adverse weather conditions is challenging and messy due to exposure to snow, ice, and other inclement weather.
Innovation Solution
A protective enclosure for semi-trailers that can be moved between a stowed and deployed position, forming a shielded interior space to protect the driver from inclement weather while installing tire chains, featuring a frame with panels and supports, and optionally including a light or heater for improved visibility and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the driver attaches tire chains during adverse weather conditions, then the tire chains can be installed to improve traction, but the driver is exposed to snow, ice, and other inclement weather making the process challenging and messy
Solution Approach 1:
A protective enclosure acts as an intermediary structure between the driver and the adverse weather conditions. The enclosure includes a roof, side walls, and a rear wall that collectively shield the driver from snow, ice, and inclement weather while allowing the driver to attach tire chains to the drive wheels in a protected environment
Solution Approach 2:
The protective enclosure is divided into multiple functional segments including a storage chamber for stowing the enclosure when not in use, and a deployed working space for attaching tire chains. This segmentation allows the system to transition between compact storage and functional deployment states
2Ease of operation
If a protective enclosure is deployed to shield the driver from inclement weather, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective enclosure is designed to be movable between a stowed position within the storage chamber and a deployed position where it forms a protected working space. The enclosure includes moveable components such as a deployable roof and adjustable side walls that can be configured as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The protective enclosure serves multiple functions: it shields the driver from adverse weather, provides a controlled environment for attaching tire chains, and can be stored within the trailer when not needed. The same structure provides both protection and workspace
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer for use with a truck having at least one drive wheel is disclosed. The trailer includes a floor configured to carry cargo and a protective enclosure moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The protective enclosure has a frame and a top panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, and an end panel that are attachable to the frame. In the stowed position, the protective enclosure is positioned adjacent the floor. In the deployed position, the protective enclosure projects away from the floor and the top panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, and the end panel cooperate to form an interior space shielded from inclement weather. A method of servicing at least one drive wheel of a truck coupled to a trailer is also disclosed.