Segmented Trailer Bed Guide Reduces Ski Friction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Snowmobiles and ATVs face difficulties when being loaded or unloaded onto trailers or trucks due to high friction between metal runners and the bed surfaces, and ATVs struggle with traction issues caused by mud, snow, or ice on smooth surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A segmented, grooved track guide system is attached to the trailer or truck bed, featuring spaced guides that reduce friction for snowmobile skis and provide traction for ATV tires by engaging the skis and tires with aligned guide tracks, constructed from plastic polymer materials and designed to accommodate different sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal runners are used on snowmobile skis, then the runners prevent erosion over time, but the friction between the metal runners and the bed surface prevents easy positioning on the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a plastic polymer guide track as an intermediary element between the metal runners and the trailer bed. This mediator reduces direct contact and friction between the metal runners and the bed surface, enabling easier loading while the runners maintain their erosion-resistant function during transport.
2Ease of manufacture
If the trailer bed has a smooth surface, then it is easy to clean, but ATVs lack traction when driving onto the bed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a textured, grooved surface on the guide track where traction is needed (contact area with tires), while the rest of the trailer bed remains smooth for easy cleaning. The grooves in the guide track provide mechanical interlocking with tire treads, improving traction locally without compromising overall bed maintenance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the guide track is made as a single piece, then it provides continuous support, but it is difficult to adapt to different trailer sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the guide track into multiple separate plastic polymer guides that can be individually positioned and attached to the trailer bed. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to various trailer sizes, shapes, and configurations while the aligned guides collectively provide continuous support and guidance for vehicles during loading and transport.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for assisting in loading and unloading a snowmobile having spaced apart skis with runners extending from bottom surfaces thereof or for providing traction for loading and unloading a vehicle with a plurality of tires onto a trailer surface includes a base for attaching to the surface of the trailer. Upper surfaces of the base and bars reduces friction between the skis and surface of the trailer. The base also includes a trailing edge for providing traction for the plurality of tires for loading and unloading the vehicle.