Trailer Height-Adjusting Mechanism for Efficient Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-carrying trailers face difficulties in efficiently loading and unloading heavy objects due to elevated decks, with current solutions like pivoting decks or ramps often resulting in awkward inclines or complex, costly height adjustment systems.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjusting mechanism using an axle and pivot arms, supported by cylindrical collars and bushings, allows the load-supporting portion of the trailer to change height relative to the external surface, enabling easy transition between towing and loading positions without steep inclines, utilizing an actuator assembly for smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the trailer deck is elevated to prevent contact with the ground, then the load-carrying portion is protected from surface contact, but heavy objects become difficult to load and unload manually
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the trailer axle height adjustable rather than fixed. The axle can be positioned at different heights relative to the ground, allowing the deck to be elevated for protection during transport and lowered for easy loading/unloading of heavy objects. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between protection and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of axle height to resolve the contradiction. By adjusting the vertical position of the axle (a key parameter), the deck height changes accordingly, enabling the system to switch between protected elevated position and accessible low position for heavy object handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If known height adjustment systems are used, then the deck height can be changed, but the systems become unduly complex with high cost and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the height adjustment function into simple, discrete components: an adjustable axle position mechanism with discrete height settings. This segmentation allows height adjustment capability while avoiding the complexity of continuous adjustment systems, reducing both cost and maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The axle adjustment mechanism is designed to be manually operable without requiring complex motors, hydraulics, or electronics. The simple mechanical design allows users to adjust height themselves without specialized knowledge or expensive components, reducing system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A height adjusting mechanism for changing the height of a load supporting portion of a trailer. An axle is rotatably connected to a trailer frame of the trailer for rotation between a towing position and a loading position. The axle has a first portion and a pair of axle shafts that are resiliently mounted with respect to the first portion for rotation over a limited angular range of motion and are biased toward a neutral position. A pair of opposed pivot arms are rotatable in response to rotation of the axle between the towing position and the loading position. The pivot arms are rotatable with the axle shaft of the axle in response to rotation of the axle shaft with respect to the central portion of the axle.