Trailer Ramp Hinge With Torsion Spring Load Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hinges do not assist in lowering or raising heavy trailer ramps, leading to increased weight and material robustness without functional enhancement.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design incorporating a central rod, torsion springs, and adjustable tension mechanism to facilitate easy lifting and lowering of trailer ramps, even when loaded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the hinge is made more robust and heavier to support heavy loads, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the weight of the hinge increases and manual operation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by incorporating torsion springs that provide an opposing force to the weight of the ramp. The springs are configured to assist in both raising and lowering the ramp, effectively counteracting the gravitational force and reducing the effort required to operate the heavy ramp door.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge system provides self-service functionality through the torsion springs that automatically assist in the operation of the ramp door. The springs are pre-loaded to provide mechanical assistance during the raising and lowering operations, making the system partially self-operating and reducing the manual effort needed.
2Strength
If the hinge is made more robust and heavier to support heavy loads, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion springs act as a counterweight mechanism that provides mechanical assistance opposing the heavy weight of the ramp. This allows the hinge to maintain high load-bearing capacity while significantly improving ease of operation by reducing the manual force required to raise and lower the ramp.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-service principle is implemented through the torsion springs that automatically engage to assist in the ramp's operation. The springs are configured to provide assistance during both raising and lowering, making the heavy ramp easier to operate without requiring additional manual effort.
3Device complexity
If fixed tension springs are used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to varying loads is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the spring tension adjustable rather than fixed. The second spring has an adjustable tension mechanism that allows the operator to modify the spring's mechanical properties based on the specific load requirements, enabling the hinge to adapt to varying ramp weights and operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable tension mechanism allows for parameter changes in the spring system. By modifying the tension of the second spring, the system can adapt to different load conditions, demonstrating the parameter changes principle where physical properties of the mechanical components can be adjusted to optimize performance for varying requirements.
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
The hinge design provides ease of lifting and adjusting to accommodate varying loads, enhancing user convenience and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The hinge also comprises a plurality of torsion springs in the interior space of the housing and which are connected to the rod
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge for a trailer ramp door or a truck box ramp door is provided. The hinge has a centralized rod and one or more attachment members for attaching the hinge to the ramp door.