Trailer Roller Braking via Webbed Belt Friction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional braking and locking systems for trailers with roller supports are cumbersome, costly, and prone to faults due to the use of pneumatic brake shoes and mechanical pin locks, which can be interfered with by debris during transportation, necessitating a more efficient and reliable solution.
Innovation Solution
A combined braking and locking system utilizing a non-stretchable webbed belt with adjustable tension, which applies frictional force to inhibit roller rotation, replacing traditional pneumatic and pin lock systems, and incorporating an electronics module for autonomous operation and safe unloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pneumatic brake shoes are used, then braking function is provided, but weight and cost increase considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the braking function and locking function into a single integrated system using webbed belts. The same belt mechanism that provides braking also serves as the locking mechanism when tensioned, eliminating the need for separate pneumatic brake shoes and mechanical pin locks, thereby reducing weight while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex pneumatic mechanical system with a simpler friction-based mechanical system using webbed belts. Instead of using pneumatic pressure to actuate brake shoes, the system uses adjustable belt tension to create friction against the roller surfaces, achieving the same braking effect with significantly reduced complexity and weight.
2Reliability
If traditional pin lock system is used, then roller rotation is prohibited, but the system is prone to faults due to debris interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function with the braking system using the same webbed belts. When the belts are tensioned against the rollers, they simultaneously provide both braking force and prevent roller rotation, eliminating the need for separate pin locks that are susceptible to debris interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the pin-based mechanical locking system with a friction-based belt system. Instead of using physical pins that can be blocked by debris, the system uses circumferential friction from the webbed belts to prevent roller rotation, providing a more reliable locking mechanism that is not susceptible to debris interference.
3Reliability
If separate pneumatic braking system and pin lock system are used, then both braking and locking functions are provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate systems (pneumatic braking and pin locking) into a single integrated webbed belt system. The same adjustable belts provide both braking function through friction and locking function through tension, eliminating the need for separate pneumatic components and mechanical pins, thereby significantly reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The webbed belt system is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides braking when tensioned during unloading, provides locking when highly tensioned during transport, and can be easily adjusted between these states. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
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 system reduces weight and cost, improves operational efficiency, and provides a simpler, reliable mechanism for both braking and locking, ensuring safe and efficient unloading of oversized materials without the need for large cranes.
Implementation Method 1
A friction brake is formed by the webbed belt
Implementation Method 2
A movable tensioner is provided to adjust the tension of the webbed belt across the rollers
Data Source
AI summary
A control device is described for rollers of a trailer. Belt supports and belt-end supports attach to the trailer, which has rollers for unloading cargo. The belt is over each of the belt supports and under each of the rollers. A belt tensioner tensions the belt so as to brake the rollers.