Trailer Stacking Device Using Four-Mast Lifting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stacking flatbed trailers are inefficient and cumbersome, often requiring expensive overhead lifts or multiple forklifts, and can be hazardous, with underground lifting solutions being costly and requiring significant site alterations.
Innovation Solution
A trailer stacking device with four masts, including two moveable and two stationary masts, that lift and stack trailers using vertically and laterally extendable support frames, with guide rails for positioning, and automatic accommodation for pitching/rolling movements during stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If overhead lifts such as gantry cranes are used to stack trailers, then lifting capability is achieved, but cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the lifting function across four separate masts (two stationary, two moveable) rather than using a single overhead crane structure. Each mast independently supports and positions trailers, allowing the system to achieve lifting capability while reducing overall structural complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single large overhead lifting structure, the invention inverts the approach by using multiple ground-level or low-level masts that work in coordination. The moveable masts travel along tracks at the base of stationary masts, flipping the traditional top-down lifting approach into a distributed bottom-up system.
2Force
If multiple forklifts are used to stack trailers, then lifting capability is achieved, but operational complexity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple forklifts into a single integrated system. The four masts operate in coordination as one unified stacking device, with synchronized movement and positioning, thereby achieving the lifting capability of multiple forklifts while simplifying operation and improving safety through centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to coordinate the movement of multiple masts, ensuring they operate in unison. This feedback control allows the complex multi-mast system to be operated as a single unit, reducing operational complexity and minimizing safety risks associated with uncoordinated multiple forklift operations.
3Productivity
If underground pit lifting devices are used, then trailer stacking is achieved, but construction cost and site alteration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the static underground pit structure with dynamic moveable masts that travel along tracks. This allows the stacking device to be repositioned and adapted to different trailer configurations without requiring permanent site alterations or expensive underground construction, while maintaining high stacking efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The moveable mast system serves multiple functions: it can stack trailers of varying sizes and configurations, be repositioned along the tracks, and operate in different locations without permanent installation. This multi-functionality achieves high productivity while avoiding the construction complexities and costs of dedicated underground lifting facilities.
4Device complexity
If fixed mast positions are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different trailer configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines structural simplicity with adaptability by making the masts moveable along tracks rather than fixed in single positions. The moveable masts can be positioned at different locations to accommodate various trailer lengths and configurations, while the track-based guidance maintains overall structural simplicity and ease of construction.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various embodiments for a trailer stacking device that makes use of multiple masts featuring support platforms that are capable of lifting and lowering a trailer vertically during trailer stacking operations.