Deployable Trailer Storage Elevator for Easy Hay Pod Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems for recreational and work vehicles lack efficient and accessible solutions for storing and retrieving supplies such as hay, tack, and equipment, especially in trailers designed for livestock transport.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a deployable storage elevator system into transport trailers, which includes a manually or automatically operated storage bin that can be raised to a stowed position atop the trailer and lowered or deployed to the side or rear for convenient access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If supplies are stored in fixed locations within the trailer, then storage capacity is maintained, but accessibility and ease of retrieval are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The storage bin is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be dynamically repositioned between a stowed position within the trailer and a deployed position outside the trailer. This dynamic configuration enables easy access to supplies while maintaining a compact profile during travel, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and structural simplicity.
2Productivity
If manual lifting is required to access stored supplies, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and ease of operation decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The manual lifting operation is replaced by a mechanical deployment system that automatically raises and positions the storage bin. This substitution eliminates the need for manual lifting while maintaining relatively simple device complexity through the use of a deployment mechanism with guide rails and support structures.
3Ease of operation
If the storage bin is always accessible from the side, then ease of operation is improved, but the trailer profile is enlarged and aerodynamics worsen during travel
Solution Approach 1:
The storage bin transitions from a permanently extended configuration to a retractable configuration that can be stowed within the trailer profile during travel. This dynamic retraction maintains aerodynamic efficiency and compact dimensions while allowing easy access when deployed, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and profile size.
4Volume of moving object
If heavy supplies are stored in elevated positions, then space utilization is improved, but difficulty of retrieval and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The manual lifting and retrieval operation is replaced by a mechanical deployment system that automatically raises the storage bin to the elevated position and positions it for access. This substitution enables utilization of vertical space while eliminating the difficulty of manual retrieval, as the system handles the heavy lifting automatically.
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
This solution simplifies the storage and retrieval of supplies by eliminating the need for manual lifting, providing easy access while parked, and maintaining a compact profile during travel.
Implementation Method 1
The screw drive rotates and threadedly engages with a lift element, such as a support arm or a bearing block, which translates vertically within the support tube in response to rotation of the screw drive.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable hay pod elevator system for a transport vehicle, such as a livestock trailer, provides a readily deployable hay pod, storage pod, or supply platform with the trailer, and is readily stowable above the trailer in a raised configuration for travel. The elevator system includes a deployable supply platform and a lift system configured to raise and lower the supply platform relative to the trailer. The lift system may include a screw drive system or a winch and cable system to vertically raise and lower the deployable supply platform. The lift system may pivot or rotate the hay pod over the top of the trailer for transportation purposes. The deployable hay pod elevator system can be fitted to a truck, a van, or other types of vehicles and can be configured to store and transport various materials, such as hay, tools, or livestock tack.