Trailer Tarping System Using Roller Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for covering loads on flatbed trailers with tarps are often cumbersome, dangerous, and prone to tarp damage due to the need for manual handling and the impracticality of installing stationary or motorized systems at all locations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising first and second supporting assemblies with post and roller assemblies aligned laterally across the trailer, allowing the tarp to be pulled up one side, over rollers, and down the other side to cover the load, utilizing a pulling mechanism and attachment assembly to facilitate safe and efficient tarp deployment and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual tarp handling is used, then the system complexity is low, but the operation safety deteriorates and tarp damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces roller assemblies as intermediary devices between the manual operator and the heavy tarp. The rollers provide a mechanical advantage that reduces the force needed to handle the tarp, eliminating the need for workers to directly lift and pull heavy tarps manually. This intermediary mechanism improves safety while maintaining relatively simple system complexity.
2Reliability
If stationary tarping systems are installed, then operation safety improves, but the adaptability deteriorates due to installation location constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The tarping system is divided into separate, portable modules including supporting assemblies, post assemblies, and roller assemblies that can be independently transported and assembled. This segmentation allows the system to be set up at various locations without requiring permanent installation infrastructure, thereby maintaining adaptability while improving safety through standardized mechanical handling.
3Device complexity
If heavy tarps are pulled manually over the load, then the equipment cost is low, but the tarp durability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Roller assemblies serve as intermediary devices that guide the tarp over the load in a controlled manner. The rollers prevent the tarp from catching on protruding objects or being pulled at awkward angles that could cause damage. This simple mechanical intermediary extends tarp life without requiring expensive equipment.
4Device complexity
If standard tarps are used for long loads, then the material cost is low, but the productivity deteriorates due to the need for multiple tarps
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting assemblies and post assemblies create a three-dimensional framework that allows tarps to be positioned and secured at multiple heights and locations along the load. This spatial arrangement enables more efficient use of each tarp, potentially covering longer loads with fewer tarps by optimizing the distribution and positioning of tarp edges and securing points.
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 system enables safe, efficient, and damage-reduced tarp deployment and retrieval, accommodating various load sizes and trailer configurations without the need for extensive infrastructure or motorized assistance.
Implementation Method 1
a roller assembly supported at an upper end of the post assembly such that the roller assembly extends horizontally and is aligned with the first lateral side of the trailer. The roller assembly is configured to support the tarp such that the tarp can be pulled up along the first lateral side of the trailer, over the roller assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A system for covering a load on trailer with a tarp includes a post assembly coupled to a first lateral side of the trailer, a supporting assembly supported in a stake pocket on the first lateral side of the trailer and holding the post assembly vertically upright, and a roller assembly supported at an upper end of the post assembly such that the roller assembly extends horizontally and is aligned with the first lateral side of the trailer. The roller assembly supports a tarp such that the tarp can be pulled up along the first lateral side of the trailer, over the roller assembly, over a load on the trailer, and down toward an opposite second lateral side of the trailer.