Trailer Upper Coupler Assembly With Varying Cross Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional upper coupler assemblies for trailers are inefficient in distributing load and providing structural reinforcement, leading to higher material usage and weight, which affects the overall efficiency and durability of the trailer.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a tapered bottom plate and cross members with varying second moments of area, optimizing structural strength where needed while minimizing material usage, resulting in a lighter and more efficient upper coupler assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional upper coupler assemblies use consistent cross sections for bottom plate and cross members, then structural strength is maintained, but weight and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the cross-sectional dimensions of the bottom plate and cross members according to the local stress distribution. The bottom plate has a varying thickness with greater thickness at locations of higher stress concentration and reduced thickness where stress is lower. Similarly, cross members have varying cross-sectional areas optimized for their specific structural roles, providing maximum strength where needed while minimizing material usage in less critical areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the geometric parameters of the bottom plate and cross members. The bottom plate thickness varies from 0.5 inches at certain locations to 0.75 inches at others, and cross members have different cross-sectional dimensions (e.g., 2x4 inches vs 2x6 inches) based on their structural requirements. This optimized parameter distribution maintains overall structural strength while reducing total material usage and weight.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional upper coupler assemblies use uniform material distribution, then manufacturing is simplified, but structural efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the cross-sectional dimensions of the bottom plate and cross members according to the local stress distribution. The bottom plate has a varying thickness with greater thickness at locations of higher stress concentration and reduced thickness where stress is lower. Similarly, cross members have varying cross-sectional areas optimized for their specific structural roles, providing maximum strength where needed while minimizing material usage in less critical areas.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional upper coupler assemblies use standard cross-sectional dimensions, then material selection is easier, but load distribution efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the geometric parameters of the bottom plate and cross members. The bottom plate thickness varies from 0.5 inches at certain locations to 0.75 inches at others, and cross members have different cross-sectional dimensions (e.g., 2x4 inches vs 2x6 inches) based on their structural requirements. This optimized parameter distribution maintains overall structural strength while reducing total material usage and weight.
Data Source
AI summary
An upper coupler for a semi-trailer has a generally planar bottom plate. A kingpin attaches thereto to couple with a fifth wheel of a tractor. A reinforcement member extends across a width of the bottom plate to reduce bending of the bottom plate as it rests on the fifth wheel of the tractor. Along the reinforcement member's length, the reinforcement member has varying second moments of area taken in cross sections perpendicular to the reinforcement member's length.