Transverse Loading Trailer for Intermodal Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailers face challenges in loading and unloading intermodal containers in confined spaces, such as building sites and industrial areas, due to the need for a long distance to position the load, which is often not available.
Innovation Solution
The trailer is designed with a loading arrangement that allows loads to be positioned transversely, reducing the required distance next to the load, and includes a height adjustment arrangement to stabilize the trailer during loading and reduce the need for lifting the load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a winch or crane arm is used to position the load onto the trailer, then the load can be positioned onto the trailer, but a relatively long length is required in front of the load which is not available in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the loading direction from longitudinal (in towing direction) to transverse (perpendicular to towing direction). The loading arrangement positioned at the rear end arrangement enables the load to be moved sideways onto the trailer bed, eliminating the need for a long approach distance in front of the load while maintaining effective loading capability
2Productivity
If the frame is raised to a high position for transporting the load, then the trailer can transport the load, but the trailer becomes unstable during loading operations
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment arrangement enables dynamic height control of the frame relative to the ground surface. The frame can be positioned at a first height where it rests on the ground surface for stable loading operations, and at a second raised height for transporting the load, thus adapting the stability characteristic to the operational phase
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A trailer (1) arranged for loading and transporting a load (3) such as an intermodal container, wherein said trailer (1) comprises: - a front end arrangement (5) arranged for coupling said trailer (1) to a towing vehicle (7) for towing said trailer (1) and arranged for supporting a part said load (3); - a rear end arrangement (9) arranged for supporting another part of said load (3) at a side of said load (3) facing away from said front end arrangement (5) and comprising wheels (11) for supporting said rear end arrangement (9) on a ground surface (13); - a loading arrangement (15) arranged for loading said load (3) onto said trailer (1) in a loading direction (L) that is transverse to a towing direction (T) of said trailer (1); - a frame (17) connecting said front end arrangement (5) to said rear end arrangement (9). A transport arrangement comprising a towing vehicle and the trailer and a method for loading an transporting a load such as an intermodal container using the trailer.