Interchangeable Adapter Devices for Truck Frame Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing frame systems for motor vehicles, particularly trucks, are limited by fixed attachment points, restricting their flexibility to accommodate different superstructures, which hinders their versatile use across various applications.

Innovation Solution

A frame system with interchangeable adapter devices that can be positioned eccentrically and attached at different points on crossbeams, allowing for flexible adaptation to various superstructure lengths, widths, and heights, enabling easy swapping of adapter devices to accommodate different structures without requiring extensive retooling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed attachment points are used on the carrier frame, then the structure is simple and stable, but the flexibility to accommodate different superstructures is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility to accommodate different superstructuresVSAvoidcomplexity of frame system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame system is segmented into a basic carrier frame with fixed attachment points and interchangeable adapter devices. Each adapter device is a separate module that can be attached to the fixed points, allowing the system to be divided into stable base components and flexible adaptive components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixed attachment points on the carrier frame are designed as universal interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of adapter devices. These adapter devices can be configured in different positions and orientations to support various superstructure types, making the same base frame suitable for multiple applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If interchangeable adapter devices are introduced to increase flexibility, then adaptability to different superstructures improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different superstructuresVSAvoidnumber of adapter devices and configurations
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter devices incorporate asymmetric mounting features and positioning mechanisms that allow them to be attached in specific orientations. This asymmetry ensures proper alignment with the superstructure while reducing the number of adapter variants needed, as each adapter is designed for specific configuration requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static fixed-attachment design to a dynamic configuration system where adapter devices can be added, removed, and repositioned. This dynamic capability allows the frame system to adapt to different superstructures without requiring a completely different frame design for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If adapter devices can be fastened at different positions on cross members, then versatility increases, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibility of support surfacesVSAvoidease of manufacturing and assembling frame system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple mounting positions are pre-provided on the cross members during manufacturing. These pre-positioned mounting points are built into the frame structure beforehand, eliminating the need for complex field modifications or custom drilling operations when installing adapter devices for different superstructure configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3222464B1Frame system for motor vehicle structures
Publication Date: 2020.01.08 SONNTAG TRANSPORT TECH
  • EP3222464B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3222464B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP3222464B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

In a frame system (1) for motor vehicle superstructures, in particular trucks, - comprising a system frame (4) with at least two cross members (6) arranged transversely to a vertical median plane (8) of the system frame (4), - comprising support surfaces (14) on which the superstructures rest when attached to the system frame (4), wherein the support surfaces (14) are arranged at the ends of at least two of the cross members (6), and - comprising superstructure fastening means (16) for detachably fastening the superstructures to the system frame (4), wherein the superstructure fastening means (16) are arranged in the support surfaces (14), it is provided that each of the support surfaces (14) is formed by an adapter device (12) which is detachably attached to one end of one of the cross members, wherein the adapter devices (12) are interchangeable and/or an adapter device (12) is attached to different,can be attached to fixed positions at one end of one of the crossbeams (6).