Universal Trailer Modular Configurations for Cargo Versatility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional trailers are typically designed for a singular purpose, limiting their adaptability for alternate uses.

Innovation Solution

A universal trailer with a modular frame and adjustable components, including a tiltable support platform, hoist member, and interchangeable side panel configurations, allowing for multiple configurations and functionalities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional trailers are designed for a singular purpose, then the structural design is simple and reliable, but the adaptability for different uses is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trailer is divided into modular components including interchangeable side panels, a tiltable support platform, and removable container members that can be configured in different arrangements to serve multiple purposes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The trailer frame is designed as a universal base structure that can accommodate various configurations through interchangeable components, allowing a single trailer to perform multiple functions such as enclosed cargo transport, open flatbed hauling, and container carrying

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

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional trailers are built for specific functions, then the structural design is simple and reliable, but the manufacturing cost increases due to producing multiple specialized trailers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing efficiencyVSAvoidfunctional versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

A single universal trailer frame design serves as the base for multiple trailer types, reducing the number of different trailer models that need to be manufactured while providing diverse functionality through component interchangeability

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

Solution Approach 2:

Components such as side panels, container members, and platform sections can be removed, replaced, or reconfigured based on the intended use, allowing the trailer to be adapted for different purposes without requiring a completely different trailer design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentUS12263903B1Universal trailer
Publication Date: 2025.04.01 PFOUTS MARK
  • US12263903B1 patent drawing
  • US12263903B1 patent drawing
  • US12263903B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A universal trailer configured to be operated in a first mode, second mode, third mode and a fourth mode. The universal trailer includes a frame having support members, axles and wheels to facilitate towing thereof. A platform member is superposed the frame and is tiltably movable. In the first mode the platform member has no side panel members secured thereto. The present invention includes a plurality of side panel members that are operably couplable to form a first row and a second row. The present invention further includes a plurality of roof panel members that are operably coupled to the second row to provide enclosing of the trailer for its fourth mode of operation. The plurality of said panel members include connection members configured to secure the first row to the platform member. Upper connection members are configured to secure the second row to the first row.