Wheeled Cargo Carrier with Pivot Mount for Trailer Hitch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trailers face difficulties in loading and unloading heavy items due to their elevated position and the cumbersome process of carrying cargo to and from them, which is inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A cargo carrier system comprising a frame with wheels and a mounting base that can be attached to a trailer hitch, allowing easy alignment and secure towing, with a release mechanism for detaching the cargo carrier at the destination and pivoting it away for easy mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If items are carried on trailers at elevated height, then cargo can be transported behind the vehicle, but loading and unloading becomes difficult and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo carrier transitions from a stationary elevated position on the trailer to a mobile ground-level position through the addition of wheels and a pivot mechanism. This dimensional change allows cargo to be accessed at ground level for easy loading/unloading, then transported at elevated level for stable vehicle towing, effectively resolving the contradiction between transportation efficiency and operational ease
Solution Approach 2:
The cargo carrier system incorporates a pivot mechanism that enables dynamic transformation between two operational states: horizontal position for ground-level cargo access and vertical position for vehicle attachment. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt its height and accessibility based on whether cargo is being loaded or transported, eliminating the static limitations of traditional trailers
2Productivity
If heavy items are carried manually to and from trailers, then cargo can be transported, but the process is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual carrying with a mechanical rolling mechanism. Wheels are attached to the cargo carrier frame, enabling heavy items to be rolled to and from the vehicle without manual lifting or carrying. This mechanical substitution dramatically reduces labor intensity while maintaining cargo transport capability
Solution Approach 2:
The cargo carrier acts as an intermediary between the ground level and the vehicle trailer. Instead of directly loading heavy items onto the elevated trailer, the carrier provides a ground-level platform with wheels that rolls cargo to the vehicle, eliminating the need for direct manual handling of heavy loads at height
3Reliability
If the mounting base is permanently fixed to the vehicle, then secure towing is achieved, but mobility and storage become limited when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base incorporates a pivot mechanism that enables it to dynamically change position between a horizontal towing configuration and a vertical storage configuration. When towing is needed, the base extends horizontally to securely attach the cargo carrier; when not in use, it pivots vertically against the vehicle body, eliminating permanent obstruction and enabling storage in previously unavailable space
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a cargo carrier system comprising a cargo carrier and a mounting base configured to attach to a vehicle trailer hitch. The cargo carrier can have wheels and can removably attach to the mounting base. The cargo carrier can easily be removed from the mounting base and pivoted to the ground. The mounting base can be pivoted vertically when not in use.