Bauer Catfish Trailer

grabcad

Although I have just three months' experience in CAD design and no formal engineering background, my extensive mechanical knowledge as an Apache Helicopter mechanic and helicopter technician gives me confidence in this model - my third ever using Solidworks, created before October 1st, 2013 deadline. This trailer features a unique design that lowers and raises its floor for car loading/unloading via cables attached to steel bars inside the frame, rotated by electric motors powered by tow vehicle's battery or alternator, similar to off-road winches. A cheaper manual crank system could also be used. Quick release pins secure the raised floor. Minimizing its footprint while maximizing functionality allows easy garage storage with tow bar in horizontal (towing) or vertical (storage) positions, secured by quick release pins. Noteworthy features include a minimalist design, easy garage fit, and an open middle floor for car maintenance. However, due to time constraints or limited CAD experience, some details like ball bearings, steel rod supports, wheel suspension, secondary turning mechanisms, animations demonstrating functionality, and tie-down locations remain unfinished.