Displaceable tow hook

Abstract

Disclosed embodiments include apparatuses, vehicles, and methods for a displaceable tow hook. In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus includes a tow hook configured to extend from a surface of a vehicle in a first direction. The tow hook includes a receiving section configured to receive a tow rope and a securing section configured to extend away from the receiving section. A positioning mount is configured to secure the tow hook to the surface of the vehicle and release the tow hook in response to an impact force on the tow hook that exceeds a predetermined threshold. A load bearing structure is configured to mechanically connect the securing section to a structural component of the vehicle. The tow hook and the load bearing structure are configured to support a force having a component in the first direction that is at least equal to a traction weight of the vehicle.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This disclosure relates to a tow hook for a vehicle.

[0002] The statements in this section are provided only as background information in connection with this disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0003] Trucks, off-road vehicles, and other motor vehicles may include tow hooks. Tow hooks are typically mounted to the front bumper or other forward-facing surface of a vehicle, or the rear bumper or other rearward-facing surface. Each tow hook is configured to receive a tow rope or other cable. Thus, for example, with one or more tow ropes having their first ends attached to the tow hook and their second ends attached to the towing vehicle, the tow hook enables the vehicle to be towed. In another instance, with one or more tow ropes having their first ends attached to the tow hook and their second ends attached to an object or another vehicle, the vehicle can be moved to pull or move the object or tow another vehicle. Therefore, including tow hooks on vehicles can prove convenient for a variety of uses.

[0004] However, tow hooks mounted to the vehicle frame or body can have some drawbacks. For example, while vehicles can be designed to distribute and absorb energy generated by a collision, a tow hook extending from the vehicle can generate sharp, localized forces on the hook, which may interfere with the distribution of forces and energy generated in a collision. Additionally, a protruding tow hook can cause damage to objects that the tow hook may impact, whether these objects include fixed structures, other vehicles, or even bicycles and pedestrians. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The disclosed embodiments include devices, vehicles, and methods for movable tow hooks.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, a device includes a tow hook configured to extend from a surface of a vehicle along a first direction. The tow hook includes: a receiving section configured to be positioned facing the first direction and to receive a tow rope; and a fixing section configured to extend away from the receiving section. A positioning mount is configured to secure the tow hook to the surface of the vehicle. The positioning mount is configured to release the tow hook in response to an impact force exceeding a predetermined threshold applied to the tow hook, wherein the impact force has a force component applied in at least one direction, the at least one direction being selected from a second direction opposite to the first direction and a third direction transverse to the first direction. A load-bearing structure is configured to mechanically connect the fixing section to a structural component of the vehicle. The tow hook and the load-bearing structure are configured to support a force having a component in the first direction at least equal to the towing weight of the vehicle.

[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle includes a body. A compartment is included in the body and configured to receive an operator. A drive system is supported by the body and configured to control one or more wheels of the vehicle to maneuver, accelerate, decelerate, stop, and steer the vehicle. A tow hook includes: a receiving section configured to be positioned facing a first direction and to receive a tow rope; and a fixing section configured to extend away from the receiving section. A positioning mount is configured to secure the tow hook to a surface of the vehicle. The positioning mount is configured to release the tow hook in response to an impact force exceeding a predetermined threshold applied to the tow hook, wherein the impact force has a force component applied in at least one direction, the at least one direction being selected from a second direction opposite to the first direction and a third direction transverse to the first direction. A load-bearing structure is configured to mechanically connect the fixing section to a structural component of the vehicle. The tow hook and the load-bearing structure are configured to support a force having a component in the first direction at least equal to the towing weight of the vehicle.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a method includes attaching a tow hook to a surface of a vehicle. The tow hook includes a receiving section extending along a first direction and configured to receive a tow rope; and a fixing section extending away from the receiving section. The tow hook is displaceably mounted to the surface such that it can be released from the surface in response to an impact force applied to the tow hook exceeding a predetermined threshold and having a force component applied in at least one direction, the at least one direction being selected from a second direction opposite to the first direction and a third direction transverse to the first direction. The fixing section is mechanically connected to a structural component of the vehicle to support a force applied to the tow hook and having a component in the first direction at least equal to the towing weight of the vehicle.

[0009] Further features, advantages, and applications will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather the focus is on illustrating the principles of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

[0011] Figure 1 It is a top-section view of a vehicle with a movable tow hook;

[0012] Figure 2 It has a movable tow hook. Figure 1 A side view showing a portion of the vehicle cut off;

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Front plan view of the tow hook in the positioning mount on the front surface of the vehicle;

[0014] Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B It is responsive to tension. Figure 3 A top view of the tow hook in the positioning and mounting components;

[0015] Figures 6A-6C It was displaced by the impact force. Figure 3 A top view of the tow hook in the positioning and mounting components;

[0016] Figure 7 and Figure 8 It is a plan view of a tow hook that is fixed to a vehicle structural component using a load-bearing structure in the form of a cable;

[0017] Figure 9 Side view including the open-end tow hook;

[0018] Figures 10A-10C yes Figure 7 A plan view of the cables available in the load-bearing structure;

[0019] Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 12 This is a plan view of the mounting hardware used to secure the cable of Figure 10 to the vehicle structural components;

[0020] Figure 13 , Figure 14A and Figure 14B It is a plan view of a tow hook that can be released from a vehicle structural component in response to an impact, the tow hook using a load-bearing structure in the form of a solid linkage mechanism;

[0021] Figure 15 , Figure 16A and Figure 16B It is a plan view of a tow hook using a load-bearing structure in the form of a deformable solid linkage mechanism; and

[0022] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of an exemplary method for repositioning a tow hook to the surface of a vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The following description is exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses. It should be noted that the first digit of a three-digit designation and the first two digits of a four-digit designation correspond to the first digit of a one-digit designation and the first two digits of a two-digit designation, respectively, when the element first appears.

[0024] The following description is for illustrative and not limiting purposes only, explaining various embodiments of devices, vehicles, and methods for using movable tow hooks on vehicles.

[0025] Through non-limiting description and overview, in various embodiments, a displaceable tow hook assembly enables a vehicle to tow or be towed, but allows the tow hook to displace upon impact. The displaceable tow hook assembly includes a tow hook secured to a vehicle surface using a positioning mount. The positioning mount is configured to allow displacement of the tow hook when a force impacting the tow hook, either toward or partially toward the vehicle, strikes the tow hook. However, the tow hook is secured to a structural component of the vehicle, such as a vehicle frame, using a load-bearing member. The load-bearing member transmits the tensile (traction) force applied to the tow hook to the vehicle frame, enabling the vehicle to be towed or tow another vehicle or other object. Therefore, the displaceable tow hook assembly allows the tow hook to function as a tow hook, but allows displacement of the tow hook in response to an impact to reduce potential damage.

[0026] Since a general overview has already been given, the details of various embodiments will be explained by non-limiting examples given only in an illustrative and non-limiting manner.

[0027] refer to Figure 1 The movable tow hook assembly 100 is mounted on the vehicle 101. In various embodiments, the movable tow hook assembly 100 includes a tow hook 110, a positioning mount 120, and a support member 130 that connects the tow hook 110 to a structural component of the vehicle 101, such as the frame 103 of the vehicle 101. In various embodiments, the support member 130 is connected to a transverse member 105 of the frame 103. The vehicle 101 is equipped with four movable tow hook assemblies 101. Two movable tow hook assemblies 101 are located at the front end 111 of the vehicle 101, wherein the tow hook 110 is mounted to the front bumper 109 and connected to the front structural frame member 105. The other two movable tow hook assemblies 101 are located at the rear end 113 of the vehicle 101, wherein the tow hook 110 is mounted to the rear bumper 119 and connected to the rear structural frame member 107. If needed, any number of movable tow hook assemblies 101 can be positioned at one or both ends of the vehicle 101, as well as along the side of the vehicle 101. Figure 1 As in the examples, in various embodiments, the tow hook 110 may include a closed-loop hook. Also, Figure 1 As depicted in the examples, in various embodiments, the tow hook 110 can be mounted horizontally, wherein the tow hook 110 is coplanar with the surface on which the vehicle 101 can be parked.

[0028] For further reference Figure 2 Vehicle 201 includes one or more tow hook assemblies 200 positioned only at the front end 211 of vehicle 201. With Figure 1Compared to the closed-loop tow hook 110 of the tow hook assembly 100, the tow hook assembly 200 includes an open tow hook 210. The tow hook assembly 200 also features a tow hook 210 oriented vertically, transverse to the surface on which the vehicle 201 can be parked. This is in contrast to the bumpers 109 and 119 mounted to the vehicle 101. Figure 1 Tow hook assembly 100 ( Figure 1 In contrast, the tow hook assembly 200 is secured to the trim panel below the bumper 219 of the vehicle 201 using a positioning mount 220. A load-bearing member 230 connects the tow hook 210 to structural components of the vehicle 201, such as the frame 203.

[0029] For further reference Figure 2 In various embodiments, vehicle 201 also includes a body 221, which includes a compartment 231 or other compartment for receiving occupants or cargo. Vehicle 201 may also include a cargo area 241 separate from the compartment 231, such as a truck bed or trunk. Vehicle 201 also includes a drive system 251 that operates in conjunction with one or more wheels 261 and 271 of vehicle 201 to enable vehicle 201 to move, accelerate, decelerate, stop, and steer.

[0030] As mentioned above, tow hooks may include closed-loop tow hooks 110 ( Figure 1 ) or open tow hook 210 ( Figure 2 The tow hook assembly may include a horizontally positioned tow hook 110 (as used for tow hook assembly 100). Figure 1 ( ) or vertically arranged tow hook 210 (such as for tow hook assembly 200 ( ) Figure 2 (in)). The tow hook assembly can be installed on bumper 109 or 119 (e.g. Figure 1 (in the tow hook assembly 100), or can be mounted on another vehicle surface such as trim panel 209 (e.g. Figure 2 (In the tow hook assembly 200). These properties can be adopted or combined as needed. For the purposes of the above description, the exemplary tow hook assembly 100 (including a horizontally positioned closed-loop tow hook mounted on the bumper) is described by way of example given only in an illustrative and not limiting manner.

[0031] For further reference Figure 3 The positioning mounting piece 120 is installed to position the tow hook 110 within the recess 310 defined by the front bumper 109 of the vehicle 101. Figure 1 As mentioned above, the tow hook assembly 100 can also be installed on the rear bumper 119. Figure 1 ), or mounted on another surface of the vehicle or relative to said other surface.

[0032] The tow hook 110 is secured to the bumper 109 using one or more positioning mounts 120. In various embodiments, four positioning mounts 120 may be included at each of the top and bottom of the tow hook 110 and at each side of the tow hook 110. In various embodiments, two positioning mounts 120 may be used on each side of the tow hook 110. Additionally, a single positioning mount 120 may be used to secure the tow hook 110 within a recess 310 of the bumper 109.

[0033] In various embodiments, the positioning mount 120 may include a mounting body 322, which may be coupled to the bumper 109 and the tow hook 110 via a fastening device 324 including a connector (such as a pin, locating pin, or bolt). In various embodiments, the mounting body 322 and / or the fastening device 324 are configured to yield in response to an impact of a force greater than a predetermined threshold on the tow hook 110 to allow displacement of the tow hook 110. For example, the mounting body 322 and / or the fastening device 324 may be configured to break or fragment when a force greater than a predetermined threshold impacts the tow hook 110 and is thus applied to the mounting body 322 and / or the fastening device 324.

[0034] In various embodiments, the mounting body 322 may be a press-fit structure to frictionally secure the tow hook 110 within the recess 310 of the bumper 109 until a force greater than a predetermined threshold impacts the tow hook 110. In various embodiments, the mounting body 322 may include a portion of the bumper 109 configured to yield when impacted by a force greater than the predetermined threshold. Any structure that holds the tow hook 110 in place relative to the bumper 109 until a force greater than the predetermined threshold is applied to the tow hook 110 may be used. In various embodiments, as further described below, the size of the recess 310 is configured to allow the tow hook 110 to shift inward and / or laterally, depending on whether the force impacts the front surface of the tow hook 110 or whether the force includes a lateral component.

[0035] For further reference Figure 4 The tow hook 110 includes a receiving section 420 and a fixing section 430, for example, mounted to a surface 490 of a vehicle. Although Figure 4 , 5A The vehicle is not shown in 5B, but it should be understood that the relative movement of surface 490 represents the movement of the vehicle.

[0036] The receiving section 420 faces a first direction 450, which extends away from the vehicle on which the tow hook 110 is mounted. The receiving section 420 is configured to receive a tow rope that may include a tow hook. Figure 4 (Not shown in the figure). As described above, the tow hook 110 may include a closed-loop structure as shown in the figure, or may include an open-end tow hook 210 ( Figure 2The loop in the cable can pass through the open end hook. The fixed section 430 faces a second direction 460 opposite to the first direction 450. The fixed section 430 is constructed with a load-bearing structure (such as load-bearing structure 130). Figure 1 The fixed section 430 is joined to connect the fixed section 430 to the structural components of the vehicle, such as the front structural frame member 105 of the vehicle 101. Figure 1 ).

[0037] For further reference Figure 5A The traction force 505 in the first direction 450 is provided by a tow rope, tow cable or other body ( Figure 5A (Not shown in the image) is applied to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. Because the tow hook 110 is supported by a bearing member (… Figure 5A (Not shown) is fixed to a structural component of the vehicle, so a traction force 505 is applied to the tow hook 110, causing both the tow hook 110 and the surface 490 to move a distance 515. It should be understood that if the vehicle pulls another body, the traction force 505 is still applied in the first direction, and the tow hook 110 will maintain its position relative to the surface 490 while the surface 490 moves a certain distance in the second direction 460.

[0038] For further reference Figure 5B Composed of a tow rope, tow cable, or other body ( Figure 5B (Not shown) A tilting traction force 507 is applied to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. The tilting traction force 507 has a first component 517 in a first direction 450 and a second component 527 in a third direction 470 transverse to the first direction 450. When the load-bearing member (not shown) secures the tow hook 110 to a structural component of the vehicle, a traction force 505 is applied to the tow hook 110 to move both the tow hook and the surface 490 a distance 515 (or, as previously described, in the opposite direction when the vehicle is pulling another body). If the second component 527 of the tilting traction force 507 is less than a predetermined threshold, the positioning mount ( Figure 5B (Not shown) can maintain the position of the tow hook 110. However, even though the positioning mount should give way due to the second component 527 of the tilting traction force 507, the load-bearing member is still subjected to the first component 517 of the tilting traction force 507. Therefore, the load-bearing member will still allow the vehicle to be towed or pulled by another body.

[0039] With the tow hook 110 and surface 490 responding to the application of respectively Figure 5A and 5B Compared to the coordinated movement of traction forces 505 and 507, when the force impacts the tow hook 110, the positioning mounting part 120 ( Figure 1-3 This allows the hook 110 to shift relative to surface 490. See also... Figure 6A The impact force 605 is applied along a second direction 460, which is opposite to the first direction 450. Figure 5A The traction force 505 is applied in the first direction. The impact force 605 causes the tow hook 110 to shift. Specifically, the impact force 605 causes the tow hook 110 to be displaced by the positioning mount ( Figure 6A (Not shown in the image) is released and moves a certain distance 615 relative to surface 490 and independently of the surface.

[0040] For further reference Figure 6B In various embodiments, the positioning mounting element ( Figure 6B (Not shown in the image) also enables the tow hook 110 to displace in response to an impact of a lateral force 607 onto the tow hook 110. The lateral force 607 impacts the tow hook 110 in a fourth direction 670, transverse to the first direction 450 and the second direction 460. Specifically, the lateral force 607 causes the tow hook 110 to displace from the positioning mount ( Figure 6A (Not shown) Released and moved a distance 617 relative to and independent of the surface 490. Displacement of the tow hook 110 in response to the application of a lateral force 607 can help eliminate damage or injury to vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles or pedestrians impacting the tow hook 110 in the lateral direction.

[0041] For further reference Figure 6C In various embodiments, the positioning mounting element ( Figure 6C (Not shown) This also enables the tow hook 110 to displace in response to the impact of the tilting force 609. The tilting force 609 has a first component 619 in the second direction 460 and a second component 527 in the fourth direction 670. As the tilting force 609 impacts the tow hook 110, the tow hook 110 displaces a first distance 627 along the second direction 460 and a second distance 629 relative to and independent of the surface 490 along the fourth direction 670. Therefore, the displacement of the tow hook 110 can help avoid damage to the object to which the tilting force 609 is applied, and / or allow the surface 490 to absorb and distribute the remainder of the tilting force 609.

[0042] In summary, as referenced Figures 6A-6C As described above, in various embodiments, the positioning mount 120 allows the tow hook 110 to shift in response to an impact force on the tow hook 110, thereby potentially preventing the tow hook 110 from causing damage to the object impacting the tow hook 110. However, as referenced above... Figure 5A and 5B The load-bearing member 310, which is connected to the structural components of the vehicle, enables the tow hook 110 to withstand tensile forces, allowing the tow hook 110 to allow the vehicle to tow or be towed.

[0043] For further reference Figure 7In various embodiments, the movable tow hook assembly 710 includes a cable-bearing member of the nature of a cable 750. The cable 750 has a hook connector 732 disposed on a fixed section 430 of the tow hook 110 and is disposed on a structural component of the vehicle (…). Figure 7 Extending between frame connectors 734 on (e.g., transverse member 105) as shown in various embodiments. In various embodiments, cable 750 includes a double-stranded cable or loop looped around or otherwise connected to and extending between hook connectors 732 and frame connectors 734. In various embodiments, cable 750 may include a single-stranded wire (not shown) connected to and extending between hook connectors 732 and frame connectors 734. Cable 750 includes a generally non-stretchable cable.

[0044] When a pulling force 701 is applied along the first direction 450 (or has a component along the first direction), the pulling force 701 is applied to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. As a result, the pulling force 701 is applied to the fixing section 430 and the hook connector 732. The cable 750 applies the pulling force 701 to the frame connector 734 and thus to the transverse member 105. As a result, the pulling force 701 applied to the tow hook 110 allows the vehicle to pull or be pulled. As previously described, when the pulling force 701 is applied to the tow hook 110, the tow hook 110 and the surface 490 of the vehicle move cooperatively.

[0045] For further reference Figure 8 An impact force 801 is applied along a second direction 460 (or has a component along the second direction) to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. As previously described, when the impact force 801 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the positioning mount ( Figure 8 (Not shown) Allows the tow hook 110 to shift relative to the vehicle surface 490 in a second direction. Since the tow hook 110 is connected to the transverse member 105 by the cable 750, the shift of the tow hook 110 caused by the impact force 801 is not blocked by the cable 750 or is only minimally blocked, which can reduce damage to the vehicle or the body of the impact tow hook 110.

[0046] As previously referenced Figure 6B and 6C As stated, lateral impact forces or impact forces with a lateral component can also cause lateral displacement of the tow hook 110. It should be recognized that lateral or partial lateral movement of the tow hook 110 will not be resisted by the cable 750, or will only be resisted by the cable 750 to a minimal extent, thereby potentially reducing damage to the vehicle or the body of the tow hook 110 that is impacted.

[0047] In various embodiments, the cable 750, as well as the tow hook 110, hook connector 732, frame connector 734, and transverse member 105, are all capable of withstanding a tensile force 701 at least equal to the total towing weight of the vehicle.

[0048] For further reference Figure 9 According to various embodiments, such as references Figure 2 The tow hook 910 may be open-ended, rather than closed-ended as in the example of tow hook 110. See reference... Figure 2 The tow hook 910 can be vertically oriented and installed laterally to the vehicle. Figure 9 (Not shown) A surface on which the vehicle can be parked. The tow hook 910 can also be installed in a horizontal orientation, wherein the tow hook 910 is coplanar with the surface on which the vehicle can be parked. As described above, the tow hook 910 can be secured to the front end of the vehicle via a positioning mount, which uses a fixing device (press-fit structure) on another mechanism to hold the tow hook 910 in place until it is displaced in response to an impact of a force greater than a predetermined threshold on the tow hook 910.

[0049] Similar to a closed-end tow hook 110, tow hook 910 includes a receiving section 920 and a fixing section 930. The receiving section 920 faces a first direction 450 extending away from the vehicle on which the tow hook 910 is mounted. The receiving section 920 is configured to receive either a tow hook or a closed loop (…). Figure 9 A tow rope (not shown). The fixed section 930 faces a second direction 460 opposite to the first direction 450. The fixed section 930 is constructed with a load-bearing structure (such as load-bearing structure 230). Figure 2 The fixed section 930 is joined to connect the fixed section 930 to the structural components of the vehicle, such as the frame 203 of the vehicle 201. Figure 2 The fixed section 930 may include a connecting element 995 (such as an opening, notch, or protrusion) to engage the load-bearing structure. The tow hook 910 may include a support member 990 configured to engage a fixing device 924 that holds the tow hook 910 in place until impacted by a displacement force. (See above reference) Figure 5A , 5B As described in 6A-C, 7 and 8, the tow hook 910 is configured to receive and respond to traction or impact forces.

[0050] In various embodiments, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The cable 750 can include many different cable structures. See also... Figure 10A Cable 750 may include extruded cable or monofilament cable 1052 made of metal or another material with suitable tensile strength. See also... Figure 10B Cable 750 may include multi-filament cable or braided cable 1054. Multi-filament cable or braided cable 1054 may include filaments or strands formed of metal or another flexible material with suitable tensile strength. See also... Figure 10CCable 750 may be constructed of carbon fiber cable 1056, which may include monofilaments or woven cables. As previously stated, cable 750 as a whole should be able to withstand tension equal to at least the total towing weight of the vehicle. Therefore, for example, a single-element cable will have to withstand tension at least equal to the total towing weight of the vehicle. In contrast, in multi-element cables or loop cables, such as cable 750 ( Figure 7 and 8 The total weight of the cable components must withstand at least the full traction weight of the vehicle.

[0051] Cables or other load-bearing components can be secured to the vehicle's frame or other structural parts in various ways. See also... Figure 11A For example, mounting 1110 may be formed as or fixedly attached to the vehicle's frame or other structural member 1105. Figure 11A and Figure 11B (Not shown in the image). The mounting may include a receiving structure 1112 for engaging cables or carrier members, such as an opening, recess, or protrusion to which the cables or carrier members are connected.

[0052] For further reference Figure 11B For example, receiving structure 1112 is an opening through which cable 1130 passes. Mounting member 1105 may be directly formed or fixedly attached to frame or other structural member 1105, and / or mounting member may include attachment structure 1120, such as bracket, to facilitate attachment of mounting member to frame or other structural member 1105.

[0053] For further reference Figure 12 In various embodiments, the mounting member 1210 may include a plurality of engagement structures 1211 and 1212, each of which includes receiving structures 1213 and 1214, such as openings. In this arrangement, a coupling 1220, such as a pin, locating pin, or bolt, is inserted through the receiving structures 1213 and 1214, and a cable 1130 is then looped around the coupling 1120 to secure the cable to the mounting member 1210. The mounting member 1210 may also include attachment structures 1220, such as brackets, to facilitate attachment of the mounting member to a frame or other structural member 1105.

[0054] For further reference Figure 13 In various embodiments, the movable tow hook assembly 1310 includes a load-bearing member in the form of a solid linkage mechanism 1350. The linkage mechanism 1350 has a hook coupling 1332 disposed on the fixed section 430 of the tow hook 110 and a structural component disposed on the vehicle (…). Figure 13 Extending between frame connectors 1334 on (e.g., transverse member 105, not shown in the diagram). In various embodiments, linkage 1350 may be coupled to frame connectors 1334 using slidable connectors 1354.

[0055] When a pulling force 701 is applied to the tow hook 110 along the first direction 450 (or having a component along the first direction), the pulling force 701 is applied to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. As a result, the pulling force 701 is applied to the fixed section 430 and the hook connection 732. The linkage mechanism 1350 applies the pulling force 701 to the frame connection 1034 and thus to the transverse member 105. As a result, the pulling force allows the vehicle to pull or be pulled due to the application of the pulling force 701 to the tow hook 110. As described above, when the pulling force 701 is applied to the tow hook 110, the tow hook 110 and the surface 490 of the vehicle move cooperatively.

[0056] For further reference Figure 14A The impact force 801 is applied along the second direction 460 to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. As mentioned above, when the impact force 801 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the positioning mount ( Figure 14A (Not shown) Allows the tow hook 110 to displace relative to the vehicle surface 490 in a second direction. The tow hook 110 is connected to the transverse member 105 via a slidably mounted linkage 1350. Thus, when the tow hook 110 can apply an impact force 801 to the linkage 1350, the slidable coupling 1354 slides relative to the frame mount 1034. As a result, the linkage 1350 does not resist or only minimally resists the displacement of the tow hook 110 in response to the applied impact force 810. Therefore, the displacement of the tow hook 110 can reduce damage to the vehicle or the body of the impacting vehicle in a collision.

[0057] For further reference Figure 14B An oblique impact force 1411 is applied to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. The oblique impact force 1411 has components in a second direction 460 and a fourth direction 670. As previously described, when the impact force 1411 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the positioning mount ( Figure 11B (Not shown) Allows the tow hook 110 to be displaced relative to the vehicle surface 490 in a second direction 460 and a fourth direction 670. In various embodiments, the hook mount 1332 is pivotally coupled to the linkage 1050. As a result, sliding of the slidable coupling 1054 of the linkage 1350 and pivoting of the linkage at the hook mount 1332 allow the linkage 1350 to be displaced by the tow hook 110. Thus, although the tow hook 110 can at least partially apply the impact force 1411 to the linkage 1350, the linkage 1350 does not resist or only minimally resists the displacement of the tow hook 110 in response to the applied impact force 1411 because of the displacement of the linkage 1350. Therefore, the displacement of the tow hook 110 can reduce damage to the vehicle or the body of the impacting vehicle in a collision.

[0058] For further reference Figure 15In various embodiments, the movable tow hook assembly 1510 includes a load-bearing member in the form of a deformable solid linkage mechanism 1550. The linkage mechanism 1550 has a hook coupling 1532 disposed on the fixed section 430 of the tow hook 110 and a structural component disposed on the vehicle (…). Figure 15 Extending between frame connectors 1534 on (e.g., transverse member 105, not shown). In various embodiments, linkage 1350 may be fixedly or pivotally coupled to frame connectors 1534.

[0059] When a pulling force 701 is applied to the tow hook 110 along the first direction 450 (or having a component along the first direction), the pulling force 701 is applied to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. As a result, the pulling force 701 is applied to the fixed section 430 and the hook connection 732. The linkage mechanism 1550 applies the pulling force 701 to the frame connection 1534 and thus to the transverse member 105. As a result, the pulling force allows the vehicle to pull or be pulled due to the application of the pulling force 701 to the tow hook 110. As described above, when the pulling force 701 is applied to the tow hook 110, the tow hook 110 and the surface 490 of the vehicle move cooperatively.

[0060] For further reference Figure 16A The impact force 801 is applied along the second direction 460 to the receiving section 420 of the tow hook 110. As mentioned above, when the impact force 801 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the positioning mount ( Figure 14A (Not shown) Allows the tow hook 110 to displace relative to the vehicle surface 490 in a second direction. The tow hook 110 is connected to the transverse member 105 via a deformable solid linkage mechanism 1550. Thus, although the tow hook 110 can apply an impact force 801 to the linkage mechanism 1550, the linkage mechanism 1550 may fracture or otherwise deform at one or more locations 1690 to allow the tow hook 110 to displace relative to the transverse member 105 or other structural components of the vehicle. In various embodiments, one or more locations 1690 may include designated fracture zones configured to deform more readily than other portions of the linkage mechanism 1550 due to the relative thickness, scoring, different heat treatments, or other treatments of the one or more locations 1690.

[0061] For further reference Figure 16B Instead of the deformable solid linkage 1550 breaking apart, the linkage 1550 can bend laterally along its length at point 1695. This bending at point 1695 will similarly allow the tow hook 110 to shift relative to the lateral member 105 or other structural components of the vehicle. Although Figure 16A The direct impact force of 810 was depicted, and Figure 16B An oblique impact force 1411 is depicted, but breakage or bending of the linkage 1550 will allow the tow hook 110 to be displaced relative to the lateral member 105 or other structural components of the vehicle.

[0062] For further reference Figure 17 An exemplary method 1200 for repositionably mounting a tow hook on a vehicle is provided. Method 1700 begins at block 1705. At block 1710, the tow hook is provided on a surface of the vehicle. At block 1720, the tow hook is mounted to the surface in an initial position, in which the tow hook is held relative to the surface in response to a pulling force applied to the tow hook in a first direction, and in response to a force applied to the tow hook in a second direction opposite to the first direction, allowing the tow hook to be displaced away from the surface. Method 1700 ends at block 1725.

[0063] In some cases, one or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configured by,” “configurable to,” “operable / operable to,” “suitable / adaptable to,” “capable of,” “compliant / compliant,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, unless the context otherwise requires, such terms (e.g., “configured to”) generally cover active state components and / or inactive state components and / or standby state components.

[0064] While specific aspects of the subject matter of the invention described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made based on the teachings herein without departing from the subject matter and its broader aspects. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover within their scope all such changes and modifications that fall within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that, generally, the terms used herein, particularly in the appended claims (e.g., the body of the appended claims), are generally intended to be “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “at least having,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” etc.). Those skilled in the art will further understand that if the intention is to include a specific number of introductory claim enumerations, such an intention will be explicitly stated in the claims; if such a statement is not present, such an intention is not present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the appended claims may contain the use of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim enumerations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as implying that the indefinite article “a” (“a” or “an”) introducing a claim enumeration limits any particular claim containing such an introductory claim enumeration to a claim containing only one such enumeration, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrase “one or more” or “at least one” and an indefinite article such as “a” (e.g., “a” should generally be interpreted as meaning “at least one” or “one or more”); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim enumerations. Furthermore, even when a specific number of introductory claim enumerations is explicitly stated, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a statement should generally be interpreted as indicating at least the number stated (e.g., in the absence of other modifiers, the bare statement “two enumerations” generally means at least two enumerations, or two or more enumerations). Furthermore, in cases where conventional usages such as "at least one of A, B, and C" are applied, this construction is generally intended for use by those skilled in the art to understand the meaning of the conventional usage (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" will include, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and / or A, B, and C, etc.). Those skilled in the art will further understand that, unless the context otherwise indicates, alternative terms and / or phrases that typically give two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to cover the possibility of including one, any one, or both of the terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" should generally be understood to include the possibility of "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0065] Regarding the appended claims, those skilled in the art will understand that the operations described herein can generally be performed in any order. Furthermore, although various flows of operations are presented in one or more sequences, it should be understood that the various operations can be performed in orders other than those illustrated, or can be performed simultaneously. Examples of such alternative orders may include overlapping, interleaving, interrupted, reordered, ascending, preparatory, supplementary, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orders, unless the context otherwise requires. Moreover, unless the context otherwise requires, terms such as “in response to,” “related to,” or other past tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants.

[0066] It should be recognized that the detailed description set forth above is merely exemplary in nature and that variations which do not depart from the spirit and / or essence of the claimed subject matter are intended to fall within the scope of the claims. Such variations should not be considered as deviations from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A tow hook apparatus comprising: a tow hook configured to extend from a surface of a vehicle in a first direction, the tow hook comprising: - a receiving section configured to be positioned facing the first direction and to receive a tow rope; and - a securing section configured to extend away from the receiving section; a positioning mount configured to secure the tow hook to the surface of the vehicle and to release the tow hook in response to an impact force exerted on the tow hook exceeding a predetermined threshold and having a force component exerted in at least one direction selected from a second direction opposite to the first direction and a third direction transverse to the first direction; and a load bearing structure configured to mechanically connect the securing section to a frame of the vehicle, the tow hook and the load bearing structure configured to support a force having a component in the first direction at least equal to a towing weight of the vehicle, wherein the load bearing structure comprises a linkage or a cable configured to mechanically link the securing section of the tow hook to the frame of the vehicle, the linkage or the cable further configured to be subjected to a tension at least equal to the towing weight of the vehicle, wherein the linkage is selected from a solid linkage configured to allow the tow hook to move in response to the exertion of the impact force by a reaction selected from one of the solid linkage being released from the frame of the vehicle, the solid linkage sliding relative to the frame of the vehicle and the solid linkage deforming, and wherein the cable is selected from a monofilament cable and a stranded cable.

2. The tow hook apparatus of claim 1, wherein the positioning mount comprises a recess in a front surface of the vehicle.

3. The tow hook apparatus of claim 2, wherein the front surface comprises at least one surface selected from a bumper and a lower front fascia of the vehicle adjacent to the bumper.

4. The tow hook apparatus of claim 1, wherein the linkage comprises a coupling configured to be secured to a vehicle coupling on the frame of the vehicle.

5. The tow hook apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cable comprises at least one material selected from a metal and a carbon fiber.

6. A vehicle comprising: a vehicle body; a cabin comprising in the vehicle body and configured to receive an operator; a drive system supported by the vehicle body and configured to control one or more wheels of the vehicle to motor, accelerate, decelerate, stop and steer the vehicle; a tow hook configured to extend from a surface of the vehicle in a first direction, the tow hook comprising: - a receiving section configured to be positioned facing the first direction and to receive a tow rope; and - a securing section configured to extend away from the receiving section and to support a towing weight of the vehicle. a positioning mount configured to secure the tow hook to a surface of the vehicle and release the tow hook in response to an impact force exerted on the tow hook that exceeds a predetermined threshold and has a force component exerted in at least one direction selected from a second direction opposite the first direction and a third direction transverse to the first direction; and a load bearing structure configured to mechanically connect the securing section to a frame of the vehicle, the tow hook and the load bearing structure configured to support a force having a component in the first direction at least equal to a tow weight of the vehicle, wherein the load bearing structure comprises a linkage or a cable configured to mechanically link the securing section of the tow hook to the frame of the vehicle, the linkage or the cable further configured to be subjected to a tension at least equal to the tow weight of the vehicle, wherein the linkage is selected from a solid linkage configured to allow the tow hook to move in response to the exertion of the impact force by a reaction selected from one of a release of the solid linkage from the frame of the vehicle, a sliding of the solid linkage relative to the frame of the vehicle and a deformation of the solid linkage, and wherein the cable is selected from a monofilament cable and a stranded cable.

7. The vehicle of claim 6, wherein the positioning mount comprises a recess in a front surface of the vehicle.

8. The vehicle of claim 7, wherein the front surface comprises at least one surface selected from a bumper and a lower front fascia of the vehicle adjacent to the bumper.

9. The vehicle of claim 6, wherein the linkage comprises a coupling configured to be secured to a vehicle coupling on the frame of the vehicle.

10. The vehicle of claim 6, wherein the cable comprises at least one material selected from a metal and a carbon fiber.

11. A method of providing a tow hook, comprising: providing a tow hook on a surface of a vehicle, the tow hook comprising a receiving section extending in a first direction and configured to receive a tow rope, and a load section extending away from the receiving section and configured to support a tow weight of the vehicle; displaceably mounting the tow hook to the surface, wherein the tow hook is releasable from the surface in response to an impact force exerted on the tow hook that exceeds a predetermined threshold and has a force component exerted in at least one direction selected from a second direction opposite the first direction and a third direction transverse to the first direction; and mechanically linking a load bearing structure of the tow hook to a frame of the vehicle, the load bearing structure configured to support a force having a component in the first direction at least equal to the tow weight of the vehicle, wherein the load bearing structure of the tow hook is mechanically linked to the frame of the vehicle with a cable configured to be subjected to a tension at least equal to the tow weight of the vehicle.

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