Trailer connector

Abstract

This invention discloses a trailer hitch, belonging to the field of vehicle accessories. It simplifies the structure of the trailer hitch and reduces costs while ensuring connection strength. The trailer hitch includes a mounting base and a tow hook detachably connected to the mounting base. The mounting base has an open mounting cavity at one end. The tow hook includes a connecting portion inserted into the mounting cavity. The connecting portion has a groove and a locking pin slidably mounted in the groove. The groove extends obliquely from one end of the connecting portion to the other end and has a first opening penetrating the side wall of the connecting portion. The tow hook also includes an operating component for driving the locking pin to move along the groove. The locking pin extends from the first opening and engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity to lock the tow hook. The locking pin retracts from the first opening to unlock the tow hook.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle accessories, and more particularly to trailer couplings. [Background Technology]

[0002] A tow hook is an accessory installed on a vehicle for vehicle rescue, such as when a vehicle is damaged and cannot be started, allowing it to be towed. Existing tow hooks include manual and electric types. Electric tow hooks remain installed on the vehicle and are controlled by a motor to rotate the hook, switching it between an extended and retracted position. Manual tow hooks can be removed from the vehicle when not in use. Typically, a manual tow hook consists of a hook and a mounting bracket on the vehicle body. The hook and bracket are locked together using a steel ball. When locked, a pusher pushes the steel ball off the hook and into the bracket to lock it in place. However, this steel ball locking method requires high precision machining of the steel ball, pusher, and the inner walls of the bracket, and the driving of the steel ball requires multiple transmission components, making the overall structure complex and costly. [Summary of the Invention]

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and propose a trailer coupling that simplifies the structure of the trailer coupling and reduces costs while ensuring connection strength.

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A trailer hitch includes a mounting base and a tow hook detachably connected to the mounting base. The mounting base has a mounting cavity open at one end. The tow hook includes a connecting portion inserted into the mounting cavity. The connecting portion has a groove and a locking pin slidably mounted in the groove. The groove extends obliquely from one end of the connecting portion to the other end and has a first opening penetrating the sidewall of the connecting portion. The tow hook also includes an operating component for driving the locking pin to move along the groove. The locking pin extends from the first opening and engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity to lock the tow hook. The locking pin retracts from the first opening to unlock the tow hook.

[0006] Based on the above scheme, the locking pin cooperates with the inclined inner wall of the mounting cavity to limit the relative displacement of the tow hook and the mounting base in the axial direction of the connection.

[0007] Based on the above scheme, the locking pin is provided with a first mating part, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with a second mating part that mates with the inclined surface of the first mating part. Both the first mating part and the second mating part are inclined surface structures.

[0008] Based on the above scheme, the inclined structure deviates from the axis of the connecting part in the direction in which the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity.

[0009] Based on the above scheme, the mounting cavity includes a first cavity adapted to the connecting part and a second cavity communicating with the first cavity. The sidewall of the first cavity is recessed in a direction away from the axis of the connecting part to form the second cavity. The locking pin extends into the second cavity to cooperate with the inner wall of the second cavity.

[0010] Based on the above scheme, one end of the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity, and the slide has a second opening that passes through the other end of the connecting part. The second opening is used to assemble the locking pin.

[0011] Based on the above solution, a sealing cap for sealing the second opening can be detachably installed on the tow hook.

[0012] Based on the above scheme, the operating component includes a drive part that extends into the slide groove and cooperates with the locking pin, and an operating part located outside the connecting part. The operating part is operated to drive the locking pin to extend or retract relative to the connecting part through the drive part.

[0013] Based on the above solution, the locking pin includes a rack portion, the driving portion is a gear meshing with the rack portion, and the operating portion is rotated to drive the gear to rotate.

[0014] Based on the above scheme, the operating part includes a rotating shaft, a base and a cap. One end of the rotating shaft extends into the slide groove and is connected to the gear. The other end of the rotating shaft is connected to the cap. The base is mounted on the hook for axial positioning of the rotating shaft. The cap is rotatably connected to the base. The operating part also includes a locking mechanism that locks the cap after it rotates to limit its rotation.

[0015] Based on the above scheme, the locking mechanism includes a first locking member disposed on the base and a second locking member disposed on the screw cap. The first locking member and the second locking member interlock after the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity to maintain their engagement state.

[0016] Based on the above scheme, the first locking member includes a first locking arc surface, and the second locking member includes a second locking arc surface that engages with the first locking arc surface to rotatably limit the cap. One of the first locking member and the second locking member can rotate to achieve or disengage their engagement state; or, one of the first locking member and the second locking member is a plug-in member, and the other is a connector that engages with the plug-in member. One of the first locking member and the second locking member can move to achieve or disengage their plug-in engagement.

[0017] Based on the above scheme, the operating part is slidably mounted on the tow hook, and the operating part is slidable to drive the locking pin to move synchronously through the driving part.

[0018] Based on the above scheme, the bottom of the mounting cavity is open, and the outer peripheral surface of the connecting part is taperedly fitted with the inner wall of the mounting cavity. Along the insertion direction of the connecting part and the mounting cavity, the connecting part sequentially includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface. The inner wall of the mounting cavity sequentially includes a first mating wall that taperedly fits with the first mating surface and a second mating wall that taperedly fits with the second mating surface. The angle between the generatrix of the second mating surface and the axis of the connecting part is smaller than the angle between the generatrix of the first mating surface and the axis of the connecting part.

[0019] Based on the above scheme, one of the tow hook and the mounting base further includes an anti-rotation rib, and the other includes an anti-rotation groove. The anti-rotation rib and the anti-rotation groove cooperate after the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity to pre-position the tow hook.

[0020] Based on the above solution, the mounting base is set on the vehicle body, and the bottom or one side of the mounting base is open to allow the connecting part to be inserted; or, the trailer connector further includes a fixed base and a tow hook body set on the vehicle body, the tow hook body includes the tow hook and the mounting base, and the mounting base is detachably connected to the fixed base.

[0021] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0022] This invention discloses a trailer hitch, a vehicle accessory. The trailer hitch can be installed on a mounting base when needed, or removed from the mounting base after use. During installation, the connecting part of the trailer hitch is inserted into the mounting cavity. A locking pin, located on the connecting part, is inserted into the mounting cavity along with the connecting part. Then, an operating component drives the locking pin to move relative to the connecting part within a groove, causing the locking pin to extend out of the connecting part and engage with the inner wall of the mounting cavity, thereby locking the mounting base and the trailer hitch. To unlock, simply reverse the operating component to retract the locking pin, releasing it from the inner wall of the mounting cavity, allowing the connecting part to be pulled out of the mounting cavity.

[0023] The groove limits the movement direction of the locking pin and maintains its stability during movement and when pressed against the inner wall of the mounting cavity. Because the groove is offset from the axis of the connecting part, the locking pin can extend along the groove from the first opening on the side of the connecting part and engage with the inner wall of the mounting cavity. After the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity, if the tow hook is subjected to a force that causes a relative displacement tendency between the two in the axial direction of the connecting part, the locking pin and the inner wall of the mounting cavity will press against each other. The relative force generated between them constrains the tow hook in the axial direction of the connecting part, thus maintaining the engagement between the tow hook and the mounting seat to ensure the stability of the trailer coupling.

[0024] In existing technologies, steel balls are used to lock the tow hook and mounting base. This typically requires a push rod to move the steel ball, and the push rod's movement requires additional components to drive it. The steel ball, push rod, and the channel for the steel ball's extension and retraction all have high machining precision requirements. Compared to existing technologies, this application uses a method where the tow hook is locked directly by the drive lock pin extending out of the connecting part and engaging with the inner wall of the mounting cavity. This reduces the number of required parts, facilitates tow hook assembly, and also lowers the machining precision requirements for the tow hook and mounting base, thereby reducing the cost of the trailer coupling.

[0025] Furthermore, the locking pin engages with the inclined inner wall of the mounting cavity to limit the relative displacement of the tow hook and the mounting base in the axial direction of the connection. By using the inclined engagement, the longer the locking pin extends beyond the first opening, the stronger the engagement between it and the inner wall of the mounting cavity, thus improving the stability between the tow hook and the mounting base.

[0026] Furthermore, the locking pin is provided with a first mating part, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with a second mating part that engages with the inclined surface of the first mating part. Both the first and second mating parts are inclined structures. When the locking pin extends out of the connecting part, the first mating part of the locking pin can fit against the second mating part of the inner wall of the mounting cavity. The inclined surface between the two can position the connecting part and improve the stability of the tow hook, preventing the tow hook from shaking during use. Since both the first and second mating parts are inclined structures, the contact area between the locking pin and the inner wall of the mounting cavity can be increased after they are engaged, ensuring the stability of the tow hook, reducing the pressure on them when they are pressed against each other, and making the trailer connector less prone to damage.

[0027] Furthermore, the beveled structure deviates from the axis of the connecting part in the direction in which the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity. This beveled structure allows the inner wall of the mounting cavity to support the locking pin, and the support direction is the direction in which the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity, thus preventing the connecting part from being pulled out of the mounting cavity.

[0028] Furthermore, the mounting cavity includes a first cavity adapted to the connecting portion and a second cavity communicating with the first cavity. The sidewall of the first cavity is recessed in a direction offset from the axis of the connecting portion to form the second cavity. The locking pin extends into the second cavity to engage with the inner wall of the second cavity. The locking pin can extend relative to the connecting portion and enter the second cavity from the first cavity. Since the second cavity is formed by the recess of the inner wall of the first cavity, when the locking pin extends into the second cavity, it cannot move along the axis of the connecting portion to enter the first cavity from the second cavity. This restricts the movement of the tow hook along the axial direction of the connecting portion, thereby maintaining the fixation of the tow hook and the mounting base.

[0029] Furthermore, one end of the connecting portion is inserted into the mounting cavity, and the slide groove has a second opening that extends through the other end of the connecting portion. The second opening is used to assemble the locking pin. The locking pin can be inserted into the slide groove through the second opening and assembled into the slide groove. The slide groove has a positioning function for the locking pin, thereby facilitating the assembly of the locking pin.

[0030] Furthermore, a sealing cap for sealing the second opening can be detachably installed on the tow hook. The sealing cap can block the second opening, preventing liquids, dust, stones, etc. from entering the slide groove through the second opening, thus avoiding affecting the movement of the locking pin. At the same time, the sealing cap can also block the locking pin, preventing it from falling out of the second opening.

[0031] Furthermore, the operating component includes a drive unit that extends into the slide groove and engages with the locking pin, and an operating unit located outside the connecting portion. Operating the operating unit drives the locking pin to extend or retract relative to the connecting portion via the drive unit. The operating unit located outside the connecting portion allows for direct user operation, enabling the locking pin to move via the drive unit, thus facilitating user use.

[0032] Furthermore, the locking pin includes a rack portion, and the driving portion is a gear meshing with the rack portion. Rotating the operating portion drives the gear to rotate. After the operating portion rotates, it can transmit torque to the gear, causing the gear to rotate. Through the meshing of the rack portion and the gear, the locking pin can convert the rotational motion of the gear into the sliding motion of the locking pin, allowing the locking pin to extend and retract relative to the connecting portion.

[0033] Furthermore, the operating unit includes a rotating shaft, a base, and a cap. One end of the rotating shaft extends into the slide groove and connects to the gear, while the other end connects to the cap. The base is mounted on the tow hook for axial positioning of the rotating shaft. The cap is rotatably connected to the base. The operating unit also includes a locking mechanism that locks the cap after it rotates to restrict its rotation. The base is positioned between the tow hook and the cap, allowing the cap to be connected to the tow hook and rotate relative to it. The user rotates the cap to drive the rotating shaft, increasing the torque acting on the shaft and allowing it to rotate with less effort. The rotating shaft, connected to the gear, drives the gear to rotate synchronously. The base axially positions the rotating shaft to maintain its stability. The locking mechanism limits the rotation of the cap and restricts its reverse rotation after the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity, maintaining the engagement between the locking pin and the inner wall of the mounting cavity.

[0034] Furthermore, the locking mechanism includes a first locking member disposed on the base and a second locking member disposed on the cap. The first locking member and the second locking member interlock after the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity to maintain their engagement state. The second locking member can rotate with the cap, thereby changing its relative position with the first locking member. The first locking member and the second locking member can be in corresponding positions after the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity, thus locking each other to restrict the rotation of the cap and maintain the engagement state between the locking pin and the inner wall of the mounting cavity.

[0035] Furthermore, the bottom of the mounting cavity is open, and the outer peripheral surface of the connecting part tapers with the inner wall of the mounting cavity. Along the insertion direction of the connecting part and the mounting cavity, the connecting part sequentially includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface. The inner wall of the mounting cavity sequentially includes a first mating wall that tapers with the first mating surface and a second mating wall that tapers with the second mating surface. The angle between the generatrix of the second mating surface and the axis of the connecting part is smaller than the angle between the generatrix of the first mating surface and the axis of the connecting part. During tow hook installation, the connecting part of the tow hook is inserted into the mounting cavity. The outer peripheral surface of the connecting part can mate with the inner wall of the mounting cavity, and the mate between the two is a taper fit. The inner wall of the mounting cavity has a radial positioning effect on the connecting part to ensure the stability of the connecting part. During the insertion of the connecting part into the mounting cavity, the second mating surface enters the mounting cavity first. Since the angle between the generatrix of the second mating surface and the axis of the connecting part is smaller than the angle between the generatrix of the first mating surface and the axis of the connecting part, the first mating surface will be blocked and unable to contact the second mating wall, which can limit the upward floating of the connecting part. Moreover, compared with the first mating surface, since the angle between the generatrix of the second mating surface and the axis of the connecting part is smaller, the upward component force on the tow hook is not too large when the tow hook is subjected to a horizontal force, thereby improving the stability of the tow hook.

[0036] Furthermore, one of the tow hook and the mounting base also includes an anti-rotation rib, and the other includes an anti-rotation groove. The anti-rotation rib and the anti-rotation groove engage after the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity to pre-position the tow hook. The anti-rotation rib and the anti-rotation groove engage during the insertion of the connecting part into the mounting cavity, thus pre-positioning the tow hook and preventing it from rotating relative to the mounting base before the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity, facilitating the engagement of the tow hook and the mounting base.

[0037] These features and advantages of the present invention will be disclosed in detail in the following specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. [Attached Image Description]

[0038] The invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the trailer connector in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the trailer connector in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the trailer connector when the tow hook is not locked, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the trailer coupling when the tow hook is locked, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the tow hook in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the base structure in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the operating part in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0047] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation between the reset component and the screw cap in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting base in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the tow hook structure in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure label:

[0051] Mounting base 100, mounting cavity 110, second mating part 111, first cavity 112, second cavity 113, first mating wall 120, second mating wall 130;

[0052] Tow hook 200, connecting part 210, first mating surface 211, second mating surface 212, cylindrical section 213, locking pin 220, first mating part 221, rack part 222, slide groove 230, first opening 231, second opening 232, sealing plug 240;

[0053] Drive unit 300, first mounting hole 301, operation unit 310, rotating shaft 311, base 312, screw cap 313, second mounting hole 3131;

[0054] First locking element 400, first locking arc surface 401, second locking element 410, second locking arc surface 411;

[0055] Reset component 500, first slot 510, second slot 520;

[0056] Anti-rotation rib 600, anti-rotation groove 610.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0057] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be explained and described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the following embodiments are only preferred embodiments of the present invention and not all of them. Other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in the implementation methods without creative effort are all within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0058] The terms "exemplary" and "some embodiments" used below are meant to be "used as examples, embodiments, or illustrations," and any embodiment described as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as superior to or better than other embodiments. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description to better illustrate the invention, and those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure can be practiced without certain specific details.

[0059] Reference Figures 1 to 11This invention discloses a trailer connector, including a mounting base 100 and a tow hook 200 detachably connected to the mounting base 100. The trailer connector is a vehicle accessory. The tow hook 200 can be installed on the mounting base 100 when needed, or removed from the mounting base 100 after use. Mounting base 100 has a mounting cavity 110 open at one end. Tow hook 200 includes a connecting portion 210 that inserts into the mounting cavity 110. A locking pin 220 is provided on the connecting portion 210. The locking pin 220 can be inserted into the mounting cavity 110 along with the connecting portion 210. Tow hook 200 also includes an operating component for driving the locking pin 220 to extend or retract relative to the connecting portion 210. When the connecting portion 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110, the operating component can drive the locking pin 220 to extend relative to the connecting portion 210 and engage with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 to limit the relative displacement between the tow hook 200 and the mounting base 100 in the axial direction of the connecting portion 210. Figure 11 In the diagram, the dotted line indicated by L is the axis of the connecting part, thereby fixing the tow hook 200 to the mounting base 100. When unlocking, it is only necessary to reverse the operation of the operating component to drive the locking pin 220 to retract and release the engagement with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110, so that the connecting part 210 can be pulled out from the mounting cavity 110.

[0060] The connecting portion 210 is also provided with a slide groove 230, and the locking pin 220 is slidably installed in the slide groove 230. The slide groove 230 extends obliquely from one end of the connecting portion 210 to the other end and has a first opening 231 that penetrates the side wall of the connecting portion 210. The locking pin 220 can move along the slide groove 230 under the drive of the operating component and extend out from the first opening 231 so as to cooperate with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110. The slide groove 230 can limit the movement direction of the locking pin 220 and can maintain the stability of the locking pin 220 during movement and when it is pressed against the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110. Since the sliding groove 230 is offset from the axis of the connecting part 210, the locking pin 220 can extend from the first opening 231 on the side of the connecting part 210 along the sliding groove 230 and engage with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110. After the locking pin 220 engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110, if the tow hook 200 is subjected to a force that causes the two to have a relative displacement tendency in the axial direction of the connecting part 210, the locking pin 220 and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 will squeeze each other. The relative force generated between the two has a restraining effect on the tow hook 200 in the axial direction of the connecting part 210, so that the tow hook 200 and the mounting seat 100 can maintain the engagement state to ensure the stability of the trailer coupling.

[0061] In existing technologies, steel balls are typically used to lock the tow hook and mounting base. The structure usually includes a steel ball, a push rod, a drive mechanism, a first channel, and a second channel. The push rod is located in the first channel, and the steel ball is located in the second channel. The drive mechanism drives the push rod to extend and retract within the first channel. The push rod pushes the steel ball in the second channel, causing a portion of the steel ball to extend out of the second channel and engage with the mounting base. The steel ball, push rod, and the channels for the steel ball's extension and retraction require high machining precision. Compared to existing technologies, this application uses a method where the tow hook 200 is locked directly by the drive locking pin 220 extending out of the connecting part 210 and engaging with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110. This reduces the number of required parts, facilitates the assembly of the tow hook 200, and lowers the machining precision requirements for the tow hook 200 and the mounting base 100, thereby reducing the cost of the trailer coupling.

[0062] In this application, the locking pin 220 and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 are fitted with a beveled surface to limit the relative displacement of the tow hook 200 and the mounting base 100 in the axial direction of the connecting part 210. By means of the beveled surface, the longer the locking pin 220 extends out of the first opening 231, the greater the fit strength between it and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110, so that the stability between the tow hook 200 and the mounting base 100 is better.

[0063] The operating components also include a locking mechanism that locks the locking pin 220 to prevent the locking pin 220 from retracting and causing the tow hook 200 to become loose from the mounting base 100, thereby maintaining the stability and reliability of the trailer connector.

[0064] The trailer connector has several configuration structures: First, as described in this application, the mounting base 100 is an accessory fixed to the vehicle body, with its bottom open, and the connecting part 210 can be inserted into the mounting cavity 110 from the bottom of the mounting base 100, with the tow hook 200 in a "U" shape; Second, the mounting base is an accessory fixed to the vehicle body, with one side of the mounting base open in the horizontal direction, and the connecting part can be inserted into the mounting cavity from the side of the mounting base, with the tow hook in an "L" shape; Third, the trailer connector also includes a fixed base and a tow hook body, the tow hook body including the aforementioned mounting base and tow hook, the fixed base being an accessory fixed to the vehicle body, and the mounting base and the fixed base being detachably connected.

[0065] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the locking pin 220 is provided with a first mating portion 221, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 is provided with a second mating portion 111. The first mating portion 221 and the second mating portion 111 are engaged at an angle, and both the first mating portion 221 and the second mating portion 111 have an angled structure. When the locking pin 220 extends out of the connecting portion 210, the first mating portion 221 of the locking pin 220 can fit against the second mating portion 111 on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110. The two are engaged at an angle, which can position the connecting portion 210 and improve the stability of the tow hook 200, preventing the tow hook 200 from shaking during use. Since both the first mating portion 221 and the second mating portion 111 are angled structures, after they are engaged, the contact area between the locking pin 220 and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 can be increased, ensuring the stability of the tow hook 200, reducing the pressure borne when the two are squeezed together, and making the trailer connector less prone to damage.

[0066] Existing technologies use steel balls for locking. The surface of the steel ball is curved, and the corresponding steel ball on the mounting base also needs to have a curved surface to increase the contact area between the steel ball and the mounting base, ensuring connection strength. This requires high machining precision for both the steel ball and the mounting base. A larger contact area also improves the stability between the tow hook and the mounting base. However, steel balls cannot be designed to be large. Therefore, to increase the contact area, multiple steel balls are needed, increasing the assembly difficulty and production cost of the tow hook. Furthermore, machining or assembly errors can reduce the contact area between the steel ball and the mounting base. In this application, the problems existing in the prior art are solved by using a beveled fit between the locking pin 220 and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110.

[0067] In the above description, the inclined structure deviates from the axis of the connecting part 210 in the direction in which the connecting part 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110. This inclined structure allows the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 to support the locking pin 220, and the support direction is the direction in which the connecting part 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110, thus preventing the connecting part 210 from being pulled out of the mounting cavity 110.

[0068] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 9 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the mounting cavity 110 includes a first cavity 112 that adapts to the connecting portion 210 and a second cavity 113 that communicates with the first cavity 112. The sidewall of the first cavity 112 is recessed in a direction away from the axis of the connecting portion 210 to form the second cavity 113. The locking pin 220 extends into the second cavity 113 to cooperate with the inner wall of the second cavity 113.

[0069] The locking pin 220 can extend from the connecting part 210 and enter the second cavity 113 from the first cavity 112. Since the second cavity 113 is formed by the recess of the inner wall of the first cavity 112, when the locking pin 220 extends into the second cavity 113, it cannot move along the axial direction of the connecting part 210 and enter the first cavity 112 from the second cavity 113. This restricts the movement of the tow hook 200 along the axial direction of the connecting part 210 to keep the tow hook 200 fixed to the mounting base 100.

[0070] Reference Figures 3 to 9 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the operating component includes a drive part 300 extending into the slide groove 230 and cooperating with the locking pin 220, and an operating part 310 located outside the connecting part 210. The operating part 310 is operated to drive the locking pin 220 to extend or retract relative to the connecting part 210 via the drive part 300. The operating part 310 located outside the connecting part 210 allows for direct operation by the user, enabling the locking pin 220 to move via the drive part 300, thus facilitating user use.

[0071] The operating unit 310 includes a rotating shaft 311, a base 312, and a cap 313. One end of the rotating shaft 311 extends into the slide groove 230 and is connected to the drive unit 300. The other end of the rotating shaft 311 is connected to the cap 313. The base 312 is disposed between the cap 313 and the tow hook 200 and is fixedly installed on the tow hook 200. The cap 313 is rotatably connected to the base 312. The base 312 allows the cap 313 to be connected to the hook 200 and rotate relative to the hook 200. The user rotates the cap 313 to drive the shaft 311 to rotate, which increases the torque acting on the shaft 311 and allows the shaft 311 to be rotated in a more effortless way. The shaft 311, through its connection with the drive unit 300, can drive the drive unit 300 to rotate synchronously. The base 312 can axially position the shaft 311 to maintain its stability. The locking mechanism can limit the rotation of the cap 313 and restrict the reverse rotation of the cap 313 after the locking pin 220 engages with the mounting base 100, so as to maintain the engagement state of the locking pin 220 and the mounting base 100.

[0072] The locking mechanism is used to lock the cap 313 to restrict the free movement of the locking pin 220. When the hook 200 is subjected to force, the force can be transmitted sequentially through the locking pin 220, the drive unit 300, the rotating shaft 311, and the cap 313. The cap 313 is the last stage of force transmission. By fixing the cap 313, the locking mechanism can better maintain the stability of the operating parts.

[0073] The drive unit 300 is a gear, and a rack portion 222 is correspondingly provided on the locking pin 220. The gear can mesh with the rack portion 222. After the operation unit 310 rotates, it can transmit torque to the gear to make the gear rotate. The locking pin 220 can convert the rotational motion of the gear into the sliding motion of the locking pin 220 through the meshing of the rack portion 222 with the gear, so that the locking pin 220 can perform telescopic motion relative to the connecting part 210.

[0074] The drive unit 300 is provided with a first mounting hole 301. One end of the rotating shaft 311 is inserted into the first mounting hole 301 and non-circularly engages with the inner wall of the first mounting hole 301. The cap 313 is provided with a second mounting hole 3131. The other end of the rotating shaft 311 is inserted into the second mounting hole 3131 and non-circularly engages with the inner wall of the second mounting hole 3131. The rotating shaft 311 can drive the drive unit 300 to rotate synchronously by engaging with the first mounting hole 301. The rotating shaft 311 and the drive unit 300 cannot rotate relative to each other, thus preventing the locking pin 220 from actuating when the rotating shaft 311 stops rotating. The rotating shaft 311 can rotate synchronously with the cap 313 by engaging with the second mounting hole 3131. The rotating shaft 311 and the cap 313 cannot rotate relative to each other, so that the rotating shaft 311 remains stationary when the cap 313 is locked by the locking mechanism, maintaining the engagement state between the locking pin 220 and the mounting base 100. In this application, non-circular fits can include fits between a square shaft and a square hole, a spline shaft and a spline hole, an elliptical hole and an elliptical shaft, and a hexagonal rod and a hexagonal hole, among other implementations.

[0075] Unlike the embodiments described above, in another embodiment of the present invention, the operating part is slidably mounted on the tow hook, and the sliding operating part drives the locking pin to move synchronously via the driving part. For example, the operating part includes a slider, the driving part is a push rod, one end of the push rod is connected to the slider, and the other end is connected to the locking pin. The tow hook has a long groove, through which the push rod passes, and the sliding slider pushes the locking pin via the push rod.

[0076] Reference Figures 6 to 9 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the locking mechanism includes a first locking member 400 disposed on the base 312 and a second locking member 410 disposed on the cap 313. The first locking member 400 and the second locking member 410 cooperate to maintain their cooperative state after the locking pin 220 is locked with the mounting base 100. The second locking member 410 can rotate with the cap 313, thereby changing its relative position with the first locking member 400. The first locking member 400 and the second locking member 410 can be in corresponding positions after the locking pin 220 is engaged with the mounting base 100, thereby locking each other to restrict the rotation of the cap 313 and maintain the cooperative state of the locking pin 220 and the mounting base 100.

[0077] Preferably, the first locking member 400 includes a first locking arc surface 401, and the second locking member 410 includes a second locking arc surface 411 that engages with the first locking arc surface 401 to rotate and limit the cap 313. The second locking member 410 can rotate to achieve or release the engagement state of the first locking member 400 and the second locking member 410. After the locking pin 220 engages with the mounting base 100, the first locking member 400 and the second locking member 410 are in corresponding positions. One of the second locking members 410 can rotate so that the first locking arc surface 401 can engage with the second locking arc surface 411. The first locking arc surface 401 is a concave arc surface, and the second locking arc surface 411 is a convex arc surface. When the two are engaged, if the cap 313 has a tendency to rotate relative to the base 312, the convex arc surface and the concave arc surface interfere with each other, which can maintain the relative position of the first locking member 400 and the second locking member 410, thereby limiting the rotation of the cap 313. Alternatively, the first locking element can be configured as a rotatable component, while the second locking element can be a fixed component.

[0078] The first locking element 400 is a protruding edge that extends from the base 312 toward the screw cap 313, and the protruding edge is recessed to form a first locking arc surface 401.

[0079] Optionally, the second locking element 410 includes a self-rotating lock cylinder, and the operating component also includes a key adapted to the lock cylinder. The lock cylinder operates on the same principle as the lock cylinder in a door lock. The lock cylinder can be unlocked by the key and rotated, thereby enabling or disengaging the engagement between the first locking arc surface 401 and the second locking arc surface 411. When the key is missing, the lock cylinder remains locked and cannot rotate, thus preventing the tow hook 200 from separating from the mounting base 100 due to accidental contact during use, thereby improving the reliability of the tow hook.

[0080] Unlike the above embodiments, in another embodiment of the present invention, one of the first locking member and the second locking member is a plug-in member, and the other is a connector that plugs into the plug-in member. One of the first locking member and the second locking member is movable to realize or release the plug-in engagement between the two.

[0081] One of the first locking element and the second locking element is a raised rib, and the other is a movable blocking element. The blocking element can move after the cap is rotated to the position and abut against the raised rib in the circumferential direction of the cap, thus restricting the reverse rotation of the cap.

[0082] Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the distance between the locking mechanism and the edge of the cap is less than the distance between the locking mechanism and the axis of the rotating shaft. The locking mechanism can apply a force to the cap to restrict the reverse rotation of the cap. The locking mechanism has a torque acting on the rotating shaft, the magnitude of which is the same as the torque transmitted to the rotating shaft by the self-locking pin. By placing the locking mechanism close to the edge of the cap, the maximum torque it acts on the rotating shaft can be increased, thereby ensuring the stability of the operating components.

[0083] Reference Figures 5 to 9 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the operating component further includes a reset member 500. After the locking mechanism releases the locking of the cover 313, the reset member 500 drives the rotating shaft 311 to rotate in the reverse direction, thereby releasing the lock stop pin 220 from the mounting base 100. The reset member 500 can apply force to the rotating shaft 311 and automatically drive the rotating shaft 311 to reverse direction after the locking mechanism releases the locking of the cover 313, facilitating user operation. Furthermore, during the process of the user operating the cover 313 to engage the lock stop pin 220 with the mounting base 100, the reset member 500 will move due to the rotation of the rotating shaft 311 to accumulate force, providing a damped feel and improving the user experience. The reset member 500 is an elastic member; when compressed, it will undergo elastic deformation and possess elastic force. When the locking mechanism releases the locking of the cover 313, the elastic force of the elastic member can cause the rotating shaft 311 to rotate in the reverse direction.

[0084] Preferably, the reset member 500 is connected between the screw cap 313 and the base 312. The reset member 500 is a torsion spring, which is arranged around the rotating shaft 311. The base 312 is provided with a first slot 510, and the screw cap 313 is provided with a second slot 520. One end of the torsion spring is fitted into the first slot 510, and the other end of the torsion spring is fitted into the second slot 520. The first slot 510 is provided on the protruding edge.

[0085] When the cap 313 rotates, the base 312 can remain relatively stationary with the hook 200. One end of the torsion spring is connected to the cap 313, and the other end is connected to the base 312, so that the rotation of the cap 313 can drive the torsion spring to move. The force of the torsion spring first acts on the cap 313, and then the cap 313 drives the rotating shaft 311 to rotate. This design increases the torque acting on the rotating shaft 311, so that the rotating shaft 311 can be easily driven to reset after the locking mechanism releases the lock on the cap 313.

[0086] Reference Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the trailer hitch further includes a positioning component for pre-positioning the tow hook 200 after the connecting portion 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110. After the connecting portion is inserted into the mounting cavity 110, the tow hook 200 is held on the mounting base 100 by the locking pin 220 driven by the operating component to cooperate with the mounting base 100. The positioning component can pre-position the tow hook 200 after the connecting portion 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110, so that the tow hook 200 will not rotate relative to the mounting base 100 before it is fully assembled with the mounting base 100, eliminating the need to manually maintain the circumferential position of the tow hook 200, thus facilitating the assembly of the tow hook 200 and the mounting base 100.

[0087] The positioning component includes an anti-rotation rib 600 and an anti-rotation groove 610 that non-circularly engages with the anti-rotation rib 600. The anti-rotation rib 600 is disposed on the mounting base 100, and the anti-rotation groove 610 is disposed on the tow hook 200. The anti-rotation rib 600 and the anti-rotation groove 610 engage after the connecting part 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110 to pre-position the tow hook 200. The anti-rotation rib 600 and the anti-rotation groove 610 can engage during the process of the connecting part 210 being inserted into the mounting cavity 110, and the non-circular engagement between the anti-rotation rib 600 and the anti-rotation groove 610 allows for rotational limitation of the tow hook 200, preventing the tow hook 200 from rotating during assembly with the mounting base 100.

[0088] An anti-rotation rib 600 is provided on the tow hook 200 and along the periphery of the connecting part 210, and the bottom inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 expands outward to form an anti-rotation groove 610.

[0089] Reference Figures 3 to 5 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the slide groove 230 has a second opening 232. One end of the connecting part 210 is inserted into the mounting cavity 110, and the other end is located outside the mounting base 100. The second opening 232 is provided at the end of the connecting part 210 located outside the mounting base 100. The slide groove 230 passes through the end of the connecting part 210 to form the second opening 232. The second opening 232 is used to assemble the locking pin 220. During the assembly process, the locking pin 220 is inserted into the slide groove 230 through the second opening 232 and then slides along the slide groove 230 to be assembled into the slide groove 230. The slide groove 230 has a positioning function for the locking pin 220, thereby facilitating the assembly of the locking pin 220.

[0090] The chute 230 is located inside the connecting part 210. During vehicle operation, splashed stones, dust, and liquids are difficult to enter the chute 230, reducing the obstruction encountered by the locking pin 220 during movement. A sealing cap 240 is also provided on the tow hook 200. The sealing cap 240 is detachably installed on the tow hook 200 to seal the second opening 232, preventing stones, dust, and liquids from entering the chute 230 through the second opening 232. Simultaneously, the sealing cap 240 also prevents the locking pin 220 from falling out of the second opening 232. The first opening 231 of the chute 230 is hidden within the mounting cavity 110 and protected by the mounting base 100.

[0091] The upper end of the slide groove 230 does not penetrate the connecting part 210, thus providing a stopping effect on the locking pin 220. As the locking pin 220 extends into the first opening 231 within the slide groove 230, the distance between the end of the locking pin 220 and the upper end of the slide groove 230 continuously decreases. As the locking pin 220 gradually extends out of the first opening 231, the end of the locking pin 220 will abut against the upper end of the slide groove 230, thus stopping the locking pin 220.

[0092] Reference Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the outer peripheral surface of the connecting portion 210 is taperedly fitted with the inner wall of the first cavity 112. Along the insertion direction of the connecting portion 210 and the mounting cavity 110, the connecting portion 210 sequentially includes a first mating surface 211 and a second mating surface 212. The inner wall of the first cavity 112 sequentially includes a first mating wall 120 that is taperedly fitted with the first mating surface 211 and a second mating wall 130 that is taperedly fitted with the second mating surface 212. The angle α between the generatrix of the second mating surface 212 and the axis of the connecting portion 210 is smaller than the angle b between the generatrix of the first mating surface 211 and the axis of the connecting portion 210.

[0093] The inner wall of the first cavity 112 has a radial positioning effect on the connecting part 210 to ensure the stability of the connecting part 210. During the process of the connecting part 210 being inserted into the mounting cavity 110, the second mating surface 212 enters the mounting cavity 110 first. Since the included angle α is smaller than the included angle b, the first mating surface 211 will be blocked and will not be able to contact the second mating wall 130, which can limit the upward floating of the connecting part 210. Moreover, compared with the first mating surface 211, since the included angle α is smaller, when the tow hook 200 is subjected to a horizontal force, the upward component force on the tow hook 200 is not too large, thereby improving the stability of the tow hook 200.

[0094] Reference Figure 11 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, in the axial direction of the connecting portion 210, the length of the first mating surface 211 is less than the length of the second mating surface 212. This design can increase the contact area between the second mating surface 212 and the second mating wall 130, and reduce the contact area between the first mating surface 211 and the first mating wall 120, thereby reducing the upward component force on the tow hook 200 when subjected to a horizontal force, so as to ensure the stability of the tow hook 200.

[0095] Furthermore, the first mating surface 211 and the second mating surface 212 are connected to each other, and there are no other surface structures between them. This can increase the length of the second mating surface 212 in the axial direction of the connecting part 210 and increase the contact area between the second mating surface 212 and the second mating wall 130.

[0096] Reference Figure 11Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the angle α between the generatrix of the second mating surface 212 and the axis of the connecting part 210 is 1° to 3°. If the angle between the generatrix of the second mating surface 212 and the axis of the connecting part 210 is less than 1°, the radial positioning effect of the second mating wall 130 on the connecting part 210 will decrease, and the manufacturing requirements for the connecting part 210 and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 will also increase. If the angle α is greater than 3°, it will cause the upward component of the drag hook 200 to be too large when subjected to a horizontal force.

[0097] The angle b between the generatrix of the first mating surface 211 and the axis of the connecting part 210 shall not be less than 5°. If the angle b is less than 5°, the axial positioning effect of the first mating surface 211 on the connecting part 210 will decrease.

[0098] Reference Figure 11 Based on the above embodiments, in one embodiment of the present invention, the upper end of the connecting part 210 is further provided with a cylindrical segment 213 with a diameter smaller than that of the second mating surface 212. The smaller diameter cylindrical segment 213 can facilitate the insertion of the connecting part 210 into the mounting cavity 110. The cylindrical segment 213 and the second mating surface 212 are transitioned by a smooth inclined surface or a curved surface. The smooth inclined surface or curved surface can prevent the part of the cylindrical segment 213 connected to the second mating surface 212 from having a step structure that would cause it to scrape against the end of the mounting base 100 or prevent the connecting part 210 from being inserted into the mounting cavity 110.

[0099] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention includes, but is not limited to, the contents described in the accompanying drawings and the specific embodiments above. Any modifications that do not depart from the functional and structural principles of the present invention will be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A trailer hitch connector, comprising a mounting base and a tow hook detachably connected to the mounting base, the mounting base having a mounting cavity open at one end, the tow hook including a connecting portion inserted into the mounting cavity, characterized in that, The connecting part is provided with a groove and a locking pin slidably installed in the groove. The groove extends obliquely from one end of the connecting part to the other end and has a first opening that penetrates the side wall of the connecting part. The tow hook also includes an operating component for driving the locking pin to move along the groove. The locking pin extends out from the first opening and cooperates with the inner wall of the mounting cavity to lock the tow hook. The locking pin retracts from the first opening to unlock the tow hook. The locking pin cooperates with the inclined surface of the inner wall of the mounting cavity to limit the relative displacement of the tow hook and the mounting base in the axial direction of the connecting part.

2. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking pin is provided with a first mating part, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with a second mating part that mates with the inclined surface of the first mating part. Both the first mating part and the second mating part are inclined surface structures.

3. The trailer coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inclined structure deviates from the axis of the connecting part in the direction in which the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity.

4. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting cavity includes a first cavity adapted to the connecting portion and a second cavity communicating with the first cavity. The sidewall of the first cavity is recessed in a direction away from the axis of the connecting portion to form the second cavity. The locking pin extends into the second cavity to engage with the inner wall of the second cavity.

5. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity, and the slide has a second opening that passes through the other end of the connecting part. The second opening is used to assemble the locking pin.

6. The trailer coupling according to claim 5, characterized in that, A sealing cap for sealing the second opening can be detachably installed on the tow hook.

7. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating component includes a drive part that extends into the slide groove and engages with the locking pin, and an operating part located outside the connecting part. The operating part is operated to drive the locking pin to extend or retract relative to the connecting part via the drive part.

8. The trailer coupling according to claim 7, characterized in that, The locking pin includes a rack portion, and the driving portion is a gear meshing with the rack portion. Rotating the operating portion drives the gear to rotate.

9. The trailer coupling according to claim 8, characterized in that, The operating unit includes a rotating shaft, a base, and a cap. One end of the rotating shaft extends into the slide groove and is connected to the gear. The other end of the rotating shaft is connected to the cap. The base is mounted on the hook for axial positioning of the rotating shaft. The cap is rotatably connected to the base. The operating unit also includes a locking mechanism that locks the cap after it rotates to limit its rotation.

10. The trailer coupling according to claim 9, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes a first locking member disposed on the base and a second locking member disposed on the screw cap. The first locking member and the second locking member interlock after the locking pin engages with the inner wall of the mounting cavity to maintain their engagement state.

11. The trailer coupling according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first locking member includes a first locking arc surface, and the second locking member includes a second locking arc surface that engages with the first locking arc surface to rotatably limit the cap. One of the first locking member and the second locking member can rotate to achieve or disengage their engagement. Alternatively, one of the first locking member and the second locking member is a plug-in member, and the other is a connector that engages with the plug-in member. One of the first locking member and the second locking member can move to achieve or disengage their plug-in engagement.

12. The trailer coupling according to claim 7, characterized in that, The operating part is slidably mounted on the tow hook, and sliding the operating part drives the locking pin to move synchronously through the driving part.

13. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the mounting cavity is open, and the outer peripheral surface of the connecting part is taperedly fitted with the inner wall of the mounting cavity. Along the insertion direction of the connecting part and the mounting cavity, the connecting part sequentially includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface. The inner wall of the mounting cavity sequentially includes a first mating wall that is taperedly fitted with the first mating surface and a second mating wall that is taperedly fitted with the second mating surface. The angle between the generatrix of the second mating surface and the axis of the connecting part is smaller than the angle between the generatrix of the first mating surface and the axis of the connecting part.

14. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the tow hook and the mounting base further includes an anti-rotation rib, and the other includes an anti-rotation groove. The anti-rotation rib and the anti-rotation groove cooperate after the connecting part is inserted into the mounting cavity to pre-position the tow hook.

15. The trailer coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting base is disposed on the vehicle body, and the bottom or one side of the mounting base is open to allow the connecting part to be inserted; or, the trailer coupling also includes a fixed base and a tow hook body disposed on the vehicle body, the tow hook body including the tow hook and the mounting base, and the mounting base and the fixed base are detachably connected.

Images