Actuated Spring Arm Hitch for Faster Trailer Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weight distributing hitch systems for trailers require tedious setup and limited geometric configurations due to the need for manual adjustment of spring arms, which can lead to uneven load distribution and reduced steering control in towing vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A weight distributing hitch system incorporating a spring arm assembly with a linear actuator assembly, allowing for remote adjustment of spring arm tension using a hydraulic actuator, which can be easily installed and operated to distribute load evenly across the towing vehicle's axles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual adjustment of spring arms is used in weight distributing hitch systems, then the system can distribute load evenly, but the setup process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated hydraulic actuator system. The hydraulic cylinder (component 120) automatically adjusts the spring arms (components 40, 42) to achieve proper load distribution, eliminating the need for manual positioning and reducing setup time while maintaining reliable load distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic actuator system enables the hitch assembly to self-adjust the spring arm positions automatically. The system includes a hydraulic control mechanism that autonomously positions the spring arms to achieve the desired weight distribution without requiring manual intervention, making the system self-servicing during the setup process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple brackets and pins are used to adjust spring arm geometry, then various loading configurations are possible, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex system of multiple adjustable brackets and pins from the traditional hitch assembly. Instead, it uses a simplified structure with spring arms that pivot at fixed points (components 32, 34) combined with a hydraulic actuator, removing unnecessary complexity while preserving the ability to accommodate various loading configurations through the hydraulic adjustment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic actuator system serves multiple functions: it adjusts spring arm tension, positions spring arms for different load configurations, and maintains consistent pressure distribution. This single multi-functional mechanism replaces the need for multiple separate adjustment components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Area of stationary object
If rear receiver or bumper hitches are used, then cargo space is preserved, but uneven load distribution causes steering control issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs spring arms (components 40, 42) that act as counterbalancing elements to the trailer tongue weight. These spring arms, when properly tensioned by the hydraulic actuator, create an upward counterforce that offsets the downward force on the hitch ball, thereby distributing the load to the vehicle's front axle and restoring steering control while maintaining the use of rear receiver hitches that preserve cargo space.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively distributes the trailer's weight more evenly, reducing the risk of steering control loss and simplifying the installation process by allowing precise adjustment of spring arm tension, thereby enhancing towing stability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator assembly, allowing for remote adjustment of spring arm tension using a hydraulic actuator
Implementation Method 2
The spring arms may also be referred to as drop bars as well as deflection bars and/or deflection beams. In a typical configuration, a first end of each spring arm is connected to a ball mount and a second end of each spring arm is supported, under deflection, on a support surface of a bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A weight distributing hitch system for towing a trailer behind a vehicle includes a trailer having a trailer frame and a coupler mounted on the front end of the trailer frame, a hitch ball mount, a spring arm assembly, and a linear actuator assembly. The spring arm assembly includes first and second spring arms, each having a first end connected to a first engaging structure configured to engage with the hitch ball mount, and a second end connected to a second engaging structure configured to serve as an actuator mount. The first engaging structure is configured to slidably engage with the hitch ball mount. The linear actuator assembly comprises a linear actuator having a first end connected to the actuator mount of the spring arm assembly and a second end connected to the trailer frame, wherein the linear actuator applies a load to the spring arm assembly.