Adaptable Hitch System for Lateral Load Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hitch systems, such as trailer hitches and fifth wheel hitches, are inadequate for handling lateral loads and downward forces, particularly in applications like snowplows, due to their single-point connection, which limits their stability and requires custom fabrication for specific vehicle configurations, making them impractical for reuse across different vehicles or upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle accessory hitch assembly that includes first and second base rails fixedly coupled to the vehicle frame, with adjustable bed sections and a hitch support system allowing for immovable connection to the trailer hitch, accommodating different vehicle configurations and enabling stable attachment of accessories by distributing loads across multiple points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a conventional trailer hitch with single-point connection is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the stability against lateral loads and downward forces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch system is divided into multiple independent components: base rails mounted to the vehicle frame, a hitch support structure, and a receiver assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing multi-point load distribution that enhances stability against lateral and downward forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point vertical connection to a multi-point connection system that distributes loads across multiple dimensions. The base rails extend laterally from the vehicle frame, creating a distributed attachment system that resists lateral loads more effectively than a conventional single-point hitch.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a custom hitch is fabricated for specific vehicle configurations, then the stability and fit are optimized, but the manufacturing cost and labor increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch system is designed with universal mounting features that can accommodate multiple vehicle configurations. The base rails include multiple mounting positions and adjustment mechanisms that allow the same hitch assembly to be adapted to different vehicle makes, models, and frame configurations without requiring custom fabrication for each vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch system incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration between different vehicle setups. The base rails and hitch support include adjustment mechanisms enabling the system to be adapted to various mounting distances and configurations, providing both stability and versatility.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional hitches are used for accessories requiring lateral stability, then the hitch structure remains simple, but the lateral stability is insufficient for plow implements or similar applications
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple hitch systems into a single integrated assembly. The base rails, hitch support, and receiver are combined into one unified structure that provides both the mounting stability of a custom hitch and the simplicity of a standardized component-based system, enabling lateral stability for plow implements without excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle accessory hitch assembly for attaching an accessory to a vehicle. The vehicle may include a frame and a bed mounted to the frame. First and second base rails may be disposed on the bed and coupled to the frame of the vehicle, and the vehicle may include a vehicle trailer hitch with a receiver for accepting a shank. In one embodiment, the vehicle accessory hitch assembly may be mechanically connected to each of the first and second base rails and the vehicle trailer hitch such that the vehicle accessory hitch assembly is immovable or stationary relative to the first and second base rails and the vehicle trailer hitch. In another embodiment, the vehicle accessory hitch assembly may be adaptable to connect to differently-configured base rails and vehicle trailer hitch constructions, including different horizontal and vertical spacing between the base rails and the vehicle trailer hitch.