Adaptable Trailer Drawbar Assembly for Multiple Hitch Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle load carrier accessories require multiple models and adapters to accommodate different trailer hitch receiver sizes, leading to inventory challenges and consumer inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A drawbar assembly with a shank and removable adapter parts that can engage both class I and class III receiver sizes, secured by a threaded hitch pin, providing a universal fit through sliding engagement and anti-rattle mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple models of accessories with different drawbars are provided to accommodate different receiver sizes, then compatibility with various receiver sizes is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The drawbar assembly is designed with a universal shank that can accommodate multiple receiver sizes (class I, class III, and other sizes) through a single unified design. The shank includes provisions for different pin sizes and can be adapted to various receiver configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized drawbar models and reducing inventory complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawbar assembly is divided into separable components including the shank, adapter parts, and pin provisions. This segmentation allows the same shank to be configured for different receiver sizes by adjusting or removing adapter parts, enabling one base component to serve multiple functions across different receiver types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adapters are provided to enable accessories to work with different receiver sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter functionality is merged directly into the drawbar assembly design rather than being separate components. The shank includes integrated provisions for different pin sizes and adapter configurations, allowing the accessory to be installed on various receiver sizes without requiring separate adapter pieces, thereby simplifying the installation process.
3Device complexity
If a single drawbar design is used for all receiver sizes, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The drawbar assembly incorporates dynamic adaptability through movable or adjustable components. The shank can be configured to accommodate different pin sizes (one-half inch for class I, five-eighths inch for class III) and can adapt to various receiver configurations, maintaining a simple base design while enabling versatility through adjustable features.
Data Source
AI summary
A drawbar assembly includes a shank that can slidingly engage a first hitch receiver having an interior opening with a first size, which may be a class I receiver with a one and one-quarter inch square opening and provisions for a one-half inch hitch pin. First and second adapter parts, each having two sides forming a right angle, are removably coupled to the shank on opposite sides. The drawbar assembly can slidingly engage a second hitch receiver having an interior opening with a second size, which may be a class III receiver with a two inch square opening and provisions for a five-eighths inch hitch pin. A threaded hitch pin may clamp the drawbar assembly to the receiver.