Adjustable Hitch Assembly with Integrated Lock Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch designs require removal of parts to adjust height, are prone to losing loose components, and need tools to change hitch ball sizes, making them inconvenient and susceptible to theft.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable hitch assembly with a heavy-duty ball mount system allowing vertical adjustment and storage without removing pins or using tools, featuring a base member, ball support member, and hitch ball member with a spring-loaded lock pin for secure attachment and easy rotation into storage position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pins are removed to adjust height, then height adjustment is possible, but parts can be lost or stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The pin is integrated into the ball support member as a fixed component rather than a separate removable part. The ball support member includes a built-in pin that cannot be easily removed, combining the support function and locking function into a single integrated component that remains securely attached to the receiver member.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball support member is designed to self-lock into position on the receiver member through its integrated pin structure. The component automatically maintains its secured state without requiring separate pins that could be lost or stolen, making the system self-sufficient and secure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tools are used to change hitch ball size, then ball size can be changed, but operation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch assembly is divided into separable components: the ball support member with integrated pin that remains on the receiver, and the ball member that can be easily removed and replaced. This segmentation allows different sized balls to be interchanged without affecting the secure mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball member is extracted as a separate interchangeable component from the ball support member. Only the ball itself needs to be removed and replaced, while the secure mounting mechanism (ball support member with integrated pin) remains in place, simplifying the ball size change operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple loose parts are used, then adjustment flexibility is achieved, but theft risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the ball support member: it provides structural support, contains the integrated locking pin, and interfaces with the receiver member. This consolidation eliminates loose parts that could be stolen while maintaining full adjustment flexibility through the design of the integrated components.
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
Enables convenient height adjustment and storage of hitch balls without losing parts, ensuring secure attachment and easy switching between hitch ball sizes, enhancing user experience and security.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a base member, ball support member, and hitch ball member with a spring-loaded lock pin for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an adjustable hitch assembly for coupling a towed vehicle with a towing vehicle. An embodiment of the adjustable hitch assembly may include a base member, a ball support member, and a hitch ball member. The base member may include a connecting portion and a shank member, wherein the shank member may extends perpendicularly away from the connecting portion. The ball support member may include a support rod extending perpendicularly away from the shank member. The ball support member may also include an opening there though that may be attached to the shank member. The hitch ball member may be attached to the support rod, wherein the hitch ball member may have at least one accessory aperture. The connecting portion may be attached to the towing vehicle and the hitch ball member may be attached to the towed vehicle.