Adjustable Hitch Ball Mounting Block for Variable Tow Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball and socket type hitch apparatuses for land vehicles lack the ability to adjust the elevation of the hitch balls independently, which limits their versatility and compatibility with different towing configurations.
Innovation Solution
The development of an adjustable hitch assembly that includes a drawbar, a vertically-adjustable hitch-ball mounting block, and a variable elevation spacing column, allowing for independent adjustment of the hitch ball elevation through a system of clevis pins and shoulder pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed hitch assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different towing configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch assembly incorporates an adjustable elevation spacing column that allows the hitch ball mounting block to be repositioned to different heights. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the fixed structure to adapt to various towing configurations while maintaining structural simplicity through a controlled adjustment mechanism rather than multiple complete assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch assembly is divided into separable components including the drawbar, elevation spacing column with multiple positioning holes, and hitch ball mounting block. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of the column position to achieve different elevations, providing versatility without requiring complete redesign of the entire assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hitch ball elevation is fixed, then the manufacturing is simple, but the compatibility with different towing configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The elevation spacing column incorporates multiple predetermined positioning holes at different heights, allowing the hitch ball mounting block to be secured at various elevations. This provides manufacturing simplicity through standardized hole positions while achieving compatibility with different towing configurations through selective positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the elevation parameter of the hitch ball by providing a column with multiple discrete height positions. This allows a single manufactured component to serve multiple elevation requirements, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving broad compatibility across different towing applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable hitch assembly is implemented, then the versatility is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable hitch assembly uses a column with predetermined positioning holes and a mounting block that can be repositioned along the column. This provides versatility through elevation adjustment while controlling complexity by using a straightforward pin-and-hole securing mechanism rather than complex adjustment devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The elevation spacing column serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables elevation adjustment through multiple positioning holes, and secures the hitch ball mounting block. This multi-functionality enhances versatility while minimizing the number of separate components needed, thereby controlling overall assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable hitch assembly has a drawbar, a vertically-adjustable hitch-ball mounting block, a variable elevation spacing column, hitch balls, and assorted hardware including a variety pins. The hitch-ball mounting block has essentially an eyebar shape with one eye-end slidable on the column at variable elevation spacings relative the drawbar and the other eye-end receiving the shank base of hitch balls, optionally two inverted with respect to each other. The column has a slide-off prevention provision proximate the bottom end that prevents the hitch-ball mounting block from sliding off the bottom when un-pinned. Thus, the hitch-ball mounting block has to be slid onto the column over the top end thereof at a time before the drawbar. The column is axially striped with one or more axial grooves from top to bottom to reduce sliding friction during vertical re-adjustment of the hitch-ball mounting block.