Adjustable Trailer Hitch With Retractable Elongated Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitches are rigid and require specific parts for different trailers, leading to frustration and increased complexity due to the need for multiple parts and time-consuming setup.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable trailer hitch with a ball mount, elongated members, and an adjustment assembly that allows for extension and retraction through a rotating rod and locking mechanism, enabling compatibility with various trailers without the need for multiple parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid trailer hitch design with specific parts is used, then the structural stability is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the rigid, fixed trailer hitch into an adjustable system. The hitch includes elongated members that can extend and retract, and a ball mount that can be repositioned along the hitch body, allowing the same structure to adapt to different trailer sizes and types while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single trailer hitch that can serve multiple functions and accommodate various trailers. Through the adjustable elongated members, repositionable ball mount, and extendable structure, one hitch design replaces the need for multiple specialized hitches, achieving multi-functionality without sacrificing structural stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specific parts are used to fit different trailers, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the trailer hitch into distinct adjustable components: elongated members that can be extended or retracted, a ball mount that can be repositioned, and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted to fit different trailers, providing adaptability without requiring multiple complete hitch assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment capabilities allow users to modify the hitch configuration in real-time rather than swapping entire parts. The elongated members can be extended or retracted, and the ball mount repositioned, providing the adaptability of multiple parts with the simplicity of a single integrated system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple parts and setup procedures are required, then the adaptability is improved, but the time required for setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action through pre-designed adjustment mechanisms that are built into the hitch structure. The elongated members are pre-configured with extension capabilities, and the ball mount is pre-positioned on adjustable rails, allowing users to quickly adapt the hitch to different trailers without complex assembly procedures or multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment features enable rapid reconfiguration of the hitch for different trailers. Users can extend or retract elongated members and reposition the ball mount in a single operation rather than assembling multiple parts, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining full adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If more parts are used to ensure compatibility, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality through a single, well-engineered hitch design with integrated adjustment mechanisms. Rather than relying on multiple separate parts that must all function correctly, the universal design consolidates adaptability features into one reliable system, reducing the likelihood of part failure while maintaining compatibility with various trailers.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment mechanisms are built into the hitch structure itself, eliminating the need for multiple external parts. The elongated members and repositionable ball mount provide the necessary adaptability through controlled movement and locking, reducing the total number of components and thereby improving overall system reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable trailer hitch disposed on a ball mount, the adjustable trailer hitch including a trailer ball to receive a trailer coupler thereupon, a plurality of elongated members disposed on and within at least a portion of the trailer ball to move from retracted in a first position to at least partially extended in a second position, and an adjustment assembly disposed on and within at least a portion of the trailer ball to move the plurality of elongated members in response to a rotation of the adjustment assembly.