Adjustable Trailer King Pin Assembly for Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trailer king pin systems are inflexible, requiring permanent fixation to specific truck configurations, limiting the ability to maximize cargo capacity and efficiency when switching between different truck sizes, as weight distribution is optimized for only one truck size, reducing towing capability and cargo weight when used with differently sized trucks.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable trailer king pin assembly that can be slidably moved longitudinally to adjust the weight distribution relative to the truck, allowing for optimal weight distribution on various truck sizes by changing the king pin's position, enabling the trailer to be used with multiple truck configurations while maximizing cargo capacity and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the king pin is permanently affixed to a specific location on the trailer, then the weight distribution is optimized for a specific truck configuration, but the trailer cannot be efficiently used with different sized trucks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the king pin position adjustable rather than fixed. The king pin can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the trailer frame and secured at different positions, allowing the weight distribution to be dynamically adapted to match different truck configurations. This resolves the contradiction by enabling versatility across multiple truck sizes while maintaining a relatively simple implementation through a sliding mechanism with positioning holes.
2Productivity
If the king pin position is fixed to maximize cargo load for one truck size, then the weight distribution is optimized for that truck, but the towing capability is reduced when used with differently sized trucks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing the king pin position parameter to be varied along the longitudinal axis of the trailer. By changing this positional parameter, the weight distribution characteristics of the trailer can be adjusted to optimize both cargo capacity and towing capability for different truck sizes. The mechanism provides discrete position options that correspond to different optimal loading scenarios.
3Strength
If the king pin is welded or permanently affixed on the trailer, then the structure is simple and strong, but the trailer is limited to use with identical trucks only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the king pin attachment into a modular system where the king pin can be independently positioned and secured at different locations along the trailer frame. This segmentation allows the king pin to maintain strong attachment at its selected position while providing flexibility to be repositioned for different truck configurations, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable trailer hitch and king pin assembly that may be moved longitudinally to adjust the position and weight distribution of a trailer relative to a truck. The disclosed assembly may allow a trailer to be utilized with various different sized and configured trucks while maximizing the cargo carrying capability and efficiency thereof. In one example, an adjustable trailer hitch is provided having a slidable king pin assembly that may be adjusted forwards or backwards to move the king pin to the desired location relative to the truck and trailer. In another example, a removable king pin may be provided that may be removed and moved to a different location according to the weight and desired weight distribution of a truck and trailer combination.