Vertically Articulating Trailer Hitch for Autonomous Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trailer hitch systems are not adapted for autonomous vehicles, leading to misalignment issues and inadequate coupling due to fixed ball mount configurations, which are not suitable for autonomous vehicle operation.
Innovation Solution
A vertically articulating trailer hitch assembly that is pivotally attached to the vehicle frame, allowing controlled movement between a lowered and raised position, enabling autonomous alignment with the trailer hitch coupler, utilizing an electric motor and pinion gear assembly for adjustment and a latch system for secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed ball mount configuration is used, then the hitch assembly is simple in structure, but the hitch assembly cannot align with the trailer coupler during autonomous vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the ball mount movable rather than fixed. The ball mount is configured to move vertically between a raised position and a lowered position, allowing it to adapt to different alignment requirements during autonomous vehicle operation. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by enabling alignment adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the vertical position parameter of the ball mount. The ball mount can change its vertical location between raised and lowered positions, which allows the hitch assembly to align properly with the trailer coupler during autonomous maneuvers. This parameter adjustment resolves the alignment issue without requiring complex structural changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the receiver long axis is aligned with the frame long axis in all positions, then the hitch assembly is structurally simple, but the hitch assembly cannot accommodate autonomous vehicle maneuvering requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the receiver's orientation dynamic rather than static. The receiver is configured to change its angular orientation relative to the frame between different operating positions. Specifically, when the ball mount moves from raised to lowered position, the receiver's long axis changes from being aligned with the frame's long axis to being at an angle thereto. This dynamic repositioning enables maneuvering adaptability while keeping the positioning mechanism relatively simple.
3Measurement precision
If a vertically articulating hitch assembly is implemented, then alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamics to achieve precise alignment through controlled movement. The ball mount's vertical articulation between raised and lowered positions provides precise alignment capability for autonomous vehicle operation. The dynamic nature of this movement allows the system to achieve high alignment precision without requiring overly complex positioning mechanisms, as the movement is constrained to a simple vertical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the hitch assembly into distinct movable and fixed components. The ball mount is segmented as a separate movable element that can articulate vertically, while the receiver and frame remain relatively fixed. This segmentation allows the alignment function to be isolated to a specific component, achieving precision without requiring the entire assembly to be complex.
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
Ensures reliable and automated alignment of the trailer ball with the hitch coupler, enhancing towing capabilities for autonomous vehicles while maintaining structural integrity and ease of operation.
Implementation Method 1
cross-member is raised and lowered by a driver such as an electric motor
Implementation Method 2
electric motor and pinion gear assembly for adjustment
Implementation Method 3
A latch having a latch pin is provided to lock the hitch assembly cross-member in its raised position
Data Source
AI summary
A vertically articulating trailer hitch assembly for use with a vehicle, and particularly for use with an autonomous vehicle. The trailer hitch assembly is pivotally attached to the vehicle frame. The hitch assembly is allowed to swing away from the vehicle frame from a lowered position in which the trailer ball is uncoupled from the hitch coupler of the trailer to a raised position in which the trailer ball is coupled to the hitch coupler. The hitch assembly typically includes a receiver that has a long axis. The vehicle frame has a long axis. When the hitch assembly is in its lowered position, the long axis of the receiver is out of alignment with the long axis of the frame. When the hitch assembly is in its raised position, the long axis of the receiver is aligned with the long axis of the frame.