Asymmetric Tow Pin Bracket Prevents Upward Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tow pin systems in work vehicles fail to securely attach the tow pin to the vehicle, allowing it to be easily removed by rotating the pin, and often require chains or wires that can damage the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A tow pin system with a columnar main body and protrusions that are restricted by through holes and recesses in the upper and lower brackets, preventing upward removal by rotation and eliminating the need for chains or wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tow pin is permanently attached to the work vehicle, then the tow pin cannot be removed upward, but the structure becomes more complex requiring additional restraining mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The through hole in the upper bracket is designed with an asymmetric shape that does not match the circular cross-section of the tow pin. The hole has a straight edge and a curved edge, creating a unique orientation where the tow pin can only be inserted in one specific rotational position, preventing removal without complex locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket structure incorporates localized geometric features (the non-circular through hole shape) at specific positions to achieve the restraining function, rather than requiring a completely complex overall structure. The local asymmetry of the hole provides the necessary constraint
2Reliability
If a holder (lynchpin) is attached to hold the tow pin, then the tow pin is secured, but the holder becomes undetachable from the work vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The restraining function is extracted from a separate holder component and integrated directly into the upper bracket structure through the asymmetric through hole design. This eliminates the need for a separate detachable holder while maintaining the security function
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket and the restraining mechanism are merged into a single integrated structure. The upper bracket itself provides the restraining function through its asymmetric through hole, combining the support and security functions in one component
3Reliability
If a chain or wire is used to connect the tow pin, then the tow pin is prevented from falling, but the chain or wire can cause flaws in the work vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric through hole provides a permanent, reusable restraining mechanism built into the vehicle structure, replacing disposable or temporary chains/wires that could cause damage. The structure is designed to last without degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric through hole acts as an intermediary structural feature between the tow pin and the vehicle body, providing a secure connection point that distributes loads through the rigid bracket structure rather than through flexible chains or wires that could cause harm
Data Source
AI summary
A tow pin has a main body portion in a columnar shape and a first protrusion protruding outward from an outer circumferential surface of the main body portion. An upper bracket structure has a first through hole in which the main body portion is inserted and restricts passage of the first protrusion. A lower bracket is located under the upper bracket structure at a distance from the upper bracket structure and has a second through hole in which the tow pin can be inserted. The main body portion of the tow pin is inserted in at least the first through hole and the first protrusion is located under the upper bracket structure.