Automated Trailer Hitch Alignment for Single-Person Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Coupling a trailer hitch to a trailer requires meticulous alignment and multiple steps, often needing two individuals, which can be cumbersome and challenging in extreme conditions.
Innovation Solution
An automated hitch apparatus with a hitch arm and drive systems, including motors and extenders, allows for automated vertical and horizontal alignment of the trailer ball with the coupler, reducing the need for manual alignment and enabling single-person operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment of trailer ball to coupler is performed, then coupling can be achieved, but the process requires multiple individuals and extensive time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated motorized system. A motor drives a ball mount along a guide track to automatically position the trailer ball relative to the coupler, eliminating the need for manual ratcheting and alignment by multiple individuals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service coupling where a single operator can initiate the coupling process through automated mechanisms. The motorized ball mount automatically performs the alignment and positioning functions that previously required multiple people to manually coordinate.
2Ease of operation
If manual alignment procedures are used, then coupling is possible, but operator exposure to extreme environmental conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated motorized system performs the alignment and coupling operations that previously required operators to physically position and manually align components in extreme environmental conditions, thereby protecting operators from harmful environmental exposure.
3Extent of automation
If automated drive systems are added to the hitch apparatus, then alignment automation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated hitch system is divided into distinct functional modules: a motorized drive mechanism, a guide track system for constrained motion, a ball mount assembly, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function and simplifies the overall system architecture despite the added automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide track serves as an intermediary mechanical element that constrains and guides the ball mount's motion along a predetermined path. This intermediary component simplifies the control requirements by providing mechanical guidance, reducing the complexity of the automated positioning system.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a hitch arm having a cross member having a first end and a second end. A first hitch member is adjacently coupled to the first end. A second hitch member is adjacently coupled to the second end. A hitch receiver is coupled to the cross member. The apparatus includes a first hitch frame and a second hitch frame. A first drive system is mechanically coupled to the hitch arm and to the first hitch frame. A second drive system is coupled to the hitch arm and to the second hitch frame.