Chain Loop Light Mounting That Preserves Receiver Hitch Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive lighting and accessory installations suffer from poorly fitting attachments and unsightly installations, particularly with aftermarket accessories.
Innovation Solution
A device utilizing a base member assembly with a clamping portion, clamping member, and elongate fastener to securely attach lights or accessories to a vehicle's chain loop, allowing for a fixed connection without obstructing the use of the receiver hitch and providing additional chain loops for attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamping assembly is attached to the chain loop to secure lights or accessories, then the attachment security and aesthetics are improved, but the receiver hitch availability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping assembly is designed as a separate, removable component that can be independently attached to the chain loop without interfering with the receiver hitch sleeve. This segmentation allows the lighting assembly and receiver hitch to coexist on the same vehicle, resolving the contradiction between attachment security and receiver hitch availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping assembly attaches to the chain loop in a different spatial dimension (laterally to the chain loop) rather than blocking the receiver hitch opening. This dimensional approach allows both functions to operate simultaneously without interference, maintaining both attachment security and receiver hitch accessibility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid clamping connection is used to fixedly capture the chain loop, then the attachment stability is improved, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping connection is divided into separate components (clamping portion, clamping member, elongate fastener) that can be independently assembled. This segmentation simplifies installation by allowing each component to be attached separately to the chain loop, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining rigid connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping portion and clamping member are pre-configured to engage with the chain loop in a predetermined manner, requiring only the final fastening step with the elongate fastener. This preliminary arrangement of components reduces installation complexity by eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures during installation.
3Ease of operation
If the base member assembly is designed to provide clearance for receiver hitch use, then the receiver hitch accessibility is improved, but the attachment firmness may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base member assembly is segmented into distinct functional zones: a clamping portion for securing to the chain loop and a clearance portion that provides space for receiver hitch operations. This segmentation allows the assembly to maintain firm attachment to the chain loop while simultaneously providing unobstructed access to the receiver hitch, resolving the contradiction between attachment firmness and receiver hitch accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an improvement for the attachment of lighting or other accessories to a vehicle. In one configuration, a light box is attached to the rear of a vehicle by the use of a novel attachment feature, namely attachment via the use of protruding chain loops. Other accessories may similarly be attached thereto through similar means.