Expandable Adapter Assembly for Hitch Receiver Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch-rack load carrier systems face challenges in securely attaching to vehicle hitches of varying sizes, as the receiver tube may be larger than the insert portion of the carrier rack, leading to safety concerns during transportation of sports equipment like bicycles.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an adaptive connector mechanism, including a self-locating securement pin and a leveraged expander, allows for a suitable connection between the hitch and the carrier rack, accommodating different hitch sizes through a flexible or rigid securement pin and an expandable adapter assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard insert bar is used for a hitch-rack load carrier, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot securely attach to hitches of varying sizes when the receiver tube is larger than the insert portion
Solution Approach 1:
The insert bar incorporates an expandable adapter assembly that can dynamically change its cross-sectional dimensions. The adapter transitions from a collapsed configuration (smaller cross-section) to an expanded configuration (larger cross-section) to match different hitch receiver sizes, allowing a single insert bar design to accommodate multiple hitch sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is nested within the insert bar structure. The adapter can be collapsed into a compact form that fits within the insert bar's lead-in end, and then expanded outward to engage with larger hitch receivers. This nesting allows the adapter to be stored efficiently when not in use.
2Reliability
If the insert bar is designed to fit smaller hitches, then it maintains a compact structure, but it cannot securely connect to larger hitches without creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly dynamically adjusts its cross-sectional dimensions by expanding from a collapsed to an expanded configuration. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the insert bar can securely engage with both smaller and larger hitch receivers, maintaining connection security across different hitch sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameters of the adapter (specifically its cross-sectional dimensions) are changed by transitioning between collapsed and expanded configurations. This parameter change allows the same physical component to match different hitch receiver dimensions, ensuring reliable connection security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an expandable adapter assembly is added to accommodate different hitch sizes, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The insert bar is segmented into distinct functional components: a main body portion and a separate adapter assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, and then assembled together. The adapter assembly itself is segmented into expandable elements that can be produced using conventional manufacturing techniques.
4Strength
If a rigid securement pin is used, then the connection is strong and stable, but it cannot accommodate variations in hitch dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The securement pin transitions from a fixed rigid state to a flexible state capable of angular adjustment. The pin can be positioned at different angles relative to the insert bar axis, allowing it to engage with hitch receivers of varying dimensions while maintaining securement strength through its ability to conform to different geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement pin incorporates flexible elements that allow it to bend or angle relative to the insert bar. This flexibility enables the pin to accommodate variations in hitch receiver positioning and orientation while maintaining a strong, secure connection.
Data Source
AI summary
Insert bar assembly includes an elongate hitch-attachment bar which in turn comprises a hitch-receiver insert portion located at an insertable end of the bar. Assembly can include an expander which accommodates attachment of the assembly to a hitch which is larger than the insert portion of the bar. Adapter assembly includes expandable adapter mountable upon hitch-attachment bar that is square in cross-sectional shape and sized for insertion into first tubular hitch receiver and further includes an expander that diagonally extends and retracts relative to attachment bar. Adapter is configured to substantially house a hitch-receiver insert portion of the bar in a collapsed configuration. Adapter comprises a main body having an interior space defined by at least two substantially perpendicular interior walls positioned adjacent to two exterior walls of the hitch-receiver insert portion, the walls being expandable to attach the insert bar to a hitch.