Fifth Wheel Hitch Latching for Multi-Plane Pivot Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fifth wheel hitches lack a suitable latching system that allows operators to easily ascertain the state of the latching system and operate it with improved ease while restricting motion in at least one or more planes, particularly for towing vehicles with extended cabs that have a shorter load bed, leading to insufficient clearance for towed vehicle pivoting.
Innovation Solution
A fifth wheel hitch with a latching system featuring arced latching members on either side, allowing restriction of movement in at least two planes, including a latching system with arched latching fingers and receptacles, a control bar, and a spring-loaded mechanism for easy engagement and disengagement, enabling secure positioning without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sliding base is used to permit movement in one plane of motion, then the towed vehicle can pivot appropriately, but the operator must exit the towing vehicle multiple times to unlock and lock the base, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The latching system automatically engages and disengages latch fingers with receptacles without requiring operator intervention. The spring-loaded latch fingers automatically lock into position when the carriage member moves, and can be manually disengaged via a control bar if needed, but normally operate autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
The manual sliding base mechanism is replaced with an automatic latching system using spring-loaded latch fingers that engage with receptacles. This substitutes the old mechanical sliding-and-locking system with a new automated latching mechanism that eliminates the need for repeated manual intervention
2Volume of moving object
If the load bed is shortened to accommodate extended cabs, then the interior cargo volume increases, but the clearance between the axle and the rear of the cab becomes insufficient for the towed vehicle to pivot
Solution Approach 1:
The latching system restricts movement not only in the longitudinal direction (forward-backward) but also in the vertical direction (up-down). By adding vertical constraint through the latch fingers engaging with receptacles, the system compensates for the reduced longitudinal clearance, enabling the towed vehicle to pivot effectively within the limited space
3Reliability
If existing latching systems are used, then the fifth wheel hitch can be secured, but the operator cannot easily ascertain the state of the latching system or operate it with improved ease
Solution Approach 1:
The latching system uses visual indicators (such as colored flags or positioned components) that change appearance based on whether the latch fingers are engaged with the receptacles. When engaged, the system presents a visible 'locked' indication; when disengaged, a 'unlocked' indication is visible, allowing easy status ascertainment
Solution Approach 2:
A control bar serves as an intermediary mechanism that the operator can manipulate to disengage the latch fingers from receptacles if needed. This provides a simple, intuitive interface for manual operation while maintaining the automatic latching function during normal operation
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
The latching system provides enhanced ease of use and secure positioning, allowing the fifth wheel hitch to restrict movement in multiple planes, improving operational efficiency and stability for towing vehicles with extended cabs.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded mechanism for easy engagement and disengagement
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to a fifth wheel hitch and, more particularly, to a fifth wheel hitch having a latching system that is viewable to a user. In another instance, the present disclosure relates to a fifth wheel hitch having a latching system that permits a user to restrict movement of the fifth wheel hitch in at least two different planes of motion.