Controlled-flexing trailer hitch with spring-return stiffening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trailer hitch systems require precise alignment during coupling and uncoupling, which is difficult and often necessitates an assistant, and do not provide controlled flexibility during low-speed maneuvering, posing safety risks when decelerating or reversing.
Innovation Solution
A controlled-flexing trailer hitch system with disengageable spring-return stiffening members and a flexible segmented towing member that transitions from a flexible state during attachment and low-speed maneuvering to a rigid state upon in-line pulling, using various embodiments such as rod, flap-segment, sliding tube, and easy-connect designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid trailer hitch coupling is used, then the vehicle-trailer connection is stable during towing, but the coupling and uncoupling process becomes difficult and requires precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer hitch system transitions from a rigid state during towing to a flexible state during coupling and uncoupling operations. The system automatically adjusts its mechanical properties based on operational conditions, allowing easy alignment during attachment while maintaining stability during actual towing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the hitch components between rigid and flexible. During coupling, the components are in a flexible state that allows misalignment tolerance, and during towing, they transition to a rigid state that provides connection stability.
2Ease of operation
If a flexible trailer hitch coupling is used, then the coupling and uncoupling process becomes easier, but the trailer may collide with the vehicle during deceleration or stopping
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its flexibility based on the operational phase. During low-speed maneuvers and coupling operations, the system remains flexible to facilitate easy connection. During normal towing and deceleration, the system becomes rigid to prevent trailer collision with the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively transitions to a rigid state before deceleration or stopping occurs during towing, preventing the harmful effect of trailer collision. The control system monitors vehicle speed and operational conditions to anticipate when rigidity is needed.
3Reliability
If a rigid trailer hitch is used, then the connection is stable during towing, but multiple alignment attempts are required during coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the physical properties of the hitch components based on the operational phase. During coupling, the components are in a flexible state that tolerates misalignment, reducing the number of attempts needed. During towing, they transition to a rigid state that ensures stable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares the hitch components in a flexible state before coupling operations begin, allowing for easier alignment. Once coupling is achieved, the system transitions to the rigid towing state, eliminating the need for repeated alignment attempts.
4Ease of operation
If a flexible trailer hitch is used, then alignment during coupling is easier, but the coupling cannot maintain proper tension during towing
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its mechanical properties to provide flexibility during alignment operations and rigidity during towing. This allows the coupling to be easy to align while maintaining proper tension and strength during actual towing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the hitch from flexible to rigid based on operational conditions. During coupling, the flexible state allows easy alignment, and during towing, the rigid state provides the necessary coupling tension and strength.
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
Facilitates easier and safer coupling and uncoupling processes without operator intervention, ensuring automatic change to a rigid coupling at the appropriate time, enhancing safety and efficiency during towing.
Implementation Method 1
disengageable spring-return stiffening members
Implementation Method 2
spring-return stiffening members
Data Source
AI summary
A controlled-flexing trailer hitch system and method to facilitate vehicle-to-trailer attachment and maneuvering by providing a flexible state during attachment, detachment, and low-speed maneuvering of a trailer, and automatic change to a fixed in-line state upon the in-line pulling of the trailer, by providing disengageable spring-return stiffening members and a flexible segmented towing member, where the spring-return stiffening members can be disengaged to allow flexible movement of the flexible towing member, and where, upon commencement of the in-line pulling of the trailer, the spring-return stiffening members engage to place the controlled-flexing trailer hitch into a fixed in-line state.