Gooseneck Trailer Lock Coupler Engagement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gooseneck trailer locks are either too large and cumbersome, making them difficult to store and maintain, or they do not prevent unauthorized connection or removal of the coupler from the trailer, allowing theft.
Innovation Solution
A compact gooseneck trailer lock with a hook, lug, and spur design that engages the coupler and trailer frame, using a padlock to secure the coupler in place, preventing unauthorized connection or removal, and optionally including an extension section to deter theft attempts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing gooseneck trailer locks are designed to prevent unauthorized connection or removal of the coupler, then security against theft is improved, but the locks become long and unwieldy, making them difficult to store and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into separate functional components: a body portion that engages the coupler, a shaft that extends through the coupler, and a locking mechanism with a locking member. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while keeping the overall device compact and manageable for storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is received within a recess in the body portion when in the unlocked position, and the shaft passes through the coupler and engages with the body. This nested arrangement allows the locking components to be compact when not in use, making the device easier to store while maintaining full security functionality when deployed.
2Ease of operation
If existing gooseneck trailer locks are made compact for easy storage, then ease of operation is improved, but they fail to prevent removal of the entire coupler from the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device performs multiple security functions: it prevents unauthorized connection of the coupler to a towing vehicle, prevents removal of the coupler from the trailer, and secures the locking mechanism itself. The body portion engages the coupler, the shaft extends through it, and the locking member secures the assembly, creating a multi-functional security system that addresses all vulnerability points.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is installed on the trailer before use, with the body portion positioned to engage the coupler and the shaft extending through it. The locking member is prepared in the recess and can quickly secure the assembly. This preliminary positioning and preparation enable rapid deployment and immediate protection against both connection and removal attempts.
3Device complexity
If existing trailer locks use small locking pins and padlocks, then device complexity is reduced, but they only secure the lock plate and do not prevent coupler removal from the trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism merges the functions of securing the lock plate and preventing coupler removal into a single integrated system. The body portion engages the coupler, the shaft extends through the coupler and is secured by the locking member, creating a unified locking action that simultaneously addresses both security concerns with a single simple mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A gooseneck trailer lock is provided including a body having a coupler engaging portion and a trailer frame engaging portion. A lock secures the body to the trailer.