Base-and-Latch Hitch Adapter for Versatile Cargo Tie-Down
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hitch adapters for 5th wheel ball hitches are narrowly tailored and lack versatile connection options, making it difficult to securely attach various equipment and cargo, such as dirt bikes and extension ladders, to truck beds.
Innovation Solution
A hitch adapter with a base plate and latch plate design that includes anchor points, connection points, and a pivoting mechanism, allowing for secure attachment and engagement with the hitch, providing multiple points of contact for securing different types of equipment and cargo.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current hitch adapters are designed for specific niches, then they can address highly specific problems, but they lack broad applicability to different situations
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch adapter is designed with multiple anchor points (first and second anchor points positioned at opposite ends of the base plate) and various connection options (latch plate with connection points, fasteners) that enable it to serve multiple functions and accommodate different equipment and cargo types, making it universally applicable rather than niche-specific
2Adaptability or versatility
If current hitch adapters have limited contact points, then they have simple structure, but they cannot provide sufficient connection options for securing different types of equipment and cargo
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch adapter is segmented into distinct functional components: a base plate with anchor points, a latch plate with connection points, and fasteners. This segmentation provides multiple discrete contact points and connection options while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that can be easily assembled and disassembled
3Ease of operation
If current hitch adapters lack convenient securement points, then they have simple design, but they cannot provide quick and secure attachment for equipment like dirt bikes and ATVs
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch adapter comes pre-configured with multiple anchor points and connection points in predetermined positions on the base plate and latch plate. This preliminary arrangement of securement points allows users to quickly attach various equipment without needing to modify or reconfigure the adapter, providing both convenience and reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Provided in this disclosure is a hitch adapter having a base plate and a latch plate. The base plate includes a plurality of anchor points and first and second semicircular cutouts. The base plate also includes a plurality of connection points disposed radially about a center point. The latch plate includes a latch semicircular cutout and a plurality of connection points—equal to the quantity of base plate connection points and corresponding to the locations of the base plate connection points. The latch plate is disposed atop the base plate.