Hitch and Ball Alignment Device Using Electronic Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alignment devices for tow balls and trailer tongues lack precision and user guidance, making it difficult for users to achieve proper alignment, which can lead to improper connections and potential safety issues during towing.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first sensing unit with a position-type sensor and transmitter, coupled to a controller with a screen, that determines the distance between the tow ball and trailer tongue, displaying positions on a screen to guide the user for alignment, with a backup sensing unit for reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the alignment precision and user guidance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods with electronic sensing units that use optical or electromagnetic fields to detect positions. The sensing units emit signals and receive reflections to calculate distances, substituting mechanical contact-based alignment with non-contact electronic measurement, thereby improving precision without excessive complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the sensing units and the user. The controller processes signals from multiple sensing units, calculates alignment status, and provides guidance through visual indicators, mediating the complex sensor data into simple user-friendly alignment guidance
2Ease of operation
If no visual guidance is provided, then the device is simpler, but users cannot easily achieve proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes on the controller's display to indicate alignment status. Visual indicators such as colored lights or graphical representations change color or intensity based on the detected alignment between tow ball and trailer tongue, providing intuitive feedback to users without requiring complex interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback through the controller that continuously monitors the alignment status based on sensing unit data and provides immediate visual guidance to the user. This closed-loop feedback system allows users to adjust the alignment based on continuous information about their progress, making the alignment process easier and more reliable
3Reliability
If single sensing unit is used, then the device is simpler, but reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the alignment system into multiple independent sensing units, each responsible for detecting specific positional parameters. By segmenting the measurement function across multiple sensors (e.g., one for horizontal position, another for vertical position), the system achieves more reliable and comprehensive alignment detection while maintaining modular simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs redundant sensing units that can compensate for potential failures or limitations of individual sensors. If one sensing unit provides inaccurate data or fails, the additional sensing units provide backup measurement capability, cushioning against alignment errors and ensuring reliable operation under various conditions
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 device provides precise alignment guidance, ensuring correct coupling of the tow ball with the trailer tongue, enhancing safety and ease of use by visually indicating alignment through a red-to-green dot transition on the screen.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensor is position type and is configured to determine a distance between the first sensing unit and the other of a tow ball and a trailer tongue
Data Source
AI summary
A hitch and ball alignment device for aligning a tow ball with a trailer tongue includes a first sensing unit and a controller. The first sensing unit comprises a first sensor, which is position type, and a first transmitter. A first coupler is coupled to the first sensing unit and is configured to removably couple the first sensing unit to one of a tow ball, which is coupled to a vehicle, and a trailer tongue. The controller comprises a screen and a receiver. The first sensor is configured to determine a distance between the first sensing unit and the other of the tow ball and the trailer tongue and to signal the controller via the first transmitter. The controller is positioned display the positions of the tow ball and the trailer tongue on the screen to guide a user to align the tow ball with the trailer tongue.