Hitch Coupling Assembly with Wedge Lock for Secure Accessory Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle accessory racks mounted on the bumper exceed the weight-bearing capacity of modern vehicle bumpers, necessitating a secure and stable attachment method to the hitch receiver instead.
Innovation Solution
A hitch coupling assembly comprising a receiver tube, receiver wedge element, and tightening bolt, which couples the accessory rack to the hitch receiver, utilizing a receiver lock pin and roll pin for secure fixation and limiting motion, allowing for easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If accessory racks are mounted on the bumper, then installation is simple, but the weight exceeds the bumper's bearing capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch coupling assembly serves as an intermediary component between the accessory rack and the vehicle. It transfers the load from the bumper to the hitch receiver, which is designed to bear higher weights. The assembly includes a receiver tube that fits into the hitch receiver and a coupling mechanism that secures the accessory rack, effectively mediating the weight transfer while maintaining ease of installation.
2Reliability
If the hitch coupling assembly uses secure fixation with lock pins, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch coupling assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: a receiver tube for insertion into the hitch receiver, a coupling mechanism with tightening bolt for securing the accessory rack, and lock pins for preventing removal. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity. The modular design makes the assembly easy to understand and install despite the multiple components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the hitch coupling assembly limits motion with lock pins, then stability improves, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch coupling assembly incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to transition between different states. The lock pins can be easily inserted and removed to switch between locked (stable) and unlocked (movable) states. The tightening bolt allows for adjustable securing, enabling the assembly to be quickly installed and removed while providing stable fixation when engaged. This dynamic design maintains ease of operation despite the stability provided by the locking mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A hitch coupling assembly that is used to couple an accessory to a vehicle is described. The hitch coupling assembly includes a receiver tube and a receiver wedge assembly. The receiver tube and the receiver wedge assembly are coupled to each other using a tightening bolt. The receiver tube, receiver wedge assembly, and tightening bolt are then inserted into a hitch receiver of a vehicle, and the tightening bolt is tightened to couple the hitch coupling assembly to the hitch receiver. A receiver lock can be used to lock the hitch coupling assembly into the hitch receiver. An accessory rack or other accessory that is coupled to the hitch coupling assembly is coupled to the hitch receiver and the vehicle by coupling the hitch coupling assembly to the hitch receiver.