Trailer Hitch Flag Pole Mount With Wedge Lock Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for flag pole mounting devices that can securely attach to gooseneck and fifth wheel trailer hitches, as existing solutions are not available in the market.
Innovation Solution
A mount device comprising a connecting tube and a receiving tube, with optional fasteners, that attaches to trailer hitches, and a wedge lock system for securing the flag pole, allowing removably attachment to gooseneck or fifth wheel trailer hitches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flag pole mounting device is designed to securely attach to gooseneck or fifth wheel trailer hitches, then the reliability of the attachment is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for specialized coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device employs nested tubes where the receiving tube fits inside the connecting tube, creating a compact hierarchical structure that achieves secure attachment without excessive complexity. The flag pole receives into the receiving tube which is nested within the connecting tube that couples to the hitch ball.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device is divided into distinct functional segments: the connecting tube for hitch attachment, the receiving tube for flag pole reception, and the wedge lock mechanism for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system reliability.
2Reliability
If the mount device uses a wedge lock system with multiple components for secure attachment, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the complexity of assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge lock mechanism utilizes a dynamic locking action where twisting the upper wedge lock relative to the lower wedge lock creates friction-based engagement. This dynamic operation allows a single twisting motion to secure multiple connection points simultaneously, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper and lower wedge locks are designed to form a unified cylindrical body when engaged, merging two separate locking components into one functional unit. This integration simplifies the operation to a single twisting action while maintaining the security of multiple connection points.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mount device is designed to be removable for flexibility, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential loosening during vehicle motion
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge lock mechanism performs preliminary locking action during the twisting engagement process, creating friction-based security before the vehicle is in motion. This preliminary securing action ensures that the removable connection maintains reliability during use while preserving adaptability for future removal and reinstallation.
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 solution provides a secure and removable attachment of flag poles to vehicles using gooseneck or fifth wheel trailer hitches, enabling flag display while stationary or in motion.
Implementation Method 1
The upper and lower wedge locks may be tightened together by twisting, which creates friction between them that prevents the flag pole mount device from being removed or detached from the trailer hitch without loosening the wedge locks.
Data Source
AI summary
A mount device for receiving a flag pole is described. The mount device is attachable to a trailer hitch such as a gooseneck hitch or a fifth wheel hitch, which is installed on a vehicle. The mount device includes a connecting tube for inserting into a hitch ball receiving aperture of the trailer hitch. The connecting tube has a top end defining a top aperture. The mount device also includes a receiving tube for inserting into the connecting tube. The receiving tube has a top end defining a top aperture for receiving a flag pole by inserting the flag pole into the aperture of the receiving tube.