Single-Handed Hitch Pin with Trigger Retainers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch systems require a person to dismount and use two hands to attach or remove the hitch pin, making them cumbersome and difficult to use.
Innovation Solution
A hitch system with a handle portion, pin portion, and trigger mechanism that allows a single-handed operation by actuating retainers between retracted and extended positions, enabling easy insertion and removal of the hitch pin through a vehicle hitch without needing to reach below the hitch flange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional hitch pin with cotter pin is used, then the connection is secure, but the operation requires two hands and dismounting the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hitch pin, retaining mechanism, and release trigger into a single integrated assembly. The trigger mechanism is incorporated directly into the pin structure, allowing the entire hitch operation to be controlled from one location rather than requiring separate components like traditional cotter pins.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger mechanism automatically actuates the retaining clips to release the pin from the hitch receiver when pulled, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of separate retaining components. The system serves itself by using the trigger pull to automatically disengage the locking mechanism.
2Device complexity
If a simple hitch pin is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation deteriorates requiring two hands
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch pin is segmented into functional components: the pin body, the retaining clips, and the trigger mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together as an integrated system that enables single-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining clips are designed to be dynamically movable between engaged and disengaged positions. They can be easily shifted from the locked position during insertion to the released position during removal, enabling flexible operation while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If a trigger mechanism is added to enable single-handed operation, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger acts as an intermediary element that translates a simple pulling motion into the complex action of releasing both retaining clips simultaneously. This intermediary mechanism coordinates the release action without requiring the user to manually manipulate multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining clips are pre-positioned in the engaged state during installation, and the trigger mechanism is pre-configured to release them. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for manual adjustment or manipulation during the actual hitching or unhitching operation.
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
Enables secure connection and disconnection of vehicles to implements with a single hand, reducing complexity and cost while improving usability and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
a spring operably coupled between the retainer and the pin portion that biases the retainer toward the extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A hitch system includes a handle portion including a handle loop, a pin portion extending from the handle portion, a pair of opposite retainers and a trigger. The retainers are movable between a retracted position relative to the pin portion and an extended position relative to the pin portion. The trigger is coupled to the retainers to actuate the retainers between the retracted position and the extended position.