Hitch Receiver Quick Disconnect With Jack-Assisted Accessory Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hitch receiver connection systems require users to manually align and lift heavy accessories, such as bike racks, which can be labor-intensive and challenging, especially for heavy items like electric bicycles, and often necessitate tool use for connection and disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect system comprising a hanger plate and adapter plate with a latching mechanism that allows for tool-free engagement and disengagement, along with a jack assembly that lifts the accessory into position without manual lifting, enabling easy connection and disconnection of hitch receiver-mounted accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hitch receiver connection systems are used, then secure connection is achieved, but users must manually align and lift heavy accessories which is labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
A jack assembly acts as an intermediary device between the user and the heavy accessory. The jack assembly includes a jack body with an extendable member that can be positioned under the accessory and extended to lift the accessory into proper alignment with the receiver tube, eliminating the need for users to manually lift heavy items
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connect system enables the accessory to be self-positioned through the jack assembly mechanism. The system allows the accessory to lift itself into position using the jack assembly, rather than requiring external manual lifting force from the user
2Ease of operation
If traditional hitch receiver connection systems are used, then secure connection is achieved, but tooling is required for connection and disconnection which is labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: a quick connect assembly with separate connect and disconnect functions, a jack assembly for positioning, and a release mechanism for disconnection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without requiring complex tooling operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical tooling operations with a simplified quick connect mechanism. The connect assembly can be installed by simply inserting it into the receiver tube without tools, and the disconnect function is achieved through a simple release mechanism that eliminates the need for tools
3Reliability
If accessories are securely mounted to hitch receiver, then stability is achieved, but disconnection is difficult and may interfere with tail gate movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent mounting to a dynamic removable connection. The quick connect assembly can be easily inserted and removed from the receiver tube, and the release mechanism allows for simple disconnection without interfering with tail gate movement, providing both secure mounting and easy removal capability
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect system for a hitch receiver of a vehicle includes a hanger plate and an adapter plate. The hanger plate includes a hanger base portion configured to attach to the hitch receiver. First and second hanger side flanges extend rearwardly from opposing sides of the hanger base portion. The top surfaces of the hanger side flanges are each contoured to form a recessed seat section. The adapter plate includes an adapter base portion. First and second adapter side flanges extend rearwardly from opposing sides of the adapter base portion. A hanger bar extends between the adapter side flanges. A latching mechanism is attached to the adapter base portion. The hanger bar is configured to fit into the recessed seat sections to enable the adapter plate to pivot against the hanger plate and to removably latch the latching mechanism to the hanger plate.