Integrated Hitch Receiver Connector for Reliable Trailer Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle hitches do not integrate electrical connectors seamlessly, affecting towing capabilities and accessory connections, and lack efficient power management and security features.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle hitch system with a tubular receiver containing a spring-loaded electrical connector and hitch mount, enabling secure, aligned electrical connections and power management, with features like auto-locking, energy conservation, and communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical connectors are integrated into the hitch receiver, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connector with the hitch receiver by disposing the electrical connector within the hitch receiver, integrating two separate functions (mechanical hitching and electrical connection) into a single unified structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate electrical connection components while maintaining both towing and power delivery capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch receiver is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for towing operations and integrates electrical connection capabilities for powering trailer components. The receiver tube accommodates both the ball mount for mechanical attachment and the electrical connector for power and signal transmission, creating a multi-functional universal interface.
2Reliability
If spring-loaded face with movable contact is used, then electrical contact reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector employs a spring-loaded face with a movable contact that can dynamically adjust its position. The spring mechanism allows the contact face to move toward or away from the electrical pins, automatically compensating for manufacturing tolerances and assembly variations. This dynamic adjustment ensures reliable electrical contact without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision.
3Measurement precision
If concave and convex surfaces are used for alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector features an asymmetric design with a concave contact surface on the connector and a corresponding convex surface on the ball mount. This asymmetric geometry provides built-in alignment guidance, ensuring that the electrical pins automatically align with the electrical contacts during insertion. The asymmetric shapes act as mechanical guides that prevent misalignment without requiring additional alignment components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical contacts are integrated into hitch receiver, then power management capability is improved, but loss of time for connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is pre-positioned within the hitch receiver and the electrical pins are pre-configured on the ball mount in the correct spatial arrangement. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the ball mount is inserted into the receiver, all electrical connections are established simultaneously in a single motion, eliminating the need for separate connection steps for each electrical contact.
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
Facilitates seamless towing and accessory connections while managing energy use and enhancing security through integrated electrical connectors and smart power management.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical connector has a plurality of electrical contacts on a spring-loaded face thereof adjacent to the cavity. The spring-loaded face may move responsive to contact with the end.
Data Source
AI summary
A hitch receiver for an automotive vehicle includes a receiver tube defining an open end and a cavity therein. The hitch receiver also includes an electrical connector, having a plurality of electrical contacts on a spring-loaded face thereof, disposed within the receiver tube at an end thereof opposite the open end such that the electrical contacts are adjacent to the cavity.