Magnetic Cinch-Block Hitch Fastening for Wobble-Free Shank Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing receiver-type hitch systems face issues with securely retaining accessory shanks due to loose fits, leading to wobbling and requiring complex assembly methods, which are not effective for various shank configurations.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic cinch-block fastening and retaining device that utilizes magnetic force to securely attach a cinch-block to the accessory shank, allowing for easy alignment and retention within the hitch receiver, compatible with 4-sided, 3-sided, 2-sided, and single-bar shank configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the accessory shank is made with external dimension slightly smaller than the internal dimension of the receiver tube to permit easy insertion, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability and security of the connection deteriorates due to loose fit and wobbling
Solution Approach 1:
A cinch block is introduced as an intermediary component between the accessory shank and the receiver tube. The cinch block has an internal dimension slightly smaller than the receiver tube's internal dimension, allowing easy insertion, while its external dimension is slightly larger than the shank's external dimension, providing a secure fit. This mediator resolves the contradiction by enabling both easy insertion and stable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into three distinct components: the receiver tube, the cinch block, and the accessory shank. This segmentation allows each component to have optimized dimensions independent of the others, solving the dimensional conflict between easy insertion and secure retention.
2Strength
If traditional mechanical fastening methods are used to secure the accessory shank, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cinch block is designed to be self-retaining within the receiver tube through dimensional interference (external dimension slightly larger than receiver tube internal dimension). This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional fastening components like pins, clips, or locks, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical fastening system (pins, clips, locks) is replaced with a dimensional interference fit system. The cinch block's external dimensions create a friction-based mechanical retention that is simpler than threaded fasteners or clip mechanisms, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the cinch block external dimension is made slightly larger than the receiver tube internal dimension to provide secure retention, then the stability is improved, but the ease of insertion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into receiver tube and cinch block as separate components. The cinch block's external dimension is slightly larger than the receiver tube's internal dimension, creating a secure interference fit for retention. This segmentation allows the accessory shank to remain the insertion interface, while the cinch block provides the secure retention function.
Solution Approach 2:
The cinch block serves as an intermediary that transforms the insertion interface. Its internal dimension is slightly smaller than the receiver tube's internal dimension, allowing easy insertion of the cinch block itself, while its external dimension provides secure retention. This mediator resolves the dimensional conflict between easy insertion and secure retention.
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
Provides a snug and stable connection, eliminating wobbling and simplifying the assembly process, while ensuring the accessory shank is firmly secured within the hitch receiver, enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnet configured to apply magnetic force to removably attach the cinch-block to the metallic accessory shank
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic fastening includes a cinch-block having a body with a first and a second opposing side, a throughbore passing through the body from the first opposing side to the second opposing side along a first axis, and a first magnet disposed on a second axis, wherein the second axis is laterally offset from and parallel to the first axis, wherein the first magnet is configured to apply magnetic force to removably attach a cinch-block to the first metallic object, and wherein the throughbore of the cinch-block is configured to align with a first aperture of the first metallic object and a first aperture of a second object; a cinch-pin configured to pass through the aligned throughbore and apertures to securely fasten the first metallic object, the cinch-block, and the second object; and wherein the body of the cinch-block is configured to limit rotation during fastening.