Movable Tow Hook Assembly With Collision-Triggered Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tow hooks on vehicles can cause further damage to internal components and barriers during collisions due to contact with them.
Innovation Solution
A tow hook assembly with a movable tow hook and a locking mechanism, controlled by a contact sensor and electronic control unit, moves to a retracted position when a predetermined condition is satisfied, reducing contact during collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tow hook is fixed to the vehicle at connection points, then the tow hook remains securely attached during towing operations, but the tow hook contacts barriers during collisions causing damage to internal components and the barrier
Solution Approach 1:
The tow hook is designed to be movable between an extended position (for towing operations) and a retracted position (for collision protection). The system dynamically adjusts the tow hook position based on detected conditions, transitioning from a static fixed attachment to a dynamic movable structure that can respond to external forces and protect internal components during collisions
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect predetermined conditions (such as approaching collision forces) and automatically actuates the tow hook to the retracted position before actual impact occurs. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare for potential collisions by positioning the tow hook to minimize damage, rather than reacting after damage has already occurred
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the tow hook is made movable between extended and retracted positions, then collision damage is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to locking mechanisms and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically lock and unlock the tow hook based on sensor input and control unit logic, without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages the complex operations of extending, retracting, and securing the tow hook in appropriate positions, reducing the operational complexity burden on the user while maintaining the mechanical complexity necessary for automatic function
Solution Approach 2:
The control system integrates multiple functions into a single electronic control unit that manages sensor data processing, locking mechanism control, and position monitoring. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise be separate complex subsystems into one integrated control architecture, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a frame member and a tow hook assembly coupled to the frame member. The tow hook assembly includes a tow hook positionable between a first position and a second position, and a locking mechanism operable between a locked position and an unlocked position to permit the tow hook to move into the second position. The vehicle further includes a contact sensor and an electronic control unit communicatively coupled to the tow hook assembly and the sensor, the electronic control unit configured to operate the locking mechanism into the unlocked position to permit the tow hook to be positioned into the second position upon the sensor detecting that a predetermined condition is satisfied.