Multi-Use Trailer Hitch with Adjustable Yoke and Ball Pin Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitches are single-purpose and require separate coupling structures for different types of trailer connectors, limiting their versatility and necessitating multiple hitches for various connections.
Innovation Solution
A multi-use trailer hitch featuring a yoke with opposing flanges, a ball and pin member, and an adjustable yoke assembly that allows for secure connections with multiple types of trailer connectors, including ball hitches and Lunette eye ring hitches, through a retainer pin system for versatility and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-purpose hitch is used for each coupling type, then the connection reliability for that specific coupling type is ensured, but the device complexity increases and versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch assembly is designed with a yoke containing multiple coupling structures (ball hitch component, Lunette eye ring component, and gooseneck component) that can be selectively positioned and engaged. This allows a single hitch to perform multiple coupling functions that previously required separate hitches, directly resolving the contradiction between versatility and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch assembly is divided into distinct functional components (ball hitch component, Lunette eye ring component, gooseneck component) that can be independently positioned and engaged within the yoke. This segmentation allows each coupling type to be implemented as a separate module, enabling versatility while maintaining manageable structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate hitches are used for different coupling types, then the reliability for each specific coupling is maintained, but the quantity of equipment required increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coupling structures that previously existed as separate hitch units are merged into a single integrated hitch assembly. The yoke contains all coupling components (ball hitch, Lunette eye ring, gooseneck) that can be selectively engaged, reducing the quantity of equipment from multiple separate hitches to one multi-functional hitch while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable yoke assembly is implemented, then the adaptability to different trailer configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The yoke assembly incorporates adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the coupling structures to be moved to different positions along the yoke. This dynamic adjustability enables the hitch to adapt to various trailer configurations and coupling requirements, improving versatility while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-use trailer hitch configured to allow a single hitch to be used for multiple trailer couplers. The hitch includes a ball and pin member attached to the yoke so that the hitch can couple with a Lunette eye ring coupler and a ball hitch coupler. The ball and pin member is designed to fit on the yoke and be easily secured with a retainer pin.