Parallelogram Tow Coupling Mount for Variable Chassis Heights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer towing devices face challenges in accommodating varying vehicle chassis heights, limiting their versatility and safety across different vehicle types and road conditions.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a parallelogram guide mechanism that allows adjustable positioning of the coupling element relative to the vehicle, using articulated arms and screw-nut fastenings for secure and variable fixation, enabling height adjustment to compensate for changes in vehicle height and accommodate different vehicle types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed coupling element mounting is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate varying vehicle chassis heights
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element mounting assembly is made dynamically adjustable through a parallelogram linkage mechanism with multiple articulated arms that can be positioned at different angles. This allows the mounting height to be changed according to different vehicle chassis heights, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device is divided into multiple segmented articulated arms that can be independently positioned and fixed. Each arm can be adjusted to different rotational positions and secured using fastening connecting elements, allowing the overall mounting height to be customized for different vehicle types while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable coupling element mounting is used to adjust height, then adaptability improves, but the stability and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The parallelogram linkage mechanism is pre-configured with multiple fastening connecting elements at predetermined positions on each articulated arm. Before operation, the appropriate fastening elements are selected and positioned according to the required mounting height, ensuring that the structure is properly prepared and secured for stable operation at the chosen configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallelogram linkage acts as an intermediary mechanism between the vehicle mounting assembly and the coupling element mounting assembly. It transfers and distributes loads evenly across multiple articulated arms and fastening points, maintaining structural stability while allowing height adjustment, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements of movability and stability.
3Ease of operation
If multiple fastening positions are provided, then ease of adjustment improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated arms are designed with multiple fastening connecting elements that serve dual purposes: they provide multiple adjustable positions for height customization and simultaneously function as integrated fastening mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows ease of adjustment without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the same structural elements serve both positioning and securing functions.
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
Enables safe operation of trailers regardless of vehicle chassis or body height above the road, providing a stable and torsion-resistant design for reliable towing across varying heights and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The parallelogram linkage has at least two articulated arms, each arm having a pivot point rotatably coupled to a mounting pivot point of the vehicle mounting assembly. Furthermore, each articulated arm has a pivot point rotatably coupled to a mounting pivot point of the coupling element mounting assembly.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a fastening device (3) for a coupling element (2) of a trailer coupling device (1) on a vehicle, comprising a vehicle mounting arrangement (4) for attachment to a vehicle structure and a coupling element mounting arrangement (5) for attaching at least one coupling element (2), wherein the coupling element mounting arrangement (5) is movably arranged on the vehicle mounting arrangement (4) by means of a parallelogram linkage (6) and can be fixed in different positions. The invention further relates to a trailer coupling device (1) and a vehicle.