Resilient Pin Box Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fifth wheel pin boxes often fail to effectively absorb and dampen shock in multiple directions, leading to discomfort and wear during towing, as they typically address either longitudinal or vertical shocks separately.
Innovation Solution
A pin box system with a mounting bracket and a flexibly connected pin box that incorporates resilient tubular bushings and a rear support bracket, allowing for shock absorption and damping in both longitudinal and vertical directions through radial compression and decompression of the bushings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid pin box structure is used, then structural strength is maintained, but shock absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid pin box structure with a flexible membrane structure that can deform to absorb shock loads. The membrane acts as a flexible shell that stretches and contracts in response to longitudinal and vertical shocks, providing shock absorption while maintaining structural integrity through the elasticity of the membrane material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural parameter from rigid to flexible by introducing a membrane that can dynamically adjust its stiffness through deformation. The membrane's ability to change its physical state from taut to relaxed allows it to absorb shock energy while maintaining the necessary structural strength during normal operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If separate shock absorption means are used for longitudinal and vertical directions, then shock absorption in specific directions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single membrane structure that simultaneously performs shock absorption in both longitudinal and vertical directions. The membrane's bidirectional stretchability allows it to function as both a longitudinal shock absorber and a vertical shock absorber, eliminating the need for separate shock absorption mechanisms for each direction and thereby reducing device complexity.
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
The system effectively absorbs and dampens shock loads in multiple directions, enhancing the towing experience by reducing stress and wear on both the tow vehicle and trailer.
Implementation Method 1
radial compression and decompression of the bushings
Implementation Method 2
absorb and dampen shock loads
Data Source
AI summary
A shock absorbing pin box system includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and an upper wall. The first sidewall defines at least a first plurality of apertures arranged in first column, and the second sidewall defines at least a second plurality of apertures arranged in a second column. A plurality of tubes extend from each of the first plurality of apertures and the second plurality of apertures. A plurality of flexible and resilient tubular bushings are received in a corresponding one of the plurality of tubes. A plurality of bolts are received within corresponding ones of the pluralities of apertures of the pin box and the plurality of tubes.