Pin Box Strain Gauge for RV Load Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight distribution on towable recreational vehicles (RVs) is poorly understood, making it difficult for end users to safely tow them, as the towing vehicle may be subjected to unknown forces due to varying load characteristics affected by interior components and cargo, which can significantly alter the weight distribution.
Innovation Solution
A pin box assembly with a column connected to a skid plate, featuring a strain gauge to measure strain as weight is applied, utilizing a rubber shear spring for movement resistance, allowing for real-time monitoring of weight distribution without requiring significant user effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If weight monitoring systems are implemented, then measurement precision of load characteristics is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauge is integrated directly into the pin box assembly structure, merging the measurement function with the structural components. The strain gauge is mounted on the skid plate or column, combining load sensing capability with the existing pin box architecture, thereby improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical weighing mechanisms with strain gauge technology, which uses electrical resistance changes to measure mechanical strain. This substitution provides more precise weight distribution measurements while simplifying the overall system architecture compared to traditional mechanical load cells or lever systems.
2Loss of information
If real-time weight monitoring is implemented, then loss of information about load characteristics is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauge provides continuous feedback about the weight distribution on the towable RV. By mounting the strain gauge on load-bearing components, the system continuously monitors and reports load characteristics, eliminating information loss about actual weight distribution while keeping the feedback mechanism simple and integrated into the pin box structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin box assembly itself serves as the monitoring device by incorporating the strain gauge directly into its structure. The existing pin box components (skid plate, column) become part of the sensing system, allowing the structure to monitor its own load characteristics without requiring separate external monitoring equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If shear spring connection is used instead of rigid connection, then adaptability to different load conditions is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic shear spring connection that can adapt to varying load conditions. The rubber shear spring allows controlled deformation and movement, enabling the pin box assembly to accommodate different weight distributions and towing conditions while maintaining reliable strain measurement capability.
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 accurate and effortless monitoring of weight characteristics, ensuring safe towing by providing real-time load data, thereby mitigating the risks associated with unknown forces on the towing vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
a strain gauge may be mounted to an upper surface of the skid plate... The strain gauges in the aforementioned locations measure strain as the weight of a towable RV is placed upon a fifth wheel hitch
Implementation Method 2
The rubber member resists relative movement of the upper plate with respect to the lower plate
Data Source
AI summary
A pin box assembly having a column connected to a skid plate with an upper and lower surface. A kingpin is affixed to and extends from the skid plate. The skid plate is restrained from movement with respect to the column, and the column is for being connected to a towable RV. A strain gauge may be mounted to an upper surface of the skid plate. As an alternative to mounting the strain gauge to the skid plate, the strain gauge may be mounted to the column of the pin box. The strain gauges in the aforementioned locations measure strain as the weight of a towable RV is placed upon a fifth wheel hitch.