Pivotable Step Platform for Trailer Hitch Ball
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing step platform devices for vehicles are cumbersome, prone to loss, and safety concerns arise when permanently attached, as they can be slippery in wet or snowy conditions, and require frequent disconnection and reconnection, especially for workmen who need to use them multiple times a day.
Innovation Solution
A step platform device designed to be taller than the trailer hitch ball, easy to mount and detach, and securely locked to the vehicle, allowing for use during driving without falling off, featuring a pivotable connection system and a locking mechanism to prevent theft and slipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the step platform device is permanently connected to the trailer hitch ball, then the device remains always available for use, but the device becomes slippery and unsafe in wet or snowy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The step platform device is designed to be dynamically positionable - it can be permanently mounted to the trailer hitch ball but moved between different positions. The device includes a movable platform that can be positioned above the ball (safe for standing) or moved down to cover the ball surface (preventing slipping). This dynamic adjustment allows the device to maintain availability while ensuring safety in different weather conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the step platform device is disconnected frequently for multiple uses during a day, then the device can be used as needed, but the device becomes cumbersome and parts may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The step platform device integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure. The platform, mounting mechanism, and covering function are combined into one device that attaches to the trailer hitch ball as a complete unit. This eliminates the need to handle separate parts like locking pins or multiple connection elements, making frequent attachment and detachment simple and reducing the risk of losing components.
3Reliability
If the step platform device is made taller than the trailer hitch ball, then safe standing surface is provided, but the device requires more space and may be harder to mount
Solution Approach 1:
The step platform device is segmented into distinct functional components: a mounting portion that attaches to the trailer hitch ball, a vertical support structure, and a horizontal platform surface. This segmentation allows the mounting mechanism to be designed independently to simplify attachment, while the platform height is optimized for safe standing. The modular structure makes the overall device easier to mount despite its height.
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a step platform device (10) for connection to a trailer hitch ball (2), the step platform device (10) comprising a trailer hitch ball connection device (20) comprising first and second connection elements (30, 40) pivotably connected to each other by means of a first connection device (15) about a first axis (Al). A platform device (50) is provided above the trailer hitch ball connection device (20); where the platform device (50) comprises an upwardly facing step surface (51) and a platform element (52) provided below the step surface (51). A link device (60) comprises a link element (61). The platform element (52) and the first connection element (30) are pivotably connected to each other about a second axis (A2) by means of a second connection device (16). The link element (61) and the second connection element (40) are pivotably connected to each other about a third axis (A3) by means of a third connection device (17). The platform element (52) and the link element (61) are pivotably connected to each other about a fourth axis (A4) by means of a fourth connection device (18). The step platform device (10) is configured to be provided in a closed state and in an open state, where the ball connection interface (21) may be connected onto the trailer hitch ball (2) in the closed state and where the ball connection interface (21) may be moved away from the trailer hitch ball (2) in the open state.