Pivoting Hitch Latch Assembly for Secure Rack Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pivoting hitch devices for equipment racks on vehicles do not adequately prevent accidental movement during vehicle operation, and users face difficulties accessing the rear of the vehicle without removing the equipment rack, as they often interfere with the tailgate or lift gate.
Innovation Solution
A pivoting hitch device with an automatic latch assembly that includes a latch bar, actuator, connecting member, and biasing mechanism, allowing for secure positioning and easy release to pivot the equipment rack away from the vehicle, preventing accidental movement and enabling access without disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch assembly is added to prevent accidental movement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch bar is designed with a biasing mechanism that automatically returns it to the latched position after being actuated. The system self-regulates through the interaction between the latch bar's movement and the biasing force, eliminating the need for additional control mechanisms or complex actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch function is extracted as a separate, modular component (latch bar) that can independently engage and disengage from the support member. This modular approach allows the latch mechanism to be designed and analyzed separately, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of operation
If an automatic latch mechanism is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing mechanism automatically returns the latch bar to its engaged position with the support member after manual actuation. This self-returning feature eliminates the need for complex spring mechanisms or powered actuators, providing automatic operation while keeping the mechanism simple.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex mechanism to maintain the latched position, the design uses a simple biasing force that naturally pushes the latch bar toward engagement. The system inverts the approach by using passive elastic force rather than active locking mechanisms.
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 device securely positions the equipment rack away from the vehicle's rear, preventing interference with access points and ensuring safety during vehicle operation by automatically latching and unlatching to maintain stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism disposed to bias the latch bar toward the latched position
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly is described for use with a pivoting hitch device that allows the pivoting of a bicycle rack away from the rear of a vehicle to allow access to a lift gate, tail gate, trunk, hatchback, or other rear access point for a vehicle. The pivoting hitch device has two support members that are pivotally attached to one another. The latch assembly is attached to one of the support members of the pivoting hitch device, and may have an actuator, a latch bar, and a connecting member that connects the actuator to the latch bar. A latch member is attached to the other support member of the pivoting hitch device. The latch bar engages the latch member to secure the two support members in relation to one another and prevent pivotal movement.