Receiver Adapter With Movable Bias Post For Universal Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch step assemblies are not adaptable to fit different sized receivers, leading to complexity and instability when trying to secure the step to various receiver sizes, often requiring multiple adapters or secondary sleeves.
Innovation Solution
A receiver adapter with a hitch post featuring a stable post and a movable bias post that adjusts between removable and locked positions, using a bias member and adjuster to increase cross-sectional thickness and secure the step within the receiver, ensuring stability across various receiver sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hitch step is designed to fit one specific receiver size, then the assembly is simple and stable for that size, but it cannot be used with different receiver sizes without additional adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch post incorporates a movable bias post that can shift between positions to adapt to different receiver sizes. The bias post is biased by a spring mechanism, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position based on the receiver dimensions, enabling a single hitch step design to fit multiple receiver sizes without requiring separate adapters for each size.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch post is designed with universal adaptability to work with multiple receiver sizes (e.g., 1.25-inch, 2-inch, 2.5-inch receivers) through the adjustable bias post mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized adapters, allowing one hitch step assembly to serve universal purposes across different receiver configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters or secondary sleeves are used to fit different receiver sizes, then adaptability is improved, but the assembly becomes more complex and users have difficulty determining the proper adapter
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the adaptability function from separate external adapters and integrates it directly into the hitch post itself. The bias post mechanism is built into the hitch post, eliminating the need for users to select and attach separate adapters. This integration simplifies the user experience by making the correct adapter selection unnecessary - the hitch post automatically adapts to the receiver size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hitch post is made adjustable to fit different receivers, then versatility is improved, but the stability and locking reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bias post mechanism is self-adjusting and self-locking. When the hitch post is inserted into a receiver, the bias post automatically shifts position under spring bias to fit the specific receiver size, then locks into place through friction and geometric constraints. The system serves itself by automatically adapting and securing without requiring user intervention for adjustment or locking, ensuring both versatility and reliable stability.
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 adapter allows the hitch step to be securely locked into receivers of different sizes and shapes, providing a stable platform for users regardless of the receiver's dimensions, simplifying the assembly process and enhancing user safety.
Implementation Method 1
a bias member moves the bias post relative to the stable post; a bias member extends from the stable post to the bias post and, upon movement of an adjuster, the bias post moves relative to the stable post to increase a height or a cross-sectional thickness of the hitch post
Implementation Method 2
the post wedge and the bias post wedge are in contact with each other; an angle of the post wedge and angle of the bias post wedge are complimentary so that the post wedge abuts the bias post wedge in a substantially flush manner
Data Source
AI summary
A receiver adapter comprising: a hitch post including: (i) a stable post and (ii) a bias post that is movable relative to the stable post between a removable position and a locked position. The receiver adapter may include a bias member that extends from the stable post to the bias post and, upon movement of an adjuster, the bias post moves relative to the stable post to increase a height or a cross-sectional thickness of the hitch post.