Removable Fifth Wheel Coupler for Truck Bed Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer-grade fifth wheel hitches are cumbersome and require extensive modifications to install, often necessitating multiple people for lifting and positioning, and are typically left as permanent fixtures due to the inconvenience of removal and custom installation procedures.
Innovation Solution
A hidden vehicle frame system with standard adapter rails and a lightweight fifth wheel coupler system that includes a king pin adapter and ball coupler, allowing for easy attachment and removal, with the option to modify the truck bed for access windows and mounting pegs for secure installation without custom hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a consumer-grade fifth wheel hitch is used, then the coupling can be lighter and smaller, but it requires multiple people to lift and position and is difficult to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The fifth wheel hitch is divided into two separate components: a lightweight removable coupler and a stationary base mounted to the vehicle frame. This segmentation allows the coupler to be easily removed and reinstalled by a single person, while the base remains fixed to provide structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
A ball coupler mechanism serves as an intermediary between the removable coupler and the stationary base. This intermediary component enables quick attachment and detachment of the coupler without requiring heavy lifting or complex installation procedures.
2Reliability
If extensive modifications are made to install a fifth wheel hitch, then the coupling can be securely installed, but the installation becomes a custom procedure requiring professional help
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary base is designed with universal mounting features that can be adapted to various vehicle frame configurations. Standardized mounting holes and attachment points allow the same base design to be used across different vehicle models, eliminating the need for custom fabrication for each installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary base is pre-mounted to the vehicle frame during vehicle manufacturing or initial installation. This preliminary action creates a prepared mounting structure that simply requires the coupler to be attached, rather than requiring custom installation procedures each time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fifth wheel hitch is left as a permanent fixture, then it remains readily available, but the truck bed space is encumbered and cannot be used for other materials
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler component is extracted from the traditional permanent fifth wheel hitch configuration and made removable. This allows the coupler to be taken out and stored when not in use, freeing up truck bed space for other materials while maintaining the ability to quickly reattach when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch system transitions from a static permanent fixture to a dynamic removable configuration. The coupler can be easily attached when towing is needed and removed when truck bed space is required for other purposes, providing adaptability between different usage scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling mechanism for attaching a fifth wheel RV trailer to a truck for towing. A fifth wheel towball interface which provides unobstructed gimbal action into the connection between truck and trailer. A fifth wheel base having a lightweight structure made from a lightweight material and/or engineered design with lightweight in mind.