Retractable Electrical Adapter with Rotating Disc Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for towing vehicles often result in dangling wiring harnesses that are prone to damage, exposure to the elements, and unsightly appearance, with existing solutions either causing wiring issues or being ineffective in preventing damage.
Innovation Solution
A retractable adapter with a rotating disc assembly, wire guide assembly, and adjustable 7-way blade connector insert that securely stores the wiring harness when not in use, featuring a circuit tester with LEDs and a backup alarm, allowing for easy extension and retraction to prevent damage and ensure a tidy appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the wiring harness is allowed to dangle or drag from the towing vehicle, then the electrical connection can be maintained, but the wiring becomes damaged and dirty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a retractable wiring harness mechanism that dynamically adjusts the length and position of the wiring harness. The spring-loaded retractor automatically extends the wiring when needed for connection and retracts it when not in use, preventing damage from dragging while maintaining electrical connectivity. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between maintaining connection reliability and preventing wiring damage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the wiring is wrapped around the trailer hitch or shortened, then the plug or receptacle is protected from damage, but the wiring crimps, stretches or becomes inoperative
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable mechanism with spring-loaded tension dynamically manages wiring tension and position. The spring system provides controlled tension that prevents the wiring from crimping or stretching while keeping the plug protected. The wiring can extend smoothly when needed and retract cleanly when not in use, maintaining operability while preventing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor mechanism acts as an intermediary between the wiring harness and the towing vehicle. It provides a controlled interface that manages the wiring's deployment and retraction, preventing direct contact with the ground or vehicle frame that would cause damage, while maintaining the wiring's electrical integrity through proper tension management.
3Reliability
If the plug or receptacle trails behind the towing vehicle, then the electrical connection is maintained, but the wiring drags on the ground and causes damage
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable wiring harness dynamically adjusts its length based on connection needs. When a trailer is connected, the wiring extends to provide the necessary electrical connection. When disconnected, the spring mechanism automatically retracts the wiring, lifting it off the ground and preventing drag-related damage. This dynamic behavior maintains electrical reliability while eliminating ground contact hazards.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the wiring harness is made retractable, then the wiring is protected from damage and maintains a tidy appearance, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded retractor mechanism is self-regulating and requires minimal external control. The spring automatically provides the force needed for extension and retraction based on the wiring's position and tension, eliminating the need for complex motors, sensors, or control systems. This self-service approach provides effective wiring protection while keeping the device relatively simple in construction.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a retractable adapter for connecting a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle. The retractable adapter may include a lower housing, an upper housing and a retractable mechanism to store the wiring harness when not in use with the towed vehicle. The lower housing may be attached to the towing vehicle. The adapter may include a rotating disc assembly, a wire guide assembly and an electrical connector or wiring harness that may be coiled around the wire guide assembly. The adapter may also include a circuit tester with light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a backup alarm. In addition, the adapter may mate a seven-way blade connector to a four-flat connecter harness.