Rotatable Tow Hitch Sleeve for Tool-Free Ball Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tow hitches require frequent and inconvenient changes of tow balls to accommodate different trailer sizes and loads, often necessitating tool use and facing issues with rusted parts, which complicates the towing process.
Innovation Solution
A multi-ball tow hitch with a rotatable shank sleeve and spring-loaded indexing plungers allows for easy selection and switching of tow ball sizes without removing the hitch from the vehicle, enabling seamless adaptation to various load ratings by rotating the tubular shank sleeve around a shank shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tow balls are provided to accommodate different trailer sizes and loads, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tow balls of different sizes are combined into a single rotatable assembly that attaches to the hitch receiver as one unit. The assembly includes a hub with multiple balls mounted at different radial positions, allowing the user to rotate the entire assembly to select the appropriate ball size rather than handling separate tow balls and adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable assembly serves multiple functions: it provides different tow ball sizes (2-inch, 2-5/16-inch, etc.), acts as a selection mechanism through rotation, and maintains a secure attached state through the indexing plunger system. This single component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate adapters or tow balls.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tow balls are made removable and exchangeable, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to tool requirements and rusted parts
Solution Approach 1:
The selection mechanism (rotation), locking mechanism (indexing plungers), and multiple tow balls are merged into a single integrated assembly. The user rotates the entire assembly rather than removing individual balls, and the indexing plungers automatically lock into place to secure the selection without requiring separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing plunger system provides automatic locking and securing when the rotatable assembly is rotated to the desired position. The plungers engage with corresponding slots or notches in the hub, self-securing the selection without requiring additional tools or manual fastening operations by the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent tow ball changes are required, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases due to removal and replacement processes
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tow balls are pre-mounted onto the rotatable assembly during manufacturing, positioned at specific radial locations. The user does not need to attach or configure anything during the change process; they simply rotate the pre-configured assembly to the desired ball position, dramatically reducing the time required for switching between different tow ball sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, fixed tow balls requiring removal and replacement to a dynamic, rotatable assembly where selection is achieved through rotation. This dynamic mechanism allows rapid switching between different ball sizes in a single rotational motion rather than through multiple discrete assembly and disassembly steps.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a tow hitch that includes a shank, an elongated shank having a first end and a second end and a rectangular cross-section having four side surfaces adapted to slideably fit within a receiver located on a towing vehicle. A shank shaft extends outwardly from the second end of the shank a sufficient length to accommodate the tubular shank sleeve. The shank shaft is somewhat smaller that the shank and is sized to accommodate a shank sleeve. The shank shaft may be circular so that the shank sleeve can be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the shank shaft. When in place over the shank shaft the first end shank sleeve abuts the second end of the shank. Tow balls are secured to respective side walls of the shank sleeve. The shank sleeve is retained on the shank shaft by an end cap having a space to receive the outer end of the shank shaft and is held in place by a pin through the top and bottom of the end cap and through the end of the shank shaft. Each tow ball is held in the desired position by a spring loaded indexing plunger.