Single Handle Trailer Hitch Control Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailer hitches are difficult for older operators to use due to accessibility and strength requirements, and they lack robustness and reliability, with potential for unintended release or breakage.
Innovation Solution
A hitch design featuring a single handle with a short release throw, a control rod that translates within a sleeve, a latch for secure positioning, and a follower that indicates the hitch's position, along with kingpin recesses and a bearing structure that is stiffer in roll than in pitch, allowing for easy operation and secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control mechanisms are used, then the hitch can securely engage the trailer, but the controls require excessive force and are difficult for older operators to access and operate
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle is positioned in the rear wheel well area, moving it from a traditional location in the truck bed to a more accessible position near the operator. The control rod translates linearly within a sleeve, converting rotational handle movement into linear motion that actuates the jaw mechanism, making operation easier for older operators with limited strength and mobility
Solution Approach 2:
A control rod serves as an intermediary mechanism between the operator's handle and the jaw assembly. The control rod translates linear motion within a sleeve to actuate the movable jaw, providing mechanical advantage and reducing the force required by the operator to open and close the hitch jaws
2Reliability
If the hitch is designed to be strong and secure, then it can reliably engage the trailer, but it becomes more complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a fixed jaw, a movable jaw, a control rod within a sleeve, and a latch mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying manufacturing and assembly. The bearing structure is also segmented with separate roll and pitch bearing assemblies
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is extracted as a separate safety component that can independently secure the control rod in either the engaged or disengaged position. This extraction allows the primary jaw actuation mechanism to remain simple while adding reliability through the independent safety latch feature
3Reliability
If the hitch uses mechanical controls, then it remains reliable without power loss, but it requires the operator to climb into the truck bed to access the controls
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle and rod are repositioned from the traditional truck bed location to the rear wheel well area, utilizing vertical and horizontal space in a different dimension. This allows the operator to access and operate the mechanical controls from ground level without climbing into the truck bed, while the mechanical linkage maintains reliable power-free operation
Data Source
AI summary
A hitch includes a control linkage having a single handle on a control bar. The control linkage doubles to provide both a positive safety feature and a movement feature to the hitch, permitting single handed operation of both the positive safety feature and the opening of the hitch with the single handle. A release throw of four inches or less opens jaws of the hitch. A latch is included which can secure the control bar in either a secured position or in a release position. A follower is secured to one of the jaws to maintain timing between the jaws, and the follower doubles as a hitch position indicator so an operator to easily visually discern the position of the hitch. By including kingpin recesses of appropriate location and depth on the jaws, the hitch can be used with or without a lube plate over the skid plate.