Sliding Hitch Self-Arming Latch Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a self-arming latching mechanism for sliding fifth-wheel hitch assemblies that is easily operable by users and features an automatic locking mechanism to prevent disengagement, with existing solutions lacking mechanical engagement to secure the latching mechanism in place.
Innovation Solution
A sliding fifth-wheel hitch with a self-arming latching assembly that includes a rotatable shaft with a handle, a spring-loaded lever arm, and a latch release and arming member, which automatically locks the hitch carriage in place upon alignment with a receiver, using a cam mechanism to pivot a latch pin into engagement and a locking finger to prevent disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring-biased locking pin is used for the latching mechanism, then the latching mechanism can be operated easily by a user, but the latching mechanism can be accidentally disengaged without mechanical engagement to prevent disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking finger is positioned to engage with the locking surface of the locking pin before the latch pin can be disengaged. This preliminary engagement creates a mechanical barrier that prevents accidental disengagement of the latching mechanism while maintaining ease of operation through the spring-biased design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism automatically pivots the latch pin into engagement with the receiver when the hitch carriage aligns with the receiver, before any manual intervention is required. This preliminary action ensures the latch is securely engaged before the user needs to interact with the system.
2Reliability
If a complex latching mechanism with multiple components is used, then the reliability of the hitch assembly can be improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism and latch pin are integrated into a single unified structure that performs multiple functions: guiding the latch pin into alignment, pivoting it into engagement, and maintaining the engaged state. This merging reduces the number of separate components while improving reliability through coordinated action.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking finger serves multiple functions: it engages with the locking pin to prevent disengagement, guides the latch pin during engagement, and maintains the latched state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Extent of automation
If a self-arming latching mechanism is implemented, then the automatic locking feature can be provided, but the mechanism may be difficult to operate or overly complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism automatically pivots the latch pin into engagement with the receiver when the hitch carriage aligns with the receiver, before any manual intervention is required. This preliminary automatic action ensures secure locking without requiring complex user manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased locking pin automatically returns to the engaged position after being disengaged, and the locking finger automatically re-engages with the locking surface. This self-service mechanism maintains the latched state without requiring continuous user intervention, simplifying operation while maintaining automation.
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 mechanism allows for easy operation of the hitch assembly, providing automatic locking and arming to secure the hitch in place, enhancing the operational safety and ease of use by preventing unintended disengagement during towing.
Implementation Method 1
A flange or lever arm extends radially outward from the shaft and is coupled at a distal end thereof to a spring. The spring is further affixed to the base assembly such that an over center condition is created
Implementation Method 2
A latch release and arming member extends from the shaft in a plane perpendicular to the length of the shaft. The latch release and arming member comprises a cam presenting a cam surface that contacts a plate to pivot the plate about a coupling with the base assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding hitch with a self-arming latch is described. The hitch includes a carriage slideably mounted on a base. The base includes a latching pin on a pivot arm that is biased to extend toward engagement with the carriage and a rotatable shaft with an arming member and a locking member. Rotation of the shaft to an unlocked orientation, cams the pivot plate away from the carriage to withdraw the pin and enable sliding of the carriage on the base. An arm of the arming member is also rotated into the path of a protuberance associated with the carriage. Contact between the protuberance and the arm during sliding of the carriage along the base causes rotation of the shaft to a locked orientation enabling extension of the pin toward engagement with the carriage and engaging the locking member with the pivot plate to restrict withdrawal of the pin.