Springless Ball Hitch Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball and socket hitch systems are complex, require numerous parts, and often rely on springs for operation, leading to increased maintenance and complexity in connection and disconnection processes.
Innovation Solution
A socket apparatus with a swivel member and lock mechanism that automatically secures onto a hitch ball without springs, featuring a socket member with an open bottom and a ramp member for easy alignment and adjustment, allowing for simple and economical operation with reduced maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring-based locking mechanisms are used in ball and socket hitch systems, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring component from the locking mechanism, extracting the problematic element that caused complexity and maintenance issues while preserving the essential locking function through a simpler cam-based design
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism automatically locks onto the ball when the socket is lowered and automatically returns to the open position when disconnected, eliminating the need for springs to bias the mechanism while maintaining reliable operation
2Reliability
If multiple parts are used in ball and socket hitch systems, then the locking function is improved, but the ease of manufacture and operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into fewer components - the cam member integrates both the locking action and the automatic return function, while the single arm structure combines support and leverage functions that would otherwise require separate parts
Solution Approach 2:
The single arm structure serves multiple purposes: it provides structural support, transmits force to the cam mechanism, and enables the automatic return motion, eliminating the need for separate biasing springs and complex linkages
3Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms are used, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of operation and disconnection simplicity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using springs to actively push the locking mechanism into place, the patent uses gravity and the cam geometry to passively lock when the socket is lowered, inverting the approach from active spring-based locking to passive geometry-based locking
Data Source
AI summary
A socket hitch apparatus comprises a socket member defining a socket. A swivel member is attached to the socket member about a horizontal swivel pivot axis located rearward of the socket, such that the swivel member can pivot from an open position to a closed position. The front ball engaging portion of the swivel member defines a ball recess between upper and lower recess ends, the recess configured such that as the hitch ball moves upward into the socket, same pushes the upper recess end upward and when the hitch ball reaches the top of the socket, the swivel member is locked in the closed position and the lower recess end is under a periphery of the hitch ball. A forward end of a lower surface of a ramp member is located below a rear edge of the socket and slopes downward and rearward from the forward end thereof.