Stepped Receiver Pin Lock for Multi-Size Hitch Apertures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing receiver pin locks are not adaptable to various sizes of apertures in drawbars and receiver hitches, leading to the need for multiple components which can be misplaced and incorrect usage, resulting in less than optimal operational conditions.

Innovation Solution

A receiver pin lock with a stem and stepped portions of varying diameters that can be configured to fit different sized apertures in both drawbars and receiver hitches, eliminating the need for additional components and ensuring a secure fit without the risk of misplacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single size pin lock is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different aperture sizes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepin lock structureVSAvoidaperture size compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The pin lock is designed with multiple stepped portions of different diameters, allowing a single device to function with multiple aperture sizes (1/2 inch and 5/8 inch). The stem can be positioned with different stepped portions engaging the aperture edges, enabling one pin lock to universally fit different sized apertures without requiring separate locks for each size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pin locks for different sizes are used, then the adaptability to different aperture sizes is improved, but the loss of components increases due to misplacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaperture size compatibilityVSAvoidpin lock components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple pin locks of different sizes are merged into a single integrated device. The pin lock body incorporates stepped portions that combine the functionality of both 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch pin locks, eliminating the need to carry separate locks and reducing the risk of losing components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a sleeve is added to accommodate different aperture sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaperture size compatibilityVSAvoidpin lock structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stepped portions are nested within the pin lock body structure. Each stepped portion is integrated into the pin lock at different radial positions, creating a nested configuration where smaller diameter steps are contained within the overall pin lock structure, allowing size adaptation without adding external sleeves or attachments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS10654327B2Receiver pin locking device

Publication Date: 2020.05.19 HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC

AI summary

A receiver pin lock for insertion into first and second sized opposed engaging apertures of first and second hitch receivers is shown and described. The receiver pin lock may include a stem, a first stepped portion extend from the stem, and a lock member selectively engageable with the stem, the lock member preventing removal of stem from either of the first and second hitch receivers. The receiver pin lock may also include a second stepped portion positioned on the lock member and extending from the stem, where the stem is configured to operatively engage the first sized engaging apertures of the first hitch receiver and the first and second stepped portions are configured to operatively engage the second sized engaging apertures of the second hitch receiver.