Tethered Hitch Pin Coupling System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing hitch coupling mechanisms for motor vehicles are prone to misalignment and dislodgment of pin and clip components during coupling operations, leading to increased complexity and risk of damage from environmental strains, particularly when towing equipment over uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system where a pin is tethered to a coupling member that interfaces between the hitch and ball mount, serving as a seal and reducing the need for frequent removal and insertion, thereby simplifying the coupling process and mitigating the risk of misplacement or loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a pin and clip are used to securely couple the ball mount to the receiving portion, then the coupling strength is improved, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation deteriorates due to the difficulty of correct insertion and risk of dislodgment
Solution Approach 1:
A tether is introduced as an intermediary element that connects the pin to the coupling member. This tether acts as a mediator that prevents the pin from becoming dislodged or lost during insertion and operation, while not interfering with the secure coupling function. The tether bridges the gap between the pin and the coupling member, ensuring the pin remains accessible and properly positioned.
2Reliability
If the pin and clip are securely fastened to prevent dislodgment, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The tether serves as a simple intermediary component that adds minimal complexity while significantly improving reliability. Rather than complex locking mechanisms or multiple fastening elements, the tether provides a straightforward solution that prevents pin loss and dislodgment through a single, elegant component.
Solution Approach 2:
The tether is implemented as a flexible, thin element that can easily conform to the geometry of the pin and coupling member. This flexible tether provides reliable retention without adding rigid structural complexity, allowing it to bend and move with the components while maintaining the protective function.
3Ease of operation
If the pin is tethered to the coupling member, then the ease of operation is improved by preventing loss and misplacement, but the device complexity increases due to the additional tether component
Solution Approach 1:
The tether as an intermediary element simplifies the operational aspect of pin retrieval and prevention of loss. While it adds a component to the system, the tether's function is so straightforward and effective that it reduces operational complexity by eliminating the need to search for misplaced pins or deal with complex retention mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system includes a coupling member configured to couple to a connection mechanism that couples a motor vehicle to transportation equipment, and a pin, coupled to the coupling member through a tether, configured to be inserted into an aperture of the connection mechanism.