Tow Ball Camera Assembly for Precise Trailer Hitch Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tow ball alignment systems lack a convenient and effective way for drivers to visually confirm proper alignment of the tow ball with the trailer hitch during backing, especially when using a camera system that is not easily concealed and protected.
Innovation Solution
A tow ball device with an integrated storage space for a camera unit that captures imagery of the trailer hitch, remotely communicates with a personal electronic device for alignment confirmation, and is concealed by a removable cap to protect the camera.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera system is mounted on the tow ball to capture imagery of the trailer hitch, then alignment accuracy is improved, but the camera unit lacks protection and concealment when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The camera unit is nested within a storage space inside the tow ball, allowing the camera to be concealed and protected when not in use, while still being accessible when needed for alignment tasks
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a removable cap is added to conceal and protect the camera unit, then camera protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap serves multiple functions: it acts as a protective cover for the camera unit, a concealment mechanism when the camera is not in use, and maintains the aesthetic appearance of the tow ball, thereby reducing the need for separate protective components
3Ease of operation
If the camera unit is integrated into the tow ball with a storage space, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage space for the camera unit is merged with the internal structure of the tow ball, creating an integrated design that simplifies installation by eliminating separate mounting components while maintaining structural integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A tow ball camera assembly includes a tow ball that has a storage space is integrated into the tow ball. A camera unit is insertable into the storage space in the tow ball thereby facilitating the camera unit to capture imagery of a trailer hitch when the vehicle is backed to position the tow ball beneath the trailer hitch. The camera unit is in remote communication with a personal electronic device thereby facilitating a driver of the vehicle to see when the tow ball is properly positioned to attach the trailer hitch to the tow ball. A cap is removably attachable to the tow ball and the cap is positioned in the storage space when the cap is attached to the tow ball thereby facilitating the cap to conceal the camera unit. The cap is removable from the tow ball to expose the camera unit.