Tow Hook Clevis Pin Geometry for Lug Wrench Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tow hook assemblies require a separate wrench for adjustments, which is inconvenient and unsightly, and do not seamlessly integrate with existing vehicle lug nut wrenches.
Innovation Solution
A tow hook assembly featuring a clevis pin with a bolt head portion having equidistant edges that engage with a vehicle lug nut wrench, allowing for adjustments using the existing wrench.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate wrench is provided for adjusting the tow hook, then the tow hook can be adjusted for clearance, but the driver must keep an additional tool in the vehicle which is inconvenient and unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The tow hook assembly is designed to be adjustable using the vehicle's existing lug nut wrench, which serves multiple purposes. The bolt head portion of the clevis pin is configured with edges that engage with the lug nut wrench, allowing the same tool to adjust both wheel lug nuts and tow hook position, eliminating the need for a dedicated adjustment tool.
2Strength
If the tow hook is made rigid to withstand large towing forces, then it can remain secured to the vehicle, but it cannot be easily adjusted or detached
Solution Approach 1:
The tow hook assembly is divided into separable components: the tow hook body, the clevis pin, and the bolt head portion. This segmentation allows the assembly to be adjusted or detached by removing the clevis pin using the lug nut wrench, while the main tow hook structure remains rigid for withstanding towing forces during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The tow hook assembly transitions from a fixed state during towing operations to an adjustable or detachable state when needed. The clevis pin design with engaged edges allows dynamic reconfiguration - secure during use, but easily adjustable or removable when clearance is needed or the vehicle needs to be moved.
Data Source
AI summary
A tow hook assembly includes a receiving member and a clevis pin. The clevis pin has a bolt portion formed by a number of equidistant edges. Each pair of adjacent edges define an interior side wall that extends between the pair of adjacent edges. The interior side wall is recessed with respect to the edges. The bolt portion is configured such that the edges engage with a vehicle lug nut wrench.