Vehicle Towing Device Composite Cross-Member Lightweight Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitches for vehicles are not optimized for lightweight construction and efficient space usage, lacking a design that balances strength and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A towing device with a tubular cross-member and high-strength, composite longitudinal members featuring a coupling system with a pivot or sliding bearing, allowing for compact storage and secure attachment of trailers, utilizing integrated mounting brackets for secure connection to the vehicle frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional trailer hitches are designed with robust structural components, then load-bearing strength is improved, but weight increases and space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material construction for the towing device components, combining materials with different properties to achieve optimal strength-to-weight ratio. The cross-member and longitudinal members utilize composite structures that maintain load-bearing capacity while significantly reducing overall weight compared to traditional solid metal constructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing device is divided into modular segments including a cross-member, multiple longitudinal members, and interchangeable coupling components. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for strength and weight, while enabling selective assembly based on specific towing requirements, thus reducing unnecessary weight.
2Strength
If traditional trailer hitches use substantial structural components, then load-bearing strength is improved, but space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-member is designed with a hollow tubular cross-section rather than solid construction, utilizing the dimensional space efficiently. This tubular structure provides adequate structural integrity and load-bearing capacity while minimizing the volume occupied by the component, allowing for compact integration under the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling arm and coupling ball are designed to be storable within or adjacent to the cross-member structure when not in use. The longitudinal members are positioned to allow compact folding or nesting of the coupling components, reducing the overall volume requirement while maintaining full functionality during operation.
3Volume of moving object
If coupling components are made movable for storage, then space efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arm is designed with pivot bearings that allow it to rotate between a working position (extending rearward for trailer coupling) and a rest position (folded against the vehicle). This dynamic capability enables compact storage while maintaining full coupling functionality, with the pivot mechanism providing smooth controlled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing a complex retraction mechanism to pull the coupling components inward for storage, the design allows the coupling arm to fold outward and rest against the vehicle body. This inverted approach simplifies the mechanism by utilizing the vehicle body as the storage surface rather than requiring active retraction systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The coupling device (11) has a pipe section provided partially with square cross section. The cross-beam (13) is provided at end portions of transverse support longitudinal beams. The cross-beam is provided in central longitudinal plane of passenger car (1) with receptacle portion (36) for connection system (19) of coupling device. A rectangular cross section is provided at end portions of cross beam. The upper and lower sides of rectangular cross section and rear facing upright side of cross beam are connected with longitudinal beam in travel direction (C) by fastening bracket.