Towing Hitch Assembly with Automatic Spring Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing towing hitch assemblies for auto-guided vehicles in industrial settings require human intervention for connection and disconnection, limiting maneuverability and storage options, and lack efficient automatic retraction mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A towing hitch assembly with a slidably movable second part that automatically retracts when disconnected, utilizing a retraction device like a helical spring and a locking mechanism using the towing vehicle's upper side for gravity-assisted locking, allowing for easy connection and disconnection without human interaction and enabling convenient storage of the carrier vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a mechanism is used to automatically disengage the connecting recess, then human intervention is reduced, but the maneuverability of the combined system is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The towing hitch assembly is divided into two separate parts: a first part attached to the carrier vehicle and a second part attached to the towing vehicle. This segmentation allows each part to be independently controlled, enabling automatic connection/disconnection while maintaining maneuverability when disconnected.
Solution Approach 2:
The second part is made slidably movable relative to the first part, transitioning between retracted and extended configurations. This dynamic design allows the hitch to adapt its state based on operational needs, providing automation during towing while maintaining flexibility for storage and maneuvering.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second part is made extendable for towing, then towing capability is improved, but the ability to store the carrier vehicle conveniently is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The second part transitions between retracted and extended configurations based on operational requirements. When not in use, it retracts to minimize space requirements for storage, while extending when towing is needed, thus resolving the contradiction between towing capability and storage convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The retraction device automatically returns the second part to its retracted configuration after disconnection, eliminating the need for manual repositioning and ensuring the hitch is always in the optimal storage position without human intervention.
3Extent of automation
If a retraction device is installed to automatically retract the second part, then automation is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The retraction device is designed to automatically return the second part to its retracted position using spring force or gas pressure, eliminating the need for manual operation or complex control systems. This self-service mechanism achieves automation while keeping the device relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The retraction device uses simple, readily available components such as helical springs or gas springs that are cost-effective and can be acquired off-the-shelf, reducing both complexity and cost while providing reliable automatic retraction functionality.
4Loss of substance
If the recess has a triangular shape for guiding, then material usage is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The recess is designed with an asymmetric triangular shape that provides effective guiding functionality while using less material than a symmetric circular design would require. The asymmetric geometry is well-suited for manufacturing through standard machining processes, balancing material efficiency with manufacturability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables automatic connection and disconnection of towing vehicles, enhances maneuverability, and allows for convenient storage of the carrier vehicle, reducing human intervention and operational complexity while maintaining cost-effectiveness and simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
the second part will attend the first retracted configuration automatically, by means of an installed retraction device acting to slidably retract the second part... it comprises a helical spring and/or a gas spring
Implementation Method 2
a locking device is provided on the second part... uses a side of a towing vehicle to be kept in locking position, wherein the side is preferably an upper side of a towing vehicle
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A towing hitch assembly (1), wherein the towing hitch assembly (1) comprises a first part (2) that is connectable to a carrier vehicle (15) and a second part (3) which is attachable to a towing vehicle (20), the second part (3) being slidably moveable relative to the first part (2), between a first retracted configuration (A), and a second extended configuration (B), wherein when the first part (2) is attached to a carrier vehicle (15), a towing vehicle (20) can by engaging a connecting section (4) of the second part (3), pull the second part (3) to the second extended configuration (B), wherein the second extended configuration (B) allows for towing the carrier vehicle (15), and wherein when a towing vehicle (20) disengages the connecting section, the second part (3) will attend the first retracted configuration (A) automatically, by means of an installed retraction device (5) acting to slidably retract the first part (2).The disclosure also relates to a towing system (30).