Trailer Coupler Integrated Locking Pin Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard trailer couplers are vulnerable to theft due to separate locking devices that can be lost, bulky, complicated to use, and susceptible to unauthorized detachment, failing to adequately protect trailers from unauthorized towing.
Innovation Solution
An integrated lock system within the trailer coupler, featuring a ball clamp that moves between locked and unlocked positions via a handle, with a locking pin and mechanism to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking device is used to secure the trailer coupler, then the coupler can be locked, but the locking device can be lost, misplaced, or detached by unauthorized persons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking device directly into the coupler body, merging two previously separate components (coupler and lock) into a single unified structure. The lock mechanism is housed within the coupler socket area, with the locking pin extending into the socket to secure the ball, eliminating the need for separate external locking devices that could be lost or detached.
2Reliability
If a locking device is shaped to cover at least a portion of the coupler socket, then the lock can engage the socket, but the locking device becomes bulky and complicated to use
Solution Approach 1:
The lock is integrated within the coupler body structure, utilizing the existing coupler socket space rather than adding external covering components. The locking pin extends directly into the socket from within the coupler body, maintaining a compact profile that does not protrude significantly and remains easy to operate.
3Reliability
If prior art locking devices are used, then the coupler can be locked, but the locking devices require a significant amount of time to properly secure to the trailer coupler
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated lock mechanism is built into the coupler body, eliminating the need for separate attachment steps required by external locking devices. The locking pin is positioned within the coupler socket area and can be engaged directly without requiring separate mounting operations, significantly reducing the time needed to secure the trailer coupler.
4Reliability
If a separate locking device is used, then the coupler can be locked, but the locking device is susceptible to unauthorized detachment from the coupler
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is integrated within the coupler body structure, with the locking pin extending directly into the coupler socket from the integrated housing. This unified structure eliminates the attachment interface between separate components that vulnerable external locks have, making unauthorized detachment impossible as the lock and coupler form a single structural unit.
5Ease of operation
If prior art locking devices are removed from the coupler, then the locking device can be detached, but the operation of the coupler socket is not hindered, allowing theft
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated lock mechanism is designed so that the locking pin extends into the coupler socket itself, making the lock and socket operation interdependent. When locked, the pin prevents ball insertion; when unlocked, it allows normal socket operation. This integration ensures that removing or detaching the lock mechanism would compromise the coupler socket's structural integrity and functionality, thereby preventing theft while maintaining ease of legitimate operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a trailer coupler having an integrated locking device attached to the handle or the coupler body. The handle of the trailer coupler moves from a first position where the hitch ball is insertable to a second position where the hitch ball is prevented from insertion. The locking device having a locking pin that is insertable into the aperture of the handle to prevent movement of the handle from the second position to the first position.