Trailer Coupling Cladding for Aesthetic and Functional Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitches face challenges in balancing mechanical requirements with aesthetic considerations, and existing solutions do not effectively address the need for a simple and efficient way to meet both mechanical and aesthetic demands while protecting functional units from environmental elements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a non-load-bearing cladding that covers the support structure, providing aesthetic enhancement and protection for functional units without significantly impacting the mechanical properties of the support structure, and allowing for the integration of functional units such as sensors and lighting systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the support structure is designed to meet mechanical requirements, then the mechanical strength and stability are improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to exposed free spaces and structural elements
Solution Approach 1:
A cladding is introduced as an intermediary element between the support structure and the external environment. This cladding covers the free spaces and structural elements of the support structure, providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance while not interfering with the mechanical function of the support structure. The cladding acts as a mediator that resolves the conflict between mechanical requirements and aesthetic appearance.
2Device complexity
If functional units are integrated directly onto the support structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the aesthetic appearance and protection from environmental factors deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cladding serves as an intermediary carrier for functional units. Instead of mounting functional units directly onto the support structure, they are attached to the cladding, which provides a clean, aesthetic surface. This approach maintains low device complexity while improving appearance and providing protection from environmental factors.
3Weight of moving object
If free spaces are left exposed in the support structure, then the weight is reduced and functional units can be accommodated, but the aesthetic appearance and protection from environmental factors deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cladding is designed to cover exposed free spaces of the support structure, providing protection from environmental factors such as water and debris. The cladding is attached in a way that does not significantly increase the weight of the ball neck, thus maintaining the weight reduction benefit while adding protective coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to improve a trailer coupling comprising a vehicle-mounted assembly unit, a bearing unit held on the assembly unit with which a first end region of a support structure of a ball neck is connected, and a coupling element arranged on a second end region of the support structure of the ball neck, in particular designed as a coupling ball, and at least one functional unit associated with the ball neck, in particular arranged on it, in such a way that aesthetic requirements can be met in a simple manner and with as little effort as possible, it is proposed that the support structure be provided with a cover at least in some areas, that the at least one functional unit is held on the cover, and that this cover extends along the support structure over at least half of a partial area of the support structure located between the end regions.