Pivoting Trailer Coupling With Independent Rest-Position Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer couplings are not compact and simple enough to be used in confined spaces, necessitating a design that allows for efficient use in limited areas while maintaining reliability and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A trailer coupling with a rest position locking device independent of the rotation-blocking device, featuring a deactivation unit that automatically locks the pivot bearing body in the rest position without requiring additional actuation, and a branching gear system to drive both the pivoting movement and deactivation of the locking mechanism, utilizing a planetary gear for efficient power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the trailer coupling uses a single integrated locking mechanism for both rest position and working position, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and functional independence of locking operations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent subsystems: a rest position locking device with its own locking body and locking receptacle, and a rotation-blocking device with rotation-blocking bodies. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized for its specific function and operate independently, improving reliability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
2Extent of automation
If the rest position locking device is activated by detecting the rotational position of the pivot bearing body, then the automation level is increased, but the functional reliability of the locking mechanism deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rest position locking device is designed to automatically engage when the pivot bearing body reaches the rest position through its own mechanical configuration, without requiring external control systems or sensors to detect rotational position. The locking body automatically moves into the locking receptacle based on the mechanical state of the system, ensuring both automation and high reliability through passive mechanical self-locking.
3Device complexity
If the rotation-blocking device is designed to handle both rest position and working position loads, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation-blocking device is designed with local optimization: the rotation-blocking bodies are specifically configured to handle working position loads when engaged, while the rest position locking device handles rest position loads. This local specialization allows each component to be optimized for its specific load case, improving ease of operation by ensuring the appropriate locking mechanism is always active for the current operational state.
4Volume of moving object
If the trailer coupling is designed for compactness to fit confined spaces, then the volume is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanisms are designed with nested arrangements where the locking bodies and receptacles are integrated into the existing pivot bearing body and guide body structures. The rest position locking device and rotation-blocking device share common mounting locations and structural elements, achieving compactness by nesting multiple locking functions within the same spatial envelope rather than adding separate external locking mechanisms.
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 design allows for a compact and reliable trailer coupling that can be easily used in confined spaces, with reduced loads in the rest position and simplified locking mechanisms, ensuring high reliability and efficient operation without additional actuation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element which moves the locking body into the locking receptacle when the pivot bearing body is in a rotational position corresponding to the rest position
Implementation Method 2
a branching gear system to drive both the pivoting movement and deactivation of the locking mechanism, utilizing a planetary gear for efficient power transfer
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a trailer coupling comprising a ball neck movable between a working position and a rest position with a coupling ball, a pivot bearing unit fixed to the vehicle, and a rotary locking device with at least two rotary locking elements which are guided in a guide direction with at least one component in the radial direction to the pivot axis by means of a guide body, and with an actuating element having a wedge surface extending transversely to the guide direction for each of the rotary locking elements and rotatably arranged about the pivot axis, by the rotary movement of which in an actuating direction the at least two rotary locking elements can be moved and actuated in the guide direction, wherein a release position detent device is provided.which, in a release position of the actuating body, is movable between a detent release position that allows movement of the actuating body relative to the guide body and a detent position that fixes the actuating body relative to the guide body, and is acted upon by a spring element in the direction of the detent position, at least in the release position of the actuating body.