Trailer Hitch Angular Position Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch systems lack a reliable and easy-to-assemble solution for detecting the angle of the towing hitch relative to the trailer hitch, which is essential for enhancing driving stability and facilitating reverse parking of car-trailer combinations.
Innovation Solution
A trailer hitch system with a carrier and driver part design that allows for easy mounting and replacement, featuring a driver part that can be latched, clamped, or glued to the carrier, and equipped with sensors for angular position detection, including magnetic and optical components for precise angle measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sensor system for angle detection is added to the trailer hitch, then the driving stability and reverse parking capability are improved, but the device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The driver is divided into a carrier (which remains on the coupling body) and a driver part (which can be replaced). This segmentation allows the sensor system to be integrated into the replaceable driver part, enabling easy assembly and replacement without complicating the overall hitch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver part serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical coupling interface for the trailer hitch while simultaneously serving as the mounting platform for the angle detection sensor system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby reducing assembly complexity.
2Ease of repair
If the driver part is designed to be replaceable and can be latched, clamped, or glued to the carrier, then the ease of repair and maintenance are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the driver part and carrier is designed to be dynamically adjustable through multiple attachment methods (latching, clamping, or gluing). This allows the system to adapt to different installation scenarios and wear conditions, facilitating easy replacement while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection strength and method can be changed based on requirements - from permanent (glued) to semi-permanent (latched) to adjustable (clamped). This parameter flexibility enables easy repair and replacement without requiring complex disassembly mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the driver part projects outwardly in front of the coupling body surface, then the engagement with the trailer hitch is improved, but the device complexity and potential interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling body has a spherical surface, and the driver part projects outwardly from this curved surface in a controlled manner. This spherical geometry naturally guides the trailer hitch into proper engagement while the controlled projection ensures the sensor system does not interfere with the coupling operation.
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
Enables reliable and efficient detection of the trailer's angular position relative to the towing vehicle, improving driving stability and facilitating easier parking and coupling operations.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is in this case a magnetic sensor which is actuated by a magnet arranged on the driver
Implementation Method 2
The sensor arrangement comprises an optical transmitter, in particular a reflective marking, and/or an optical sensor
Data Source
Figure 1~13
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7b
AI summary
The trailer coupling (10) comprises a support (13) which is attachable to the chassis of motor vehicle (12). The housing (15) of the traction coupling (16) of trailer is placed in a coupler pocket (18) such that the housing is rotatably supported relative to the support. A sensor assembly (30) is provided for detecting the angular position of traction coupling relative to the support. A drive unit (33) is inwardly arranged in the support for driving the coupler pocket with respect to the outer surface (23a) of the spherical surface (23) of coupling housing.