Trailer Hitch Carrier System with Deformable Bending Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch systems for passenger vehicles face challenges in achieving lightweight construction while simplifying manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A carrier system comprising a cross member connected via bending elements introduced into receptacles, allowing for easy assembly and a lightweight design, using conventional manufacturing methods and high-strength materials like extruded profiles, with a connection system that includes a pluggable coupling arm and a dovetail connection for the ball neck and receiving element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If conventional trailer hitch systems are used, then structural strength is maintained, but weight reduction and manufacturing simplification are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer hitch is divided into separate modular components: a cross member with receptacles and longitudinal members with bending elements. These segments can be manufactured independently using conventional extrusion and forming processes, then assembled through the bending elements engaging with the receptacles, reducing overall weight while maintaining strength and simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The design employs composite construction combining extruded profile materials for the cross member and formed bending elements for the longitudinal members. This allows optimization of each component's material properties and weight, while the assembly of these composite parts creates a lightweight yet strong trailer hitch system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If complex connection systems are used, then structural stability is improved, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bending elements are designed to automatically engage with the receptacles through their own deformation characteristics. When the longitudinal members are positioned, the bending elements deform and lock into the receptacles without requiring additional fastening operations, providing self-securing structural stability while minimizing connection system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system utilizes controlled parameter changes in the bending elements - specifically their deformation state - to achieve stable connection. The bending elements transition from a flexible state during assembly to a locked state when engaged with the receptacles, providing structural stability through material parameter change rather than complex mechanical fastening.
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 system facilitates a sophisticated, lightweight trailer hitch design that is easier to manufacture and maintain, with improved interaction between the cross member and longitudinal members, enabling efficient coupling and uncoupling of trailers.
Implementation Method 1
bending elements introduced into receptacles and brought into end positions by one or more deformation processes
Data Source
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AI summary
The system has a cross beam (13) represented as a pipe section. A connection system is provided in a middle longitudinal plane of a passenger car and at end regions (14, 15) with longitudinal beams (16, 17). A coupling device is held in a position at structure sections and arranged in a rear part of the car. The cross beam is provided adjacent to the end regions with the longitudinal beams under an interposition of bending elements (32-39) in receivers (24-31), where the bending elements are passed in the end positions by deformation processes and connected with the longitudinal beams. The longitudinal beams are made of high-strength flat material i.e. metal and a composite material. An independent claim is also included for a method for connecting longitudinal beams with a cross beam.