Trailer Hitch Bracket Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trailer hitch systems require unloading and reloading or removal from a vehicle to adjust height and leverage, which is inefficient and inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

A trailer hitch system comprising a first bracket assembly, a second bracket assembly, a coupler assembly, and a jack assembly that allows mechanical adjustment of the first bracket relative to the second, enabling vertical movement and attachment to a vehicle hitch without detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If trailer hitch systems use traditional adjustment methods, then the structure remains simple, but the operation requires unloading and removing the trailer which is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustment efficiencyVSAvoidtime for unloading and reloading

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the hitch assembly to be repositioned vertically while the trailer remains attached to the vehicle. The bracket assembly can be moved between multiple height positions using a mechanical adjustment system with pins and slots, eliminating the need to detach the trailer for adjustments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hitch assembly is divided into separable components including a bracket assembly, hitch receiver, and adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows the bracket to be independently adjusted relative to the hitch receiver, enabling height changes without removing the entire trailer from the vehicle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the trailer hitch allows vertical adjustment of the bracket, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases with additional mechanical components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheight adjustment capabilityVSAvoidmechanical adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides adjustable height positions through a mechanical linkage system where the bracket can be positioned at multiple predetermined heights. The adjustment mechanism uses a combination of fixed and movable components that allow vertical repositioning while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket assembly is pre-configured with multiple adjustment positions and alignment features that guide the adjustment process. Pins and slots are pre-positioned to ensure proper alignment and facilitate straightforward height changes without complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8733781B2Trailer hitch system and method

Publication Date: 2014.05.27 SIMS JERRY

AI summary

A trailer hitch is disclosed. Said trailer hitch comprises a first bracket assembly, a second bracket assembly, a coupler assembly, and a jack assembly. Said jack assembly is capable of mechanically adjusting first bracket assembly relative to second bracket assembly. Said coupler assembly is capable of releasably attaching to a hitch on a vehicle.