Trailer Hitch Force Measurement via Integrated Spring Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trailer hitch systems fail to accurately measure and balance trailer load distribution, leading to unsafe towing conditions due to inadequate weight measurement and distribution mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A trailer weight distribution system that includes a force measurement device, such as a load cell, hydraulic piston, or coil spring, integrated with spring bars and brackets to measure and redistribute the trailer load across the tow vehicle and trailer axles, providing real-time feedback for safe loading and towing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional trailer hitch systems are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ability to measure and balance trailer load distribution is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces spring bars as intermediary elements between the trailer frame and tow vehicle. These spring bars act as mechanical mediators that not only transfer and distribute the trailer load but also serve as the measurement mechanism itself through integrated load cells or force sensors, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring bars perform multiple functions simultaneously: they distribute the trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle and trailer axles, provide mechanical suspension, and serve as the structural element that houses or integrates the force measurement capability. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.
2Reliability
If force measurement devices are integrated into the hitch system, then load distribution can be measured and balanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the force measurement function directly into the spring bar structure itself. Load cells or force sensors are integrated within the spring bars or at their mounting points, combining the structural load-bearing function with the measurement function into a single unified component, thereby reducing the number of separate parts and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring bars automatically perform load distribution and measurement without requiring external intervention. The system self-regulates by distributing the trailer tongue weight through the spring bars to achieve proper load balance on the tow vehicle and trailer axles, with the measurement capability providing real-time feedback on the load distribution status.
3Ease of operation
If manual pinning methods are used to secure the ball support member, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the ease of operation and adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static, manually-pinned ball support member to a dynamic, selectively adjustable system. The ball support member can be quickly repositioned between multiple discrete mounting locations on the weight distribution bar using a simplified pin or quick-release mechanism, allowing easy adjustment of the ball height and angle to accommodate different trailer and tow vehicle configurations without complex manufacturing requirements.
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 effectively measures and balances the trailer load, ensuring safe and proper tongue weight distribution, reducing the risk of unsafe towing by providing accurate load data for users to adjust and maintain optimal trailer and tow vehicle axle loads.
Implementation Method 1
a force measurement device, such as a load cell
Implementation Method 2
a force measurement device, such as a load cell, hydraulic piston
Implementation Method 3
a force measurement device, such as a load cell, hydraulic piston, or coil spring
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer force measurement system includes a tow hitch, a hitch mount connected to the tow hitch and a spring bar connected to the hitch mount. The trailer force measurement system also includes a trailer having a frame, where the spring bar is connected to the trailer frame via a bracket. A hitch coupler is then connected to the trailer frame and configured to releasably couple the trailer frame to the hitch mount. A force measurement device is then disposed on the bracket and configured to measure force exerted on the bracket by the spring bar.