Trailer Hitch Projector Using Plug-In Ground Image Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lighting systems require expertise for installation and do not allow for image or video display, limiting consumer personalization and safety in low-light environments.
Innovation Solution
A trailer hitch projector that mounts to a vehicle's trailer hitch, connected to the trailer light electrical outlet, projecting images or videos onto the ground for enhanced under-carriage lighting and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional vehicle lighting systems are used, then installation requires expertise and proper securing, but this limits ease of installation for consumers
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into separate modular components including the projector unit, mounting bracket, and electrical connector. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and positioned, significantly reducing installation complexity while maintaining proper securing through dedicated mounting hardware for each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-aligning mounting features and plug-and-play electrical connectors that automatically interface with standard vehicle trailer hitch outlets. This self-service design eliminates the need for expert installation knowledge, as the components guide themselves into proper positioning and electrical connection during installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional colored lighting systems are used, then vehicle personalization is limited, but these systems cannot display images or videos
Solution Approach 1:
The projector system serves multiple functions: it can display static images, animated videos, colored light patterns, and safety warning symbols. This multi-functionality is achieved by integrating a programmable projector with memory storage capabilities, allowing a single device to replace multiple traditional lighting systems while enhancing both personalization and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses digital image projection to create virtual visual displays on the ground surface, effectively copying and projecting graphical content without requiring physical installation of multiple traditional light sources. This digital copying approach enables complex visual personalization while maintaining relatively simple hardware architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If image or video projection is added to lighting systems, then consumer imagination can be fully realized, but installation difficulty increases due to electrical connection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the vehicle's existing trailer hitch electrical outlet as an intermediary power source. By designing the projector to interface with this standard outlet through a simple adapter connector, the system leverages an existing infrastructure component to provide power and ground connections, eliminating the need for complex hardwiring while enabling full image and video projection capabilities.
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
Facilitates easy installation and provides enhanced visibility of debris and hazards, improving safety in low-light conditions by allowing for image or video projection and increased vehicle visibility.
Implementation Method 1
The projector element and circuit board or processing unit are in communication with a power supply. The trailer hitch projector displays an image on the ground underneath the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer hitch projector and lighting device comprises a housing, a circuit board disposed within the housing and a projector element disposed within the housing. The projector element comprises a lens, a brake light disposed within said housing, and an attachment means. The projector and lighting device is operable to be mounted in and attached to the trailer hitch of a vehicle and connected to the trailer light electrical outlet. The trailer hitch projector displays an image on the ground underneath the vehicle allowing for consumer vehicle personalization and provides the benefit of increased vehicle under-carriage lighting.