Trailer Hitch Locking Ring Prevents Actuator Pin Backout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adjustable height trailer hitches lack durability and strength, particularly in the securement of actuator pins and key cylinders, which can lead to instability during towing.
Innovation Solution
An improved adjustable height trailer hitch design featuring a ball mount assembly with an actuating pin and locking ring system, where the actuating pin is secured in an actuating bore using a locking ring to prevent backout, and a tool is provided for installing the locking ring, enhancing the hitch's durability and strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional adjustable height trailer hitches are used, then the hitch provides basic height adjustment functionality, but the securement of actuator pins and key cylinders lacks durability and strength
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: an actuator pin for engagement, a locking ring for retention, and a key cylinder for operation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the locking ring providing dedicated securement strength for the actuator pin while the key cylinder maintains rotational accessibility for unlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring is positioned within the actuator bore to secure the actuator pin, creating a nested arrangement where the locking ring is received by the actuator bore wall. The key cylinder is similarly nested within the same bore, with the actuator pin extending through both components. This nested structure maximizes space utilization while ensuring the actuator pin remains securely retained during towing operations.
2Strength
If the actuator pin is securely locked in place, then durability is improved, but the ability to rotate the key cylinder for unlocking may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring provides localized securement at the actuator pin engagement point within the actuator bore, while the key cylinder maintains its rotational freedom in the adjacent region. The actuator pin is designed with a head portion that engages the locking ring and a shaft portion that extends through the key cylinder, allowing the key cylinder to rotate around the pinned shaft without interfering with the locking engagement.
3Reliability
If a locking ring is installed in the actuator bore, then the actuator pin securement is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring, actuator pin, and key cylinder are integrated into a single actuator assembly that is installed as one unit in the actuator bore. The locking ring is received by the actuator bore wall, the actuator pin extends through both the locking ring and key cylinder, and all components work together in a coordinated manner to provide securement and unlocking functionality without requiring separate mounting operations for each component.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable height trailer hitch may include a shank portion configured and adapted to be installed into a hitch receiver. The hitch may further include a drop bar extending downwardly from the shank portion. The drop bar may further include a plurality of pin receiving holes formed in the drop bar. The hitch may further include a ball support member having a locking pin disposed in a locking-pin bore and an actuator pin disposed in an actuator bore. The hitch may further include a locking ring disposed in an annular groove of a cylindrical sidewall of the actuator bore. The locking ring may prevent backout of the actuator pin.