Trailer Hitch Mount Unit Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trailer-hitch systems with removable connector mounts face issues of rattling and vibration due to load-induced gaps between the mount and receiver, leading to noise and potential damage, especially when the connector is not removed, risking damage to adjacent vehicles during contact.
Innovation Solution
A trailer-hitch system with a mechanism that locks the mount unit into the hitch frame receiver using a wedge bar and actuator bolt, allowing radial movement of abutments to press against the receiver's inner surface, securing the mount unit and preventing rattling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the connector is left installed on the vehicle, then the vehicle can quickly be prepared for towing, but the connector may damage adjacent vehicles during contact
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is extracted from the vehicle when not in use by removing the mount unit from the receiver. The quick-release mechanism allows the mount unit to be rapidly removed, eliminating the hazard of the connector protruding and potentially damaging adjacent vehicles during parking or maneuvering.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the mount is made removable for safety, then damage risk to adjacent vehicles is reduced, but space between mount and receiver causes rattling and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism performs preliminary action by securing the mount unit to the receiver before any vibration or rattling can occur. The quick-release latch creates immediate positive engagement that eliminates gaps and prevents relative movement between components during vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic quick-release connection that maintains security during operation. The mount unit can be rapidly engaged and disengaged, providing both safety when removed and secure attachment when installed, adapting to different operational states.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a locking mechanism is added to eliminate vibration, then rattling is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release latch mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, allowing the user to quickly engage and disengage the mount unit without requiring tools or complex procedures. The spring-loaded latch automatically secures the mount when inserted and can be easily released by operating the release lever.
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 solution effectively eliminates rattling and vibration, ensuring secure attachment and preventing damage by locking the mount unit firmly in place, allowing for safe and quiet operation of trailer-hitch systems.
Implementation Method 1
pressing the member portion radially against an inner surface of the receiver by actuating a mechanism to lock the ball-mount unit in the receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer-hitch system comprises a hitch frame adapted to be secured to a vehicle and having a receiver for accommodating a foremost end of a mount unit. The mount unit has a member portion in mating engagement with the receiver of the hitch frame. A connector for connection with a trailer is provided at a rearmost end. The trailer-hitch system also comprises a mechanism actuated to press a portion of the member portion against the receiver for locking the mount unit into the mating engagement with the receiver. A method for locking a mount unit in a receiver of a hitch frame is also provided.