Removable Trailer Hitch Security System with Integrated Alarms and GPS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch security systems have limited effectiveness in preventing theft and tampering, as they do not provide comprehensive protection against unauthorized access or tampering with vehicles and trailers.
Innovation Solution
A removable trailer hitch security system featuring a housing assembly with locking pins, an electrical system that activates audible and visual alarms, sends electronic signals for GPS tracking, and locks the electronic brake system, along with sensors that detect tampering and operate on vehicle or backup power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical locking systems are used for trailer hitches, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the security effectiveness is limited and cannot prevent determined theft attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple security functions (audible alarm, visual alarm, GPS tracking, and mechanical locking) into a single integrated control unit that interfaces with the trailer hitch. This merging of functions increases security effectiveness while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple security functions simultaneously: it activates audible alarms, visual alarms, GPS tracking, and mechanical locking mechanisms. This multi-functionality addresses the reliability concern by providing layered security while the integration helps manage the complexity issue.
2Reliability
If multiple security features (alarms, GPS, braking) are integrated into the hitch system, then comprehensive protection against theft and tampering is achieved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the existing trailer electrical connector as an intermediary to power and communicate with the security system components. This allows the system to leverage existing vehicle infrastructure, reducing installation complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection through multiple security features.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically activates security functions based on sensor inputs without requiring manual intervention. The control unit monitors for tampering attempts and autonomously triggers alarms, GPS tracking, and locking mechanisms, simplifying operation while providing comprehensive protection.
3Reliability
If sensors and electronic systems are added to detect tampering, then the ability to detect and respond to theft attempts improves, but the device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sensing and event-triggered alarm activation rather than continuous operation. Sensors monitor for tampering conditions and only activate power-intensive functions (alarms, GPS tracking) when tampering is detected, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining reliable tampering detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors detect tampering conditions and feed this information to the control unit, which then activates appropriate security responses. This feedback loop enables reliable tampering detection while optimizing power usage by activating functions only when needed based on sensor input.
Data Source
AI summary
A removable trailer hitch security system, comprising a housing assembly. The housing assembly comprises first and second ends and at least first, second, third, and fourth walls. The first and second walls comprise first holes that align. The first holes having first cooperative dimensions and shape to receive a first locking pin therethrough. The first end receives a hitch of a trailer assembly. A male member protrudes from the second end. The male member has a distal end. The male member further comprises fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth walls. The fifth and sixth walls comprises second holes that align. The second holes have second cooperative dimensions and shape to receive a second locking pin therethrough. The distal end inserts into a hitch receiver of a vehicle assembly. The present invention further comprises first and second cable assemblies and an electrical system.