Multi-Directional Trailer Hitch Alignment for Solo Hookup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hooking up a trailer to a vehicle is challenging for solo drivers, requiring patience and external guidance, as it involves precise alignment and positioning of the trailer hitch, which can be difficult without assistance.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional trailer hitch system with hydraulic actuators and a controller that allows the trailer hitch connector to move in six directions (in, out, side-to-side, and up-down) relative to the mounting frame, enabling solo drivers to align and secure the trailer without external help.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional fixed trailer hitch is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the driver cannot align the hitch independently without external guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed, static hitch structure into a dynamic, multi-directional adjustable system. The hitch connector can move in six directions (in/out, side-to-side, up/down) through slide assemblies that convert rotational motion from actuators into linear displacement, enabling the driver to independently align and connect to the trailer without external guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hydraulics principle by using hydraulic actuators powered by a pump to drive the slide assemblies. The hydraulic system provides the force necessary to move the heavy hitch connector through its range of motion in multiple directions, enabling precise positioning and alignment while maintaining system reliability through fluid-powered actuation.
2Productivity
If manual hitch alignment is used, then the system requires no additional components, but the process is time-consuming and requires external guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the self-service principle by enabling the driver to control the hitch alignment independently from inside the vehicle using a joystick or control panel. The system eliminates the need for external guidance by providing self-contained actuators and control mechanisms that allow the driver to perform the entire hitching process alone, significantly improving productivity and reducing dependency on assistants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated hydraulic actuation system. Instead of requiring the driver to physically maneuver the vehicle back and forth for alignment, the hydraulic actuators automatically position the hitch connector in six directions, substituting complex manual mechanical operations with a controlled hydraulic-mechanical system that increases speed and reduces effort.
3Reliability
If precise alignment is required without assistance, then connection reliability improves, but the alignment process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dimensionality change principle by adding six degrees of freedom (in/out, side-to-side, up/down movements) to the traditional single-axis hitch alignment. This multi-dimensional adjustment capability allows the hitch connector to reach the trailer coupler from various positions and angles, significantly improving connection reliability while maintaining ease of operation through hydraulic automation that eliminates the difficulty of precise manual alignment.
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
Enables solo drivers to easily and efficiently connect trailers by allowing independent movement of the hitch connector, reducing the need for external guidance and simplifying the hitching process, while also providing vertical adjustment for cargo leveling.
Implementation Method 1
one or more actuators configured to selectively effect slide movement of one or more of the first slide assembly, second slide assembly, and third slide assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-directional trailer hitch system may include a mounting frame; a first slide assembly configured to slideably engage with the mounting frame, wherein the first slide assembly is configured to slide longitudinally in and out from the mounting frame; a second slide assembly configured to slideably engage with the first slide assembly, wherein the second slide assembly is configured to slide laterally in a side to side direction relative to the first slide assembly; a third slide assembly configured to slideably engage with the second slide assembly, wherein the third slide assembly is configured to slide vertically in an up and down direction relative to the second slide assembly; and one or more actuators configured to selectively effect slide movement of one or more of the first slide assembly, second slide assembly, and third slide assembly.