Weight-Distributing Trailer Hitch With Measured Spring Bar Preload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current weight distributing trailer hitches require an iterative trial and error process to achieve correct weight distribution, and they do not effectively manage tongue weight, which can lead to trailer sway or overloading, compromising vehicle safety.
Innovation Solution
A weight distributing trailer hitch with a spring bar and load measurement device that adjusts the tilt angle and preload to evenly distribute trailer weight between the front and rear axles of the tow vehicle, using a method that calculates the adjusted downward force based on measured distances and loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional weight distributing hitch is used, then weight distribution function is provided, but iterative trial and error setup process is required which is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a load measurement device that provides real-time feedback on tongue weight and weight distribution. This feedback mechanism allows the user to see the actual weight distribution results and make precise adjustments without iterative trial and error, directly resolving the contradiction by enabling one-step setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical trial-and-error adjustment process with an electronic measurement and calculation system. The load measurement device, processor, and display work together to calculate optimal spring bar preload and guide adjustments, substituting mechanical guessing with electronic precision.
2Reliability
If tongue weight is not properly managed, then trailer sway or overloading occurs, but traditional hitches lack effective tongue weight management capability
Solution Approach 1:
The load measurement device continuously monitors tongue weight and provides feedback to the user through a display. This real-time monitoring enables the user to maintain tongue weight within the safe 9-15% range, preventing trailer sway and overloading while adding minimal complexity through electronic sensors and display.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis and guidance by automatically calculating the optimal spring bar preload based on measured loads and providing step-by-step adjustment instructions. This self-service capability enhances safety without requiring complex external monitoring systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise weight distribution adjustment is desired, then accurate measurement and calculation capabilities are needed, but traditional hitches lack measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces imprecise mechanical estimation methods with electronic load measurement devices and processor-based calculations. The system accurately measures tongue weight and calculates optimal spring bar preload, achieving precise weight distribution through electronic computation rather than mechanical guessing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital representation of the physical weight distribution state through sensors and processors. This digital copy allows for precise calculation and analysis of weight distribution without physically disturbing the system, enabling accurate measurement and adjustment guidance.
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 quicker and more convenient setup of trailer weight distribution without disassembly, reducing the risk of trailer sway and overloading by ensuring even weight distribution across the tow vehicle's axles.
Implementation Method 1
a spring bar for distributing weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a load measurement device to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball
Data Source
AI summary
A weight distributing trailer hitch and associated method are described. The weight distributing trailer hitch can include a hitch portion for interfacing with a hitch receiver associated with a vehicle. The weight distributing trailer hitch can also include a ball portion to facilitate coupling with a tongue of a trailer. In one embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar vertically pivotal relative to the hitch portion, and an adjustment mechanism actuatable to selectively adjust a tilt angle of the spring bar relative to the hitch portion to vary preload on the spring bar and adjustably distribute weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle. In another embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar for distributing weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle, and a load measurement device to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball.