Trailer Hitch Water and Air Storage System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for storing water and compressed air on vehicles, such as recreational and off-road vehicles, are cumbersome, dangerous, and add weight, often requiring additional canisters or compressors, which are not efficiently integrated into the vehicle's design.
Innovation Solution
A trailer hitch or hitch bumper system that can be used for both water and compressed air storage, adaptable to various vehicle configurations, allowing for the storage of air or water and offering additional capacity for pressurized water use, with components like quick connects and pressure gauges for versatile applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional canisters are used for water and air storage, then storage capacity is provided, but the system becomes cumbersome and adds weight to the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the trailer hitch structure with water and air storage tanks into a single integrated unit. The hitch receiver is merged with the tank assembly, eliminating the need for separate canisters and reducing overall system weight while maintaining storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch assembly serves multiple functions: it provides vehicle towing capability through the hitch receiver while simultaneously functioning as a storage container for water and compressed air. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated storage components.
2Quantity of substance
If additional compressors are installed for air storage, then air availability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The air storage tank is integrated into the hitch assembly structure, combining the compressor mounting function with the storage function in a single unit. This reduces system complexity compared to separate compressor and canister arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the vehicle's existing engine-driven compressor rather than requiring additional dedicated compressors. The integrated hitch tank works with the vehicle's existing air generation capability, eliminating the need for extra compression equipment.
3Quantity of substance
If separate canisters are used for water and air, then storage is provided, but ease of operation and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Water and air storage are combined in a single integrated hitch assembly with unified access points. The quick-connect fittings for both water and air are located on the same assembly, improving accessibility and ease of operation compared to separate distributed canisters.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch assembly provides universal access to both water and air resources through a single integrated interface. Users can access either resource from the same location on the vehicle, simplifying operation compared to searching for separate canisters.
Data Source
AI summary
A water and compressed air storage trailer hitch, also adaptable as a bumper and trailer hitch, providing for emergency water for both drinking and as an engine coolant. The emergency air storage is of sufficient capacity to fill tires, toys, and a host of other devices, while offering a strong trailer hitch for towing. Various embodiments with various storage capabilities and water and air inlet and outlet fitting options are offered to fit a variety of vehicles.