Trailer Hitch Swivel Box Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aligning the ball of a tow vehicle with the coupler of a trailer is challenging, requiring precise positioning and often multiple attempts, even with backup cameras, as existing systems do not provide adequate vertical alignment feedback.
Innovation Solution
A swivel box mechanism is integrated into the trailer hitch system, allowing the trailer tongue to swing or swivel, facilitating alignment of the ball and coupler without the need for precise initial positioning, and a locking pin mechanism secures the tongue in place once aligned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a backup camera is used to assist alignment, then the driver can see the ball from inside the cab, but the alignment still requires precise positioning and multiple attempts because the camera only provides horizontal alignment feedback without vertical alignment information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spotter as an intermediary who provides the missing vertical alignment information that the camera cannot capture. The spotter uses visual cues and communication to guide the driver on vertical positioning, complementing the camera's horizontal alignment feedback and solving the incomplete information problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a human element (spotter) operating in a different spatial dimension (outside the vehicle) to provide alignment information that cannot be obtained from the camera's fixed overhead perspective inside the cab, effectively adding another dimension of observation and feedback.
2Measurement precision
If the driver backs up the vehicle multiple times to align the ball and coupler, then alignment precision can be achieved, but time is lost and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spotter who performs preliminary visual assessment and provides real-time guidance before the actual coupling attempt, allowing the driver to make adjustments without multiple backup/forward cycles. The spotter's advance guidance prevents wasted movement cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback loop where the spotter continuously monitors alignment and provides real-time verbal feedback to the driver, enabling rapid correction of misalignment without requiring multiple attempt cycles. This continuous feedback reduces both time and attempts needed for successful coupling.
3Measurement precision
If a spotter is used to guide alignment, then precise positioning can be achieved, but the complexity of the coupling process increases and requires additional personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a spotter as a simple intermediary who requires no complex equipment or technology. The spotter uses basic visual observation and verbal communication to provide alignment guidance, adding human intelligence rather than mechanical complexity to the coupling process.
4Reliability
If precise initial positioning is required for ball and coupler alignment, then successful engagement can be achieved, but the ease of operation is reduced and requires skilled maneuvering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback from a spotter who continuously monitors the alignment process and provides corrective guidance, allowing the driver to achieve precise positioning through gradual adjustments rather than requiring precise initial positioning or skilled maneuvering from the start.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved trailer hitch is presented. The tractor trailer has a main trailer frame, the main trailer for hauling cargo. To help couple a trailer cab to the trailer frame a swivel box having a spring-loaded locking pin and a permanent hinge pin is coupled to a tongue that is used to couple the trailer cab and the trailer frame. The swivel box swivels or swings the tongue to a position to accommodate a misaligned trailer cab easing the coupling process.