Non-Contact Trailer Hitch Sensing to Prevent Tailgate Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trailer hitch detection systems for motor vehicles lack efficient non-contacting methods to determine the presence or absence of a trailer hitch assembly within a receiver, which can lead to unintended interactions between the tailgate assembly and the hitch assembly during operation.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system mounted within the trailer hitch receiver that changes sensor characteristics based on the presence or absence of a trailer hitch assembly, utilizing electromagnetic or capacitive sensors to produce distinct signals for detection, and signal processing circuitry to control notification devices and prevent tailgate actuation when a hitch is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sensor system is mounted within the trailer hitch receiver to detect the presence of a trailer hitch assembly, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical detection systems with electromagnetic sensors. The sensor system uses electromagnetic fields to detect the presence of the trailer hitch assembly ball, eliminating the need for mechanical switches or contact-based detection mechanisms. This substitution maintains high detection reliability while reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the sensor and the trailer hitch assembly. The sensor detects changes in the electromagnetic field caused by the metallic ball of the hitch assembly, providing indirect but reliable detection without direct physical contact. This intermediary approach simplifies the detection mechanism while maintaining accuracy.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If non-contacting sensor detection is implemented, then safety is improved by preventing tailgate interference, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces potential mechanical interference between the tailgate and hitch assembly with a non-contacting sensor-based detection system. The electromagnetic sensor detects the presence of the hitch assembly ball without physical contact, preventing tailgate interference while avoiding the complexity of mechanical interlock mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system performs preliminary detection of the trailer hitch assembly presence before the tailgate operation is initiated. By detecting the metallic ball's position in advance, the system can prevent harmful tailgate interference before it occurs, rather than relying on mechanical constraints during operation.
3Measurement precision
If electromagnetic sensors are used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic sensor system operates using periodic or pulsed electromagnetic fields rather than continuous fields. The sensor emits electromagnetic signals at intervals to detect the presence of the metallic ball, achieving precise detection while minimizing energy consumption by keeping the sensor inactive between measurement cycles.
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 reliable detection of trailer hitch assemblies, preventing tailgate interference and providing operators with accurate status notifications, thus enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor mounted in or over an opening defined through a wall, and into an interior, of a trailer hitch receiver... configured to be responsive to receipt of a trailer hitch assembly in the trailer hitch receiver to exhibit at least a first sensor characteristic, and to an absence of the trailer hitch assembly in the trailer hitch receiver to exhibit at least a second sensor characteristic
Implementation Method 2
utilizing electromagnetic or capacitive sensors to produce distinct signals for detection
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer hitch detection system may include a sensor mounted in or over an opening defined through a wall of a trailer hitch receiver mounted to a motor vehicle, the sensor configured to be responsive to receipt of a trailer hitch assembly in the trailer hitch receiver to exhibit at least a first sensor characteristic, and to absence of the trailer hitch assembly in the trailer hitch receiver to exhibit at least a second sensor characteristic discernably different from the first sensor characteristic, and signal processing circuitry operatively coupled to the sensor and configured to produce at least one trailer hitch detection signal indicating receipt of the trailer assembly in the trailer hitch receiver in response to the first sensor characteristic and indicating absence of the trailer hitch assembly in the trailer hitch receiver in response to the second sensor characteristic.