Self-aligning Trailer Hitch Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer-to-vehicle attachment methods require multiple efforts and are not laterally stable, making them cumbersome and inefficient for secure and easy connection.
Innovation Solution
A self-aligning attachment mechanism featuring a wedge plate on the trailer that aligns vertically and laterally with a receiving plate on the vehicle, assisted by a latch system that can be powered for secure locking and unlocking, allowing the trailer to maneuver independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual attachment methods are used, then the trailer can be connected to the vehicle, but multiple manual efforts are required and lateral stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The attaching plate incorporates a wedge feature that automatically performs alignment functions when the trailer is pushed toward the vehicle. The wedge geometry causes the attaching plate to self-align vertically and laterally with the receiving plate without requiring manual positioning adjustments, enabling attachment with only a single axial pushing effort
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge feature changes the geometric parameters of the attaching plate during the attachment process. As the trailer is pushed forward, the wedge converts the axial motion into vertical and lateral displacement, automatically adjusting the position of the attaching plate to match the receiving plate's alignment requirements
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional attachment methods are used, then the trailer can be connected to the vehicle, but lateral stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge feature on the attaching plate performs self-alignment in both vertical and lateral directions. When the trailer is pushed toward the vehicle, the wedge geometry automatically positions the attaching plate laterally aligned with the receiving plate, achieving lateral stability without requiring complex external alignment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge feature utilizes three-dimensional geometry to solve alignment problems in multiple dimensions. The wedge converts single-axis axial motion into simultaneous vertical and lateral positioning, achieving alignment in two dimensions through motion in one dimension
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added, then the connection security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the receiving plate when the trailer is pushed forward. The wedge feature's axial motion directly drives the latch into the locked position, eliminating the need for separate manual locking operations while maintaining connection security
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment and locking functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The wedge feature simultaneously performs vertical alignment, lateral alignment, and latch actuation, combining multiple functions into one motion and one structural component
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 a single-axis manual attachment with enhanced lateral stability and ease of use, allowing the trailer to accommodate vertical movements and road irregularities, improving the efficiency and security of the connection process.
Implementation Method 1
vertical and lateral self-alignments are enabled by a wedge feature of the trailer's attaching plate
Implementation Method 2
the latch is adapted to freely lift up over a guiding surface of the receiving plate and to then fall into latching grasp of the receiving plate
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer to vehicle laterally stable hitching mechanism wherein an attaching plate of the trailer vertically and laterally self-aligns into a receiving plate of the vehicle establishing the trailer as an operational extension of the vehicle.