Automatic Trailer Jack Latching via Pivoting Link Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jack assemblies for trailers require manual operation to latch and unlatch in the raised position, leading to wear and potential failure due to sliding contact, which is inefficient and prone to mechanical issues.
Innovation Solution
A jack assembly design featuring a pivoting link member and retainer member with a linear actuator that automatically latches and unlatches the leg, minimizing sliding contact through pivotal movement, utilizing a hydraulic linear actuator to control the position of the link member and retainer member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch or pin is manually operated to latch the jack in the stored position, then the jack can be secured in the raised position, but manual operation is required which reduces ease of operation and increases loss of time
Solution Approach 1:
The jack assembly automatically latches itself in the raised position through the interaction between the retainer member and link member. When the leg reaches the raised position, the retainer member pivots to engage with the link member, securing the jack without requiring manual intervention. This self-latching mechanism eliminates the need for manual operation while maintaining reliable latching.
2Reliability
If a latch or pin is manually operated to unlatch the jack, then the jack can be released from the raised position, but manual operation is required which reduces productivity and increases loss of time
Solution Approach 1:
The jack assembly automatically unlatches itself when the leg is lowered. As the leg moves from the raised position, the link member pivots and disengages from the retainer member, automatically releasing the latch. This self-unlatching mechanism eliminates the need for manual operation, improving productivity and reducing loss of time.
3Ease of operation
If sliding contact is used between the jack and hook to release the hook, then the jack can be unlatched, but considerable wear on the hook occurs which leads to failure over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces sliding contact with pivotal movement. The retainer member and link member both pivot about fixed axes rather than sliding against each other. This dynamic change from sliding to pivotal contact dramatically reduces wear on the components, enhancing durability and reliability while maintaining the unlatching capability.
4Ease of operation
If sliding contact is used between the jack and hook, then the jack can be released from the raised position, but the sliding contact results in considerable wear which increases loss of time due to maintenance and potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces sliding contact with pivotal movement. The retainer member and link member both pivot about fixed axes rather than sliding against each other. This dynamic change from sliding to pivotal contact dramatically reduces wear on the components, enhancing durability and reliability while maintaining the unlatching capability.
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
The solution allows for automatic and reliable latching and unlatching of the jack assembly, reducing wear and enhancing operational efficiency by eliminating the need for manual operation and sliding contact, thereby extending the lifespan of the components.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator which is actuatable to be extended in length between opposing first and second ends of the linear actuator from a retracted position of the linear actuator to an extended position of the linear actuator
Implementation Method 2
the retainer member being biased towards the latched position
Data Source
AI summary
A jack assembly for mounting on the hitch arm of a wheeled implement frame supports the wheeled frame relative to a ground surface upon which the wheeled frame is engaged. A jack frame of the assembly is fixedly mounted onto the implement frame and pivotally supports a leg for movement between a raised transport position and a lowered position to support the implement frame elevated above the ground when stationary. A first catch on a retainer member pivotal on the jack frame cooperates with a second catch on a link member pivotal on the leg. A linear actuator coupled between the jack frame and the link member acts to both (i) release the catches and extend the leg towards the lowered position, and (ii) engage the catches and raised the leg towards the raised position.