Trailer Jack Protector with Teflon Washer and Cushioned Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trailer jacks often damage vehicles, such as pickup trucks, by striking their tailgates due to the lack of protection against the top portion of the jack during operation.
Innovation Solution
A trailer jack protector device with a cushioned plastic or rubber surface, embedded metal stamping for stability, and a Teflon washer for lubricity, attached to the jack stem, which projects above the handle to prevent contact and includes adapters for various jack types, ensuring secure installation and theft deterrence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a trailer jack is used to raise and lower the trailer, then the trailer can be disconnected from the hitch, but the top portion of the jack may strike and damage the vehicle's tailgate
Solution Approach 1:
A protective device is introduced as an intermediary component between the trailer jack and the tailgate. This device includes a cushioned surface made of soft material such as rubber, foam, or plastic that contacts the tailgate first, preventing direct contact between the hard metal jack and the tailgate surface, thereby eliminating damage while maintaining the jack's lifting function
2Ease of operation
If the trailer jack top portion is exposed, then the jack can be accessed for operation, but it creates a damage hazard to surrounding objects
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device applies local quality by providing a cushioned surface specifically at the contact point where the jack top portion meets the tailgate. The soft material is positioned only where needed for protection, while the rest of the jack structure remains unchanged and accessible for operation. The device may include an opening or cutout that allows the handle to pass through, maintaining operational accessibility
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective device is added to the trailer jack, then damage to the tailgate is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device is segmented into distinct components: a cushioned surface element and a mounting bracket or adapter. This segmentation allows the protective function to be added as a separate module that can be easily attached to the existing jack structure without redesigning the entire jack system, thereby minimizing the increase in overall device complexity
4Ease of operation
If the protective device is easily removable, then it can be installed and removed conveniently, but it may be lost or stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device incorporates preliminary action through anti-theft features built into the mounting mechanism. This may include security screws, locking tabs, or adhesive elements that are applied during installation to permanently secure the device to the jack. The anti-theft feature is established in advance, preventing future removal or theft while maintaining relatively easy initial installation
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 device effectively cushions and protects vehicles from damage by absorbing impacts and preventing scratches, while its secure attachment and adapter system accommodate different trailer jack designs, reducing the risk of theft.
Implementation Method 1
The device also utilizes a Teflon® washer underneath it for lubricity and stability when it also turns as the jack handle turns to move the trailer up or down
Implementation Method 2
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cushioned plastic or rubber surface in the event of contact between a trailer jack and a portion of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer jack protection arrangement that includes a cushioned plastic or rubber surface in the event of contact between a trailer jack and a portion of the vehicle, such as a tailgate. The arrangement is attached to the trailer jack via the jack stem and projects above the jack handle or jack top cylinder, depending on the type of jack. The arrangement utilizes an embedded metal stamping to provide a mounting surface and extra stability for the plastic or rubber impact surfaces. The arrangement also utilizes a Teflon® washer underneath it for lubricity and stability when it also turns as the jack handle turns to move the trailer up or down, on a top wind jack. The alternative design provides protection for a side wind jack using an adapter, which can have several different forms to accommodate all types of trailer jacks. The design requires installation and prevents easy removal of the invention so it is not lost or stolen.