Trailer Landing Leg Locking Pin Assembly for Theft Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer landing leg locks are easily circumvented, lack smart technology, are inconvenient to use, and not compatible with semi-trailers or fifth wheel type hitches, making them ineffective against theft.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism for trailer landing legs featuring a bracket, crank shaft attachment, and locking pin assembly with a motor-driven locking pin, integrated sensors, and wireless communication for remote monitoring and auto-locking capabilities, using one-time fasteners for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used for trailer landing legs, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the security against theft is weak and they can be easily circumvented
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional modules: a locking pin assembly with motor-driven pin, a bracket system with one-time fasteners, and a control system with sensors and wireless communication. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while maintaining overall security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with an electric motor-driven locking pin actuated by a wireless control system. The motor provides controlled movement of the locking pin, and the wireless communication enables remote operation, eliminating the need for manual mechanical operation while enhancing security.
2Ease of operation
If traditional landing leg locks are used, then the device is simple and compact, but it lacks smart technology and is inconvenient to use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates automatic detection and operation capabilities through sensors that detect the landing leg position and automatically trigger the locking or unlocking sequence. The system serves itself by monitoring its own state and executing appropriate actions without requiring constant user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to continuously monitor the position of the landing leg and the state of the locking mechanism, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback enables the system to automatically adjust its operation, confirm locking status, and provide real-time information to the user via wireless communication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing locking mechanisms are installed on semi-trailers, then they may work with certain hitch types, but they are not compatible with fifth wheel type hitches commonly used with semi-trailers
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed with a universal bracket system that can be adapted to different hitch types including fifth wheel hitches. The bracket incorporates adjustable mounting options and one-time fasteners that can secure the locking mechanism to various landing leg configurations, making it compatible across different semi-trailer and hitch combinations.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism for a trailer landing leg is described. The locking mechanism has a bracket, a crank shaft attachment, and a locking pin assembly. The bracket securely attaches over the crank shaft of the landing leg via one or more one-time fasteners. The locking pin assembly attaches to the bracket via one or more one-time fasteners. The crank shaft attachment attaches to the crank shaft and the handle via one or more one-time fasteners. The crank shaft attachment surrounds the crank shaft and the handle. The locking pin assembly has a locking pin that transitions between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking pin prevents the crank shaft attachment from rotating when in the locked position. The locking pin assembly also has a processor, a GPS tracker, sensors, and a wireless communication device that can detect tampering and alert a user.