Utility Arms for Fifth Wheel Kingpin Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fifth-wheel coupling system for trailers lacks a practical method to utilize the kingpin when the trailer is not in use, limiting the ability to attach decorative and functional items to the trailer.
Innovation Solution
The development of utility arms that can be securely attached to the kingpin of a fifth-wheel coupling, allowing a portion of the arm to extend past the trailer end, with features like a recessed attachment end and locking pin for securement, and adjustable abutment braces for stability, enabling the attachment of various utility devices such as flag holders, signage, and bike racks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the kingpin is left exposed after uncoupling the trailer, then the trailer is ready for next towing, but the kingpin cannot be used for attaching decorative and functional items
Solution Approach 1:
The kingpin is segmented into a functional towing portion and a utility attachment portion. The utility arm attaches to the kingpin's exposed end, separating the towing function from the decorative/utilitarian function, allowing both purposes to be served independently without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The kingpin structure is designed to serve multiple functions: its primary function for towing remains intact, while its exposed end provides a universal attachment point for utility arms that can hold decorative items, functional equipment, or accessories. This multi-functionality maximizes the use of the kingpin beyond just towing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If utility arms are attached to the kingpin, then decorative and functional items can be secured to the trailer, but the structural integrity for towing may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The kingpin is divided into distinct functional zones: the main body portion that handles towing loads, and the exposed end portion that serves as an attachment point for utility arms. This segmentation ensures that the towing function and utility attachment function are separated, allowing the utility arm to be attached without compromising the kingpin's structural integrity for towing purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility arm acts as an intermediary component between the kingpin and the items to be attached. Instead of directly attaching items to the kingpin, the utility arm serves as a mediator that distributes loads and provides a secure attachment mechanism, protecting the kingpin's structural integrity while enabling versatile attachments.
3Ease of operation
If the utility arm extends past the trailer end, then items are accessible and visible, but the arm requires secure attachment mechanisms to prevent detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The utility arm includes pre-formed attachment features such as recesses, slots, or mounting brackets that are built into the structure before use. These preliminary attachment preparations allow for quick and secure mounting to the kingpin without requiring complex assembly procedures, balancing accessibility with secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility arm's attachment mechanism incorporates nested components where smaller fastening elements are housed within the arm's structure. For example, mounting brackets or fasteners can be stored within recesses in the utility arm itself, allowing for compact and secure attachment while maintaining simplicity in the overall design.
Data Source
AI summary
Utility arm apparatuses for securement to a kingpin of a fifth wheel coupling of a trailer and related methods are provided herein. A utility arm apparatus can include an elongate body having an attachment end and a utility end. The attachment end can include a recessed portion for receiving a neck portion of a kingpin of a fifth wheel coupling secured to the trailer such that the utility end extends outward from the kingpin past an end of the trailer. The utility arm apparatus can further include a utility device secured to the utility end of the elongate body such that the utility device is positioned past the end of the trailer when the attachment end of the elongate body is secured to the kingpin.