Vehicle Hitch with Sensor-Guided Alignment and Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch designs for connecting implements to vehicles are prone to failure due to inaccurate operation, especially in varying conditions, leading to degradation of both the hitch and the implement.
Innovation Solution
A hitch design comprising a first frame with L-shaped parallel elongated members and a second frame with complementary linkage members, featuring locking mechanisms that engage when the upper male connectors of the first frame are received by the upper female connectors of the second frame, facilitating secure and stable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hitch designs are used, then the structure is simple, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to inaccurate operation in varying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing operational instructions and guidance before the connection operation is performed. The system includes a user interface that displays step-by-step instructions, alignment indicators, and operational guidance to help users perform the connection accurately under varying conditions, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex mechanical structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through sensors that detect the relative position and orientation of the hitch components, providing real-time information to the user interface. This feedback allows users to adjust their actions based on actual alignment status, ensuring accurate connection even in challenging operating conditions while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure
2Ease of operation
If conventional hitch designs are used, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in accurate attachment under various conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of sensors, processors, and a user interface that mediates between the user and the hitch components. This intermediary provides alignment indicators, operational guidance, and status feedback, making the attachment operation easier and more intuitive without fundamentally changing the mechanical structure of the hitch itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment and locking mechanisms with electronic sensors and software-based guidance systems. Instead of relying solely on mechanical features for alignment and secure attachment, the system uses electronic detection and digital instruction to guide users through the attachment process, reducing mechanical complexity while improving ease of operation
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A hitch for connecting an implement to a vehicle. The hitch comprises a first frame for attachment to the vehicle and a second frame for attachment to the implement. The hitch further comprises connection means between the first frame and the second frame for connecting the implement to the vehicle when the first frame is attached to the vehicle and the second frame is attached to the implement.