Calculating lateral and eccentric loads on a trailer hitch ball involves understanding various forces such as cornering, vibration, crosswinds, and road impacts. The discussion highlights the complexity of these forces, particularly when trying to measure them with a load cell designed for vertical loads. A test scenario is proposed using a load cell under the hitch ball to measure vertical preload and horizontal shear forces. The challenge lies in developing a force diagram to determine the resultant vertical force on the load cell, considering the non-ideal nature of the sensor. Assistance from the sensor manufacturer is suggested to address these measurement concerns effectively.
