Plural Or Laterally Adjustable Connections Patents (Class 280/456.1)
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Patent number: 11400776Abstract: A hitch mechanism adapted to be attached to a vehicle and support a device includes a hitch receiver adapted to attach to the vehicle and a pair of pull arms. A first end of each pull arm is attached to the hitch receiver and a second end of each pull arm is configured to attach to the device. Each pull arm has an adjustable length and being pivotal horizontally and vertically. The hitch assembly allows a device such as a material spreader to be attached to a vehicle so that the device can be operated in its intended way.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2020Date of Patent: August 2, 2022Assignee: J-PYOTT AND ASSOCIATES, INC.Inventor: Charlie L. Tosh, IV
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Patent number: 10960720Abstract: A connecting structure for an articulated vehicle includes a first vehicle and a second vehicle connected via a coupler along a travelling direction of the articulated vehicle. The structure includes: a pair of anchors disposed at an end of the first vehicle so as to be on both sides of the coupler in a direction perpendicular to the travelling direction in plan view, the end facing the second vehicle; a pair of supports disposed at an end of the second vehicle so as to be on both sides of the coupler in the direction perpendicular to the travelling direction in plan view, the end facing the first vehicle; and a connecting cord having both ends connected to the anchors with an intermediate portion of the connecting cord being supported by the supports. The supports support the connecting cord in a manner allowing for movement of the connecting cord.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2016Date of Patent: March 30, 2021Assignee: SENYO KOGYO CO., LTD.Inventor: Yusaku Yamada
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Patent number: 10046724Abstract: A push-bar assembly including a push-bar and a pair of push-bar supports. The push-bar supports are attached by a pair of upper brackets and a pair of lower brackets. The lower brackets include about which a mounting block attached to the push-bar supports pivot when the push-bar assembly is assembled to a vehicle. A clevis bracket and clevis pin are provided on lower bracket assemblies that secure a lower mounting block on the push-bar supports to a pair of lower bracket assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2017Date of Patent: August 14, 2018Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Mahmoud Yousef Ghannam, Swadad A. Carremm, John W. Jensen, David James Bauch
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Publication number: 20150123378Abstract: A tilting trailer is proposed that includes a chassis mounted on an axle that pivots with respect to wheels of the trailer. The trailer includes an articulated drawbar mounted on the axle, the articulated drawbar being mounted so that it is free and sliding with respect to the chassis; and an actuator sliding the articulated drawbar. The articulated drawbar is V-shaped, a first end is fixed to a hitch tongue, a second end is fixed to the axle near a first wheel, and a third end is fixed to the axle near a second wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2013Publication date: May 7, 2015Inventor: Christian Tortellier
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Patent number: 8870211Abstract: A cart transporting apparatus including a hitch assembly and a cart coupling assembly. The hitch assembly may include an elongated body, at least one catch member, and a hitch stop. The hitch stop may be, for example, a rotating hitch stop or a sliding hitch stop. The rotating hitch stop may include at least three flanges configured to abut a cart and may further include a detent mechanism. The cart coupling assembly may include at least a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may be pivotally coupled to the second portion. The first portion may include first and second engagement members. The second portion may include third and fourth engagement members.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2012Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Dane Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Paul D Holtan, Andrew L Dvorak
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Patent number: 8864162Abstract: A towed vehicle having two towing modes has a first set of wheels positioned on a first axis defining an operative position supporting a frame. A second set of wheels is positioned on a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. The second set of wheels has a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position. When the second set of wheels is in the lowered operative position, they lift the first set of wheels off the ground to an inoperative position. A first towing connection is provided for connecting the frame to a tow vehicle when the first set of wheels are in the operative position. A second towing connection is provided, perpendicular to the first towing connection, for connecting the frame to the tow vehicle when the second set of wheels are in the operative position.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2013Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Renn Mill Center Inc.Inventors: Douglas A. Hilsabeck, Peter Verhoog
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Publication number: 20140286706Abstract: The present invention relates to a work train for milling an underlying ground surface and intermixing bulk material with the milled ground material, comprising a self-propelled ground milling machine, more particularly, a recycler or a stabilizer, comprising a milling drum mounted in a hood and a drive motor, a silo trailer drawn by the ground milling machine and comprising a storage container for bulk material, a conveying system, which transports bulk material during operation of the work train from the silo trailer to in front of the milling drum, as regarded in the direction of travel (a) of the ground milling machine, and an output means, which discharges the bulk material onto the ground in front of the milling drum, as regarded in the direction of travel (a). The present invention further relates to a towing device for such a work train.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2014Publication date: September 25, 2014Applicant: BOMAG GmbHInventor: Stefan Klöckner
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Patent number: 8833790Abstract: An assembly and method allow military vehicles to be towed. In an embodiment, a towing assembly for towing a vehicle with a towing vehicle includes a lunette. The lunette attaches the towing assembly to the towing vehicle. The towing assembly also includes tow bars. The tow bars are attached to the lunette. At least one of the tow bars is laterally moveable. The towing assembly also includes tow legs. Each tow leg is slidably engaged with an interior of a tow bar. The tow leg is attachable to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2012Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Black Mountain Industries, Inc.Inventors: Kyle L. Greenwood, Matthew Howell, Devin Gerland
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Patent number: 8727059Abstract: The invention relates to a hinge assembly for connecting two vehicle parts to a vehicle that is capable of crab steering, has articulated frame steering and comprises articulating vehicle axles. Four structural elements are connected to each other by four hinge connections, the hinge centers being arranged in a common plane in a basic state, such that they form a frame which is substantially rigid with respect to thrust forces in that plane. Two of the structural elements forming opposite sides of the frame can in each case be rotated about a rotational axis located in said plane with respect to the other three structural elements. Furthermore, the hinge connections are designed in such a manner that, starting from the basic state, the two rotational axes can be articulated relative to each other in that one of the rotational axis can be pivoted out of the plane.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2009Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Ammann Schweiz AGInventors: Christoph Anliker, Lino Giovanoli
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Patent number: 8690181Abstract: A tow bar including a towing vehicle hitch; a towed vehicle hitch; a towing connector releasably connectable to the towing vehicle hitch; a swivel unit having a first portion fixedly secured to the towing connector, a second portion connected to the first portion to pivot about a transverse horizontal axis, a third portion connected to the second portion to pivot about a fore-to-aft horizontal axis; a pair of opposing tow bar legs connected to the third portion to pivot about a vertical axis; and rear leg connectors to releasably connect the aft ends of the tow bar legs to the towed vehicle hitch; wherein the first portion includes an upwardly-extending lobe enabling the tow bar legs to be pin-lessly stowed in a horizontal orientation at the rear of the towing vehicle; and a swivel device for such a tow bar.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2012Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Automatic Equipment Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Leslie Roeber
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Patent number: 8662520Abstract: An improved hitch adapter allows an individual to attach a vehicle with a hook to a trailer with a ball coupler. The improved hitch adapter comprises an adapter ring mechanically coupled to a front plate. The front plate is mechanically coupled to a first parallel surface. The first parallel surface further comprises an adapter ball inset. The first parallel surface is mechanically coupled to a left plate and a right plate. The adapter ball inset is mechanically coupled to a height-adjustable ball. The right plate and the left plate are mechanically coupled to a size variable clamp. This enables a user to mechanically couple the hook to ball coupler regardless of size of the ball coupler enabling full articulation in a vertical direction and a rotational direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventor: Michael Cornelius Powers
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Publication number: 20140001732Abstract: An assembly and method allow military vehicles to be towed. In an embodiment, a towing assembly for towing a vehicle with a towing vehicle includes a lunette. The lunette attaches the towing assembly to the towing vehicle. The towing assembly also includes tow bars. The tow bars are attached to the lunette. At least one of the tow bars is laterally moveable. The towing assembly also includes tow legs. Each tow leg is slidably engaged with an interior of a tow bar. The tow leg is attachable to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2012Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: BLACK MOUNTAIN INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Kyle L. Greenwood, Matthew Howell, Devin Gerland
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Patent number: 8562012Abstract: A roll coupling system for roll coupling the drawbar of a trailer to the rear of a tow vehicle includes at least one load-transfer point between the tow vehicle and the trailer. At least one load-transfer point includes a wear reducer. A yaw and/or pitch articulator is mounted between the vehicle and the trailer providing for yaw and/or pitch. The articulator has a corresponding substantially vertical yaw axis and/or substantially horizontal pitch axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Inventor: Lawrence H. Wulff
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Patent number: 8556286Abstract: A crash attenuator includes a crash cushion having a front end, a rear end, and a trailer hitch component disposed adjacent the front end. The trailer hitch component is capable of being secured to a mating hitch component located on a towing vehicle, such that the hitch components are capable of being rotated relative to each other about a substantially vertical axis. The crash attenuator further includes at least one wheel supporting the crash cushion. The wheel is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis and is spaced rearwardly from the hitch component. A pair of tethers are positioned on opposite sides of the hitch component and are moveable relative to one or more retraction mechanisms connected to the crash cushion.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2013Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.Inventors: Bret Eckert, Michael J. Buehler, James B. Welch
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Patent number: 8489290Abstract: An apparatus and method using GNSS for dynamically adjusting side-to-side positioning of a farm implement along a geographical path.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventor: Arthur F. Lange
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Patent number: 8459683Abstract: A gangway includes an articulated bridge which extends between two vehicles coupled in an articulated manner. The articulated bridge has, at both ends, an enclosed carriage whereby at least one enclosed carriage can be attached to the vehicle in such a manner that it may be displaced in a direction perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2010Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Hübner GmbHInventor: Volker Jünke
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Patent number: 8388012Abstract: A crash attenuator includes a crash cushion having a front end, a rear end, and a trailer hitch component disposed adjacent the front end. The trailer hitch component is capable of being secured to a mating hitch component located on the towing vehicle, such that hitch components are capable of being rotated relative to each other about a substantially vertical axis. The crash attenuator further includes at least one wheel supporting the crash cushion. The wheel is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis and is spaced rearwardly from hitch component. One or more tethers are positioned on opposite sides of the hitch component and are moveable relative to one or more guides connected to the crash cushion.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2012Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Buehler, Bret Eckert, James B. Welch
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Patent number: 8376386Abstract: A towed vehicle having two towing modes has a first set of wheels positioned on a first axis defining an operative position supporting a frame. A second set of wheels is positioned on a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. The second set of wheels has a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position. When the second set of wheels is in the lowered operative position, they lift the first set of wheels off the ground to an inoperative position. A first towing connection is provided for connecting the frame to a tow vehicle when the first set of wheels are in the operative position. A second towing connection is provided, perpendicular to the first towing connection, for connecting the frame to the tow vehicle when the second set of wheels are in the operative position.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Renn Mill Center Inc.Inventors: Douglas A. Hilsabeck, Peter Verhoog
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Patent number: 8286985Abstract: An architecture is presented that provides a double hinged tow hitch. The tow hitch is attached to a tow vehicle and allows full traction to the ground and complete control of steering. The tow hitch comprises two hinges secured together by a pin positioned at an upper portion of the hinges and a pin positioned at a lower portion of the hinges. The pins secure the hinges together and allow the hinges to flex in two positions. Additionally, the tow hitch comprises springs positioned on either side of the hinges and rubber positioned between the hinges to act as a shock absorber. When pressure is applied to the tow hitch, the springs will collapse into either the upper or lower portions of the hinges, causing the hinges to flex in two positions and pressing against the rubber between the hinges, thus acting as a suspension system for the tow hitch.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2011Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Inventor: David Frocklage
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Patent number: 8191914Abstract: A roll coupling assembly includes a roll torque transfer structure and an alignment mechanism. The torque transfer structure includes a first load bearing structure mountable to the rear of the tow vehicle, and a second load bearing structure mountable to the front of the trailer drawbar. Corresponding first and second load bearing surfaces cooperate so as to releasably mate with one another for towing of the trailer behind the tow vehicle. The bearing surfaces are distributed across a substantially planar interface between the rear of the tow vehicle and the front of the trailer drawbar so as to distribute to the tow vehicle torque imparted to the drawbar by relative rolling motion between the trailer and tow vehicle. The coupling alignment mechanism adjusts the relative orientation of the first and second load bearing surfaces so as to align them for mating to one another.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2009Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Inventor: Lawrence H. Wulff
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Patent number: 8186702Abstract: The present invention is directed to apparatus, systems, and methods for distributing the weight of a trailer to a towing vehicle and controlling the sway of that trailer relative to the towing vehicle. An embodiment of the present invention includes a spring arm coupled to the towing vehicle and an attachment mechanism for selectively placing the spring arm in mechanical communication with the trailer. The attachment mechanism includes a bracket assembly reversibly attachable to the trailer; a shoe bracket reversibly attachable to the bracket assembly; and a friction pad coupled to the shoe bracket.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2007Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Cequent Trailer Products Inc.Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Michael A. Hoopes
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Publication number: 20120098234Abstract: A system for providing support to an articulating trailer hitch used to interconnect a trailer and a towing vehicle. The system includes an adjustable, removable and repositionable link which interconnects the trailer frame and one or more spring bars providing load-distributing forces to the trailer and towing vehicle. The spring bars include an adjustable, rigid link which maintains the vertical position of the hitch assembly when disconnected from the towing vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventor: COLIN CONNELL
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Patent number: 8136830Abstract: A crash attenuator includes a crash cushion having a front end and a rear end, and a restraint element disposed adjacent the front end and capable of being coupled to a towing vehicle. The crash attenuator further includes at least one wheel supporting the crash cushion. The restraint element is operable between at least an impact condition and a non-impact condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2010Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Buehler, Bret Eckert, James B. Welch
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Publication number: 20120007337Abstract: A trailer coupling (1) is disclosed having a first interconnection (2, 12) to a prime mover (4) and a second interconnection (14) to a trailer. A pivot mechanism which includes a universal joint (13) interconnects the first and second interconnections. The first interconnection is a frusto-conical spigot (2) and a frusto-conical sleeve housing (12). This interconnection is rigid and does not permit any movement between the prime mover and the sleeve housing (12). The universal joint (13) is rotatably mounted to permit movement between the trailer and the prime mover about a vertical axis (136), a left to right horizontal axis (137) and a front to rear horizontal axis (34).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventor: Joseph John McGinnes
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Patent number: 8091913Abstract: A variably adjustable trailer hitch assembly, comprising a horizontal tube assembly that is fixedly secured onto a vehicle. A journaling tube assembly is mounted upon and journals the horizontal tube assembly. A ball assembly is mounted onto the journaling tube assembly and receives a trailer's hitch ball coupler. Adjustable means laterally move the journaling tube assembly mounted upon the horizontal tube assembly. A torque equalizer assembly is fixed upon the journaling tube assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2010Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Inventor: Donald M. White
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Publication number: 20110272917Abstract: A towed vehicle having two towing modes has a first set of wheels positioned on a first axis defining an operative position supporting a frame. A second set of wheels is positioned on a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. The second set of wheels has a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position. When the second set of wheels is in the lowered operative position, they lift the first set of wheels off the ground to an inoperative position. A first towing connection is provided for connecting the frame to a tow vehicle when the first set of wheels are in the operative position. A second towing connection is provided, perpendicular to the first towing connection, for connecting the frame to the tow vehicle when the second set of wheels are in the operative position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Applicant: RENN MILL CENTER INC.Inventors: Douglas A. HILSABECK, Peter VERHOOG
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Publication number: 20110233896Abstract: A trailer reversal self-correcting assembly adapted to be disposed between the tow bar of a vehicle and the tow member of a trailer, the assembly comprising a tow arm pivotally connected to the tow bar at its first end and to the tow member at its second end, a first extension mount extending laterally from the tow bar, and a second extension mount extending laterally from the tow member, a first correcting linkage device having at least a first linkage member connected between the first extension mount and the second extension mount.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: Ottavio PERRI
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Patent number: 7988179Abstract: A tow bar having orthogonally-articulated towed-vehicle connectors includes a body element; a first connector element secured to and extending forwardly from the body element, the first connector element being structured to releasably connect the body element to a towing hitch arrangement of a towing vehicle; at least one tow bar leg having a fore end connected to the body element, and an aft end extending rearwardly from the body element; and a second connector element secured to and extending rearwardly from the aft end of the at least one tow bar leg, the second connector element being orthogonally-articulated and structured to releasably connect the aft end of the at least one tow bar leg to a towing hitch arrangement of the towed vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Automatic Equipment Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Steven Goodman, David Merchant, James Huston, Les Roeber
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Patent number: 7967321Abstract: A roll coupling assembly includes a roll torque transfer structure and an alignment mechanism. The torque transfer structure includes a first load bearing structure mountable to the rear of the tow vehicle, and a second load bearing structure mountable to the front of the trailer drawbar. Corresponding first and second load bearing surfaces cooperate so as to releasably mate with one another for towing of the trailer behind the tow vehicle. The bearing surfaces are distributed across a substantially planar interface between the rear of the tow vehicle and the front of the trailer drawbar so as to distribute to the tow vehicle torque imparted to the drawbar by relative rolling motion between the trailer and tow vehicle. The coupling alignment mechanism adjusts the relative orientation of the first and second load bearing surfaces so as to align them for mating to one another.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Inventor: Lawrence H. Wulff
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Patent number: 7938430Abstract: An anti-sway device for conventional trailers, which essentially takes the place of the shank member of a conventional trailer hitch, is described. The shank assembly is comprised of an elongate square member coupled to a conventional hitch receiver of a tow vehicle. Attached to the rearward end of the square member is a pivot member with rearward diverging links connecting it to another somewhat wider pivot member to which a conventional ball mount is attached. The ball mount is further linked to the towed trailer such that the tongue of the trailer is fixed to the ball mount about a vertical axis. This arrangement results in the trailer pivoting about the resulting center of rotation of the converging links, which is substantially forward of the ball of the trailer hitch. Moving the pivot point forward, such as that found on a fifth wheel trailer, reduces sway and enhances the stability of the coupled trailer and tow vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2005Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Donald Peter Sahlem
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Patent number: 7926829Abstract: A trailer hitch includes multiple hitch connectors for connecting the trailer to a towing vehicle in different ways. The trailer hitch includes multiple connectors at distal ends of the hitch body. The trailer hitch can be position such that either end is facing the towing vehicle. Mounting plates secure the trailer hitch to the trailer frame and may be adjustable vertically to raise or lower the height of the trailer hitch with respect to the trailer frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.Inventor: David J. Bender
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Patent number: 7909350Abstract: Method and apparatus for an adjustable trailer hitch which allows the ball to be adjustable laterally and longitudinally so that the tongue of the trailer can be can be more easily attached to the ball of the towing vehicle. A body portion is mounted on a slide-tube for insertion in a receiver-tube wherein the body portion has an interior pocket or space which allows the draw bar having the ball mounting thereon to move laterally inside the pocket along with a plurality of apertures so that the draw bar can be laterally adjusted using the apertures and a first locking pin. The slide-tube also has a longitudinal adjustment slot in it which allows it to slide longitudinally inside the receiver-tube wherein a second locking pin holds the slide-tube in the receiver-tube allowing the entire trailer hitch to be longitudinally adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Inventor: William M. Landry
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Patent number: 7905507Abstract: A trailer reversal self-correcting assembly (10) adapted to be disposed between the tow bar (12) of a vehicle (14) and the tow member (16) of a trailer (18), the assembly (10) comprising a tow arm (20) pivotally connected to the tow bar (12) at its first end and to the tow member (16) at its second end, a first extension mount (26) extending laterally from the tow bar (12), and a second extension mount (30) extending laterally from the tow member (16), a first correcting linkage device having at least a first linkage member (38) connected between the first extension mount (26) and the second extension mount (30).Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2005Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Inventor: Ottavio Perri
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Publication number: 20100301585Abstract: A stroller device comprising at least one carriage, the carriage comprising a support unit for supporting at least one person, typically an infant, a wheels assembly coupled to the support unit, an engagement element for engaging the carriage to another such carriage and a pivoting element coupled to the support unit allowing rotating the support unit with respect to the carriage. The support unit may be rotatably reoriented so as to allow transporting the stroller device such that the support unit of the carriage and the other support unit of the other carriage can be aligned in a train state or alternatively in a side-by-side state.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2008Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Geva Katz, Oron Lazarovich
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Publication number: 20100117334Abstract: A self-locking universal trailer hitch comprising a hitch receiver, a bar and a second receiver, wherein the hitch receiver is secured to a towing vehicle, and wherein the bar is removably secured to the hitch receiver, and wherein the second receiver comprises a locking mechanism to removably secure the second receiver to the bar. The self-locking universal trailer hitch is utilized by securing a trailer to a towing vehicle by obtaining a towing vehicle with a first hitch receiver and a universal trailer hitch with a second hitch receiver, a bar and a second receiver having a locking mechanism, inserting the bar into the pivoting second hitch receiver, locking the bar to the second hitch receiver, inserting the bar into the second receiver and locking the bar to the second receiver via the locking mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: Barry Harlin
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Patent number: 7673894Abstract: A trailer hitch includes multiple hitch connectors for connecting the trailer to a towing vehicle in different ways. The trailer hitch includes multiple connectors at distal ends of the hitch body. The trailer hitch can be position such that either end is facing the towing vehicle. Mounting plates secure the trailer hitch to the trailer frame and may be adjustable vertically to raise or lower the height of the trailer hitch with respect to the trailer frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2007Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.Inventor: David J. Bender
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Patent number: 7540523Abstract: An anti-jackknifing hitch assembly (12) (“assembly”) includes a hitch (18), a tongue (20), two resilient members (22a, 22b), and a routing member (24). The hitch (18) is attached to a tow vehicle (10). The tongue (20) extends from a trailer (16) and is attached to the hitch (18). The tongue (20) pivots about a pivot axis (34) within a predetermined range of articulation (52) defined by the resilient members (22a, 22b). In particular, resilient members (22a, 22b) respectively connect end portions (36a, 36b) of hitch (18) to front corner portions (40a, 40b) of trailer (16) and are sized for preventing over-articulation. Routing member (24) assists resilient members (22a, 22b) in applying a restoring moment about the pivot axis (34). Namely, the routing member (24) extends from the hitch (18) or tongue (20) adjacent to pivoting axis (34). The routing member (24) includes attachment members (48a, 48b) with resilient members (22a, 22b) extending therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2006Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: David Russell, Chi Yip, Dennis Kessler, Paul Snyder
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Patent number: 7463139Abstract: In a method for driving electronic devices connected to a vehicle trailer tow connector a trailer electronic device control signal is receiving from a vehicle data communication network. In response to the received control signal, a solid state power control device is switched to connect electrical power to a selected pin of the trailer tow connector. The trailer electronic device control signal may be received from a wiring harness connector connected to a vehicle data communication network. A vehicle trailer tow connector module includes a module housing. A vehicle wiring connector and a trailer wiring connector are coupled to the module housing. A power control circuit is connected to a selected pin in the trailer wiring connector. A controller circuit is coupled to the vehicle wiring connector for receiving communication data from a vehicle data bus, and coupled by control lines to the power control circuit.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2004Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: STMicroelectronics, Inc.Inventors: Gary Joseph Burlak, Marian Mirowski
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Patent number: 7373231Abstract: An articulated equipment position control system and method are provided for equipment consisting of motive and working components. The components are connected by an articulated connector, such as a pivotal hitch. GPS-derived positional data is utilized for power-articulating the hitch to maintain the working component, such as an implement, on a predetermined course. Operator-inducted course deviations can thus be corrected. The working component can also be positioned to follow the course of the movive component. The system includes a microprocessor control subsystem, which interfaces with a steering guidance system.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2007Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Hemisphere GPS LLCInventors: John A. McClure, Richard W. Heiniger, John T. E. Timm, Kent D. Funk, Richard B. Wong
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Patent number: 7364180Abstract: A hitch assembly for coupling a trailer to a tow vehicle includes a number of assemblies, including converging links and a slide assembly, that effectively places the pivot point for the trailer ahead of the actual hitch assembly, which in turn enhances the stability of the combination tow vehicle and trailer, rendering it less susceptible to swaying or fishtailing.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: James C. Hensley Revocable Living Trust AInventor: James C. Hensley
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Patent number: 7162348Abstract: An articulated equipment position control system and method are provided for equipment consisting of motive and working components. The components are connected by an articulated connector, such as a pivotal hitch. GPS-derived positional data is utilized for power-articulating the hitch to maintain the working component, such as an implement, on a predetermined course. Operator-induced course deviations can thus be corrected. The working component can also be positioned to follow the course of the motive component. The system includes a microprocessor control subsystem, which interfaces with a steering guidance system.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2003Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Hemisphere GPS LLCInventors: John A. McClure, Richard W. Heiniger, John T. E. Timm, Kent D. Funk, Richard B. Wong
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Patent number: 7128330Abstract: A transportable storage container assembly for transport by a tow vehicle. The assembly includes a trailer having a center rail with a two-point trailer hitch at the front end and a pivotable single wheel at the rear end. The trailer has a first cross channel adjacent the front end of the rail and a second cross channel adjacent the rear end of the rail. A storage container mounted on the trailer includes bottom support skids at each end that seat in the cross channels and are secured in the channels by casters that are attached to the skids through mounting holes in the cross channels. There is a jack on the bottom of the trailer rail movable along the length of the rail to facilitate the raising of the trailer for attachment to, and disattachment from, the tow vehicle trailer hitch.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Inventor: Gerald W. Krauss
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Patent number: 7125036Abstract: A hitch for presenting different sized ball hitches for towing use. The hitch may include a first ball and pedestal extending in a first direction. A second ball and pedestal may extend in a second direction, distinct from the first direction. The first ball and pedestal and the second ball and pedestal may be homogenously formed of a single material to form a monolith. A stem may connect to the monolith to support and present the first ball and pedestal and the second ball and pedestal for towing use. The stem may extend away from the monolith in a third direction, distinct from both the first and second directions.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2004Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Assignee: B&W Custom Truck Beds, Inc.Inventors: Newall Ryan Moss, Jack W. Bowers, H. Arthur Wing
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Patent number: 7029020Abstract: A bracket, apparatus and method are provided for adapting a simple draw bar and hitch ball arrangement to allow connection to a sway control device. The bracket includes an aperture for receiving the threaded stem of the hitch ball, a notch for receiving and engaging the draw bar and a second aperture for receiving a sway control device connector such as a sway control ball. The bracket allows connection to any number of sway control devices available in the industry so that a simple draw bar and hitch ball may be converted for sway control capability.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.Inventor: Katherine A. Adams
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Patent number: 7004492Abstract: A hitch for presenting different sized ball hitches for towing use. The hitch may include a first ball and pedestal extending in a first direction. A second ball and pedestal may extend in a second direction, distinct from the first direction. The first ball and pedestal and the second ball and pedestal may be homogenously formed of a single material to form a monolith. A stem may connect to the monolith to support and present the first ball and pedestal and the second ball and pedestal for towing use. The stem may extend away from the monolith in a third direction, distinct from both the first and second directions.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Wing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Newell Ryan Moss, Jack W. Bowers, H. Arthur Wing
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Patent number: 6837510Abstract: A hitch couples alternatively through either a ball or an implement pin. The implement pin is provided at a first elevation which is substantially below the ball coupling, which preserves optimum coupling heights for the different nature of towed vehicles. The pin coupling is shifted longitudinally relative to the ball sufficiently to prevent any vertical interference between the pin and the ball member above the pin. A sloped member between ball and pin coupling members provides interconnection therebetween. The sloped member is further coupled to a male receiver insert adapted to couple with a vehicle female receiver or other similar or alternative vehicular component capable of supporting the hitch.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Inventor: James L. Karls
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Patent number: 6764092Abstract: A tow bar apparatus has a pair of socket members adapted to be attached to a towed vehicle and a pair of ball rod end joints adapted to be attached to a towing vehicle. The pair of socket members each includes a girdle around a sidewall, the girdle being adapted to support the sidewall to prevent the sidewall from bending out of shape under the stress of towing; the girdle further including a first bolt aperture opposite the bar slot of the sidewall for pivotal attachment of the socket member to the towed vehicle. The ball rod end joint includes an external ring attached to the second end of one of the tow bars, and an internal ring pivotally mounted within the external ring. The internal ring is adapted to be mounted on a post of the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Inventor: John C. Greaves, Jr.
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Publication number: 20040124605Abstract: An articulated equipment position control system and method are provided for equipment consisting of motive and working components. The components are connected by an articulated connector, such as a pivotal hitch. GPS-derived positional data is utilized for power-articulating the hitch to maintain the working component, such as an implement, on a predetermined course. Operator-induced course deviations can thus be corrected. The working component can also be positioned to follow the course of the motive component. The system includes a microprocessor control subsystem, which interfaces with a steering guidance system.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2003Publication date: July 1, 2004Applicant: Satloc Inc.Inventors: John A. McClure, Richard W. Heiniger, John T.E. Timm, Kent D. Funk, Richard B. Wong
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Patent number: 6755433Abstract: A transportable storage container assembly for transport by a tow vehicle. The assembly includes a trailer having a center rail with a two-point trailer hitch at the front end and a pivotable single wheel at the rear end. The trailer has a first cross channel adjacent the front end of the rail and a second cross channel adjacent the rear end of the rail. A storage container mounted on the trailer includes bottom support skids at each end that seat in the cross channels and are secured in the channels by casters that are attached to the skids through mounting holes in the cross channels. There is a jack on the bottom of the trailer rail adjacent the midpoint to facilitate the raising of the trailer for attachment to, and disattachment from, the tow vehicle trailer hitch.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: Gerald W. Krauss
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Patent number: 6746036Abstract: A bracket, apparatus and method are provided for adapting a simple draw bar and hitch ball arrangement to allow connection to a sway control device. The bracket includes an aperture for receiving the threaded stem of the hitch ball, a notch for receiving and engaging the draw bar and a second aperture for receiving a sway control device connector such as a sway control ball. The bracket allows connection to any number of sway control devices available in the industry so that a simple draw bar and hitch ball may be converted for sway control capability.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.Inventor: Katherine A. Adams