Readily Demountable Hitch Patents (Class 280/491.5)
  • Patent number: 11951786
    Abstract: A hitch alignment system includes a hitch alignment tool with a flexible plastic body. The tool body includes a pair of side panels interconnected by a base. A pair of tapered rods extend inwardly from the side panels. A hitch alignment method of the present invention utilizes the tool for aligning the hitch pin holes in a hitch receiver tube with the hole of a connecting shaft. With the receiver tube and connecting shaft holes properly aligned, a hitch pin can be inserted through the aligned holes for securely retaining the connecting shaft of the ball mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Inventor: Charles Patrick Hillen
  • Patent number: 11912079
    Abstract: A new type of a hitching hook device includes a hitching ball body and a hitching arm, the hitching arm includes a square steel configured to connect to a vehicle receiver, and the hitching ball body includes at least one hitching ball. The hitching ball body includes a holding jaw, and at least a horizontal clamping groove is defined on the holding jaw. The hitching arm includes at least two square grooves, a fixing plate is disposed between adjacent two square grooves, and a latch is disposed on a top of the hitching arm. The holding jaw of the hitching ball body is clamped to the fixing plate through the horizontal clamping groove, and the latch extends from the top of the hitching arm to a bottom of the hitching arm by passing through the holding jaw. The hitching hook device is tool with many advantages improving work efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Inventor: Ting Luo
  • Patent number: 11794537
    Abstract: An adapter for a trailer coupler assembly includes an elongated riser member configured to be removably mounted to a vertical channel of a trailer coupler. The riser member has a transverse cross-section generally in the shape of an I-beam having a first channel portion and an opposing second channel portion. The first channel portion includes a generally U-shaped transverse cross-section and is configured to be removably mounted to a vertical channel of a trailer coupler assembly at one of a plurality of longitudinal positions along a length of the vertical channel of the trailer coupler assembly. The opposing second channel portion includes a generally U-shaped transverse cross-section configured to hold a trailer coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: U-HAUL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Marco Garcia
  • Patent number: 11701932
    Abstract: A ball mount for measuring tongue weight of a trailer is disclosed. The ball mount can include a ball portion having a hitch ball configured to couple with a tongue of a trailer. The ball mount can also include a hitch portion for interfacing with a hitch receiver associated with a vehicle. In addition, the ball mount can include a load measurement device associated with the ball portion to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball. The load measurement device can include a reservoir having a fluid and a piston disposed therein, and a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the reservoir. The hitch ball can be configured to exert a force on the piston, thereby affecting a pressure of the fluid in response to the downward force on the hitch ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Weigh Safe, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin McAllister
  • Patent number: 11505018
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle hitch system having a plurality of modular and easily interchangeable accessory attachments. Each accessory attachment may be operable to secure one or more pieces of equipment useful for the user's preferred activities. The system may include a base and a plurality of different accessory attachments, the base comprising a vehicle mount, a connector, and a support frame, and each of the accessory attachments may comprise an accessory mount and an accessory support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Inventor: Brandon Kato
  • Patent number: 11345200
    Abstract: A hitch bar with improved strength incorporating a protruded flanges or wings is provided. The protruded portion may be attached to the frame. The protruded portion may include a profile oriented at a substantially perpendicular angle relative to the frame. The profile may provide a zone of distributing a load throughout the hitch bar. The hitch bar may further include a slotted opening integrated with the horizontal portion providing additional zone of distributing a load along the frame. The hitch bar may further include a plurality of cross members at the transitional portion having a second profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventor: Owen W. Draper
  • Patent number: 11173758
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hitch receiver alignment system having a first opening extending through and arranged upon a surface of the hitch receiver, a piston, a cylinder having a second opening adjoined to the hitch receiver, and a cylinder head having a third opening that is adapted to receive an alignment member that is manually adjusted by a user to contact the piston. As the user manually adjusts the alignment member, the piston consequentially is moved within a first opening extending through the hitch receiver. With the hitch being locked within the hitch receiver by a hitch pin, as the piston contacts the hitch within the hitch receiver the hitch is rotated about the hitch pin and a gap between the hitch and the hitch receiver is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Inventor: Dennis Watson
  • Patent number: 10953713
    Abstract: A towbar with a hitch adaptor system incorporating a detachable receiving member and a detachable hitch ball is shown and described. The towbar with a hitch adaptor system may include a linkage member, a connecting member, a coupler and a receiver member. The receiver member may also include a detachable receiving hitch and a detachable hitch ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Jacob Belinky, Yung-Hao Kung, Russell Brzezinski
  • Patent number: 10836225
    Abstract: Disclosed is a detachable receiver apparatus for a hitch assembly. The apparatus includes a body having an attachment portion and a receiver portion. The attachment portion may be selectively attached to a frame of a towing vehicle. The receiver portion may be selectively attached to a receiver member. The receiver member may selectively attach to a hitch bar. In one embodiment, the receiver portion is received within the receiver member. In another embodiment, the receiver portion defines a cavity for receiving the receiver member. The attachment portion may include at least one locking member for selectively locking or unlocking the attachment portion to the frame of the towing vehicle. The assembly may include an actuator for selectively locking and unlocking the locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Thomas Edward Robinson, Henry J. Guthard, Jordan Mazurek
  • Patent number: 10792965
    Abstract: A safety chain engaging device for a towing vehicle having a gooseneck hitch attached with a rail of the towing vehicle is shown and described. The safety chain engaging device may include a first bracket configured to be secured with the rail of the towing vehicle, and a second bracket attached with the first bracket, the second bracket including a plate member spaced from the first bracket. The safety chain engaging device may also include at least one safety chain engaging member secured with the plate member, where the safety chain engaging member is configured to be laterally spaced from the rail upon securement of the first bracket with the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Lynn H. Mida, Gail R. Matheus
  • Patent number: 10683043
    Abstract: A platform trailer includes a neck reinforcement structure located in the neck region to provide for a reduced height in the neck region of the trailer to increase the cargo-carrying capacity of the trailer. The height in the neck region of the trailer is less than 30% of the height in the rest of the trailer. A fifth wheel plate includes a main portion secured to both the first and second beams of the trailer. The fifth wheel plate includes a bifurcated tail portion including a first tail portion connected to the first beam and a second tail portion connected to the second beam. A kingpin is connected to the fifth wheel plate and is adapted to be engaged by an associated tractor fifth wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Howard D. Booher, Russell D. Pittman, Derek Davies
  • Patent number: 10647263
    Abstract: A hitch-mounted load carrier includes a connecting member configured to be inserted into a hitch receiver and a locking mechanism coupled to the connecting member and configured to secure the connecting member inside the hitch receiver. The locking mechanism includes a first actuator disposed in an interior of the connecting member, a second actuator opposite the first actuator disposed in the interior of the connecting member and coupled to the first actuator by a shaft, and a first wedge disposed at least partially in the interior of the connecting member. A first surface of the first wedge contacts the first actuator and a second surface of the first wedge contacts the second actuator. The first and second actuators are configured to radially translate the first wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventor: Mark Viklund
  • Patent number: 10479153
    Abstract: A hitch mounting system capable of attaching to a vehicle, where, the vehicle includes a frame and a load bed is disclosed. The hitch mounting system may include at least one rail, the rail being a generally continuous member, where the rail includes at least one end portion, and where the end portion is deformed in a shape capable of attaching to the frame of the vehicle. The hitch mounting system may also include at least one mounting aperture located in the rail, the mounting aperture capable of having secured thereto an accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventor: Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 10065468
    Abstract: An attachment plate and towing lug combination for a vehicle having a crush can and a bumper beam includes a plate and a towing lug. The plate has a central portion and a flange portion. The towing lug is attached to the central portion of the plate and extends from an outer surface of the central portion of the plate. The flange portion of the plate is attachable to an end portion of the crush can. The central portion of the plate is attachable to a first side portion of the bumper beam. The towing lug extends to at least an outer surface of a second side portion of the bumper beam when the flange portion of the plate is attached to the end portion of the crush can and the central portion of the plate is attached to the first side portion of the bumper beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Vinayshankar L. Virupaksha, Stuart J. Brown
  • Patent number: 9981513
    Abstract: An anti-rattle device is shown and described. The anti-rattle device may include a frame configured to engage a receiver hitch and to receive a draw bar. The anti-rattle device may also include a cam engaging assembly operatively engaged with the frame, where the cam engaging assembly is selectively positionable between disengaged and engaged positions whereby the cam engaging assembly is adapted to engage the draw bar against the receiver hitch in the engaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: Horizon Global Americas Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob S. Belinky, Russell T. Brzezinski, Gail R. Matheus, Jacob L. Hillard, Austin J. Laurer, Mark Scruggs
  • Patent number: 9855906
    Abstract: An arrangement is proposed of a receptacle consisting of multiple components for a towing means, especially a towing lug, on a support piece (1) attachable to the body of a motor vehicle, wherein the support piece is insertable into a receptacle on a cross member of the vehicle, and the support piece is to be joined with the cross member via friction-stir welds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Garnweidner
  • Patent number: 9809070
    Abstract: An improved drop hitch apparatus has at least one hitch plate for coupling to a portion of a hitch assembly of a trailer, a support assembly for supporting the hitch assemblies of a trailer and a towing vehicle, and a mounting assembly for mounting the apparatus to at least a portion of a hitch assembly of a towing vehicle. The drop hitch apparatus is useful as a height adjustment adapter to couple a trailer and a towing vehicle when the trailer has a hitch assembly lower than that of the towing vehicle's hitch assembly. The mounting assembly has a mounting shelf, a mounting bar, a stability member. The support assembly has an upstanding support plate and an upstanding shaft member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas Wright
  • Patent number: 9738124
    Abstract: A drawbar and hitch receiver movement eliminating system has three main embodiments, each very similar and functioning with the same operational characteristics though they vary slightly in structural characteristics. Each embodiment has a means for the drawbar to push outwardly against the face of the receiver to eliminate the typical movement of the drawbar within the receiver caused by the standard clearances between the two, thereby considerably reducing the amplified swaying movement of the trailer that is caused by the small movements of the drawbar within the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel Verheul
  • Patent number: 9738128
    Abstract: A golf cart hitch assembly may be attached to a golf cart in a manner to evenly distribute the weight of a towed element across the frame of the golf cart. This may be helpful in towing a relatively substantial element, such as a trailer. One advantage of the inventor's golf cart hitch is that it requires relatively little or no permanent modification to the golf cart itself. Another advantage is the ability to attach one or more conventional ball hitches at different locations on the assembly. In its simplest form, the assembly includes a pair of brackets for attachment to the frame of the golf cart, such as via bolts or screws, and a plate attached to both brackets, the plate including one or more locations for the attachment of one or more ball hitches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: SWARTZ GROUP LLC
    Inventors: Rocky Swartz, Neal Swartz
  • Patent number: 9193234
    Abstract: A monolithic trailer hitch including a rack defining a plurality of apertures positioned in a recessed channel and integrally formed with a perpendicularly extending arm defining a cavity and a hollow with an end formed from a pair of opposingly biased faces. A brace is connected between the arm and the rack for structural support. The cavity is the larger of the two openings and is positioned more proximal the rack while the hollow is smaller and positioned more distal the rack, near an aperture configured to receive a fastener to secure the shank to a receiver and a tow vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce A. Angel
  • Patent number: 9139059
    Abstract: A hitch is configured to be attached to a towed vehicle. The hitch includes a mounting bracket and a frame connected to the mounting bracket. The frame has arms extending away from the mounting bracket. The arms surround and define an opening. The arms each have a proximal end connected to the mounting bracket and each arm has a distal end connected to a cross-member. A plate is connected to the cross-member. The plate has a cutout. A support member is connected between the bracket and the frame. The mounting bracket is configured to be attached to a front of the towed vehicle. The front of the towed vehicle has attached weights that are used to counter balance a load on the towed vehicle. The weights are surrounded by the frame and extend into the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: Safe-T-Pull, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob L. Kringstad, Burnell R. Kringstad
  • Patent number: 9004521
    Abstract: A ball mount holder assembly for mounting to a carrying device includes a body having opposed sides and a stake flange that extends substantially perpendicularly from one of the opposed sides that is adapted to be secured to a surface. A pin flange extends substantially perpendicularly from an opposite one of the opposed sides and in a direction opposite the stake flange and is adapted to receive and carry a ball mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Steven A. Dringenberg
  • Patent number: 8979112
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable hitch assembly for coupling a towed vehicle with a towing vehicle. An embodiment of the adjustable hitch assembly may include a base member, a ball support member, and a hitch ball member. The base member may include a connecting portion and a shank member, wherein the shank member may extends perpendicularly away from the connecting portion. The ball support member may include a support rod extending perpendicularly away from the shank member. The ball support member may also include an opening there though that may be attached to the shank member. The hitch ball member may be attached to the support rod, wherein the hitch ball member may have at least one accessory aperture. The connecting portion may be attached to the towing vehicle and the hitch ball member may be attached to the towed vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Neal Weipert, Richard McCoy, Jacob Belinky
  • Patent number: 8960706
    Abstract: A towing ball mount merchandising and displaying arrangement. The arrangement includes a ball mount that includes a tongue portion having an aperture for receiving a securing portion of a hitch ball and that includes a mounting portion for insertion into a receiver located upon a vehicle. The mounting portion has an aperture there through for receiving a securing member to retain the mounting portion within the receiver located upon the vehicle. The arrangement includes a removable support member extending through the aperture of the mounting portion of the ball mount. The support member has portions that extend to protrude from each of two sides of the mounting portion. The portions of the support member that protrude provide contact areas for engagement with members of a merchandising display such that the ball mount is suspendable relative to the merchandising display upon the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Winston Products LLC
    Inventors: Winston Breeden, Thaddeus T. Brej
  • Publication number: 20150042072
    Abstract: A die is adapted for forming a cold forged receiver hitch that includes an integral cold forged smooth reinforcing flange at an upper end. The die includes a top plate and a bottom plate spaced apart from the top plate along a plate axis that is perpendicular to the surfaces of the top and bottom plates. The top plate includes two transversely spaced-apart jambs within which the top plate is slidably mounted, an actuation system configured to move the top plate relative to the bottom plate along the plate axis. The bottom plate supports a bottom support plate to which a stationary mandrel is secured and an assembly of two transversely spaced-apart split cams, the split cams being transversely spaced from the stationary mandrel by a distance that is greater than the thickness of the tube out of which the receiver hitch is to be cold forged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin Kelly
  • Publication number: 20150028565
    Abstract: A chain attachment insert has a body with a flat underside, and provides an open loop chain attachment for receiving a chain or hook in a socket in the bed of a truck. A T-bolt portion of the chain attachment insert is received in the socket. A hole through the body extends parallel to the axis of rotation defined by the T-bolt portion, and an interference peg is vertically slidable into the hole after rotation of the chain attachment insert relative to the socket. The interference peg then rests with a portion of the interference peg in the socket to interfere with and prevent the chain attachment insert from rotating relative to the socket. A lock secures the interference peg within the hole in the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Curtis M. Bowe
  • Publication number: 20150021878
    Abstract: Portable support cart systems are provided. The support cart can include a trailer-hitch-type connection that can attach to a movable bed, such as a gurney, for easily and conveniently transporting the cart system together with the bed. Also provided are detachable frames for transporting medical support components, as well as methods of using the same. The detachable frame can be detachably mounted on a portable cart or a movable bed, such as a gurney.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Redmond Paul BURKE, Robert Laurence HANNAN, Jorge Wilfredo OJITO, Edwit George TIRONI
  • Patent number: 8919796
    Abstract: A trailer hitch step, integrally molded of a polymer compound, is capable of accepting a predetermined off-axis vertical load without an objectionable degree of torsional displacement, while also being capable of resiliently absorbing energy from rear impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: MacNeil IP LLC
    Inventors: Frederick W. Masanek, Jr., David F. MacNeil
  • Publication number: 20140339791
    Abstract: An after-market hitch assembly is provided for securing to a cross member of a truck which is specifically adapted for securing a hitch assembly thereto prior to installation of the truck bed. The after-market hitch assembly adapted for securing to the hitch frame after installation of the truck bed without having to remove the truck bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: B & W CUSTOM TRUCK BEDS, INC.
    Inventors: Travis M. McCall, Nelson Borror, Brent Luedke
  • Patent number: 8727364
    Abstract: A trailer hitch step, integrally injection-molded of a thermoplastic polymer compound, is capable of accepting a predetermined off-axis vertical load without an objectionable degree of torsional displacement, while capable of absorbing energy from rear impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: MacNeil IP LLC
    Inventors: Frederick W. Masanek, Jr., David F. MacNeil
  • Patent number: 8708112
    Abstract: An inertial braking system for a trailer has an elongated casing member defining an axis along its elongated length, and having an opening at one end of the elongated length. A movable plate housed within the casing and including at least one opening adapted to allow light to pass therethrough. A piston member including a pad member at a distal end thereof and placed inside of the one end of the casing member with the pad member facing outwards from the interior of the casing member and adapted to move along the axis, and rigidly connected at an opposite end to an adjacent end of the movable plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Eric Maisonneuve
  • Patent number: 8662522
    Abstract: A tow bar assembly for towing a vehicle which is immovable and stuck. The tow bar assembly includes an interconnector assembly including a first elongate member and an linkage assembly being hingedly attached to the first elongate member; a biased assembly for biasing the linkage assembly relative to the first elongate member; and a stop assembly being engagable to the linkage assembly upon the linkage assembly being in a biased position relative to the first elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Charles E. Hunt, III
  • Patent number: 8641076
    Abstract: A clevis pin combination comprises a clevis made of aluminum alloy; and a pin made of steel. This combination of parts and materials results in lighter weight and improved performance of maximum load carrying capacity over similar combinations of all aluminum or all steel. The clevis further comprises a first clevis leg having a first clevis aperture in a first clevis end and a second clevis leg having a second clevis aperture in a second clevis end. The second clevis end is spaced apart from the first clevis end forming an open end. A curved portion connecting the first clevis leg and the second clevis leg forms a closed end. The first clevis aperture and the second clevis aperture are axially aligned and the steel pin is sized to fit through the first clevis aperture and second clevis aperture allowing pivoting movement between the clevis and the pin. The clevis may be substantially U-shaped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventors: Vernon W. Sparkes, William J. D. Shaw
  • Patent number: 8585073
    Abstract: Disclosed is a self-locking hitch pin for joining a hitch device to a receiver hitch in a quick and easy manner using a single, self-contained mechanism. The hitch pin is comprised of shaft with a locking member on one end and a handle and weight on the other end and a spring and retainers to keep the hitch pin in place. The self-locking hitch pin allows for single-handed installation and securing of a hitch device to a receiver hitch with no pin or locking mechanism to be lost or dropped. The self-locking hitch pin can be inserted into the hitch orifice, have pressure applied to the spring, rotate the hitch pin allowing gravity to engage the locking member and then release pressure on the spring coupling both devices together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Max M. Smoot
  • Patent number: 8573630
    Abstract: A tow bar has a first bar element, a second bar element, and a latch mechanism. The first bar element has a proximal end, a first elongate body, and a latch stop opposite the proximal end. The second bar element has a distal end, a second elongate body, and a latch end opposite the distal end. The first bar element is telescopically engaged within the second bar element to slide between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. The latch mechanism is adapted to abut the latch stop to lock the first and second bar elements in the extended configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Dethmers Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jason J. Kraai, Russell Mark Ensz
  • Patent number: 8573629
    Abstract: A tow bar has first and second bar elements telescopically engaged to slide between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. A latch housing mounted on the second bar element pivotally mounts a latch element. A locking sear having a sear locking surface and a sear back surface is pivotally mounted to move between a locking position and an unlocking position. In the locking position, a sear locking surface abuts a latch stop of the first bar element to lock the first and second bar elements in the extended configuration. In the unlocking position, the sear locking surface disengages the latch stop, allowing the first and second bar elements to move to the collapsed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Dethmers Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jason Jay Kraai, Russell Mark Ensz
  • Patent number: 8556287
    Abstract: An adaptor for securing a fifth wheel hitch to the bed of a towing vehicle is described. The fifth wheel hitch is typically part of a larger assembly having attachment lugs configured to be removably secured to receptacles in mounting rails permanently attached to the bed of the towing vehicle. Newer towing vehicles are provided with recessed sockets in the vehicle bed, rather than permanently mounted rails, to eliminate obstructions to placement of cargo in the bed. The present invention is, therefore, an adaptor for securing existing fifth wheel assemblies to these newer towing vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Colin Connell
  • Patent number: 8534696
    Abstract: A carrier device for mounting at a rear side of a body of a vehicle, said carrier device comprising, a receiving element, adapted to be fixed to the body of said vehicle, said receiving element comprising a receiving channel with an insert opening, a carrier element, adapted to be releaseably received in said receiving element in a mounted position, said carrier element being insertable into said receiving channel to arrive at its mounted position by movement through said insert opening in direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of said receiving channel, a locking unit for locking said carrier element in said mounted position in said receiving element, a key unit comprising a first key element arranged on said receiving element and a second key element arranged on said carrier element said first and second key elements cooperating in a keying position of said carrier element in order to only allow said carrier element provided with said second key element to arrive at the mounted position when inserte
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Scambia Holdings Cyprus Limited
    Inventors: Raffaele Di Parma, Bert Wegner, Joerg Riehle
  • Publication number: 20130154235
    Abstract: A tractor rear hitch (10) comprising a drawbar (24) and a drawbar support frame (26) is provided. The drawbar is secured to the support frame by a pin (30) which is inserted through respective holes in the support frame and the drawbar. A drawbar release member (40) comprises a lever (42) which is pivotally mounted to the support frame. The drawbar release member is pivotally connected at a forward end (40a) to the pin so as to lift the pin, and thus release the drawbar, when a rear end of the lever is forced downward. A pedal (50) is mounted to the rear end of the lever which allows an operator to force the lever downwards using their foot. The provision of a pedal-operated release mechanism delivers a significant ergonomic advantage in that the operator no longer need apply the pin lifting force with their hands close to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO SA
    Inventors: Philippe Boittin, Guillaume Deletoille, Thibaut Maillet
  • Patent number: 8424898
    Abstract: In order for a trailer hitch comprising a cross-member, which has its longitudinal direction extending transversely to a longitudinal direction of a vehicle and which can be connected to a body of a vehicle, a ball neck, which at a first end region is connected to the cross-member by means of a bearing unit and at a second end region carries a coupling ball, to be improved such that it has a lower weight, it is proposed that the cross-member is in the form of a hollow shaped body which varies in cross-sectional shape and has a central region and outer regions which adjoin the central region on both sides and extend as far as outer ends of the hollow shaped body, and that, starting from the outer ends, a cross-sectional shape of the outer regions has a cross-sectional area that increases progressively in the direction of the central region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Scambia Industrial Developments Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Bernhard Rimmelspacher, Joerg Riehle, Hartmut Haustein
  • Patent number: 8419040
    Abstract: A tow hook support device for a vehicle, includes a vehicle structural member having a tubular shaped sidewall, and integrally provided to a vehicle body in a posture such that an axial direction of the tubular shaped sidewall coincides with a longitudinal direction of the vehicle; and a nut member integrally fixed to a tip of the vehicle structural member so as to be extended parallel to the axial direction of the tubular shaped sidewall, to which a tow hook is screwed and detachably fitted, the tow hook support device comprises, multiple grooves formed in the tubular shaped sidewall of the vehicle structural member so as to be positioned around an axis O of the tubular shaped sidewall and extended in the axial direction, by bending portions of the sidewall, and the nut member being arranged at a position in the tubular shaped sidewall and further inward than the multiple grooves so as to be coaxial with the axis O or extended parallel to the axis O, and being integrally fixed to the multiple grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Toyoda Iron Works Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nobuhiro Ando
  • Patent number: 8382147
    Abstract: A hitch device for a trailer mount. The hitch device includes a mounting portion for being received within a receiver portion attached to a vehicle. The hitch device includes a tongue portion secured to the mounting portion. The tongue portion includes an upper face, a lower face and a through-hole for receiving a lower portion of a hitch ball. At least one of the upper and lower faces includes a pair of raised rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Thaddeus T Brej, Roy Edward Spaw
  • Patent number: 8360458
    Abstract: A tie down apparatus that may be utilized for securing an item, such as a safety chain, wherein the tie down apparatus may be used with a hitch mounting system. In one embodiment, the tie down apparatus may include a receiving member, a tie down member, and a clocking member. The receiving member may include an opening located there through. The tie down member may include at least one aperture, wherein the tie down member may be capable of being located and rotated within the receiving member. The tie down member may be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. The locking member may include at least one leg capable of being housed within the aperture. The locking member may engage the receiving member once the tie down member is rotated, thereby trapping the item within the tie down apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products
    Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 8308183
    Abstract: A ball mount storage device for attachment to a vehicle supporting member. The ball mount storage device for storing a ball mount that engages a vehicle hitch. The ball mount includes a metallic tubular stem connected to a ball retaining portion that carries a ball for towing a trailer. The ball mount storage device includes a mounting bracket for attachment to a vehicle. A ball mount stem receiving pin extends from the bracket and is engageable with apertures carried in the stem of the ball mount. The stem is also provided with an aperture for receiving a ball mount lock. A stem stop wall is attached to the mounting bracket in predetermined position to prevent rotation of the ball mount about the ball mount stem receiving pin. A magnetic means is carried on the stem stop wall to magnetically maintain the ball mount in firm engagement with the stem stop wall until the ball mount is manually removed. A configuration of the ball mount storage device with two mounting brackets is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Arthur R. McElhinney, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120274048
    Abstract: A tie down apparatus that may be utilized for securing an item, such as a safety chain, wherein the tie down apparatus may be used with a hitch mounting system. In one embodiment, the tie down apparatus may include a receiving member, a tie down member, and a clocking member. The receiving member may include an opening located there through. The tie down member may include at least one aperture, wherein the tie down member may be capable of being located and rotated within the receiving member. The tie down member may be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. The locking member may include at least one leg capable of being housed within the aperture. The locking member may engage the receiving member once the tie down member is rotated, thereby trapping the item within the tie down apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: CEQUENT PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 8286983
    Abstract: A trailer chassis is described which includes a gooseneck structure at the forward end thereof to which a two-point beam hitch assembly may be secured or a front axle tongue hitch assembly may be secured. The trailer may also function as a fifth wheel hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: James A. Hellbusch
  • Patent number: 8246068
    Abstract: The present invention provides a trailer to transport materials or equipment, the front tongue assembly of which converts to a highway traffic arrow board, or other preferred display, and which locks the trailer securely in place. The tongue extension frame extends through and pivots on the trailer frame and is moved to vertical by rack and pinion, or other suitable means such as hydraulic cylinder. Its upper end pivotably supports a Y-shaped tongue assembly with sign affixed opposite the towbar and hitch means. Power is applied to a gear box mounted on upper end of said tongue extension frame which turns the pivot bar 180 degrees to place the sign at the top for display and the towbar with hitch means at the bottom. Flip-down legs with extended side supports give added stability in the setup positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
  • Patent number: 8226106
    Abstract: A trailer hitch having an adjustable hitch bar for coupling with a tow vehicle and a front member coupled with the adjustable hitch bar. A rear member couples with a trailer frame and a yoke couples between the rear member and the trailer frame. Converging links connect between the front member and the rear member, whereby the angular position between the front member and the rear member can be varied. The converging links effectively move the pivot point between the tow vehicle and trailer forward of the hitch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: James C. Hensley Revocable Living Trust A
    Inventor: James C. Hensley
  • Patent number: 8215658
    Abstract: A tie down apparatus that may be utilized for securing an item, such as a safety chain, wherein the tie down apparatus may be used with a hitch mounting system. In one embodiment, the tie down apparatus may include a receiving member, a tie down member, and a clocking member. The receiving member may include an opening located there through. The tie down member may include at least one aperture, wherein the tie down member may be capable of being located and rotated within the receiving member. The tie down member may be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. The locking member may include at least one leg capable of being housed within the aperture. The locking member may engage the receiving member once the tie down member is rotated, thereby trapping the item within the tie down apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products
    Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 8201844
    Abstract: Disclosed is a self-locking hitch pin for joining a hitch device to a receiver hitch in a quick and easy manner using a single, self-contained mechanism. The hitch pin is comprised of shaft with a locking member on one end and a handle and weight on the other end and a spring and retainers to keep the hitch pin in place. The self-locking hitch pin allows for single-handed installation and securing of a hitch device to a receiver hitch with no pin or locking mechanism to be lost or dropped. The self-locking hitch pin can be inserted into the hitch orifice, have pressure applied to the spring, rotate the hitch pin allowing gravity to engage the locking member and then release pressure on the spring coupling both devices together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Max M. Smoot