Abstract: A brake controller (10) transmits a signal indicative of a braking force to electric brakes (126, 128) of towed equipment, such as a trailer or towed vehicle (120). The brake controller (10) can include at least one characteristic sensor (32), such as an accelerometer, reactive to a braking force applied by the driver of the towing vehicle (110) or to changes in attitude or orientation of the towed equipment. A microprocessor (140) acts upon a signal from the at least one characteristic sensor (32) to determine output settings used to activate the towed equipment braking system for application of sufficient braking force for desired slowing of the towed equipment in concert with the towing vehicle (110). Activation of braking systems of the towed equipment includes the use of wireless signals. Additionally, the use of the right-side brake and the left-side brake for sway control is disclosed.

Abstract: A wheeled vehicle including a platform portion having a mounting bracket for coupling a fifth wheel hitch to the vehicle. A pair of elongate frame members are located beneath the platform portion, and each having a lengthwise axis oriented substantially parallel to a forward direction of travel of the vehicle. A brace frame beneath the platform that is coupled between the pair of elongate frame members. The mounting bracket is secured to the brace frame and includes a stabilizer including a pair of elongate support arms joined by a cross-member. An anchor arrangement fixes the bracket relative the platform with long axes of the pair of arms transverse to the forward direction of travel. The mounting bracket has a lower portion in abutting engagement with the platform portion of the vehicle and an upper portion configured for receiving fixed coupled engagement of a fifth wheel hitch.