Patents by Inventor Don G. Flathers

Don G. Flathers has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 9987965
    Abstract: An intermediate towing device is provided for use between a tow vehicle and a towed vehicle. The towing device provides for a transfer of weight between the towed vehicle to the towing device to provide for a smoother ride while pulling or towing a towed vehicle. A steering assembly of the intermediate towing device provides for the transfer from a change in direction from the tow vehicle to the towing device via linkages and swiveling devices. Therefore, as the tow vehicle changes direction, this will be transferred to the wheels of the towing device to provide for greater control in both a forward and rear ward direction. Furthermore, a hitch connecter may be positioned between the tow vehicle and the towing device to provide for even greater control and auto steering of the intermediate towing device via the change in direction of the towed vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Inventor: Don G. Flathers
  • Publication number: 20160016501
    Abstract: An intermediate towing device is provided for use between a tow vehicle and a towed vehicle. The towing device provides for a transfer of weight between the towed vehicle to the towing device to provide for a smoother ride while pulling or towing a towed vehicle. A steering assembly of the intermediate towing device provides for the transfer from a change in direction from the tow vehicle to the towing device via linkages and swiveling devices. Therefore, as the tow vehicle changes direction, this will be transferred to the wheels of the towing device to provide for greater control in both a forward and rear ward direction. Furthermore, a hitch connecter may be positioned between the tow vehicle and the towing device to provide for even greater control and auto steering of the intermediate towing device via the change in direction of the towed vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 21, 2016
    Inventor: Don G. Flathers
  • Patent number: 8246067
    Abstract: Described herein is a trailer hitch adapter designed to relieve the weight of a trailer from applying directly onto the hitch of a towing vehicle. The hitch adapter features a towing bar pivotally secured to a frame with a wheel base, the towing bar resists pivotal movement by spring and damper assemblies. The frame has a hitch for receiving the trailer and the towing bar has a hitch for attachment to the towing vehicle. The wheel base of the hitch adapter is movable between a forward and rearward position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Don G. Flathers