Abstract: Coupling apparatus for coupling first and second objects together and including first and second coupling means carried by respective ones of said objects. The first coupling means comprises a latch carrying member and latch control means telescopic therewith. A guide means is carried by the latch carrying member and first latch means are slidably mounted on the guide means. The first latch means are movable along one path from a first latch position to a second latch position, whereby they automatically engage second latch means on the second coupling means, upon movement of the latch control means along another path transverse to that of the first latch means. The apparatus also comprises an improved universal joint control assembly for selectively locking or freeing an associated universal joint.

Abstract: The disclosure is to a coupling mechanism which may be set operative to project means to effect latch engagement between objects, the means also being projected to set operative means to permit universal relative movement between the objects. An exemplary application may be a prime mover with a control valve accessible to driver who can turn the valve to operate a hitch housing assembly to latch with a vehicle, the hitch housing assembly movement also continuing to uncover universal joint members in chain or connection whereby universal connection may be effected between the vehicle and the prime mover that pulls it. Many other applications of the invention are within contemplation, as in the field of connected floated vessels, railroad cars, trailer homes, and the like.