Patents by Inventor Todd M. Schultz

Todd M. Schultz 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: 5758893
    Abstract: A device (10) that facilitates the coupling of a socket-type coupling (34) of a trailer to a vehicle (12) that tows the trailer. The device (10) enables a single unaided individual to back a vehicle equipped with a hitch ball (30) into a socket-type coupling (34) of a trailer. The device (10) includes a substantially "V"-shaped ramp (14) inclined about the hitch ball (30) that, upon the backing of the vehicle, guides the socket coupling (34) of the trailer to a trigger position above the hitch ball (30). When it reaches such trigger position, the socket coupling (34) impacts an abutment (20) to pivot a support member (24) from its supporting position to a release position, to allow the ramp member (14) to drop down below the hitch ball (30) and allow the socket coupling to drop onto the hitch ball (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Todd M. Schultz