Convertible Or Interchangeable From One Type Coupling To Another Patents (Class 280/416.1)
  • Patent number: 11745553
    Abstract: An adjustable capture plate for a fifth wheel hitch is disclosed. An example capture plate includes a skid plate couplable to a fifth wheel hitch, and a clamping system including, a base coupled to the skid plate, a pressure plate slidably coupled to the base, and a crank arm coupled to the pressure plate via a link, wherein rotation of the crank arm about an anchor pin of the base corresponds to linear travel of the pressure plate along the base, the pressure plate movable between a first position in which the pressure plate engages a pin box of a trailer and a second position in which the pressure plate is positioned away from the pin box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Cliff Standifer
  • Patent number: 11313509
    Abstract: The present disclosure may include a leg comprising first and second tubes, the first tube inside of the second tube, a lock mechanism within the second tube, the lock mechanism including a plug, a ramp, and bearings configured to roll along the ramp and contact the ramp and at least an interior wall of the first tube such that as the one or more bearings contact the ramp and the interior wall of the first tube, motion of the second tube relative to the first tube is inhibited, and a third tube inside of the second tube, and in response to the third tube being substantially disposed within the second tube, a proximate end of the third tube configured to push the one or more bearings towards the plug, reducing the interference of the one or more bearings with the interior wall of the first tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Inventor: Joshua Terry Hatch
  • Patent number: 11148735
    Abstract: An underbed hitch mounting system is described. The mounting system may be utilized for towing vehicles wherein the mounting system may selectively accommodate either a fifth wheel hitch or a gooseneck hitch. The mounting system may include at least one rail capable of being connected to a vehicle frame, wherein the rail includes at least one socket. The socket may be engaged with a receiving member, wherein the receiving member may be engaged with a leg of a fifth wheel hitch. A mid rail may be connected to the rails and may include a hitch ball socket that is capable of engagement with a hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Henry J. Guthard, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 11046130
    Abstract: A securing device for securing a cable to a tow ball, the tow ball having a head and a shank. The securing device has an element with a slot. The slot has a first portion wider than the head of the tow ball, and a second portion narrower than the head of the tow ball and wider than the shank of the tow ball. In one embodiment, the device has a resilient blocking member to block movement of the tow ball from the second portion to the first portion by extending across the slot between the first portion and the second portion and biasing the tow ball towards the second portion. In another embodiment, the device has a coupling member for releasably coupling the cable to the element and the first portion of the slot is adapted to receive the coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: JB Innovations Limited
    Inventor: John Menzies Burling
  • Patent number: 10953712
    Abstract: A hitch assembly for coupling a trailer to a tow vehicle comprises a king ball including a base and a king pin extending vertically from a top surface of the base, the king pin including a ball positioned on a distal end opposite the base, the ball adapted to be pivotally received into a hitch of the trailer. A hitch block includes a draw bar and a housing, the drawbar adapted to be horizontally inserted into a receiver mounted onto the tow vehicle, the housing including a throat adapted to receive the base of the king ball. A locking mechanism is adapted to automatically engage the king pin when the base of the king ball is inserted into the throat of the housing to secure the base of the king ball within the throat of the housing and locking the king ball and the hitch block together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Norman J. Weigert, Ralph D. Schlottke, Nash Escalada, Kenneth Jordan Weber
  • Patent number: 10723186
    Abstract: A dampening system is configured to isolate and dampen vibrations from transferring between a towing vehicle and gooseneck trailer. The system includes a neck support structure, a gooseneck having a coupling, a trailer mounting structure, the trailer mounting structure in communication with the neck support structure based on one or more hinges, a set of air bladders, wherein the air bladders are in communication with the neck support structure and the trailer mounting structure, and a flatbed, wherein the flatbed is in communication with the trailer mounting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Inventor: Lane L. English
  • Patent number: 10470970
    Abstract: An adapter assembly for use with a reciprocating treatment device that includes a main body portion having at least a first top male attachment member or a first top female attachment member on a top thereof and at least first and second bottom male attachment members or first and second bottom female attachment members on a bottom thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: THERAGUN, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin Nazarian, Jason Wersland, Michael Waldron, Geert Ensing, Jaime Sanchez Solana, Mateo Sanchez Solana
  • Patent number: 10421405
    Abstract: A step hitch assembly providing a platform surface elevated from the ground level of a vehicle for facilitating access to a rooftop surfaces and elevated objects on or about the rooftop surface including a trailer hitch member attachable to a vehicle hitch receiver, a step platform having at least two substantially planar surfaces in substantially parallel alignment adjoined by a transverse panel to thereby define a space therebetween fastenable to the vehicle hitch receiver in alternative horizontally and vertical orientations and having a plurality of corresponding transverse spaced perforations sized and spaced in transverse alignment for detachable coupling of a tow accessory hitch receiver having receiver holes to corresponding spaced perforations and a locking member capable of alternatively securing the hitch receiver in an extended position wherein the hitch receiver ball protrudes from the step platform or in a retracted position wherein the tow accessory hitch receiver ball is retracted in the space
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: ADVANCED ENGINEERING GROUP, LLC
    Inventors: Jeff Good, Arvinder Singh, Hardeep Singh
  • Patent number: 10406871
    Abstract: A multi-attachment trailer hitch features a shank for coupling with a receiver tube of a towing vehicle, and first and second hitch attachments of different size or type from one another movably carried on the shank by one or more supports. Each support is movably coupled to the shank for selective swiveling or rotation thereof about an upright axis to move one or more of said hitch attachments between a working position situated rearwardly beyond the rear end of the shank, and a storage position situated more forwardly than the working position. The one or more supports are movable into a full-storage state in which no hitch attachment occupies the working position, thereby eliminating or minimizing a rearward projection of the hitch from the rear of a towing vehicle to reduce or eliminating tripping or rear-end puncture hazards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventor: Sean Cassidy
  • Patent number: 10391825
    Abstract: A hitch with selective tow ball. The hitch with selective tow ball includes a coupling member configured to be received by a vehicle's tow box. A spring pin bracket including a spring pin is connected to the coupling member. A shaft extending from the spring pin bracket includes shaft aperture thereon. A cylinder includes a plurality of selection apertures and a channel extending therethrough. The shaft is inserted through the rear end of the channel, and the cylinder is rotatable about the shaft. The spring pin is inserted through the shaft aperture and one of the plurality of selection apertures, and the spring pin is biased toward the cylinder. A plurality of tow balls are disposed on the front end of the cylinder. The spring pin can be pulled upward to permit rotation of the shaft and then released into a desired selection aperture corresponding to the desired tow ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Inventor: Joshua Cincunegui
  • Patent number: 10081223
    Abstract: An adapter block for mounting accessory equipment to a tow hook. The adapter block comprises a top face and a bottom face disposed opposite the top face and lateral sides. The front side of the adapter block having uniform surfaces extending between the top and bottom faces, the lateral sides having a first thickness, wherein the bottom face includes a recess extending toward the top face, and the recess having a second thickness less than the first thickness and being contoured to receive at least a portion of the tow hook in a mating engagement. The first and second through-passages extend between the bottom face, and the top face are configured to receive a fastener that couples the tow hook within the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Motor City Aftermarket
    Inventors: Adam Allen, Justin Allen
  • Patent number: 9963005
    Abstract: A mountable hitch frame assembly for three-wheeled vehicle that secures to the rear portion of an existing three-wheeled vehicle frame to position a hitch receiver assembly rearwardly projected overtop a rear swing arm assembly of the existing three-wheeled vehicle whereby objects and accouterments are mountable securely in tow and force and inertia exerted when towing objects and accouterments is distributable directly into the existing three-wheeled vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Inventors: Richard Douglas Arlt, Walter Harvey Arlt
  • Patent number: 9944231
    Abstract: A retractable vehicle step is attachable to a vehicle or truck. The vehicle step facilitates access to a cargo hold, interior, or roof of the vehicle. Advantageously, the vehicle step may provide clearance space relative to a tailgate of the vehicle by displacing a stepping member of the vehicle step in a generally lateral direction. The vehicle step desirably has a covered and protected biasing mechanism for transitioning between retracted and extended positions of the stepping member. Advantageously, the vehicle step may be pulled out from under the vehicle by the foot of a user. Another advantage is that the vehicle step is readily attachable to the vehicle using already existing connection members, thereby generally eliminating or mitigating the need for customized retrofitting and avoiding undesirable installation cost and time. Finally, the vehicle step may be configured into at least two different arrangements for attachment to a vehicle utilizing the same components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Lund Motion Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Horst Leitner, Anthony Smith
  • Patent number: 9862243
    Abstract: A removable trailer tow hitch is provided. The removable trailer tow hitch includes a tongue having a first clamping portion located at one end and is configured to receive a towing connection at the other end. The first clamping portion is configured to engage a vehicle bumper. A lever arm having a second clamping portion is pivotally attached to the tongue. The second clamping portion is configured to removably secure the trailer tow hitch to a vehicle when the lever arm is moved from an open position to a closed position. The second clamping portion is configured to engage a vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: K-12, LLC
    Inventor: John Hauler
  • Patent number: 9707812
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lock apparatus for a trailer coupler. The lock apparatus includes a base that has a socket engagement feature that is receivable within a trailer coupler socket. The base of the lock apparatus further includes a locking assembly that has a locking mechanism, a user interface operable to actuate the locking mechanism, and a first and a second rotatable member coupled to the locking mechanism. A rotational axis extends through the first and second rotatable members. The lock apparatus further includes a pivoting shackle that has a middle section disposed between a first end section and a second end section, with the first end section being coupled to the first rotatable member and the second end section being coupled to the second rotatable member. The pivoting shackle is pivotable about the rotational axis between at least a locked position and an unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Inventor: Paul W. Budge
  • Patent number: 9707811
    Abstract: A multi-function, anti-rotational, power-sports utility hitch receiver assembly includes a four-sided hollow receiver tube having a forward end configured to attach to a tow vehicle and a rearward end configured to house an attachment of an accessory shank. Aligned apertures are present in the opposing sidewalls between the forward end and the rearward end for securing a hitch accessory shank within the receiver tube by inserting a hitch-pin through apertures. A removable, adjustable tightening bar is attachable to an underside of the hitch receiver tube for maintaining the receiver tube in a stationary position when the receiver tube is installed on a tow vehicle by abutting a surface on the tow vehicle. The assembly further includes a tow loop, e.g., for attaching tow chains, straps, bungee cords, tow hooks and the like to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Inventor: John R. Columbia
  • Patent number: 9566837
    Abstract: A hitch adapter preferably includes a hitch bracket and a lock pin. The hitch bracket includes a base plate and two side plates. The two side plates extend upward from opposing edges of the base plate. A hitch ball slot is formed in one end of the base plate to receive a neck area of a hitch ball. A pin hole is formed through one end of the two side plates receive the lock pin. A plurality of holes are formed through an opposing end of the hitch bracket for securement to a handle of wheeled device. The hitch adapter may be used as previously described, or used with other components, to create a tongue hitch adapter, a handle hook adapter, a raised hitch adapter or a garbage hook adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Inventor: Kurt D. Marling
  • Patent number: 9062923
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system of parts for modifying and supporting a c-channel type firearm receiver. More specifically, the invention provides modifying members and subassemblies for Kalashnikov-type rifles having c-channel type receivers comprising separate internal & external support members that are adapted to be interconnected where the receiver is placed between and connected to the support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventor: Richard Terry Thorup
  • Patent number: 8925952
    Abstract: An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Cody James Leech, Kristopher William Schwennsen, Scott Morrison
  • Publication number: 20140361598
    Abstract: The Road CRAB is road construction equipment used to remove road reflectors. This machine includes a manually operated blade that moves up and down, two hitches, one off set to the driver's side, and one that raises the front to wheels off the ground. It does not have a motor and is towed with a standard ball hitch on any work truck. When in use it has all four wheels on the ground with an operator (person) raising and lowering the blade with a handle. When being towed to and from job sites the travel hitch raises the front two wheels off the ground so it is easily towed on the back two wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: David Owen Greenlaw, Melody Denise Greenlaw
  • Patent number: 8899608
    Abstract: An interchangeable hitch assembly including a hitch member supported on a hitch post, the hitch member including plural hitches each in a separate radial position, where the hitch member is rotable to place one of the hitches in a selected position for attachment, a locking assembly adapted to hold the one of the hitches in said selected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventor: Carmen J DeLisio
  • Patent number: 8864162
    Abstract: A towed vehicle having two towing modes has a first set of wheels positioned on a first axis defining an operative position supporting a frame. A second set of wheels is positioned on a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. The second set of wheels has a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position. When the second set of wheels is in the lowered operative position, they lift the first set of wheels off the ground to an inoperative position. A first towing connection is provided for connecting the frame to a tow vehicle when the first set of wheels are in the operative position. A second towing connection is provided, perpendicular to the first towing connection, for connecting the frame to the tow vehicle when the second set of wheels are in the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Renn Mill Center Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Hilsabeck, Peter Verhoog
  • Publication number: 20140183840
    Abstract: An interchangeable hitch assembly including a hitch member supported on a hitch post, the hitch member including plural hitches each in a separate radial position, where the hitch member is rotable to place one of the hitches in a selected position for attachment, a locking assembly adapted to hold the one of the hitches in said selected position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventor: Carmen J. DeLisio
  • Patent number: 8684389
    Abstract: A tow hitch comprises an elongated tubular shank of rectangular cross-section having four side walls; and at least one tow ball mounted to an adjacent side wall of the shank with a mounting shank extending from a base of the tow ball through a first hole in the adjacent side wall and a second hole in a side wall opposite the adjacent side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Buyers Products Company
    Inventor: Thomas A. Gries
  • Patent number: 8662520
    Abstract: An improved hitch adapter allows an individual to attach a vehicle with a hook to a trailer with a ball coupler. The improved hitch adapter comprises an adapter ring mechanically coupled to a front plate. The front plate is mechanically coupled to a first parallel surface. The first parallel surface further comprises an adapter ball inset. The first parallel surface is mechanically coupled to a left plate and a right plate. The adapter ball inset is mechanically coupled to a height-adjustable ball. The right plate and the left plate are mechanically coupled to a size variable clamp. This enables a user to mechanically couple the hook to ball coupler regardless of size of the ball coupler enabling full articulation in a vertical direction and a rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Cornelius Powers
  • Publication number: 20130334791
    Abstract: The invention makes it possible to carry out towing processes for ground movements of aircraft of various types more efficiently. For this purpose, a coupling device was invented for coupling to a landing gear of an aircraft. The coupling device comprises a first landing gear adapter (60A), which is designed for coupling to a landing gear of an aircraft of a first type. A second landing gear adapter (60B, . . . , 60F) is provided, which is designed for coupling to a landing gear of an aircraft of a second type. The second type is different from the first type. A change device (30) is coupled to the first and second landing gear adapters (60A, 60B) and designed such that optionally the first (60A) or the second landing gear adapter (60B, . . . , 60F) can be positioned in an operating position, or location (61) of the coupling device, suitable for coupling to the landing gear. Preferably a plurality of second landing gear adapters (60B, . . .
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Quickloading GMBH
    Inventor: Armin Van Der Lelij
  • Patent number: 8550485
    Abstract: An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Cody James Leech, Kristopher William Schwennsen, Scott Morrison
  • Publication number: 20130175784
    Abstract: A towed vehicle having two towing modes has a first set of wheels positioned on a first axis defining an operative position supporting a frame. A second set of wheels is positioned on a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. The second set of wheels has a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position. When the second set of wheels is in the lowered operative position, they lift the first set of wheels off the ground to an inoperative position. A first towing connection is provided for connecting the frame to a tow vehicle when the first set of wheels are in the operative position. A second towing connection is provided, perpendicular to the first towing connection, for connecting the frame to the tow vehicle when the second set of wheels are in the operative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: RENN MILL CENTER INC.
    Inventor: RENN MILL CENTER INC.
  • Publication number: 20130119638
    Abstract: A pintle ring converted to a ball receiver comprises of a top half, a bottom half, a ball receiver coupler, a bolt connecting mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The bolt connecting mechanism comprises of a threaded connecting bolt and a lock washer. The top half comprises of a top sculpted flange, a top weep hole, a top center hole, and a top flat edge. The bottom half comprises of a bottom neck, a bottom threaded center hole, and a bottom flat edge. The ball receiver coupler comprises of a lock bolt hole. The locking mechanism comprises of a locking bolt and a snap-in cotter key. The locking bolt comprises of a cotter key hole, a straight end, and a bent end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald O. FIELDS
  • Patent number: 8430419
    Abstract: A vehicle coupling device 10 for coupling a vehicle to another vehicle. The coupling device 10 comprises a mount 12 for mounting the coupling device 10 to the vehicle. The device 10 also comprises a first coupling 14 and a second coupling 16. Each of the first and second couplings 14, 16 is connected to a support 18 and movable relative to the mount 12 between an operative position and an inoperative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Ian Garth
  • Patent number: 8430418
    Abstract: The present application describes apparatus for attaching or securing a fifth wheel hitch to a bed of a towing vehicle. The fifth wheel hitch may be arranged to be secured to a hitch ball, such as a gooseneck hitch ball. The fifth wheel hitch may include a chamber for accepting a hitch ball, a locking pin for securing the hitch ball in the chamber, and a handle for selectively securing and releasing the hitch ball. The locking pin may be biased towards a position for securing the hitch ball in the chamber. A damper may be included to dampen impact forces transferred from the trailer to the towing vehicle through the fifth wheel hitch. The fifth wheel hitch may include support members having wear strips that may rest on the surface of the towing vehicle bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, William Aske
  • Patent number: 8382142
    Abstract: A trailer which is sized to be towed behind a motorcycle. The trailer includes a cargo bay for storing luggage, spare parts, tools or other cargo. The trailer is preferably towed behind a motorcycle in a group of motorcycles. In the unfortunate event that one of the motorcycles breaks down or a rider is unable to continue operating his or her motorcycle, the cargo bay can be converted to a towing configuration for towing the disabled motorcycle. This allows the group of motorcycles to continue riding, and the disabled motorcycle can be towed to a repair location at a more convenient time for the entire group of riders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: James B. Edmondson
  • Patent number: 8366133
    Abstract: There is provided a tow hitch that includes a shank, an elongated shank having a first end and a second end and a rectangular cross-section having four side surfaces adapted to slideably fit within a receiver located on a towing vehicle. A shank shaft extends outwardly from the second end of the shank a sufficient length to accommodate the tubular shank sleeve. The shank shaft is somewhat smaller that the shank and is sized to accommodate a shank sleeve. The shank shaft may be circular so that the shank sleeve can be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the shank shaft. When in place over the shank shaft the first end shank sleeve abuts the second end of the shank. Tow balls are secured to respective side walls of the shank sleeve. The shank sleeve is retained on the shank shaft by an end cap having a space to receive the outer end of the shank shaft and is held in place by a pin through the top and bottom of the end cap and through the end of the shank shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Terry Brinkley
  • Patent number: 8333402
    Abstract: The present application is directed to a system and related methods for connecting a vehicle with a trailer. The system includes, but is not limited to, embodiments featuring (a) a docking assembly for securing to the vehicle, the docking assembly being pivotable; and (b) a coupler assembly comprising a first part operationally configured to secure to a trailer, and a second part operationally configured for releasable securement to the docking assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Claud T Moore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8328223
    Abstract: An attachment assembly for a vehicle having a receiver for pulling an object or being pulled. The attachment assembly includes a support member for connection to the receiver and an attachment member connected to the support member to provide both pivotal and rotational movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Bradley R. Leinenger
  • Publication number: 20120274047
    Abstract: There is provided a tow hitch that includes a shank, an elongated shank having a first end and a second end and a rectangular cross-section having four side surfaces adapted to slideably fit within a receiver located on a towing vehicle. A shank shaft extends outwardly from the second end of the shank a sufficient length to accommodate the tubular shank sleeve. The shank shaft is somewhat smaller that the shank and is sized to accommodate a shank sleeve. The shank shaft may be circular so that the shank sleeve can be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the shank shaft. When in place over the shank shaft the first end shank sleeve abuts the second end of the shank. Tow balls are secured to respective side walls of the shank sleeve. The shank sleeve is retained on the shank shaft by an end cap having a space to receive the outer end of the shank shaft and is held in place by a pin through the top and bottom of the end cap and through the end of the shank shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: Terry Brinkley
  • Publication number: 20120261899
    Abstract: A three-point hitch converter allows three-point tractor implements to hook to a standard trailer hitch of a vehicle. The hitch converter can attach to a standard trailer hitch receiver the same way as a conventional ball hitch. The hitch converter includes a frame having points to attach tractor-type three-point lift links. The hitch converter also includes mount points for a snowplow-type attachment, a winch, or one or more hydraulic cylinders for lifting the implement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Jay L. Ockunzzi
  • 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: 8210557
    Abstract: A convertible trailer that may be reconfigured for use with different towing hitch arrangements. The trailer includes a first deck, a second deck, and an adjustable neck configured to support the second deck substantially level with the first deck in a pintle configuration and to support the second deck above the first deck in a fifth wheel configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: John Felix Schneider
  • Patent number: 8186703
    Abstract: A tow cable kit is mounted to a pin support member which is attached to a frame of the vehicle. The pin support member includes an upper plate and a lower plate. Each plate has a front bore and a rear bore. The front bores receive a front towing pin, and the rear bores receive a rear towing pin. The front towing pin is received by a towing cable, the rear towing pin is received by a drawbar. The tow cable kit includes a floater plate which is spaced apart from the pin support member and is coupled to both towing pins. The floater plate has a pair of spaced apart bores for receiving the towing pins and for protecting snap rings which are mounted on the towing pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Nicholas David Bruns, Shane Michael Boden
  • Patent number: 8157288
    Abstract: A trailer including a cargo carrier is provided. The cargo carrier may be secured to the rear of the trailer to increase the carrying capacity of the trailer. The cargo carrier may also be used independently of the trailer. The trailer may be positioned in a vertically disposed position for transport or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Cory S. Kapels
  • Patent number: 8157284
    Abstract: An alignment method and system for connecting a tractor to a steerable trailer includes a connection roller which facilitates the connection by accommodating a variance in fifth wheel to kingpin alignment. The method and system also includes an alignment guide which visually assists the tractor driver in properly aligning the tractor to the interface member of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventors: James R. McGhie, Robb I. McGhie
  • Patent number: 8104783
    Abstract: A fork lift hitch receiver has a trailer attachment side and a fork lift receiving side separated by an insert guard. Top, middle and bottom structural layers on the fork lift receiving side are provided with apertures which form a rod reception path. The fork lift receiving side is inserted into a receiving cavity of the forklift where an attachment rod of the forklift is inserted through the rod reception path. The insert guard covers the receiving cavity and assists in orienting the fork lift receiving side to a location within the cavity where the attachment rod can be inserted through the reception path. A guide path formed in the top layer on the receiving side of the fork lift hitch receiver further aids in guiding the attachment rod to the reception path. A ball and a ball support member are attached to the trailer attachment side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Christina Blankenship, John Michael Bush
  • Patent number: 8087866
    Abstract: Hay bale suspension systems for non-pivotal connection to hitches of vehicles are disclosed herein. The systems respectively comprise connector assemblies and hay bale support assemblies. The connector assemblies non-pivotally secure to a ball hitch or a receiver hitch of a vehicle. The hay bale support assemblies are non-pivotally secured to the vehicle via the connector assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Fast Hay Movers, Inc.
    Inventor: Lonnie B. Fast
  • Patent number: 8033563
    Abstract: A height adjustable hitch assembly. The present invention provides a trailer hitch assembly mountable to a receiver hitch of a vehicle. The trailer hitch assembly includes a vertically extending channel member having opposing side flanges. Each of the side flanges includes equally spaced holes. A locking member having two pins spaced from one another the same distance as the holes in the flanges secures a hitch assembly to the channel member at a desired height. The height can be quickly and easily adjusted by removing the locking member, moving the hitch assembly to the desired height and reinserting the locking member. The channel member and the dual locking pin minimize rocking, swaying and pivoting of the hitch assembly relative to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Engineering Group
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Good
  • Patent number: 7997607
    Abstract: A recreational trailer assembly that includes first and second trailer members and a trailer tongue that are all detachably and removably connected to one another. Specifically the first and second trailer members and trailer tongue are detachably removed from one another allowing for multi-functional uses of each and to provide assistance in transportation and storage of the entire recreational trailer assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Innovations Unlimited, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Mark A. Voves
  • Patent number: 7988176
    Abstract: An adaptive fifth-wheel hitch system operable with a vehicle hitch coupling system, the fifth-wheel hitch assembly comprising a fifth-wheel hitch assembly configured to removably couple a fifth-wheel trailer to a vehicle; an adapter configured to operably relate and to removably couple the fifth-wheel hitch assembly to the vehicle hitch coupling system, the fifth-wheel hitch assembly and the vehicle hitch coupling system otherwise being inoperable with one another, the adapter comprising a mounting component having a first interface operable to relate and secure the adapter to the fifth-wheel hitch assembly, and a coupling component having a second interface operable to relate and secure the adapter to the vehicle hitch coupling system, the coupling component corresponding to a receiving component of the vehicle hitch coupling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory J. Colibert, Jackie Colibert-Clarke
  • Patent number: 7976054
    Abstract: A hitch ball assembly attenuates the lateral forces experienced by a trailer while being towed by a tractor. A ball assembly has a flange with a neck extending upwardly therefrom and a hitch ball seated atop the neck. A wedge, having a pair of linear points, extends downwardly from the flange as does a threaded shank that passes through the wedge, the points being located on either side of the shank. The ball assembly is attached to a draw bar attached mount arm such that the shank passes through a bore in the mount arm with the points of the wedge seated within slots on an upper surface of the mount arm. A resilient bushing is received on the shank and abuts a lower surface of the mount arm, while a plate abuts the bushing, each held thereat by a locking nut threadably attached to an end of the shank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Growth Innovation, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Sterling Phipps
  • Patent number: 7975776
    Abstract: Provided is a hitch for towing a trailer behind a vehicle licensed to navigate public roadways. The hitch includes a base member to be coupled adjacent to a tail section of the vehicle, and a first support member portion coupled transversely to the elongated shank and extending outwardly in a direction generally away from the base member. A first arm is telescopically adjustable relative to the support member and supports a first connector provided adjacent to a distal end thereof. The first gimbal connector is cooperable with a first trailer connector to establish a linkage with first trailer connector. A second support member portion is coupled to the base member and extends outwardly in a direction generally away from the base member. A second connector is supported adjacent to a distal end of the second support member and is also cooperable with a second trailer connector to establish a linkage with the second trailer connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventors: Larry Chimento, Robert K. Petit, Craig Forrer
  • Patent number: 7926830
    Abstract: A hitch adapter for use with a forwardly extending tongue of an implement which enables the hitch on the forward end of the tongue to be converted from a clevis-type hitch to a hitch ball-type hitch. The hitch adapter of this invention may also be used with hitch balls having different diameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Curt J. Hill