Fifth Wheel Only Patents (Class 280/433)
  • Patent number: 8851501
    Abstract: The latch assembly of a fifth wheel hitch plate comprises a latch member movable between lock and unlocked positions, a plunger member movable between engaged and unengaged positions, an actuator movable between coupled and uncoupled positions, a locking member movable between first and second positions, and a biasing member that biases the locking member from the disengaged position to the engaged position, wherein the latch member abuts the locking member as the latch member is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, thereby moving the locking member from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin D. Keatley
  • Patent number: 8851453
    Abstract: A system to open a shipping bin slide-gate may include an opener, a pivot point towards one end of the opener, and a handle towards the other end of the opener. The system may also include a puller, a connector towards one end of the puller, and a joiner towards the other end of the puller that connects to the opener. The system may further include an attacher that engages a shipping container and the pivot point, and the attacher transmits a force applied at the handle to the connector to open the slide-gate carried by the shipping container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Chep Technology Pty Limited
    Inventor: Henk de Zwart
  • Patent number: 8827297
    Abstract: A sliding fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a longitudinal rail having a substantially vertical side member, a first end portion, and a second end portion. At least one carriage bracket is slidably engaged with the longitudinal rail. The carriage bracket is adapted to support a hitch plate. An engagement assembly is coupled with the carriage bracket for releasably engaging the longitudinal rail along a length of the longitudinal rail between the first and second end portions. At least one slide stop laterally extends from the substantially vertical side member of the longitudinal rail proximate at least a select one of the first end portion and the second end portion. The slide stop is positioned to abut the carriage bracket, thereby limiting a sliding motion of the hitch plate with respect to the longitudinal rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Keatley
  • Patent number: 8827040
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for lubricating a closing mechanism on a saddle coupling comprising a closing mechanism which is arranged on the lower side of a coupling plate and which comprises at least one closing hook and/or closing bar, provided with a coating, and a fat reservoir which is connected to the closure hook by means of a lubricating line. The invention also relates to a coating of individual components of the system, i.e. the closing hook and the closing bar, in addition to the use of a coating. The invention is characterized in that the coating of the closing hook and/or the closing bar is embodied as a sliding coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Dirk Schmidt, José Algüera, Fan Zhang, Heinz-Jürgen Seigis, Wolfgang Pohl
  • Patent number: 8827298
    Abstract: Jaws of a fifth wheel hitch have front arms that overlap each other. The jaws are linked for simultaneous movement at the same speed and corresponding positions when closing around the kingpin, and a pawl holds the jaws closed. A handle moves a pawl to unlock the hitch to allow ejection of the kingpin, and once the jaws are open the pawl holds them open. A position indicator is linked both to the handle and to one of the jaws. The position indicator moves between three indications: locked, unlocked and open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Joel Diller
  • Patent number: 8820768
    Abstract: The high lock warning system for fifth wheel hitches provides audible and/or visual warning to the operator of a towing vehicle in the event that the king pin of the trailer passes beyond the forward edge of the fifth wheel hitch plate of the towing vehicle during hitching operations. The system includes a panel pivotally attached to the forward portion of the fifth wheel. One or more warning devices are activated if the panel is deflected by the king pin during hitching operations, i.e., a high lock condition. The system may also include an indicator to show proper engagement of the king pin in the fifth wheel hitch. The high lock warning actuator panel may be secured in its normal position by a shear pin that breaks in the event of a high lock, and/or a spring to return the panel to its normal position after a high lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Roger D. Grizzle
  • Patent number: 8814197
    Abstract: According to the present invention, a fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a support bracket adapted to operably couple with a vehicle frame. The hitch assembly also has a hitch plate that includes a throat adapted to receive a kingpin of a trailer and a rear portion. The hitch plate is pivotably coupled with the support bracket and is pivotable between a first position and a second position. Further, the hitch assembly has a limiter linkage that includes a first end pivotably coupled with the rear portion. A second end of the limiter linkage is movable between a stowed and a deployed position. In the stowed position the second end is spaced from the vehicle frame. In the deployed position the second end of the limiter linkage is detachably coupled with the vehicle frame, thereby limiting movement of the hitch plate between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Keatley
  • Patent number: 8801036
    Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch mounting assembly for mounting a fifth wheel hitch plate to a vehicle frame assembly includes a first and second frame members each having substantially vertically extending mounting portions each having an inwardly facing surface, comprises a first support member adapted to couple to the inwardly facing surface of the mounting portion of the first frame member, a second support member adapted to couple to the inwardly facing surface of the mounting portion of the second frame member, a cross member extending between and coupled to the first support member and the second support member, a first mounting member coupled with a first support member and including an inwardly exposed aperture adapted to receive a mounting pin therein for pivotally coupling a fifth wheel hitch plate to the first mounting bracket, and a second mounting member coupled to the second support member and including an inwardly exposed aperture adapted to receive a mounting pin therein for pivotally coupling the fifth w
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin D. Keatley
  • Publication number: 20140159339
    Abstract: The present invention provides a capture plate for preventing rotation between a trailer and a hitch assembly. The hitch assembly mounts on a vehicle, and is preferably a sliding hitch assembly. The capture plate has a lip which mates with the pin box of a fifth wheel trailer, the lip prevents rotation between the trailer and the capture plate. The capture plate has a restriction part which mates with the pin slot on the hitch assembly, the restriction part restricts rotation between the capture plate and the hitch. The capture plate has a fastener which removably secures the capture plate to the pin box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: PULLIAM ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Wayne E. Hartman, Randall A. Pulliam
  • Publication number: 20140138933
    Abstract: Jaws of a fifth wheel hitch have front arms that overlap each other. The jaws are linked for simultaneous movement at the same speed and corresponding positions when closing around the kingpin, and a pawl holds the jaws closed. A handle moves a pawl to unlock the hitch to allow ejection of the kingpin, and once the jaws are open the pawl holds them open. A position indicator is linked both to the handle and to one of the jaws. The position indicator moves between three indications: locked, unlocked and open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: CURT MANUFACTURING, LLC
    Inventor: Joel Diller
  • Patent number: 8727369
    Abstract: Sliding hitch assemblies including a rail assembly, a support assembly disposed upon and configured to translate between at least two positions along the rail assembly, a hitch head assembly mounted on the support assembly, and a translation lock mechanism including a locking assembly coupled to the support assembly and configured to selectively lock the support assembly in one or more of the at least two positions on the rail assembly, and an actuating assembly configured to actuate the locking assembly, where the actuating assembly is operably coupled to the locking body by an anti-binding assembly. The support assembly may be disposed upon the rail assembly via a glide block that includes a composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: The Coast Distribution System, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney Peterson, Christopher Moore, David Hoover, Dennis A. Castagnoia
  • Patent number: 8720864
    Abstract: A device is provided to install and remove a fifth wheel hitch from a vehicle. This device includes an attachment bar connected to the kingpin of a fifth wheel trailer. The attachment bar is in communication with an extension arm. The extension arm includes a hoist with a cable to be attached to the fifth wheel hitch. Operation of the hoist will lift or lower the fifth wheel hitch to its desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth Cote
  • Patent number: 8690179
    Abstract: On a fifth wheel coupling (1) for coupling a tractor to a semitrailer, comprising a fifth wheel plate (2) for installation on the tractor and an engagement element (3) for installation on the semitrailer, wherein the fifth wheel plate (2) is designed to receive the engagement element (3), it is proposed to design the engagement element (3) to comprise a coupling ball (31) in order to increase the cross-country mobility of a team formed by the tractor and the semitrailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventors: Josef Scharmüller, Josef Scharmüller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8662521
    Abstract: Upper coupler assemblies for mounting coupling devices to trailers, and methods for inspecting upper coupler assemblies. The upper coupler assemblies include a housing having first and second members that define a cavity therebetween. At least the second member has a through-hole adapted to receive a coupling device, such as a kingpin. The cavity contains at least one fluid-tight chamber, more preferably multiple gas-tight and liquid-tight chambers by walls within the cavity. The coupler assembly has at least one fluid inlet for introducing and/or withdrawing a fluid (liquid and/or gas) from one or more of the chambers. The integrity of the upper coupler assembly can be evaluated by introducing or removing a gas from the one or more chambers and detecting the presence of any gas leaks in the one or more chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Elvin Lloyd Knollman
  • Publication number: 20140049024
    Abstract: A fifth wheel coupling with a pull handle, having a pull lever and a safety lever. The pull handle can move in a travel space of a guide mechanism of the fifth wheel coupling plate into a closed position and a release position. Elements are provided for blocking the pull handle, consisting of a safety mechanism with a movably disposed blocking element. The safety mechanism is arranged on the fifth wheel coupling plate. The pull handle has a device for manipulation of the safety mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBH
    Inventor: Achim STRÜTT
  • Publication number: 20140025245
    Abstract: A tractor unit (10) and a trailer unit (14) are connected by a connecting pin (33) on one unit (12, 14) which is in use received in an opening (21) in a connecting surface of the other unit, the connecting pin (33) including a sensor device (70) to sense loads imposed on the connecting pin (33) as the trailer unit (14) tends to decelerate or accelerate relative to the tractor unit (12), there being a control system, including a controller (65) which receives signals from the sensor device (70) representative of loads imposed on the connecting pin (33), and at least one electrical motive machine (50) is controlled, the machine (50) being capable of being electrically driven by power from an electrical storage device to provide drive to drive at least one ground engaging wheel (45a, 45b) and of generating electrical power for storage by an electrical storage device (58), such as to minimise the loads imposed on the connecting pin (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: GKN AutoStructure Limited
    Inventors: Angelo Fanourakis, Bachrun Mason, Matthew Hill
  • Publication number: 20140008893
    Abstract: A metal matrix composite article is described that includes a metal component, a ceramic component, and a lubricious component. The metal matrix composite article has a first surface and a second surface. The lubricious component is present in an amount that is highest at the first surface and is lowest at the second surface. The ceramic component is present in an amount that is highest at the first surface and is lowest at the second surface. The metal component is present in an amount that is highest at the second surface and is lowest at the first surface. In some cases, the metal matrix composite article is a wear plate for a fifth wheel hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventors: Adam R. Loukus, Josh E. Loukus
  • Publication number: 20140001731
    Abstract: A platform trailer includes a neck reinforcement structure located in the neck region. The neck reinforcement structure includes a first beam reinforcement structure located adjacent an inner side of the first beam that is oriented toward the second beam, and a second beam reinforcement structure located adjacent an inner side of the second beam that is oriented toward the first beam. A plurality of internal cross members extend between and interconnect the first and second beam reinforcement structures. A fifth wheel plate is fixedly secured to and that extends between both the first and second beams. A kingpin is connected to the fifth wheel plate and is adapted to be engaged by an associated tractor fifth wheel. The neck reinforcement structure allows for use of aluminum alloy beams with a reduced height in the neck region of the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Howard D. Booher, Russell D. Pittman, Derek Davies
  • Patent number: 8616575
    Abstract: A fifth-wheel coupling (1) having a coupling plate (2) with an entry opening (4) for a king pin (5) includes an at least single-part locking device (100) for fastening the king pin (5) and a fixing element which engages on the locking device, which fixing element can be moved from a locking position into an open position and vice versa. A securing device (15) with a blocking element (40, 400) is provided, which blocking element (40, 400) can be moved from a rest position into a blocking position and vice versa, wherein the blocking element (40, 400) projects into the entry opening (4) at least in the blocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: José Manuel Algüera, Michael Elermann, Swen Saupe, Achim Strütt
  • Patent number: 8615347
    Abstract: An anti-theft security device for a vehicle coupling, in particular a fifth wheel coupling (1), includes a security apparatus (2) and a control apparatus (3) which are electrically connected to each other. The control device (3) is connected to at least one vehicle-side system (10a, b, c) having an emergency function. Upon the triggering of at least one emergency function of the vehicle-side system, the control apparatus (3) deactivates the control apparatus (2) directly or indirectly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: José Manuel Algüera Gallego, Swen Saupe
  • Publication number: 20130328286
    Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a support bracket operably coupled to a vehicle frame member; a hitch plate that has a throat adapted to receive a kingpin and a rear portion, wherein the hitch plate is pivotably coupled to the support bracket for pivoting between a first and second positions; a stabilizer assembly coupled to the hitch plate, the stabilizer assembly operating between an unlocked position, wherein the hitch plate pivots between the first and second positions, and the locked position, wherein the stabilizer assembly is coupled with the rear portion and a select one of the vehicle frame and the support bracket, thereby restricting pivotable movement of the hitch plate; and a remotely located controller that operates the stabilizer assembly between the unlocked and locked positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, INC.
    Inventor: Michael Zerba
  • Patent number: 8602438
    Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch may include a skid plate having a plurality of recesses, and a skid plate cover secured to the skid plate. The skid plate cover may also include a plurality of projections, where the projections engage with the recesses of the skid plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
  • Publication number: 20130320650
    Abstract: The high lock warning system for fifth wheel hitches provides audible and/or visual warning to the operator of a towing vehicle in the event that the king pin of the trailer passes beyond the forward edge of the fifth wheel hitch plate of the towing vehicle during hitching operations. The system includes a panel pivotally attached to the forward portion of the fifth wheel. One or more warning devices are activated if the panel is deflected by the king pin during hitching operations, i.e., a high lock condition. The system may also include an indicator to show proper engagement of the king pin in the fifth wheel hitch. The high lock warning actuator panel may be secured in its normal position by a shear pin that breaks in the event of a high lock, and/or a spring to return the panel to its normal position after a high lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: ROGER D. GRIZZLE
  • Publication number: 20130307247
    Abstract: The latch assembly of a fifth wheel hitch plate comprises a latch member movable between lock and unlocked positions, a plunger member movable between engaged and unengaged positions, an actuator movable between coupled and uncoupled positions, a locking member movable between first and second positions, and a biasing member that biases the locking member from the disengaged position to the engaged position, wherein the latch member abuts the locking member as the latch member is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position, thereby moving the locking member from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, INC.
    Inventor: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130285347
    Abstract: A sliding fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a longitudinal rail having a substantially vertical side member, a first end portion, and a second end portion. At least one carriage bracket is slidably engaged with the longitudinal rail. The carriage bracket is adapted to support a hitch plate. An engagement assembly is coupled with the carriage bracket for releasably engaging the longitudinal rail along a length of the longitudinal rail between the first and second end portions. At least one slide stop laterally extends from the substantially vertical side member of the longitudinal rail proximate at least a select one of the first end portion and the second end portion. The slide stop is positioned to abut the carriage bracket, thereby limiting a sliding motion of the hitch plate with respect to the longitudinal rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, INC.
    Inventor: Justin Keatley
  • Patent number: 8556287
    Abstract: An adaptor for securing a fifth wheel hitch to the bed of a towing vehicle is described. The fifth wheel hitch is typically part of a larger assembly having attachment lugs configured to be removably secured to receptacles in mounting rails permanently attached to the bed of the towing vehicle. Newer towing vehicles are provided with recessed sockets in the vehicle bed, rather than permanently mounted rails, to eliminate obstructions to placement of cargo in the bed. The present invention is, therefore, an adaptor for securing existing fifth wheel assemblies to these newer towing vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Colin Connell
  • Publication number: 20130241178
    Abstract: A method of making a galvanized upper coupler assembly for use in a trailer and the corresponding upper coupler assembly apparatus is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a frame, covering at least one area of the frame with a mask, galvanizing the portions of the frame that are not covered, removing the mask, providing a kingpin, and attaching the kingpin to the frame. After attachment of the kingpin to the frame, the combined assembly can be coated with a rust resistant coating if desired, a cover plate can be attached to the frame, over the kingpin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Great Dane Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Jerry Woodson McNeil, Richard Bordeaux Mullininx
  • Patent number: 8523216
    Abstract: An improved slide rail for a fifth wheel hitch assembly is disclosed that has T-shaped cross-section with a horizontal top section and a vertical base section. The horizontal top section includes scalloped edges, and the vertical base section includes weld pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel Company
    Inventors: Steven W Mann, James M. Rhodes
  • Publication number: 20130214511
    Abstract: On a fifth wheel coupling (1) for coupling a tractor to a semitrailer, comprising a fifth wheel plate (2) for installation on the tractor and an engagement element (3) for installation on the semitrailer, wherein the fifth wheel plate (2) is designed to receive the engagement element (3), it is proposed to design the engagement element (3) to comprise a coupling ball (31) in order to increase the cross-country mobility of a team formed by the tractor and the semitrailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Josef Scharmüller, Josef Scharmüller, JR.
  • Patent number: 8505954
    Abstract: An easy to use trailer anti-theft device that forms an integral part of said trailer comprising a front exterior wall mounted locking mechanism having a rotatable lock bar extending therefrom with the lock bar having an upper arm pivotally and swivelably connected to a lower swing bar that can be unlocked and moved from a stored position to a downwardly depending blocking position. The lock bar has a partially rotative lower swing arm that under force extends under the trailer substantially in the direction of the trailer king pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Haley
  • Publication number: 20130200593
    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: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: CEQUENT PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8485544
    Abstract: A method of making a galvanized upper coupler assembly for use in a trailer and the corresponding upper coupler assembly apparatus is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a frame, covering at least one area of the frame with a mask, galvanizing the portions of the frame that are not covered, removing the mask, providing a kingpin, and attaching the kingpin to the frame. After attachment of the kingpin to the frame, the combined assembly can be coated with a rust resistant coating. if desired, a cover plate can be attached to the frame, over the kingpin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Great Dane Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Jerry Woodson McNeil, Richard Bordeaux Mullininx
  • Publication number: 20130168946
    Abstract: A bearing assembly having a bearing block of a fifth wheel coupling. The bearing block has at least one vertical fastening flange. The tractive unit has a frame element, which has a vertical section. The vertical fastening flange is connected to the outside of the vertical section by a screw connection. A component, on which the vertical fastening flange is supported at least in the vertical direction, is fastened to the vertical section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBH
    Inventor: José Algüera
  • Patent number: 8465042
    Abstract: Upper coupler assemblies for mounting coupling devices to trailers, and methods for inspecting upper coupler assemblies. The upper coupler assemblies include a housing having first and second members that define a cavity therebetween. At least the second member has a through-hole adapted to receive a coupling device, such as a kingpin. The cavity contains at least one fluid-tight chamber, more preferably multiple gas-tight and liquid-tight chambers by walls within the cavity. The coupler assembly has at least one fluid inlet for introducing and/or withdrawing a fluid (liquid and/or gas) from one or more of the chambers. The integrity of the upper coupler assembly can be evaluated by introducing or removing a gas from the one or more chambers and detecting the presence of any gas leaks in the one or more chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Elvin Lloyd Knollman
  • Patent number: 8465041
    Abstract: A means for electrically connecting a vehicle electrical system to a trailer is disclosed which automatically connects the same when the hitch of the trailer is mounted on the vehicle hitch. Four different embodiments of the invention are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Riibe
  • Patent number: 8444168
    Abstract: Invention patent application for one Lock Controller (1) made in a cast casing fitted with a closure lid (2) designed with a bearing for the solenoid (3) guiding axle (3a) and one micro-processed control unit (4), being said Lock Controller (1) installed in the free niche (C) of the bottom half of the fifth wheel (5) where the hole (5b) is made through the wall (5c) in order to allow the passage of the extension (1d) of the Lock Controller (1) and one hole (6a) made into the Locking bar (6) face coinciding with the wall (5c) limits the course and one safety ring (8) is welded or glued at section (7a) of the long rod (7), to limit its course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Maxilock Industria E Comercio Ltda
    Inventor: Jose Aldo Jacinto
  • Patent number: 8434779
    Abstract: A fifth wheel comprises a coupling plate and at least two pillow blocks for the supported mounting of the coupling plate on a vehicle chassis of the tractor vehicle, the pillow block comprising a support region and a mounting region. The mounting region is designed for the detachable mounting of the pillow block to a transverse strut of the vehicle chassis of the tractor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND Verkehrstechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Roth-Schuler, Dirk Schneider
  • Patent number: 8419037
    Abstract: A fifth wheel travel trailer chassis includes a front frame member, a first inner side frame member substantially perpendicular to the front frame member, a first outer side frame member substantially perpendicular to the front frame member, and a first brace member. The first inner side frame member has a forward end connected to a first end of the front frame member. The first outer side frame member has a forward end that is rearward of the front frame member. The first brace member has a first end connected to the first inner side frame member rearward of the front frame member and a second end connected to the forward end of the first outer side frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Open Range RV Company
    Inventors: Randall L. Graber, Thomas R. Cramer
  • Patent number: 8414009
    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: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products
    Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
  • Publication number: 20130082453
    Abstract: Apparatus for measuring the articulation angle between a tractor and trailer connected by a kingpin and fifth wheel include a transfer assembly associated with the kingpin and interacting with the fifth wheel such that the transfer assembly is rotationally moved relative to the kingpin by relative rotational movement between the kingpin and the fifth wheel. This rotational movement is read by an articulation sensing mechanism having one of a reader element and output element mounted to the transfer assembly and the other of the reader element and the output element operatively mounted to the trailer such that the reader element and the output element interact to provide a signal corresponding to the articulation angle between the tractor and trailer. This signal can be analyzed by a processor for any beneficial use, for example, outputting to a counter steering mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Inventor: Santo A. Padula
  • Publication number: 20130076006
    Abstract: Disclosed is a landing gear including a leg, a foot, an indexing member, a mounting structure and a calibration structure. The leg extends downwardly in use and defines a longitudinal axis. The foot is operatively mounted to the leg for axial movement between a retracted position proximal to the leg and an extended position distal to the leg. The indexing member, in use, is operatively connected to the leg. The mounting structure, in use, is operatively connected to the foot. The calibration structure is connected to the mounting structure and, in use, extends axially alongside the leg. The landing gear can facilitate drop and pick-up of highway trailers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin Falconer
  • Publication number: 20130069340
    Abstract: A rocking trailer kingpin assembly for a grain trailer constructed of aluminum or light weight steel includes an upper subframe mounted to the trailer body with a pivotable lower subframe hinged to the upper subframe. The lower subframe includes a skid plate from which a kingpin extends such that the kingpin can be received in the filth wheel coupling, of a truck tractor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: Kann Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Kann Manufacturing Corporation
  • Patent number: 8382146
    Abstract: A vehicle coupling for producing a mechanical connection between a first and a second vehicle including a coupling body (1) in which at least one structural area (2) of the coupling body (1) is made of a metallic foam (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Dirk Schmidt, José Manuel Algüera Gallego
  • Patent number: 8376385
    Abstract: A trailer including a body having a cavity formed by an upper surface and a lower surface, at least a portion of a coupling assembly disposed within the cavity and having a reinforcement plate proximate the lower surface, a distribution plate, at least one support beam, and a top plate, wherein the distribution plate is disposed atop the reinforcement plate, the at least one support beam is disposed atop the distribution plate, and the top plate is disposed atop the at least one support beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Danny R. Shannon
  • Patent number: 8371600
    Abstract: A fifth wheel comprising a coupling plate and an anti-theft protection device, the anti-theft protection device being configured such that it is integrally connected to the coupling plate and can be electrically actuated and the anti-theft protection device being arranged such that it is not discernible from the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND Verkehrstechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Siegfried Büttner
  • Patent number: 8371601
    Abstract: A fifth wheel slide assembly secondary lock includes an elongated cam member supported by a spindle extending upward from a sliding pedestal. A pair of linkage bars are pivotally coupled by one end to opposing ends of the cam member, the other ends of the bars being coupled to wedges operable for selectively engaging slide rails mounted to a vehicle frame in order to maintain a longitudinal position of said pedestal. The pedestal includes at least one stop extending upward from the pedestal at a height that extends above an arc defined by the rotation of the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel
    Inventor: Steven W. Mann
  • Patent number: 8360458
    Abstract: A tie down apparatus that may be utilized for securing an item, such as a safety chain, wherein the tie down apparatus may be used with a hitch mounting system. In one embodiment, the tie down apparatus may include a receiving member, a tie down member, and a clocking member. The receiving member may include an opening located there through. The tie down member may include at least one aperture, wherein the tie down member may be capable of being located and rotated within the receiving member. The tie down member may be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. The locking member may include at least one leg capable of being housed within the aperture. The locking member may engage the receiving member once the tie down member is rotated, thereby trapping the item within the tie down apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products
    Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 8348298
    Abstract: A slider for a fifth wheel is arranged on a towing vehicle, comprising a substructure with at least two guide rails aligned in the direction of travel, a displaceable slide carrying the fifth wheel and acting upon the guide rails, and a motor-driven drive unit. A slider is provided which allows the gap width between the towing vehicle and the trailer being adapted to the respective driving situation during travel. For this purpose, the slider is characterized in that the motor-driven drive unit is configured from a hydraulic cylinder connected to a hydraulic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: José Manuel Algüera, Martin Richter
  • Patent number: 8342557
    Abstract: A fifth wheel slider assembly includes a hitch plate with a throat for receiving a king pin of a trailer, and a slider assembly that includes at least one rack member having a first side and a second side and supportable above a vehicle frame. The slider assembly further includes a first portion including a guide plate slidably abutting the second side of the at least one rack member, and an engagement assembly releasably engaging the at least one rack member at incremental points along a length of the at least one rack member, thereby selectively positioning the hitch plate with respect to the at least one rack member, and a second portion including at least one support bracket pivotably supporting the hitch plate, slidably abutting the first side of the at least one rack member, and readily releasably coupled to the first portion of the slider assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Sibley, Jr., Gregory R. Thorwall, Rudolph A. Bahnsen, Justin D. Keatley, John G. Wieringa, Gerry W. Hungerink
  • Publication number: 20120319378
    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: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: James A. HELLBUSCH