Fifth Wheel Only Patents (Class 280/433)
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Patent number: 8851501Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 7, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventor: Justin D. Keatley
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Patent number: 8851453Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 31, 2011Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Chep Technology Pty LimitedInventor: Henk de Zwart
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Patent number: 8827297Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventor: Justin Keatley
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Patent number: 8827040Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: Dirk Schmidt, José Algüera, Fan Zhang, Heinz-Jürgen Seigis, Wolfgang Pohl
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Patent number: 8827298Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, LLCInventor: Joel Diller
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Patent number: 8820768Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 22, 2013Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Inventor: Roger D. Grizzle
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Patent number: 8814197Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventor: Justin Keatley
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Patent number: 8801036Abstract: 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 wType: GrantFiled: November 2, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.Inventor: Justin D. Keatley
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Publication number: 20140159339Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2014Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: PULLIAM ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Wayne E. Hartman, Randall A. Pulliam
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Publication number: 20140138933Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2012Publication date: May 22, 2014Applicant: CURT MANUFACTURING, LLCInventor: Joel Diller
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Patent number: 8727369Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 3, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: The Coast Distribution System, Inc.Inventors: Rodney Peterson, Christopher Moore, David Hoover, Dennis A. Castagnoia
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Patent number: 8720864Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 17, 2013Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventor: Kenneth Cote
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Patent number: 8690179Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 9, 2009Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventors: Josef Scharmüller, Josef Scharmüller, Jr.
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Patent number: 8662521Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 17, 2013Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventor: Elvin Lloyd Knollman
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Publication number: 20140049024Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBHInventor: Achim STRÜTT
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Publication number: 20140025245Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2011Publication date: January 23, 2014Applicant: GKN AutoStructure LimitedInventors: Angelo Fanourakis, Bachrun Mason, Matthew Hill
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Publication number: 20140008893Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: January 9, 2014Inventors: Adam R. Loukus, Josh E. Loukus
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Publication number: 20140001731Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2013Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: East Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Howard D. Booher, Russell D. Pittman, Derek Davies
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Patent number: 8616575Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 19, 2009Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: José Manuel Algüera, Michael Elermann, Swen Saupe, Achim Strütt
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Patent number: 8615347Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: José Manuel Algüera Gallego, Swen Saupe
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Publication number: 20130328286Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, INC.Inventor: Michael Zerba
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Patent number: 8602438Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.Inventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
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Publication number: 20130320650Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2013Publication date: December 5, 2013Inventor: ROGER D. GRIZZLE
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Publication number: 20130307247Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2012Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, INC.Inventor: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.
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Publication number: 20130285347Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: SAF-HOLLAND, INC.Inventor: Justin Keatley
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Patent number: 8556287Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 21, 2013Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Inventor: Colin Connell
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Publication number: 20130241178Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: Great Dane Limited PartnershipInventors: Jerry Woodson McNeil, Richard Bordeaux Mullininx
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Patent number: 8523216Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel CompanyInventors: Steven W Mann, James M. Rhodes
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Publication number: 20130214511Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2009Publication date: August 22, 2013Inventors: Josef Scharmüller, Josef Scharmüller, JR.
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Patent number: 8505954Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 5, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Inventor: Robert Haley
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Publication number: 20130200593Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2013Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicant: CEQUENT PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, INC.Inventor: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
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Patent number: 8485544Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 10, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Great Dane Limited PartnershipInventors: Jerry Woodson McNeil, Richard Bordeaux Mullininx
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Publication number: 20130168946Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBHInventor: José Algüera
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Patent number: 8465042Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 15, 2010Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Inventor: Elvin Lloyd Knollman
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Patent number: 8465041Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 29, 2012Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Inventor: Gary Riibe
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Patent number: 8444168Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Maxilock Industria E Comercio LtdaInventor: Jose Aldo Jacinto
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Patent number: 8434779Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 10, 2006Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND Verkehrstechnik GmbHInventors: Christian Roth-Schuler, Dirk Schneider
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Patent number: 8419037Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Open Range RV CompanyInventors: Randall L. Graber, Thomas R. Cramer
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Patent number: 8414009Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 30, 2009Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Cequent Towing ProductsInventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
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Publication number: 20130082453Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Inventor: Santo A. Padula
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Publication number: 20130076006Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Inventor: Kevin Falconer
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Publication number: 20130069340Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2012Publication date: March 21, 2013Applicant: Kann Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Kann Manufacturing Corporation
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Patent number: 8382146Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 22, 2009Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: Dirk Schmidt, José Manuel Algüera Gallego
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Patent number: 8376385Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 21, 2008Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Danny R. Shannon
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Patent number: 8371600Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND Verkehrstechnik GmbHInventor: Siegfried Büttner
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Patent number: 8371601Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 11, 2012Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Fontaine Fifth WheelInventor: Steven W. Mann
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Patent number: 8360458Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 5, 2012Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Cequent Towing ProductsInventors: Eric J. Stanifer, Richard W. McCoy
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Patent number: 8348298Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 18, 2006Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: José Manuel Algüera, Martin Richter
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Patent number: 8342557Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventors: Richard J. Sibley, Jr., Gregory R. Thorwall, Rudolph A. Bahnsen, Justin D. Keatley, John G. Wieringa, Gerry W. Hungerink
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Publication number: 20120319378Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Inventor: James A. HELLBUSCH