Movably Mounted Patents (Class 280/438.1)
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Publication number: 20120007336Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventors: Richard J. Sibley, JR., Gregory R. Thorwall, Rudolph A. Bahsen, Justin D. Keatley, John G. Wieringa, Gerry W. Hungerink
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Publication number: 20120001404Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventors: Steven W. Mann, James M. Rhodes
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Patent number: 8075013Abstract: Described are embodiments directed to an apparatus that is adapted to be mounted on a vehicle with a fifth wheel. The apparatus allows a towing hitch to be attached to the vehicle which allows the vehicle to tow other vehicles. The apparatus includes an elongated beam with a forward portion, middle portion, and rearward portion and a kingpin connected to the middle portion of the beam and adapted to engage a fifth wheel. A mounting pin with a first end and a second end is connected to the rearward portion of the beam and is substantially perpendicular to the elongated beam. The apparatus further includes strut braces connected to either end of the mounting pin and that extend at an angle away from the mounting pin. The strut braces are also connected to leveling assemblies which are adapted to connect to a frame of the vehicle and are adapted to change the vertical position of the rearward portion of the beam.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Steven Ford, Aaron Roe
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Publication number: 20110210529Abstract: A fifth wheel is movable in fore and aft directions toward and away from the rear wall of a vehicle cab to change the gap between the rear wall and the front wall of a towed trailer. A fifth wheel drive moves the fifth wheel in the respective fore and aft directions including while the vehicle is moving. A fifth wheel controller is operable to control the fifth wheel drive to cause the movement of the fifth wheel in the respective fore and aft directions. The fifth wheel controller can operate in anticipation of the vehicle reaching an upcoming road section to cause the movement of the fifth wheel toward or to a maximum gap position if the gap is not already at the maximum gap position in response to received inputs indicating that additional maneuverability will be required for the vehicle when the vehicle reaches the upcoming road section.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventor: Matthew G. Markstaller
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Patent number: 7992886Abstract: An articulated selective adjustment apparatus carried within the pedestal of a fifth wheel assembly comprises a mounting plate pivotally connected to a plunger arm configured for selective extension and withdrawal from the pedestal, and having ends to which are pivotally connected first and second prongs having interior ends disposed toward the pedestal that are pivotally connected to the mounting plate ends.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel Co.Inventors: Steven W. Mann, Gavin C. Trinosky
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Patent number: 7984920Abstract: A device for adjusting a fifth wheel, comprising a displacement device provided with two guide rails placed on the vehicle, in particular on a tractor semi-trailer combination in the longitudinal direction thereof, said guide rails whereon a slide may be installed capable of being moved by means of an actuating device, said actuating device being designed such that, upon a displacement, the positive connection between the guide rails and the slide is maintained. The actuating device, which is designed to move the slide, comprises a first powered device. Additionally, at least one first position sensor is arranged to detect the position of the slide, at least said first position sensor being connected to a control device.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventor: Jose Alguera
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Publication number: 20110169247Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly configured to be mounted in a bed of a truck. The displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly includes a platform track, a displaceable platform, and an adjustment assembly. The platform track defines a track space therein and is configured to be mounted in the bed of the truck. The displaceable platform is configured to be positioned in the track space and includes a fifth-wheel hitch coupled thereto. The adjustment assembly includes a means for displacing the platform and a means for locking the platform in place with respect to the platform track and truck. The means for locking the platform includes a locking pin that is spring biased into holes in the platform track. The means for displacing the platform includes an adjustment rod and bracket to displace the locking pin from its locking position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2011Publication date: July 14, 2011Inventors: Gregory J. Colibert, Jacque Colibert-Clarke
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Publication number: 20110156368Abstract: A cylinder mount assembly for a slidably adjustable fifth wheel hitch assembly comprises a slidably adjustable fifth wheel hitch assembly, a cylinder mount, a hydraulic cylinder, a first longitudinal support, and a second longitudinal support. The slidably adjustable fifth wheel hitch assembly has a first longitudinal position and a second longitudinal position. The cylinder mount is disposed adjacent at least two sides of a first frame cross member. The hydraulic cylinder is disposed between the cylinder mount and the slidably adjustable fifth wheel hitch assembly, and is attached to the cylinder mount. The first longitudinal support is disposed between the cylinder mount and a second frame cross member. The second longitudinal support is disposed between the cylinder mount and the second frame cross member.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventors: Andrea Brown, John D. Fehring, Rudolf Gruber, Paul Dowden, Michael John Eifert
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Publication number: 20110127751Abstract: An adjustable height fifth wheel hitch is provided. The fifth wheel hitch comprises a pedestal and a fifth wheel hitch assembly. The fifth wheel hitch assembly includes journal bearings which pivotally connect with risers of the pedestal. The risers of the pedestal include a plurality of openings located at different levels. The height of the fifth wheel assembly in relation to the tractor may be adjusted by aligning openings in the journal bearings with co-level openings in the risers and inserting a mounting pin through such openings.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2009Publication date: June 2, 2011Inventors: Steven William Mann, Gavin Charles Trinoskey
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Publication number: 20110109061Abstract: Examples of sliding hitch assemblies, and locking mechanisms therefor are disclosed. Sliding hitch assemblies include a pair of slide rails slidably supporting a fifth wheel. Each of the slide rails in turn includes a driving position locking pin that selectively locks the fifth wheel in a driving position, and a maneuvering position locking pin that selectively locks the fifth wheel in a maneuvering position. A cam member is slidably mounted inside each slide rail, and includes a first cam surface that unlocks the driving position locking pin when the cam member is in a first position, and a second cam surface that unlocks the maneuvering position locking pin when the cam member is in a second position. The fifth wheel is mounted on a pair of downwardly facing U-shaped members slidably supported on the slide rails, and a wear block is interposed each slide rail and a corresponding one of the U-shaped members.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2010Publication date: May 12, 2011Applicant: THE COAST DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM, INC.Inventors: Rodney Peterson, Christopher Moore, Dennis A. Castagnola, David Lamar Hoover
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Patent number: 7938429Abstract: An integrated cross-member mount comprises an inter-frame mount seated within opposing longitudinal channels of parallel adjacent truck frame members and comprises a top surface within each lateral portion of which is defined a longitudinally-oriented row of spaced-apart, shaped apertures, and at least two substantially vertical flanges extending downward from the lateral periphery of the top surface that are dimensioned to be conforming to the inner surfaces of truck frame members. Also included is a sliding pedestal having lateral skids seated upon respective portions of rows of spaced-apart apertures and extending into vertical gaps between the top surface of the mount and the truck frame member. Each skid includes a plurality of spaced-apart, shaped skid apertures that can align with a corresponding plurality of shaped apertures within the top surface of the mount.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Fontaie Fifth Wheel Co.Inventors: Steven William Mann, Gavin Charles Trinoskey
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Patent number: 7938428Abstract: A bracket assembly for an adjustable fifth wheel hitch is suitable for mounting to a slide rail assembly, which itself is mounted to parallel longitudinal truck frame members, where the slide rails have a generally t-shaped cross-section. The slide rail is comprised of a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, the vertical portion including a plurality of spaced-apart gaps. The bracket assembly comprises a bracket body with longitudinal disposed front and rear ends, with respect to the truck body, a longitudinal channel defined in the underside that extends from front and rear openings defined in the respective surfaces of the front and rear ends with a generally t-shaped cross-section to slidably receive said slide rail. The bracket body also has two spaced-apart transverse channels defined in the underside, perpendicular to the longitudinal channel. The transverse channels align with two of the space-apart gaps as the bracket body is slid along the slide rail.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel Co.Inventors: Steven William Mann, Gavin Charles Trinoskey
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Publication number: 20110101644Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2009Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventor: JOHN FELIX SCHNEIDER
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Patent number: 7918465Abstract: The adjustable height trailer is a fifth wheel-type trailer with a single rear axle supporting the rear of the trailer and a fifth wheel hitch supporting the front. The rear axle and hitch have adjustable height suspensions, allowing the trailer to be lowered or raised uniformly while remaining hitched to the towing vehicle. One embodiment is configured as a livestock trailer with a series of stall positions therein. The loading and exit doors are generally diagonally opposite one another. A series of adjustably positionable partitions is installed on overhead tracks, with a partition placed between each animal as they are boarded and positioned in the trailer. Animals depart the trailer through the opposite door, with the partitions being repositioned correspondingly. The trailer suspension allows the trailer to be lowered to the underlying surface to facilitate loading and unloading animals therefrom, or other commodities, depending upon the trailer configuration.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventor: Donald C. Metzger
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Publication number: 20110068557Abstract: An automatically adjustable fifth wheel assembly for a vehicle and trailer combination that adjusts the position of the trailer relative to the vehicle is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventors: Andrea Brown, John D. Fehring, Rudolf Gruber, Paul Dowden, Michael John Eifert
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Publication number: 20110057416Abstract: An integrated cross-member mount comprises an inter-frame mount seated within opposing longitudinal channels of parallel adjacent truck frame members and comprises a top surface within each lateral portion of which is defined a longitudinally-oriented row of spaced-apart, shaped apertures, and at least two substantially vertical flanges extending downward from the lateral periphery of the top surface that are dimensioned to be conforming to the inner surfaces of truck frame members. Also included is a sliding pedestal having lateral skids seated upon respective portions of rows of spaced-apart apertures and extending into vertical gaps between the top surface of the mount and the truck frame member. Each skid includes a plurality of spaced-apart, shaped skid apertures that can align with a corresponding plurality of shaped apertures within the top surface of the mount.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2009Publication date: March 10, 2011Inventors: Steven William Mann, Gavin Charles Trinoskey
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Patent number: 7878525Abstract: A precision, light weight, high strength hitch for coupling a trailer or other vehicle to a towing vehicle. The hitch includes a mounting ball attached to a portion of the trailer or other vehicle and a ball socket attached to the towing vehicle. The mounting ball and the ball socket have compatible surfaces that permit seating of the two components regardless of the axial, transverse or longitudinal angular or rotational orientation of the two vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2008Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventor: John I. Andersen
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Patent number: 7874569Abstract: A displacement device for a fifth wheel traction coupling with two base bars and a fifth wheel traction coupling supporting top part which includes two bearing chocks which are slidingly fixed to the base bars and telescoping in a locked position thereof into each base bar by means locking elements with the aid of a rack rail. The known per se sliding devices are expensive due to the production of the base bars, since the rack rails are provided with a toothed profile prior to be welded. A low-cost sliding device is producible in a simple manner. For this purpose, at least one base bar is provided with spaced rest windows on the axial extension thereof for receiving the locking elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2006Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: Dirk Schmidt, Rainer Spitz, José Algüera
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Publication number: 20110015830Abstract: A highway tractor (12) has a fifth wheel (28) to which a trailer (14) that is to be towed by the tractor can be coupled. A positioning system sets fore-aft position of the fifth wheel on the tractor. The positioning system (FIG. 2; FIG. 3) has a positioning mechanism for moving the fifth wheel fore and aft on the tractor and a controller for processing certain data that is used to cause the positioning mechanism to move the fifth wheel to a fore-aft target position on the tractor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2009Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC.Inventors: Cheng Chen, Fong-Ioon Pan, Gary Wagner
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Patent number: 7871096Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly configured to be mounted in a bed of a truck. The displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly includes a platform track, a displaceable platform, and an adjustment assembly. The platform track defines a track space therein and is configured to be mounted in the bed of the truck. The displaceable platform is configured to be positioned in the track space and includes a fifth-wheel hitch coupled thereto. The adjustment assembly includes a means for displacing the platform and a means for locking the platform in place with respect to the platform track and truck. The means for locking the platform includes a locking pin that is spring biased into holes in the platform track. The means for displacing the platform includes an adjustment rod and bracket to displace the locking pin from its locking position.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2008Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Colibert EnterprisesInventors: Jacque Colibert-Clarke, Gregory J. Colibert
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Patent number: 7862067Abstract: A device for adjusting a fifth wheel, comprising a displacement device provided with two guide rails placed on the vehicle, in particular on a tractor semi-trailer combination in the longitudinal direction thereof, said guide rails whereon a slide may be installed capable of being moved by means of an actuating device, said actuating device being designed such that, upon a displacement, the positive connection between the guide rails and the slide is maintained. The actuating device, which is designed to move the slide, comprises a first powered device. Additionally, at least one first position sensor is arranged to detect the position of the slide, at least said first position sensor being connected to a control device.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventor: Jose Alguera
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Patent number: 7810831Abstract: The present invention is directed to a trailer hitch isolation assembly that attaches to the tongue of a fifth wheel trailer and that provides a moveable connection between a tow vehicle and the trailer. The hitch assembly includes a floating hitch attachment member such as a king pin, which is adapted to be attached to a tow vehicle. The hitch isolation assembly allows the hitch attachment member to move at least vertically relative to the tow vehicle to which the hitch assembly is connected. One or more air springs connect the floating hitch attachment to the frame of the trailer. These air springs permit relative movement between the attachment support member and the frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Inventors: Jeff Wilkens, Andrew Donald Browen
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Patent number: 7806423Abstract: A fifth wheel assembly for coupling a trailer to a truck tractor is provided and includes a fifth wheel and a supporting structure for supporting the fifth wheel on the rear part of the tractor truck. The supporting structure includes a sliding arrangement enabling the fifth wheel to be repositioned between different positions. A number of sensors are positioned on the supporting structure and on the fifth wheel and are included in a control system for predetermined information and control of operating conditions.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2006Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Volvo Lastvagna ABInventors: Tobias Vikström, Benny Liljeblad
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Patent number: 7806424Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch for towing a trailer behind a motor vehicle is adjustable between a forward position and a rearward position. The fifth wheel hitch includes a base assembly for mounting to the motor vehicle, head assembly for engaging the trailer and at least one pivoting arm coupled between the base assembly and the head assembly. The head assembly moves in an arcuate path between the forward position and the rearward position as the pivoting arm articulates relative to the base assembly. Once positioned in the forward or rearward position, the head assembly is locked relative to the base assembly so as to prevent further movement.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Modern Equipments Sales, L.C.Inventors: David J. Burns, Justin C. Schow, Erik M. Mumford
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Patent number: 7789412Abstract: The invention concerns a device for adjusting a fifth wheel, comprising a displacement device provided with two guide rails placed on the vehicle, in particular on a tractor semi-trailer combination in the longitudinal direction thereof, said guide rails whereon a slide may be installed capable of being moved by means of an actuating device, said actuating device being designed such that, upon a displacement, the positive connection between the guide rails and the slide is maintained. The invention is characterized in that said actuating device which is designed to move the slide, comprises a first powered device. Additionally, at least one first position sensor is arranged to detect the position of the slide, at least said first position sensor being connected to a control device.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2005Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventor: José Algüera
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Patent number: 7770910Abstract: A fifth wheel coupling for coupling sections of a tractor-trailer articulated vehicle includes a main plate mounted on the tractor which defines a keyhole slot for receiving a kingpin mounted on the trailer. The keyhole slot terminates in a coupling aperture, and a locking mechanism movable between open and closed positions locks the kingpin in the aperture in the closed position to thereby couple the tractor and trailer together. A safety latch mounted in the keyhole slot is movable from an inactive position permitting the kingpin to move through the slot and into the aperture to an active position blocking the keyhole slot. An operating mechanism operates the locking mechanism and also moves the safety latch from the active to the inactive position to permit movement of the kingpin out of the keyhole slot when the tractor and trailer are uncoupled.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Locjaw Safety Lock, LLCInventor: Paul W. Shirk, Jr.
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Patent number: 7766361Abstract: A kingpin assembly comprises a housing having a recess located therein, a collar member operably coupled to the housing, and an integral single-piece kingpin having at least a portion located within the recess of the housing, wherein the housing and collar cooperate to rotationally secure the kingpin within the recess of the housing, and wherein the kingpin provides a sole rotational support for the kingpin with respect to the housing and the collar.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventors: Gerald W. Hungerink, Steven C. Dupay, Richard T. Polanic, Eric M. Terpsma, Jason D. C. Howe, Justin D. Keatley, Daniel R. Dykstra, Randy L. Schutt
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Patent number: 7753392Abstract: A slidable trailer hitch apparatus comprises a trailer hitch head operable to receive a cooperating portion of a trailer, the trailer hitch head adapted to be slidable and rotatable relative to the vehicle about an axis of rotation, first and second parallel spaced part guides fixedly located relative to the vehicle, and a body affixed to and rotatable with the trailer hitch head, the body having a center of rotation about the axis and a distal surface adapted to engage either of the first or second guides when the body is rotated relative to the first and second guides. The engagement of the distal surface upon either of the first or second guides displaces the center of the body and the trailer hitch head parallel to the first or second guide when the trailer hitch head is rotated relative to the first and second guides.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2007Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Victoria Industries Ltd.Inventor: K. Jeffrey Warnock
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Patent number: 7753390Abstract: A fifth wheel assembly comprises a fifth wheel having a plurality of journal bearings extending generally downward from its underside, and an “I-shaped” transverse beam member for mounting the assembly to a truck frame. The beam member is dimensioned to span across parallel longitudinal truck frame members and it includes mounting flanges extending generally downward from either lateral side where the mounting flanges have a plurality of apertures for receiving suitable fasteners inserted therein for mounting said beam member to the truck frame members. The transverse member also includes a plurality of pivot bearing pairs to receive the journal bearings of the fifth wheel which is coupled thereto by a trunnion.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2009Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel Co.Inventors: Steven William Mann, Jeff Marcus Terry, James Matthew Rhodes, Christopher Aaron Bond
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Publication number: 20100148470Abstract: An articulated selective adjustment apparatus carried within the pedestal of a fifth wheel assembly comprises a mounting plate pivotally connected to a plunger arm configured for selective extension and withdrawal from the pedestal, and having ends to which are pivotally connected first and second prongs having interior ends disposed toward the pedestal that are pivotally connected to said first and second mounting plate ends.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2008Publication date: June 17, 2010Applicant: FONTAINE INTERNATIONALInventors: Steven W. Mann, Gavin C. Trinosky
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Publication number: 20100133780Abstract: A fifth wheel apparatus for detachably coupling a trailing vehicle to a towing vehicle is disclosed. An equalizer bridge is supported on a towing vehicle and is pivotable about a roll axis that extends in a direction of towing motion. The equalizer bridge includes first and second arms that extend laterally from respective first and second sides of the roll axis. A fifth wheel head is coupled to the equalizer bridge for movement therewith about the roll axis. The fifth wheel head is pivotable relative to the equalizer bridge about a pitch axis transverse to the roll axis. First and second damping elements are operably interposed between the towing vehicle and the first and second arms, respectively. When the trailing vehicle is attached to the fifth wheel head, the first and second damping elements resist rolling movement of the trailing vehicle about the roll axis during travel over uneven roads.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2008Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: SILVER EAGLE MANUFACTURING CO.Inventor: Michael Jarvelin
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Patent number: 7726678Abstract: A sliding fifth wheel assembly for slidably connecting a trailer hitch to a vehicle, comprising at least one rail connectable to the vehicle and a platform connectable to the trailer hitch. The platform is slidably mounted to the rail for movement between a forward position and a rearward position. At least one stop bar is connected to the platform, and at least one locking bar is pivotally mounted to the rail for selective engagement with the stop bar to retain the platform in either the forward position or the rearward position. The locking bar may be selectively engaged by at least one actuator.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2007Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Hensley Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Colin Connell, Robert Hillman
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Patent number: 7717451Abstract: A sliding device for a fifth wheel coupling, which includes two guide rails mounted on a vehicle in the longitudinal direction thereof and a slide which can be displaced on the guide rails. A locking device mounted on the slide can be brought into an open position and a locked position by an actuator. In order to improve handling of the sliding device, at least one locking sensor for detecting the locked position is provided. The locking sensor is connected to a display device and/or to the vehicle electronics.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2005Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventor: José Manuel Algüera
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Patent number: 7699334Abstract: A slide rail assembly for a fifth wheel hitch assembly is disclosed that includes an angle member for directly mounting the assembly to a truck frame member, and a t-shaped slide rail attached to a horizontal portion of the angle member, the t-shaped slide rail including a row of spaced gaps.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel Co.Inventors: Steven W. Mann, Gavin C. Trinosky
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Patent number: 7694992Abstract: A fifth wheel assembly comprises a fifth wheel having a plurality of journal bearings extending generally downward from its underside, and an “I-shaped” transverse beam member for mounting the assembly to a truck frame. The beam member is dimensioned to span across parallel longitudinal truck frame members and it includes mounting flanges extending generally downward from either lateral side where the mounting flanges have a plurality of apertures for receiving suitable fasteners inserted therein for mounting said beam member to the truck frame members. The transverse member also includes a plurality of pivot bearing pairs to receive the journal bearings of the fifth wheel which is coupled thereto by a trunnion.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2009Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Fontaine Fifth Wheel Co.Inventors: Steven William Mann, Jeff Marcus Terry, James Matthew Rhodes, Christopher Aaron Bond
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Patent number: 7654553Abstract: A safety latch is mounted in the keyhole of a fifth wheel coupling for joining the sections of an articulated vehicle. The safety latch is movable from an inactive position permitting the kingpin to move through the slot and into the aperture to an active position blocking the keyhole slot thereby preventing movement of the kingpin through the keyhole slot when the sections are coupled together.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Locjaw Safety Lock, LLCInventor: Paul W. Shirk
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Publication number: 20090230655Abstract: A displacement device for a fifth wheel traction coupling with two base bars and a fifth wheel traction coupling supporting top part which includes two bearing chocks which are slidingly fixed to the base bars and telescoping in a locked position thereof into each base bar by means locking elements with the aid of a rack rail. The known per se sliding devices are expensive due to the production of the base bars, since the rack rails are provided with a toothed profile prior to be welded. A low-cost sliding device is producible in a simple manner. For this purpose, at least one base bar is provided with spaced rest windows on the axial extension thereof for receiving the locking elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2006Publication date: September 17, 2009Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBHInventors: Dirk Schmidt, Rainer Spitz, Jose Algüera
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Patent number: 7584982Abstract: A bearing guide for a hitch allows lateral movement of the hitch. The bearing guide is elevated relative to the bearing surface. Two trucks roll on wheels each about their own elevated guide for fore-and-aft rolling of the hitch point. The bearing guide also provides a keyway which receives a locking key. The locking key is supported on both sides of the keyway by a plunger control rod, and can be unlocked by pulling and rotating a handle. When the towing vehicle is driven to relocate the hitch point, the locking key reengages itself into a different keyway on the bearing guide.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Benjamin D. Fisher
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Publication number: 20090160159Abstract: A device for adjusting a fifth wheel, comprising a displacement device provided with two guide rails placed on the vehicle, in particular on a tractor semi-trailer combination in the longitudinal direction thereof, said guide rails whereon a slide may be installed capable of being moved by means of an actuating device, said actuating device being designed such that, upon a displacement, the positive connection between the guide rails and the slide is maintained. The actuating device, which is designed to move the slide, comprises a first powered device. Additionally, at least one first position sensor is arranged to detect the position of the slide, at least said first position sensor being connected to a control device.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2008Publication date: June 25, 2009Applicant: JOST-WERKE GMBHInventor: Jose Alguera
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Patent number: 7549666Abstract: A device for automatically repositioning the pivot point between a fifth wheel trailer and truck. The hitch is composed of a base with integral first pivot member, two forward converging links, a second pivot member to which a spindle is attached. Pivotally attached to the spindle is a fifth wheel mount, which is pivotally attached to a fifth wheel. A pin adapter, which is attached to the hitch box of a fifth wheel trailer, eliminates rotation between the hitch box and fifth wheel assembly when hitched. This arrangement results in the trailer pivoting about the resulting center of rotation of the converging links, which is substantially forward of the pin of the trailer when in a straight-line orientation. The shifting of the pivot point distributes lateral forces from the trailer to all four wheels of the truck, thereby improving stability. During a turn, the subsequent articulation of the links results in a rearward repositioning of the pivot point, allowing sharp turns with a short bed truck.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2006Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Inventor: Donald Peter Sahlem
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Patent number: 7537235Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a hitch plate having a rearward end that defines a throat for receiving a kingpin. First and second structural support ribs extend downwardly from a bottom surface of the hitch plate. A pair of ears extend longitudinally between the first and second support ribs. Each ear includes an aperture adapted to receive a pivot pin to pivotably support the top hitch plate on a supporting structure. Each ear is substantially offset from at least a selected one of the first support rib and the second support rib.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventors: James H. Flater, Gerald W. Hungerink, Steven L. Hoek, Jason D. C. Howe, Michael H. Ginocchio
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Publication number: 20090127822Abstract: An adaptive displaceable fifth-wheel hitch system operable with a vehicle hitch coupling system comprising a fifth-wheel hitch, a displacement mechanism operable to couple and displace the fifth-wheel hitch in a bi-directional, an adapter configured to operably relate the displacement mechanism to a vehicle hitch coupling system, the displacement mechanism and vehicle hitch coupling system otherwise being incompatible and inoperable with one another, and the adapter comprising a first interface operable to relate the adapter to the displacement mechanism; and a second interface operable to relate and removably couple the adapter to the vehicle hitch coupling system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2008Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventors: Gregory J. Colibert, Jacque Colibert-Clarke
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Publication number: 20090127823Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly configured to be mounted in a bed of a truck. The displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly includes a platform track, a displaceable platform, and an adjustment assembly. The platform track defines a track space therein and is configured to be mounted in the bed of the truck. The displaceable platform is configured to be positioned in the track space and includes a fifth-wheel hitch coupled thereto. The adjustment assembly includes a means for displacing the platform and a means for locking the platform in place with respect to the platform track and truck. The means for locking the platform includes a locking pin that is spring biased into holes in the platform track. The means for displacing the platform includes an adjustment rod and bracket to displace the locking pin from its locking position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2008Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventors: Jacque Colibert-Clarke, Gregory J. Colibert
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Patent number: 7516974Abstract: A fifth wheel assembly comprises a fifth wheel having a plurality of journal bearings extending generally downward from its underside, and a transverse beam member for mounting the assembly to a truck frame. The beam member is dimensioned to span across parallel longitudinal truck frame members and it includes mounting flanges extending generally downward from either lateral side where the mounting flanges have a plurality of apertures for receiving suitable fasteners inserted therein for mounting said beam member to the truck frame members. The transverse member also includes a plurality of pivot bearing pairs to receive the journal bearings of the fifth wheel which is coupled thereto by a trunnion.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Fontaine InternationalInventors: Steven William Mann, Jeff Marcus Terry, James Matthew Rhodes, Christopher Aaron Bond
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Patent number: 7506886Abstract: A slidable trailer hitch apparatus comprises a trailer hitch head operable to receive a cooperating portion of a trailer, the trailer hitch head adapted to be slidable and rotatable relative to the vehicle about an axis of rotation, first and second parallel spaced part guides fixedly located relative to the vehicle, and a body affixed to and rotatable with the trailer hitch head, the body having a center of rotation about the axis and a distal surface adapted to engage either of the first or second guides when the body is rotated relative to the first and second guides. The engagement of the distal surface upon either of the first or second guides displaces the center of the body and the trailer hitch head parallel to the first or second guide when the trailer hitch head is rotated relative to the first and second guides.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2006Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Victoria Industries Ltd.Inventor: K. Jeffrey Warnock
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Patent number: 7490845Abstract: A fifth wheel mounting pin riser adaptation is provided, said riser adaptation allowing a mounting pin to be easily extracted from a fifth wheel assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2005Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Fontaine InternationalInventors: James Matthew Rhodes, Steven William Mann
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Publication number: 20080265545Abstract: A short span fifth wheel hitch comprising a hitch plate, at least one back rib, a peripheral flange connected to ends of the back rib, and a main rib extending between the back rib and a portion of the peripheral flange, with the main rib being connected to ends of the peripheral flange. The fifth wheel hitch also includes skirts extending from the hitch plate adjacent the back rib. At least two pairs of mounting ribs are located interior of the peripheral flange and the back rib, each pair of mounting ribs including aligned apertures for accepting a mounting pin therein, whereby a mounting bracket can be inserted into a space between the mounting ribs of each pair of mounting ribs and the mounting pin can be placed through the aligned apertures and the mounting bracket to connect the fifth wheel hitch to a tractor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2008Publication date: October 30, 2008Inventors: William J. Hicks, Roger L. Elkins, Steven C. Dupay, Mark M. Audo, Samuel A. Martin
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Patent number: 7416204Abstract: A short span fifth wheel hitch comprising a hitch plate, at least one back rib, a peripheral flange connected to ends of the back rib, and a main rib extending between the back rib and a portion of the peripheral flange, with the main rib being connected to ends of the peripheral flange. The fifth wheel hitch also includes skirts extending from the hitch plate adjacent the back rib. At least two pairs of mounting ribs are located interior of the peripheral flange and the back rib, each pair of mounting ribs including aligned apertures for accepting a mounting pin therein, whereby a mounting bracket can be inserted into a space between the mounting ribs of each pair of mounting ribs and the mounting pin can be placed through the aligned apertures and the mounting bracket to connect the fifth wheel hitch to a tractor.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventors: William J. Hicks, Roger L. Elkins, Steven C. Dupay, Mark M. Audo, Samuel A. Martin
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Publication number: 20070290481Abstract: A bearing guide for a hitch allows lateral movement of the hitch. The bearing guide is elevated relative to the bearing surface. Two trucks roll on wheels each about their own elevated guide for fore-and-aft rolling of the hitch point. The bearing guide also provides a keyway which receives a locking key. The locking key is supported on both sides of the keyway by a plunger control rod, and can be unlocked by pulling and rotating a handle. When the towing vehicle is driven to relocate the hitch point, the locking key reengages itself into a different keyway on the bearing guide.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2007Publication date: December 20, 2007Applicant: CURT MANUFACTURING, INC.Inventor: Benjamin D. Fisher
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Patent number: 7296817Abstract: A stop block for preventing over travel of an adjustable fifth wheel hitch assemblies comprising a generally rectangular solid member having a double curve disposed in said member such that a long portion of said member is higher in elevation than a short portion of said member.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2004Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Assignee: Fontaine InternationalInventors: Steven William Mann, Michael Shane Wolfe, Christopher Aaron Bond