Abstract: A weight distribution hitch system comprising a vehicle attachment member comprising a forward end configured to rigidly attach to a vehicle, and a rearward end extending rearwardly toward a trailer, the rearward end comprising an upper portion comprising a trailer attachment member configured to pivotally attach to a coupler of the trailer, and a lower portion configured to receive a moment bar; a moment bar having a modulus of elasticity, the moment bar comprising a moment bar forward end attached to the lower portion of the rearward end of the vehicle attachment member so as to prevent rotation about a horizontal axis, and a moment bar rearward end; a releasable tension member comprising a top portion configured to be pivotally supported by a frame member of the trailer and configured to pivot about a horizontal axis, and a bottom portion configured to support the rearward end of the moment bar; and a moment bar preload mechanism configured to push up the moment bar rearward end to thereby preload the mome

Abstract: A stabilization system for an off-road trailer may include a hitch ball assembly, a tower assembly, and a stabilizer arm assembly. The tower assembly may include a pivot mechanism that allows the stabilizer arm assembly to pivot about a pivot axis relative to the hitch ball assembly. The stabilizer arm assembly may include one or more arms extending between the pivot axis and the off-road trailer and one or more piston damping assemblies extending between the arms and the off-road trailer. The piston damping assemblies may be configured to exert forces on the off-road trailer in response to the off-road trailer moving with respect to a towing vehicle to reduce further motion of the off-road trailer with respect to the towing vehicle.

Abstract: A weight distribution hitch system comprising a vehicle attachment member comprising a forward end configured to rigidly attach to a vehicle, and a rearward end extending rearwardly toward a trailer, the rearward end comprising an upper portion comprising a trailer attachment member configured to pivotally attach to a coupler of the trailer, and a lower portion configured to receive a moment bar; a moment bar comprising a moment bar forward end attached to the lower portion of the rearward end of the vehicle attachment member so as to prevent rotation about a horizontal axis, and a moment bar rearward end; a tension member comprising a top end configured to be supported by a frame member of the trailer, and a bottom end configured to support the rearward end of the moment bar, and a spring, configured to bias the moment bar rearward end toward the frame member of the trailer; and wherein, when the tension member is in tension, it imposes an upward force on the moment bar rearward end, which, in turn, imposes

Abstract: A weight distribution hitch system comprising a vehicle attachment member comprising a forward end configured to rigidly attach to a vehicle, and a rearward end extending rearwardly toward a trailer, the rearward end comprising an upper portion comprising a trailer attachment member configured to pivotally attach to a coupler of the trailer, and a lower portion configured to receive a moment bar; a tension member comprising a top end configured to be supported by a frame member of the trailer, and a bottom end, and a moment bar, the moment bar comprising a first end configured to either be attached the lower portion of the rearward end of the vehicle attachment member or to be supported by the bottom end of the tension member, a second end also configured to either be attached to the lower portion of the rearward end of the vehicle attachment member or to be supported by the bottom end of the tension member, a first major face configured to face either generally upward or generally downward, a second major fa

Abstract: A system and method are provided for steering control during vehicle reverse operation when maneuvering a trailer in a reverse direction with a desired turn angle. The system has a P-I-D cascade structure and includes a rear video camera for providing images to determine a trailer angle, a yaw angle determination device, a steering angle sensor, a vehicle interior display with an input device, and a vehicle speed determination device. When a trajectory mode is selected and a desired turn angle value are received, an electronic processor determines a trailer trajectory based on the desired turn angle value, the trailer angle, vehicle yaw angle, and physical properties of the vehicle and trailer. The trailer trajectory is displayed on the vehicle interior display with the rear camera image. When a driver selects an automatic steering maneuver mode, the trailer tow assist system automatically controls steering of the vehicle.

Abstract: Example aspects of a towing system, a towed vehicle assembly, and a method of towing a towed vehicle are disclosed. The towing system can comprise a front lifting mechanism comprising a mounting bracket, a trailer tongue, and a lift connector coupling the trailer tongue to the mounting bracket, the lift connector movable relative to the mounting bracket between a raised orientation and a lowered orientation, the trailer tongue configured to connect a towed vehicle to a driven vehicle; and a rear lifting mechanism comprising a rear lift frame, a rear axle coupled to the rear lift frame, and a rear tow wheel rotatably coupled to the rear axle.

Abstract: A hitch system for distributing weight from a trailer to the wheels of a towing vehicle. The system has a hitch head that is pivotally connected to a hitch bar and is pivotable about a hitch head axis with respect to the hitch bar. A hitch pin is rotatably fixed to the hitch head and the hitch pin is rotatable with respect to the hitch head about a hitch pin axis. The hitch pin axis is transverse to the hitch head axis. A single spring is pivotally connected to the hitch head and is pivotable with respect to the hitch head about a spring axis. A distal end of the spring spaced from the spring axis is connectable to the trailer when the trailer is connected to the hitch pin and the spring can provide a biasing force when the distal end of the spring is moved nearer the trailer.

Abstract: A trailer oscillation and stability control device including an accelerometer and an angular rate sensor. An oscillation detection discriminator detects oscillatory lateral trailer motion in response to trailer displacement data derived from inputs from the angular rate sensor and acceleration signals received from the accelerometer, and then generates corresponding oscillatory event data. A brake controller generates a braking control signal in response to oscillatory event data received from the oscillation detection discriminator.

Abstract: A device for preventing jackknifing using a magnetic damping coupler of a tractor is provided. The device uses a magnetic damping coupler to prevent jackknifing due to a loss of stability in yawing of a trailer during driving.

Abstract: A method for decelerating a trailer vehicle in a vehicle combination having a tractor vehicle and at least one trailer vehicle includes determining, by a wheel module at a respective wheel of the trailer vehicle, acceleration measurement values of the respective wheel, generating, by the wheel module, an information signal taking into account the acceleration measurement values of the respective wheel, and transmitting the information signal in a wireless fashion. The method further includes evaluating the acceleration measurement values and monitoring the acceleration measurement values with respect to a locking tendency of the respective wheel, and when an information signal of the wheel module is received, adjusting, by an electronic brake control unit, the trailer brake pressure taking into account the information signal.

Abstract: A mechanism for clamping a drawbar in a receiver hitch uses a clamp pad to engage two adjacent interior surfaces of the receiver hitch tube. The clamp pad presses outwardly on the receiver hitch tube causing the opposing corner of the drawbar to engage the other sides of the receiver hitch tube. The clamp pad is extended and retracted by a shuttle member disposed inside the drawbar tube. The clamp may be self-aligning with respect to the receiver hitch. An adjustment mechanism is described for translating the shuttle member. An extendable pin mechanism may be actuated by the shuttle assembly. A locking mechanism may be provided to prevent an unauthorized person from releasing the clamp pad and the extendable pin.

Abstract: A trailer includes a trailer bed and a trailer tongue. The trailer bed includes a trailer frame, a body, a platform, and one or more sets of two or more wheels. The trailer tongue includes a tongue arm, a trailer hitch component coupled to the tongue arm, and one or more brackets coupled to the trailer frame via a bracket shaft. The trailer tongue is couplable to a vehicle hitch component. The trailer tongue is rotatable about an axis through the bracket shaft. The one or more brackets include one or more cut-outs configured to receive a locking component. The trailer tongue is securable via the locking component at a select angle relative to a ground surface. The trailer hitch component is positionable via the locking component at a select height relative to a height of the vehicle hitch component based on the angle relative to the ground surface.

Abstract: A weight distribution system is shown and described. The weight distribution system may include a spring arm configured to be operatively engaged between plate members of a ball mount, and a pin member inserted into the spring arm, the pin member configured to secure the spring arm with the ball mount. The weight distribution system may also include an attachment mechanism configured to selectively place the spring arm in mechanical communication with a towed vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a trailer with a trailer brake control device therein. The trailer brake control device of the present invention comprises: a sway detecting sensor arranged in the trailer for detecting the sway of the trailer; a signal sensor for detecting a brake signal generated by a brake switch of a vehicle which tows the trailer; and a processor, electrically connected to the sway detecting sensor, the signal sensor and the brake, for controlling the brake based on an output of the sway detecting sensor and/or an output of the signal sensor. According to the present invention, the trailer brake control device can independently control the brakes and/or diagnose the malfunction of a brake controller arranged in the vehicle.

Abstract: When a trailer is pulled by a tow vehicle where the trailer begins to sway to the left and right of the tow vehicle a large sway can result in loss of control of the trailer and or tow vehicle. The field of the present invention is a system and method of controlling a trailer sway which comprises determining the sway of the trailer utilizing an electronic sensor and independently applying the left and or right trailer brakes at varying levels to reduce trailer sway the traditional single braking signal power from the tow vehicle is separated into two independent braking signals for each of the left and right brakes. All brakes are applied whenever the traditional braking signal goes active where trailer battery power is utilized to independently activate the left and or right brakes during trailer sway.

Abstract: An automatic stability control system is provided which determines the lateral acceleration and lateral velocity of a towed trailer and forward velocity of the tow vehicle. When the lateral acceleration and/or velocity of the towed trailer exceeds predetermined values established for the current forward velocity of the tow vehicle, the stability system meters a gas, such as compressed air, from a gas reservoir into at least one cylinder of a pair of buffer arms each comprising a piston that is pivotably attached to the towed trailer and a cylinder which is pivotably attached to the tow vehicle. Gas is metered into one or both buffer arm cylinders until the lateral acceleration and lateral velocity of the towed vehicle meets or is below predetermined values established for the forward velocity of the tow vehicle.

Abstract: An assembly and method allow military vehicles to be towed. In an embodiment, a towing assembly for towing a vehicle with a towing vehicle includes a lunette. The lunette attaches the towing assembly to the towing vehicle. The towing assembly also includes tow bars. The tow bars are attached to the lunette. At least one of the tow bars is laterally moveable. The towing assembly also includes tow legs. Each tow leg is slidably engaged with an interior of a tow bar. The tow leg is attachable to the vehicle.

Abstract: A trailer hitch system for equalizing trailer loads and reducing trailer sway. The trailer hitch system may include spring bars that may be attached to a hitch head using a trunnion style connection. The spring bars may be attached to the trailer using rigid brackets that reduce swinging of the spring bars. The rigid brackets may include an upward extending portion for attaching to the trailer tongue, and a lateral extending portion for receiving the spring bars thereupon. The brackets may have a contact surface on the lateral extending portion that may be free from a coating such that a metal on metal contact is made between the spring bars and the brackets. Portions of the brackets beyond the contact surface may be covered with a protective coating.

Abstract: A pull-type agricultural implement has a beam with drawbar hitch pivotable relative to the beam about a vertical axis and a horizontal axis extending in the travel direction. The drawbar hitch has a receptacle for a tractor drawbar. The receptacle enables pivoting of the drawbar about an axis that is horizontal and transverse to the travel direction relative to the drawbar hitch in a locked position. Guiding and adjusting plates in the receptacle allow adjustment of the receiving width of the receptacle to different drawbar dimensions. From a first position, in which the plates limit lateral play of a drawbar with large cross-section relative to the travel and working direction to a minimum, the guiding and adjusting plates are transferrable and lockable in a second position, in which the plates limit lateral play of a drawbar with small cross-section relative to the travel direction to a minimum.

Abstract: An anti-sway hitch having a ball mount housing which defines a channel and a trunnion pivotally positioned within the channel. The hitch also has a spring, a first engagement member, and a second engagement member with the spring mounted on the first member within the ball mount housing and the first member engaging the second member. The hitch further includes a post positioned within the ball mount housing and the engagement members positioned on the post wherein rotation of the trunnion causes corresponding rotation of the post and the first member. A method of towing a trailer with an anti-sway hitch is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for tensioning spring arms used in conjunction with a weight distribution hitch. The apparatus may comprise a mechanical linkage that may be operable to multiply an input force provided by a jack to an output force of sufficient magnitude to tension the spring arms. The mechanical linkage may comprise a pair of rigid arms that are linked to a support post of a trailer jack. The pair of rigid arms may automatically be raised in conjunction with the support post being operated from a lowered position to a raised position. The rigid arms may exert a force on a cross-piece member extending between the spring arms. Alternatively, the mechanical linkage may comprise a flexible member for placing the spring arms under tension.

Abstract: The anti jackknife system has locking mechanisms which automatically lock caster type wheels at the rear of a trailer in a fixed position in the direction parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the trailer and to the line of direction of travel of the tow vehicle pulling the trailer forward. In this forward configuration the tongue of the trailer freely rotates on a trailer hitch insert. In a back up configuration a locking mechanism automatically locks the trailer tongue into linear alignment with the trailer hitch insert. The caster type wheels rotate freely about a vertical axis, and when the trailer is backed up by the tow vehicle the trailer will stay in linear alignment with the tow vehicle. The caster type wheels will automatically turn in a direction corresponding to the front wheels of the tow vehicle, thereby completely preventing jackknifing of the trailer.

Abstract: A trailer hitch system for equalizing trailer loads and reducing trailer sway. The trailer hitch system may include spring bars that may be attached to a hitch head using a trunnion style connection. The spring bars may be attached to the trailer using rigid brackets that reduce swinging of the spring bars. The rigid brackets having a plurality of contact points may include an upward extending portion for attaching to the trailer tongue, and a lateral extending portion for receiving the spring bars thereupon.

Abstract: An anti-sway, tongue-weight equalizing hitch for a trailer having a hitch ball socket; a shank structured for releasably connecting to a towing vehicle; a hitch head secured to the shank and having a longitudinal axis, a hitch ball with a tow axis on the longitudinal axis; an elevating mechanism for adjusting the relative elevations of the hitch head and the trailer tongue; a leveling mechanism for vertically-orienting the tow axis; right and left spring bars mounted to the hitch head to pivot about opposing right and left rearwardly-tilted stabilizing axes disposed in opposing vertically-oriented pivot axis planes spaced laterally and equidistantly outwardly from the longitudinal axis; and right and left suspension mechanisms tensionally suspending distal ends of the spring bars wherein distal ends thereof are normally spaced laterally and equidistantly outwardly from the respective vertical-oriented pivot axis planes in an equilibrium configuration.

Abstract: A sway bar storage bracket for storing a sway bar usable on an equalizer trailer hitch system between a trailer and a towing vehicle is provided. The trailer hitch system has equalizer hardware. The sway bar storage bracket comprises an elongated middle section having a first end and a second end, a first extension section having a first end and a second end with the first end of the first extension section being connected to the first end of the middle section, a second extension section having a first end and a second end with the first end of the second extension section being connected to the second end of the middle section, a first member having a first end and a second end with the first end of the first member being connected to the first end of the first extension section, and a second member having a first end and a second end with the first end of the second member being connected to the second end of the second extension section.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to apparatus, systems, and methods for distributing the weight of a trailer to a towing vehicle and controlling the sway of that trailer relative to the towing vehicle. An embodiment of the present invention includes a spring arm coupled to the towing vehicle and an attachment mechanism for selectively placing the spring arm in mechanical communication with the trailer. The attachment mechanism includes a bracket assembly reversibly attachable to the trailer; a shoe bracket reversibly attachable to the bracket assembly; and a friction pad coupled to the shoe bracket.

Abstract: A boat towing system for towing a boat behind a vehicle comprising a boat trailer having a frame constructed and arranged with a first portion and a second portion that are pinned together to permit one section to move relative to the other section. The second portion is constructed and arranged to accommodate floatation panels. A spring biased buckle is mounted on the second portion and has a strap which has a hooked portion on its distal end. The boat towing system further comprises an attachment mount connected to the vehicle.

Abstract: A new apparatus for reducing sway of a trailer towed by a towing vehicle has a draw bar for linking a trailer to a vehicle, a ball for hitching the trailer to the draw bar, and a pin for hitching the draw bar to the vehicle. The apparatus also has a body that is associated with the ball in such a way that horizontal angular movement of the draw arm relative to the draw bar causes a substantially equivalent horizontal angular movement of the body relative to the draw bar. A hydraulic dampener linked to the body dampens horizontal angular movement of the body and, thereby, dampens horizontal angular movement of the trailer.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates trailer hitch devices for towing a trailer behind a vehicle. The present disclosure provides a hitch and associated structures which provide an anti-sway function. More specifically, the present disclosure provides an anti-sway trailer hitch including an anti-sway device for the hitch, wherein the anti-sway device includes: a sway bar attachment member having a cammed surface; and a sway controller having a bias mechanism adapted to bias a travel axis of the trailer toward a travel axis of the towing vehicle through an interaction between the cammed surface of the sway bar attachment member and the bias mechanism.

Abstract: A tensioning device for connecting a trailer to a spring bar of a load-compensating apparatus includes a body unit for securement to a frame member of a trailer; a reel unit having an off-center hub portion with a slot and rotatively secured to the body unit about a pivot axis; a rotation-limiting element which limits rotation of the reel unit to approximately 180° about the pivot axis; a linked chain having a proximal end thereof releasably secured to the slot of the off-center hub portion and a distal end thereof connected to the spring bar of the load-compensating apparatus; a latching element including a biased latch pin; and a lug and removable handle for rotating the reel portion to, and the latching element releasably locks the reel portion in, a chain-tensioned configuration.

Abstract: An accessory for trailer hitch systems having components for equalizing loads and reducing trailer sway. The accessory includes a jacket for attaching to a bracket that supports a load equalizing spring bar. The bracket may include a lateral extending portion for supporting the spring bar. The jacket may include a socket for receiving the lateral extending portion of the bracket, such that the jacket may be removably installed on the bracket. The jacket may include a contact surface for contacting the spring bar. The contact surface may include a different coefficient of friction or a different shape, as compared to the lateral extending portion of the bracket, such that movement of the spring bar with respect to the bracket may be altered as compared to conditions in which the spring bar is supported on the bracket without the jacket.

Abstract: An anti-sway device for conventional trailers, which essentially takes the place of the shank member of a conventional trailer hitch, is described. The shank assembly is comprised of an elongate square member coupled to a conventional hitch receiver of a tow vehicle. Attached to the rearward end of the square member is a pivot member with rearward diverging links connecting it to another somewhat wider pivot member to which a conventional ball mount is attached. The ball mount is further linked to the towed trailer such that the tongue of the trailer is fixed to the ball mount about a vertical axis. This arrangement results in the trailer pivoting about the resulting center of rotation of the converging links, which is substantially forward of the ball of the trailer hitch. Moving the pivot point forward, such as that found on a fifth wheel trailer, reduces sway and enhances the stability of the coupled trailer and tow vehicle.

Abstract: A yaw control system capable of detecting a predetermined yaw angle of a towed vehicle and then automatically communicating with a braking system of the towed vehicle includes an actuator and a switch. The actuator and switch operate to detect when a towed vehicle, such as a trailer, has exceeded a predetermined yaw angle. In one embodiment, the yaw control system includes a switch arranged to contact a surface of a plate (i.e., actuator) when the towed vehicle exceeds the predetermined yaw angle. In another embodiment, the yaw control system includes a switch mechanism arranged to contact retractable rods (i.e., actuator) coupled to a hitch assembly when the towed vehicle exceeds the predetermined yaw angle.

Abstract: A trailer reversal self-correcting assembly (10) adapted to be disposed between the tow bar (12) of a vehicle (14) and the tow member (16) of a trailer (18), the assembly (10) comprising a tow arm (20) pivotally connected to the tow bar (12) at its first end and to the tow member (16) at its second end, a first extension mount (26) extending laterally from the tow bar (12), and a second extension mount (30) extending laterally from the tow member (16), a first correcting linkage device having at least a first linkage member (38) connected between the first extension mount (26) and the second extension mount (30).

Abstract: A trailer hitch for a vehicle includes an attachment bar and post for attaching the hitch to a vehicle and a base suspended from the attachment post to allow limited lateral movement of the base with respect to the attachment. A universal pivot connector, such as a hitch ball, is mounted on the base to move with the base for mating connection to a tongue of a trailer to be connected to the vehicle. The trailer tongue is biased against rotational movement with respect to the pivot connector whereby the allowed lateral movement of the suspended base and the pivot connector and the resistance to rotational movement of the trailer tongue with respect to the pivot connector combine to move the effective pivot point of the tongue on the universal pivot connector approximately to the center of the rear axle of the towing vehicle to simulate the towing movement of a fifth wheel trailer hitch.

Abstract: A trailer hitch having an adjustable hitch bar for coupling with a tow vehicle and a front member coupled with the adjustable hitch bar. A rear member couples with a trailer frame and a yoke couples between the rear member and the trailer frame. Converging links connect between the front member and the rear member, whereby the angular position between the front member and the rear member can be varied. The converging links effectively move the pivot point between the tow vehicle and trailer forward of the hitch assembly.

Abstract: A boat trailer for towing behind a vehicle having a frame constructed and arranged in a first portion and a second portion that are pinned together to permit one section to move relative to the other section. The second portion is constructed and arranged to accommodate floatation panels. A hitch is constructed and arranged to receive the first portion of the frame. A stabilizing plate is mounted to the hitch and has a spring biased buckle mounted on at least one of its ends. The spring biased buckle has a strap capable of extending from the buckle, and the strap has a hooked portion on its end. In order to hold the strap in place, a strap mounting member is attached to the second portion of the frame, which is constructed and arranged to receive the hooked portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a visual warning device adapted to extend between a first cargo-carrying unit and a second cargo-carrying unit. The visual warning device includes a first mounting adapted to attach to the first cargo-carrying unit, a second mounting adapted to attach to a second cargo-carrying unit, and a conspicuous, elongate belt that engages the first and second mountings. The invention also relates to a method for providing a visual indicator of a region between a dump truck and a pull trailer.

Abstract: A hitch coupling assembly attaching a trailer to a towing vehicle. The towing vehicle including a hitch plate that has an upper surface and an open end for receiving a king pin. The coupling assembly has an arm with opposite ends. A skid plate is attached to one end of the arm and the skid plate has a perimeter defined by sides. The king pin extends from a surface of the skid plate. A journal pin is attached to the opposite end of the arm and is rotatable relative to the arm. The journal pin is optionally lockable or the arm relative to the hitch is optionally lockable.

Abstract: A three point hitch for a work machine includes a first and a second draft link each having a mounting end portion and a free end portion opposite the mounting end portion. Mounting end portion being mounted to a first side of a work machine to allow upward and downward pivotal movement of the free end portion beside an upwardly and downwardly extending fixed structural element of the work machine. Mounting end portion of the second draft link being mounted to a second side of the work machine opposite the first side to allow upward and downward pivotal movement of the free end portion of the second draft link. A sway restrictor mounts on the free end portion of the first draft link and restricts sideward swaying thereof toward and away from the structural element. A counterweight for use with the three point hitch is interchangeable with a fluid motor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for reducing sway of a trailer towed by a towing vehicle. The apparatus comprises a draw bar for linking a trailer to a vehicle and means for hitching the trailer to the draw bar and for hitching the draw bar to the vehicle. The apparatus also comprises a body associated with the hitching means such that horizontal angular movement of the draw arm relative to the draw bar causes a substantially equivalent horizontal angular movement of the body relative to the draw bar. The apparatus further comprises means linked to the body for dampening horizontal angular movement of the body and, thereby, dampening horizontal angular movement of the trailer.

Abstract: A removable side impact load cushioning device for use on the hitch on an agricultural tractor or prime mover that allows operator selectable use of the device to dampens side impact loads on a drawbar by enabling slight lateral movement of the drawbar or to retain the drawbar in a generally laterally fixed position.

Abstract: A lock assembly operable to secure a lift linkage associated with moving a boom assembly between a lowered, operative position and a raised, inoperative position is provided. The lock assembly includes a lock pin mounted at a carrying frame interconnected between a lift linkage and the boom assembly. The lock assembly also includes a lock plate mounted at the lift linkage. In the raised position of the lift linkage, the lock plate includes a slot configured to align so as receive the lock pin. Once aligned, the boom is pivoted toward the folded, stowed position. As the boom pivots, the boom pushes the lock pin through the slot. The lift linkage is then lowered to seat the lock pin in the slot and thereby secure the lift linkage and supported boom in the raised, folded position.

Abstract: A hitch system for interconnecting a trailer to a tow vehicle, wherein the tow vehicle includes a hitch ball centered about a medial axis. The hitch system includes an elongate extension coupling having a proximal end portion rotatably mountable to the trailer and extending toward a distal end portion that is movably mountable to the hitch ball, and an anti-yaw mounting assembly for interfacing the extension coupling to the hitch ball such that the distal end portion is restricted from rotating about the medial axis.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved hitch coupling assembly which dampens the hunting movements of a road trailer being towed by a motor vehicle and which is intended for a vehicle combination comprising a motor vehicle and a trailer. More specifically, the inventive hitch coupling assembly (4) comprises: (i) a first pivot coupling (12) for the hunting movements, consisting of a pivoting device which dampens the hunting movements (40) of the trailer and which is housed in a closed space such that it is sheltered from the ingress of pollutant materials; and (ii) a second coupling (21) for the rolling and pitching movements, which is used for the play-free transmission of the hunting movements to the first coupling, the axis of the hunting movements being thus decoupled from the rolling and pitching movements.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates trailer hitch devices for towing a trailer behind a vehicle. The present disclosure provides a hitch and associated structures which provide an anti-sway function. More specifically, the present disclosure provides an anti-sway trailer hitch including an anti-sway device for the hitch, wherein the anti-sway device includes: a sway bar attachment member having a cammed surface; and a sway controller having a bias mechanism adapted to bias a travel axis of the trailer toward a travel axis of the towing vehicle through an interaction between the cammed surface of the sway bar attachment member and the bias mechanism.

Abstract: The invention is based on a hitching device with a stabilizer for avoiding and/or damping rolling motions between a traction vehicle and a trailer coupled to it. The stabilizer is equipped with a friction clutch, which affects the friction conditions between a trailer hitch on the end toward the traction vehicle and a coupling element on the end toward the trailer. According to the invention, the stabilizer is provided with an externally triggerable electric motor and a gear acted upon by the electric motor be used for actuating the fiction clutch. The gear is self-locking in the release direction of the stabilizer.

Abstract: An anti-jackknifing hitch assembly (12) (“assembly”) includes a hitch (18), a tongue (20), two resilient members (22a, 22b), and a routing member (24). The hitch (18) is attached to a tow vehicle (10). The tongue (20) extends from a trailer (16) and is attached to the hitch (18). The tongue (20) pivots about a pivot axis (34) within a predetermined range of articulation (52) defined by the resilient members (22a, 22b). In particular, resilient members (22a, 22b) respectively connect end portions (36a, 36b) of hitch (18) to front corner portions (40a, 40b) of trailer (16) and are sized for preventing over-articulation. Routing member (24) assists resilient members (22a, 22b) in applying a restoring moment about the pivot axis (34). Namely, the routing member (24) extends from the hitch (18) or tongue (20) adjacent to pivoting axis (34). The routing member (24) includes attachment members (48a, 48b) with resilient members (22a, 22b) extending therethrough.

Abstract: A tensioning device for connecting a trailer to a spring bar of a load-compensating apparatus includes a body unit for securement to a frame member of a trailer; a reel unit having an off-center hub portion with a slot and rotatively secured to the body unit about a pivot axis; a rotation-limiting element which limits rotation of the reel unit to approximately 180° about the pivot axis; a linked chain having a proximal end thereof releasably secured to the slot of the off-center hub portion and a distal end thereof connected to the spring bar of the load-compensating apparatus; a latching element including a biased latch pin; and a lug and removable handle for rotating the reel portion to, and the latching element releasably locks the reel portion in, a chain-tensioned configuration.