About Horizontal Transverse Pivot Patents (Class 280/489)
  • Patent number: 12084129
    Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch may include at least one support frame capable of engaging with a towing vehicle. The fifth wheel hitch may further include a cross-member attached to the support frame and an isolation system operatively coupled with the cross-member. The isolation system may include a beam engaged with the cross-member about a first axis, where rotation of the beam about the first axis is dampened via a cross-member isolator. The isolation system may also include a skid plate engaged with the beam about a second axis, where rotation of the skid plate about the second axis is dampened via a wing isolator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2023
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2024
    Assignee: HOPKINS GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Eric J. Stanifer
  • Patent number: 11813903
    Abstract: A weight distribution hitch system comprising an attachment member with 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 with a ball mount configured to pivotably attach to a trailer coupler; a lower portion with a barrel coupling allowing pivoting about a vertical access, but not allowing pivoting about a horizontal access; and a moment bar comprising a moment bar forward end fixedly attached to the barrel coupling and a moment bar rearward end wherein the moment bar imparts a forward moment on the vehicle when an upward force is applied to the moment bar rearward end is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Hall Labs LLC
    Inventor: David R. Hall
  • Patent number: 11780278
    Abstract: A hitch system comprising a hitch shaft with a forward end configured to rigidly attach to a tow vehicle and a rearward end extending rearwardly toward a trailer frame; a head unit pivotally attached to the rearward end of the hitch shaft at a first pivot point having an upper portion and a lower portion, comprising a hitch ball on the upper portion of the head unit positioned out of vertical alignment with the first pivot point creating a second pivot point between the hitch ball and a trailer attached thereto; and a slot on the lower portion of the head unit, the slot having portions in vertical alignment with the first pivot point and the second pivot point; a first moment arm with a distal end configured for slidable attachment to a first bracket on the trailer frame and a forked proximal end comprising a first tine pivotally connected to the lower portion of the head unit; and a second tine having a knob in a sliding connection with the slot; and a second moment arm with a distal end configured for slida
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Hall Labs LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Hall, David R. Hall, Thomas Corie, Dallin Clawson
  • Patent number: 11597323
    Abstract: A bumper step (1) for installation on a vehicle, such as a truck, having a step portion (3) and a tube armature (10) and a Z-clip bracket (11). The tube armature is inserted into a rear tube chassis (5) of the vehicle and the bumper step is secured to the vehicle by bolting the Z-clip bracket to s slot (8) in a side chassis rail (7) of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Inventor: Guy Charles Wingo
  • Patent number: 11584460
    Abstract: An automated guided vehicle includes a main frame (1) and a sub-frame (2); wherein, a driving wheel assembly (11) is mounted on the main frame (1), a driven wheel assembly (21) or a driving wheel (11) is mounted on the sub-frame (2), and the main frame (1) is hinged to the sub-frame (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: HANGZHOU HIKROBOT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiaochen Zou, Yonghai Wu, Hao Liu
  • Patent number: 11560187
    Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch may include at least one support frame capable of engaging with a towing vehicle. The fifth wheel hitch may further include a cross-member attached to the support frame and an isolation system operatively coupled with the cross-member. The isolation system may include a beam engaged with the cross-member about a first axis, where rotation of the beam about the first axis is dampened via a cross-member isolator. The isolation system may also include a skid plate engaged with the beam about a second axis, where rotation of the skid plate about the second axis is dampened via a wing isolator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Eric J. Stanifer
  • Patent number: 11541704
    Abstract: A hitch is provided including a tongue, an insert, and a base. The tongue includes a C-shaped section having an internal spherical raceway and opposing walls, each extending from an opposite arm of the C-shaped section. The insert includes a spherical segment received within the internal spherical raceway and having a draw pin hole, and a projection extending rearward between the opposite arms of the C-shaped section and having a socket recess. The base being pivotally connected to the tongue through the opposing walls. The base includes a ball located in front of the pivotal connection, the ball being received within the socket recess of the insert, and a back end being adapted for connection to a towing implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Bridgeview Mfg. Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Helmeczi, James Kowch
  • Patent number: 11505216
    Abstract: Provided is a transfer cart that that has a simple structure, facilitates operation in front and back spaces of a moving direction, and does not take up a redundant transfer space in a locations where operation is not performed. The transfer cart includes a running frame, a main carrier capable of carrying thereon an object to be transferred, and moving-direction operation decks disposed at front and back of the moving direction on the main carrier and running frame. The moving-direction operation decks are configured to change angle with the main carrier in accordance with the radius of curvature of a track, and configured to have a variable height mechanism to be able to change height thereof in the up and down direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventors: Motoshi Hamada, Daiki Kondo, Atsushi Nakagami, Yoshimasa Takahashi
  • Patent number: 11490559
    Abstract: Steering and roll control systems to counteract yaw and/or roll forces during operation of a vehicle having first and second wheeled members coupled together by an articulating joint mechanism that is configured to pivot in a yaw direction and/or a roll direction. The steering assistance systems include a biasing unit configured to apply a counteracting force to bias the first and second wheeled members toward a straight-line arrangement thereof. The roll control systems include an additional biasing unit configured to apply a counteracting force to bias the first and second wheeled members toward a level alignment arrangement of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Perma-Green Supreme, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Jessen
  • Patent number: 11225115
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an trailer coupling assembly for connection to a trailer tongue. The trailer coupling assembly includes an attachment bracket configured to attach to a trailer tongue. A trailer coupler, which is configured to attach to a tow ball, is pivotally connected to the attachment bracket. The pivotal connection allows movement between the trailer coupler and the tongue of the trailer. An absorber further connects to the attachment bracket and the pivotally connected trailer coupler. The absorber dampens movement between the trailer tongue (e.g., attachment bracket) and the trailer coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: Air Hitch Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Arnold Wilkens
  • Patent number: 11104189
    Abstract: An indexing block positioned within the receiver hitch and connected to a tri-ball block having a plurality of towing accessories (e.g., different sized hitch balls, pintles, hooks, etc.) on its separate, exterior facings. A biasing member and lock cooperate with an internal, coaxial plunger, thereby allowing for selective rotation of the tri-block relative to the indexing block, without the need to completely remove the assembly from the hitch receiver itself. Ball bearings fitted within the indexing block facilitate movement of the plunger and tri-block relative to the indexing block when the assembly is being rotated to position a new towing accessory in its desired place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventor: Gregory Y. Rotenberg
  • Patent number: 11084343
    Abstract: A pin box assembly with gooseneck coupler for coupling a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle is described. The pin box assembly may include a first member capable of being secured to a towed vehicle and a second member pivotally coupled to the first member about an axis of rotation relative to the first member. The pin box assembly may further include a gooseneck ball coupler coupled to the second member, and a suspension system coupled to at least one of the first and second members, the suspension system damping motion between the first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Curl, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 11078639
    Abstract: A system of actively introducing opposite phase vibrations to reduce or cancel vibrations caused by operating a snow plow and a method of actively introducing such opposite phase vibrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Inventors: Michael G D'Andrea, John Cronin
  • Patent number: 10661694
    Abstract: A structurally supportive belly pad is connected to a rounded trailer and configured to support the same near the rear end of the trailer. The belly pad may be arcuately curved complementary to the curvature of the rounded trailer. However, if the belly pad were laid flat, it includes a pair of parallel legs aligned in a generally longitudinal direction with a plurality of transverse ribs extending therebetween. The shape of the belly pad is configured to provide structural support for the trailer which is beneficial especially when the trailer is raised and lowered, typically through hydraulic mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott A. Kibler
  • Patent number: 10406877
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for monitoring of anti-sway bar chains of trailer hitch systems. An example disclosed trailer hitch system includes a hitch including a hitch ball to receive a trailer, an anti-sway bar extending from the hitch, anti-sway chains to couple the anti-sway bar to the trailer, sensors, and a controller. The controller is to emit an alert responsive to detecting, via the sensors, that at least one of the anti-sway chains is decoupled from at least one of the anti-sway bar and the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mahmoud Yousef Ghannam, David James Tippy, Aed M. Dudar
  • Patent number: 10328963
    Abstract: A harness for pulling a carriage by a person is attached to a pulling assembly, which includes a rigid drawbar coupled to the carriage and a cantilevered member coupled to the forward end of the drawbar and to the harness. The cantilevered member partially isolates cyclical motion of the person from the drawbar, and may be a spring, a sprung rigid member or a rigid member controlled by an electronic servo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventor: Jerry Richmond Johnson
  • Patent number: 9944137
    Abstract: A pin box assembly with gooseneck coupler for coupling a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle is described. The pin box assembly may include a first member capable of being secured to a towed vehicle and a second member pivotally coupled to the first member about an axis of rotation relative to the first member. The pin box assembly may further include a gooseneck ball coupler coupled to the second member, and a suspension system coupled to at least one of the first and second members, the suspension system damping motion between the first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Curl, Richard W. McCoy
  • Patent number: 9868327
    Abstract: A torsion hitch receiver is provided having a frame that has a portion that mounts to a vehicle. The frame includes an upper torsion tube that carries an upper torsion bar. Attached to the upper torsion tube is a torsion housing that affixes a lower torsion tube. The upper torsion bar has an upper torsion arm that rotates with the upper torsion bar, and a lower torsion bar, carried within the lower torsion tube, the lower torsion bar has lower torsion arms. Both upper and lower torsion arms attach to a receiver housing that can receive a draw bar. As weight is applied to the receiver housing, the torsion bars allow rotation. As the torsion bars rotate, the receiver housing moves up and down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Inventor: Carl Borkholder
  • Patent number: 9505281
    Abstract: A torsion hitch receiver is provided having a draw bar that is adapted to be received by a vehicle mounted receiver. The torsion hitch receiver has an upper and lower torsion assembly with arms that are linked to a receiver assembly. The receiver assembly has an array of receivers that are sized to receive an accessory draw bar. Applying a downward force to the receiver assembly causes rotation of the arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Inventor: Carl Borkholder
  • Patent number: 9290071
    Abstract: The present application describes a gooseneck coupler assembly that may include a gooseneck trailer pivot, an extension arm, and a pivot retention mechanism having a ball socket. The ball socket may engage with a hitch ball located on a towing vehicle. The gooseneck trailer pivot may be mounted on a towed vehicle or trailer and be capable of pivoting about a vertical axis relative to the trailer. During engagement, the ball socket and the extension arm may provide tilt capability but thereby prevent any rotational movement relative to the hitch ball. However, the gooseneck coupler assembly may still be able to tilt fore-and-aft or side-to-side relative to the hitch ball. Therefore, the only pivotal movement relative to a vertical axis would be permitted at the gooseneck trailer pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Cequent Perfomance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard McCoy, Paul Caruso, David Tallieu
  • Patent number: 8798842
    Abstract: Systems and methods for aligning a towing vehicle trailer hitch with the tongue of a trailer/towed vehicle are provided that enable a driver to know when the towing vehicle trailer hitch is close enough to the trailer tongue such that the two can be coupled. A trailer hitch includes a tow bar having a free end configured to be coupled to a trailer tongue. An alignment system includes at least one energy emitter secured to the vehicle that emits energy in the direction of the trailer tongue, and at least two sensors secured to the vehicle in spaced-apart relationship. The energy emitter(s) and sensors may be secured to the trailer or trailer hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Teleswivel, LLC
    Inventors: William David Woolf, Gregory S. Hopper
  • Publication number: 20140210184
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a hitch suspension system that reduces a transfer of energy (e.g., provides a smoother ride) between two bodies hitched together, such as between a towing vehicle and a towed vehicle/trailer. In an embodiment, the suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder with an extendable rod in fluid communication with a fluid pump. A control valve is fluidly coupled between the hydraulic cylinder and the fluid pump and is configured to adjust an extension length of the rod. Additionally, a variable orifice that adjusts resistance to extension and retraction of the rod is fluidly coupled between the hydraulic cylinder and the control valve. A first fixed restrictive element is fluidly coupled in series with the variable orifice to dissipate energy ad the rod extends and a second fixed restrictive element is fluidly coupled in series with the variable orifice to dissipate energy as the rod retracts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Ault, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Patent number: 8683720
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a hitch suspension system that reduces a transfer of energy (e.g., provides a smoother ride) between two bodies hitched together, such as between a towing vehicle and a towed vehicle/trailer. In an embodiment, the suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder with an extendable rod in fluid communication with a fluid pump. A control valve is fluidly coupled between the hydraulic cylinder and the fluid pump and is configured to adjust an extension length of the rod. Additionally, a variable orifice that adjusts resistance to extension and retraction of the rod is fluidly coupled between the hydraulic cylinder and the control valve. A first fixed restrictive element is fluidly coupled in series with the variable orifice to dissipate energy ad the rod extends and a second fixed restrictive element is fluidly coupled in series with the variable orifice to dissipate energy as the rod retracts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Ault, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Patent number: 8641075
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Comco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce A. Angel
  • Publication number: 20130154235
    Abstract: A tractor rear hitch (10) comprising a drawbar (24) and a drawbar support frame (26) is provided. The drawbar is secured to the support frame by a pin (30) which is inserted through respective holes in the support frame and the drawbar. A drawbar release member (40) comprises a lever (42) which is pivotally mounted to the support frame. The drawbar release member is pivotally connected at a forward end (40a) to the pin so as to lift the pin, and thus release the drawbar, when a rear end of the lever is forced downward. A pedal (50) is mounted to the rear end of the lever which allows an operator to force the lever downwards using their foot. The provision of a pedal-operated release mechanism delivers a significant ergonomic advantage in that the operator no longer need apply the pin lifting force with their hands close to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO SA
    Inventors: Philippe Boittin, Guillaume Deletoille, Thibaut Maillet
  • Patent number: 8366133
    Abstract: There is provided a tow hitch that includes a shank, an elongated shank having a first end and a second end and a rectangular cross-section having four side surfaces adapted to slideably fit within a receiver located on a towing vehicle. A shank shaft extends outwardly from the second end of the shank a sufficient length to accommodate the tubular shank sleeve. The shank shaft is somewhat smaller that the shank and is sized to accommodate a shank sleeve. The shank shaft may be circular so that the shank sleeve can be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the shank shaft. When in place over the shank shaft the first end shank sleeve abuts the second end of the shank. Tow balls are secured to respective side walls of the shank sleeve. The shank sleeve is retained on the shank shaft by an end cap having a space to receive the outer end of the shank shaft and is held in place by a pin through the top and bottom of the end cap and through the end of the shank shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Terry Brinkley
  • Patent number: 7960659
    Abstract: A trailer tongue weight measurement system is provided to ensure proper loading and safe handling of a trailer being towed by a vehicle. The weight measurement system includes a two part or split housing having a operating shaft, a spring and a scale. The weight measurement system may be incorporated into the trailer tongue, the tongue jack, or the hitch. Deflection of the spring in response to a load on the trailer is converted to a weight measurement that may be read on a calibrated scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Michael M. Cleary
  • Patent number: 7850184
    Abstract: A cargo trailer includes an elongated trailer frame having a longitudinal axis, a wheel mount arm having an end pivotally carried by the trailer frame, an axle arm segment extending from the end and a distal arm segment extending from the axle arm segment; at least one wheel carried by the axle arm segment of the trailer frame; and at least one arm spring interposed between the trailer frame and the distal arm segment of the wheel mount arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Greg A. Beckman, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7775544
    Abstract: A pin box assembly comprising a first portion, a second portion, a connective member disposed between the first portion and the second portion, the first portion comprising a torque portion, the torque portion comprising a bar disposed within a tube and at least one resilient member disposed between the bar and the tube, the bar fixedly connected to the first portion, the tube fixedly connected to the second portion, the resilient member compressible between the bar and the tube upon rotation of the bar with respect to the tube, a connective member fixedly connected to the tube and to the second portion, and a hitch member connected to the first portion for engaging a hitch on a towing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Dexter Axle Company
    Inventor: Philip M. Bouwkamp
  • Patent number: 7744111
    Abstract: A one wheeled trailer is disclosed for use with and for pulling behind a two wheeled vehicle such as a motorcycle or motorbike. The trailer is configured to track behind the motorcycle or motorbike and to lean with the cycle as a unit so as to respond in the same manner as the motorcycle or motorbike. The trailer is supported on a single tire aligned to track behind the motorcycle tires thereby eliminating the sideways torque when the trailer hits a pothole or a curb. The trailer is designed to perform on the road and in turns the same as the motorcycle and does not limit the motorcycle from performing the way it was intended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Fred R Anderson
  • Patent number: 7740266
    Abstract: A system is described for attenuating intermittent forces at the interconnection between a towing vehicle and a trailer. The system includes a linear rocking member suspended between the towing vehicle and the trailer, a shock absorber between the linear rocking member and the vehicle, and a pendulum having a fulcrum connected to the vehicle and a swinging component rotationally connected to the linear rocking member, and a fastening device connecting the linear rocking member to the trailer to be towed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Quick Hitch, Inc.
    Inventor: Dewey R. Marcy
  • Patent number: 7556270
    Abstract: A transport cart for attaching to a patient care apparatus, such as an infant care apparatus to move that infant care apparatus from one location to another. The transport cart is dockable to the infant care apparatus forming an overall footprint of the combination transport cart/infant care apparatus. The infant care apparatus has wheels to provide mobility thereto and the transport cart has a rear section with wheels and having a handle to push the transport cart and a front section with wheels that docks with the infant care apparatus. There is a flexible coupling between the front and rear sections of the transport cart that allows the transport cart to rock as it passes over an uneven floor surface, such as an incline or a decline to maintain contact with the floor by the wheels of both the front and rear sections to provide stable movement of the combined transport cart and infant care apparatus as it is rolled over that floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Ronald Friedman
  • Patent number: 7552933
    Abstract: A cargo trailer is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the cargo trailer includes an elongated trailer frame having a longitudinal axis, at least one wheel carried by the trailer frame and a pair of cargo container mount members carried by the trailer frame and positionally adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the trailer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Greg A. Beckman
  • Patent number: 7540524
    Abstract: A device for detecting the support load with which a tongue of a trailer vehicle acts on a tractor vehicle. The device includes a first coupling element, a second coupling element that can be detachably connected to the first coupling element, and with a sensor arranged between the tongue or the tractor vehicle and the first coupling element. The sensor is designed to detect the vertical force component acting between the tongue or the tractor vehicle and the first coupling element. The first coupling element is pivotably connected to the tongue or the tractor vehicle such as to be pivotable about a horizontal pivot shaft. The first coupling element is also connected to the second coupling element such as to be movable about an axis running parallel to the pivot shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Jean Viaud
  • Patent number: 7458597
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multiple use adjustable trailer for use in transportation, storage and housing, comprising: a substantially Y-shaped tongue (18) which pivots on a frame (2) into a perpendicular position where the lower portions of the side arms of the tongue (18) function as support legs for the frame (2), enabling the frame (2) to store and display materials or house equipment in the trailer bed. The tongue (18) is further secured vertically by hitch pins (8) in brackets (28) on the frame (2) that can be locked in place as a deterrent to theft. Two flip-down legs (30) pivotably mounted on the side of the frame (2) are used as temporary support legs before the lower portions of the side arms of the tongue (18) are fully engaged. The flip-down legs (30) are engaged when a hitch pin (8) is released from a hitch means on each side of the frame (2), enabling each flip-down leg (30) to freely pivot downward to contact the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
  • Publication number: 20080136139
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David Russell, Chi Yip, Dennis Kessler, Paul Snyder
  • Patent number: 7380811
    Abstract: Shock-absorbing trailer hitches each include a mounting member mountable on a towing vehicle; a hitch member which includes a coupler and which is mountable on a towed vehicle and pivotally mounted on the mounting member; and a shock absorbing mechanism for reacting pivotal movement of the hitch member. The shock absorbing mechanism preferably includes one or more non-pressurized hollow elastomeric springs. One of the hitches is a compact receiver hitch wherein the mounting member is insertable into a hollow receiving member mounted on the towing vehicle and wherein the shock absorbing mechanism includes a housing mounted below the receiving member. Another of the hitches is configured as a fifth wheel or a gooseneck hitch and is adjustable for use with towed vehicles of varying weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Mark L. Rehme
  • Patent number: 7380810
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable trailer hitch that provides a suspended connection between a tow vehicle and an attached trailer. The hitch includes a support member that is adapted to be attached to a tow vehicle and a frame having first and second pivots for pivotally support a hitch plate, which is operative to connect to a trailer (e.g., engage a trailer pin). A first air spring has a first end fixedly connected to the support member and a second end fixedly connected to the frame. The air spring permits relative movement between the support member and the frame as well as transmitting towing forces therebetween. The air spring provides a pliable connection that at least partially mechanically isolates the trailer and the vehicle from each other. Instead of acting as a single unit, the vehicle and the trailer act at least partially independently of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Air Hitch Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Jeff Wilkens, Tim Fisher
  • Patent number: 7377536
    Abstract: Shock-absorbing trailer hitches each include a mounting member mountable on a towing vehicle; a hitch member which includes a coupler and which is mountable on a towed vehicle and pivotally mounted on the mounting member; and a shock absorbing mechanism for reacting pivotal movement of the hitch member. The shock absorbing mechanism preferably includes one or more non-pressurized hollow elastomeric springs. One of the hitches is a compact receiver hitch wherein the mounting member is insertable into a hollow receiving member mounted on the towing vehicle and wherein the shock absorbing mechanism includes a housing mounted below the receiving member. Another of the hitches is configured as a fifth wheel or a gooseneck hitch and is adjustable for use with towed vehicles of varying weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Mark L. Rehme
  • Patent number: 7370870
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for controlling a brake (11) of a wheeled walking frame (10) provided with a handle (12), including a control device (25) movably connected to the brake (11) via a connector (24) for controlling the braking effect using hand power, the control device (25) being displaceable between an idle position without braking effect and at least one braking position for braking effect. The control device (25) is movably connected to a cover (23) of the handle (12), which cover (23) is designed for receiving and partially encasing the control device (25), the control device (25) being, in the idle position, at least partially retracted into the cover (23) so that the cover (23) and the control device (25) form the handle (25). Furthermore, the control device (25) is displaceable from the idle position further into the cover (23) to the braking position while effecting the connector (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Volaris Sweden AB
    Inventors: Patrik Andersson, Sven-Inge Kjell, Joakim Andersson
  • Patent number: 7338062
    Abstract: A tow hitch for a vehicle with adjustments which simplify the coupling process. During coupling a draw bar, slideably positioned in a housing pocket, is afforded continuous adjustment latitude in both a left to right and front to back arc. Even if the vehicles are coupled at an angle, guide pins, confined by openings in the housing, move with the bar and respond to vehicle movement for an aligned locking and tow. An automatic locking pin secures the tow hitch, and a detector device detects the proper coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventors: Richard Violette, Randy Violette
  • Patent number: 7328564
    Abstract: A vacuum system adapted for mounting to a riding lawn mower. The vacuum system includes a blower section removably mountable to the mower deck of the mower, a unit for delivering power from a drive system on the mower deck to a propeller within the blower section, a trailer section configured for towing behind the mower, a hitch system for connecting the trailer section to the rear of the mower, and a passage connecting the blower section to the trailer section and through which debris discharged by the mower deck is propelled into the hopper. The blower section has a housing that receives debris discharged from the mower deck and a device for propelling the debris through an outlet of the housing. The hitch system permits pivoting of the trailer section about lateral and fore-aft axes of the mower but not about a vertical axis, such that the trailer section remains aligned with the fore-aft axis of the mower when the mower is turning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Donald J. Satoski
  • Patent number: 7255362
    Abstract: A tiltable trailer hitch for assisting in the loading and unloading of a trailer. The hitch includes a shank adapted to be received within a conventional trailer hitch and a ballmount pivotally mounted on the shank. An adjustment bracket is carried by the shank and is adapted to attach a ballmount. The adjustment bracket defines cooperating pairs of first openings and cooperating pairs of second openings. The second openings are radially spaced apart about a first of the first openings. The first openings are radially spaced apart about a first of the second openings. The ballmount defines first and second openings for cooperatively receiving the first and second ballmount locking pins. The trailer is tilted up or down by moving the first and second ballmount locking pins up and down within the cooperating pairs of first and second openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Lane Smith
  • Patent number: 7152870
    Abstract: A trailer hitch having an assembly housing that is mounted to the bed of a vehicle, the assembly housing receiving a ball hitch that extends out of the top of the assembly housing, and a torsion bar disposed within the assembly housing to dampen the vibration of the trailer from transferring to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Wendell A. Gurtler
  • Patent number: 7121575
    Abstract: A motorcycle trailer with an aerodynamic storage compartment and a two-wheel independent suspension. Swing arm suspensions for the wheels include swing arms pivotally mounted to the trailer above the wheel axle, wherein the swing arms are supported by wheel suspension shock absorbers. A suspension spring supported hitch design enables the motorcycle to rapidly move up and down independently of the trailer pitch velocity to reduce affecting the motorcycle. The aerodynamic storage compartment, the wheel suspension, and the suspension spring supported hitch help maintain a smooth ride for the motorcycle pulling the trailer and reduce the aerodynamic drag and associated fuel consumption and rear tire wear of the motorcycle, and the motorcycle aft frame fatigue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas E. Finch
  • Patent number: 7093845
    Abstract: A motion absorbing hitch for dampening forces on a towing vehicle from movement of a trailer assembly towed by the towing vehicle includes a towing attachment assembly coupled to a towing vehicle, a trailer attachment assembly pivotally coupled to the towing attachment assembly and adapted for coupling to a trailer assembly, and a shock absorbing assembly coupled between the towing attachment assembly and the trailer attachment assembly to dampen pivoting between the towing attachment assembly and the trailer attachment assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Tendaire, Inc.
    Inventor: Verlyn R. Fast
  • Patent number: 7044493
    Abstract: The invention is a tow bar assembly used for towing trailers with vehicles. The tow bar assembly is located between the vehicle and the hitch assembly, such as a ball mount hitch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Paul Wilson
  • Patent number: 7011329
    Abstract: A tow bar with a torsion spring disposed between the tow bar and a steering arm to urge the tow bar towards an operating position, the torsion spring minimizing the force required by an operator to lift the tow bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Yoder Brake & Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: C. Ray Yoder
  • Publication number: 20040227326
    Abstract: A hitch receiving assembly for connecting a trailer to towing vehicle is disclosed. The hitch receiving assembly includes a first fixed elongate member mountable to a trailer and a second floating hitch receiving member that is separated from the fixed member by a plurality of elongate resilient members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Wledon J. Peters
  • Patent number: 6779808
    Abstract: At least one limited articulating female hitch mechanism and trailer for mounting to a conventional trailer hitch male connection member mounted on a towing vehicle. The hitch mechanisms are pivotal in only the vertical plane. The combination comprises a trailer having a horizontally disposed load supporting frame mounting of swivel (or 360 degree horizontally rotating) wheel assemblies about 360 degrees. This arrangement, coupled with the hitch mechanism, assures the trailer tracks the towing vehicle so that the sides of the towing vehicle and the sides of the trailer remain constantly parallel to each other Reduced trailer size and weight, reduced storage requirements, ease of backup maneuvering and avoidance of road hazards, vehicles, pedestrians and objects is thus facilitated by such arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Inventor: Steven Elliott Connor