About Horizontal Transverse Pivot Patents (Class 280/489)
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Patent number: 12084129Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 23, 2023Date of Patent: September 10, 2024Assignee: HOPKINS GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Eric J. Stanifer
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Patent number: 11813903Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 24, 2021Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: Hall Labs LLCInventor: David R. Hall
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Patent number: 11780278Abstract: 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 slidaType: GrantFiled: May 28, 2021Date of Patent: October 10, 2023Assignee: Hall Labs LLCInventors: Michael R. Hall, David R. Hall, Thomas Corie, Dallin Clawson
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Patent number: 11597323Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 20, 2021Date of Patent: March 7, 2023Inventor: Guy Charles Wingo
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Patent number: 11584460Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 7, 2018Date of Patent: February 21, 2023Assignee: HANGZHOU HIKROBOT CO., LTD.Inventors: Xiaochen Zou, Yonghai Wu, Hao Liu
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Patent number: 11560187Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 21, 2020Date of Patent: January 24, 2023Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Eric J. Stanifer
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Patent number: 11541704Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 15, 2020Date of Patent: January 3, 2023Assignee: Bridgeview Mfg. Inc.Inventors: Raymond Helmeczi, James Kowch
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Patent number: 11505216Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 16, 2021Date of Patent: November 22, 2022Assignee: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.Inventors: Motoshi Hamada, Daiki Kondo, Atsushi Nakagami, Yoshimasa Takahashi
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Patent number: 11490559Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 23, 2018Date of Patent: November 8, 2022Assignee: Perma-Green Supreme, Inc.Inventor: Thomas F. Jessen
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Patent number: 11225115Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 3, 2019Date of Patent: January 18, 2022Assignee: Air Hitch Technologies, LLCInventor: Jeffrey Arnold Wilkens
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Patent number: 11104189Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 11, 2019Date of Patent: August 31, 2021Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.Inventor: Gregory Y. Rotenberg
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Patent number: 11084343Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 27, 2018Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.Inventors: Michael R. Curl, Richard W. McCoy
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Patent number: 11078639Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 15, 2019Date of Patent: August 3, 2021Inventors: Michael G D'Andrea, John Cronin
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Patent number: 10661694Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 27, 2017Date of Patent: May 26, 2020Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Scott A. Kibler
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Patent number: 10406877Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 7, 2017Date of Patent: September 10, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Mahmoud Yousef Ghannam, David James Tippy, Aed M. Dudar
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Patent number: 10328963Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 5, 2017Date of Patent: June 25, 2019Inventor: Jerry Richmond Johnson
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Patent number: 9944137Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.Inventors: Michael R. Curl, Richard W. McCoy
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Patent number: 9868327Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 5, 2016Date of Patent: January 16, 2018Inventor: Carl Borkholder
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Patent number: 9505281Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 3, 2015Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Inventor: Carl Borkholder
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Patent number: 9290071Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 11, 2014Date of Patent: March 22, 2016Assignee: Cequent Perfomance Products, Inc.Inventors: Richard McCoy, Paul Caruso, David Tallieu
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Patent number: 8798842Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Teleswivel, LLCInventors: William David Woolf, Gregory S. Hopper
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Publication number: 20140210184Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2014Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: David E. Ault, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
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Patent number: 8683720Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: David E. Ault, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
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Patent number: 8641075Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 14, 2012Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Comco Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Bruce A. Angel
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Publication number: 20130154235Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: AGCO SAInventors: Philippe Boittin, Guillaume Deletoille, Thibaut Maillet
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Patent number: 8366133Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 28, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Inventor: Terry Brinkley
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Patent number: 7960659Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 29, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Inventor: Michael M. Cleary
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Patent number: 7850184Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 26, 2009Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Inventor: Greg A. Beckman, Sr.
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Patent number: 7775544Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Dexter Axle CompanyInventor: Philip M. Bouwkamp
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Patent number: 7744111Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 10, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Inventor: Fred R Anderson
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Patent number: 7740266Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 17, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Quick Hitch, Inc.Inventor: Dewey R. Marcy
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Patent number: 7556270Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 11, 2007Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Ronald Friedman
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Patent number: 7552933Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Inventor: Greg A. Beckman
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Patent number: 7540524Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 2, 2005Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Jean Viaud
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Patent number: 7458597Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
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Publication number: 20080136139Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2006Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: David Russell, Chi Yip, Dennis Kessler, Paul Snyder
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Patent number: 7380811Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 21, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Inventor: Mark L. Rehme
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Patent number: 7380810Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 21, 2005Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Air Hitch Technology, LLCInventors: Jeff Wilkens, Tim Fisher
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Patent number: 7377536Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Inventor: Mark L. Rehme
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Patent number: 7370870Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 17, 2005Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Volaris Sweden ABInventors: Patrik Andersson, Sven-Inge Kjell, Joakim Andersson
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Patent number: 7338062Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Inventors: Richard Violette, Randy Violette
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Trailer section pivoting about lateral axis and fore-aft axis relative to mower having vacuum system
Patent number: 7328564Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Inventor: Donald J. Satoski -
Patent number: 7255362Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Inventor: Lane Smith
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Patent number: 7152870Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Inventor: Wendell A. Gurtler
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Patent number: 7121575Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 1, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Inventor: Thomas E. Finch
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Patent number: 7093845Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 25, 2003Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Tendaire, Inc.Inventor: Verlyn R. Fast
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Patent number: 7044493Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 4, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Inventor: Paul Wilson
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Patent number: 7011329Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 8, 2004Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Yoder Brake & Manufacturing CompanyInventor: C. Ray Yoder
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Publication number: 20040227326Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2004Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventor: Wledon J. Peters
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Patent number: 6779808Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 18, 2001Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Inventor: Steven Elliott Connor