Pivoting To Nonuse Position With Single Draft Member Patents (Class 280/491.3)
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Patent number: 7494147Abstract: Disclosed are improved devices for rotatably-coupled trailer coupler assemblies. The disclosed devices include a lock assembly that can be used to lock and unlock a coupler arm of a swing-type trailer coupler assembly in predetermined positions, such as towing and storage positions. The lock assembly includes a lock member that moves between a locked an unlocked state. In the locked state, the lock member locks the coupler arm of the assembly in a predetermined position, such as a towing position. In the unlocked state, the lock member does not interfere with the coupler arm such that the coupler arm is free to move between the towing and storage orientations. An actuator is coupled to the lock assembly. The actuator can be actuated to transition the lock member between the locked and unlocked states. The lock assembly is fixedly mounted to the coupler assembly so that a user does not have to insert and remove the lock member.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Lippert Components, Inc.Inventors: Edward R. Rowland, Thomas W. Hunsucker
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Publication number: 20090033062Abstract: A trailer tongue assembly is provided which has a first section, a second section and a hinge pivotally connecting the first and section sections. The first section has a first end with a cross-sectional configuration and the second section has a second end with a cross-sectional configuration. The hinge has a fixed section, a rotatable section, and a pivot member. The fixed section has a first attachment flange with a cross-sectional configuration corresponding to the cross-sectional configuration of the first end. The rotatable section has a second attachment flange with a cross-sectional configuration corresponding to the cross-sectional configuration of the second end. The pivot member rotatably connects the fixed and rotatable sections and the first attachment flange is fixably attached to the first end while the second attachment flange is fixably attached to the second end.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventor: Bernhardt P. Goettker
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Patent number: 7445226Abstract: A tow bar for connecting a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle, the tow bar comprising a towing vehicle connection mechanism connected to the towing vehicle; a towed vehicle connection mechanism connected to the towed vehicle; and an interconnecting mechanism connecting the towing vehicle connection mechanism to the towed vehicle connection mechanism. The interconnecting mechanism defines an interconnection central point and an interconnection vertical axis spaced rearwardly from the interconnection central point. The interconnecting mechanism is structured to accommodate substantially all pitch and roll movements between the towing and towed vehicles at and about the interconnection central point, and to accommodate substantially all yaw movements between the towing and towed vehicles at and about the interconnection vertical axis.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Automatic Equipment Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Merton Hahne, Mark Penlerick, Anthony Crippen
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Publication number: 20080258431Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and other embodiments associated with a trailer tongue pivot hinge are described herein. In an embodiment, a pivot assembly for a tongue of a towing trailer includes a trailer arm adapter, a coupler arm adapter, and a pivot member. The trailer arm adapter includes an engagement face positioned at an angle, along with a pivot hinge member and a coupling hinge member extending from the engagement face, where the coupling hinge member is opposed to the pivot hinge member. The coupler arm adapter includes an engagement face positioned at an angle, along with a pivot hinge member and a coupler hinge member extending from the engagement face, where the second coupling hinge member is opposed to the second pivot hinge member. The pivot member is positioned to pivotally engage the trailer arm adapter to the couple arm adapter.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2008Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventors: Kawa-She-Quoen Okerlund, Todd Walstrom, Frank Drake
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Publication number: 20080252042Abstract: A hitch assembly that comprises a coupling tongue with a first end and a second end, a substantially U-shaped clevis that is substantially flat in cross section, pivotally coupled to the second end of the coupling tongue by a hitch pin, and an opening formed by the coupling tongue and the clevis, sized to receive a towing member. The hitch assembly is particularly suited for connecting a tow strap or belt to a commercially available tubular trailer hitch receiver, for use in towing operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2004Publication date: October 16, 2008Inventors: Vernon W. Sparkes, William J.D. Shaw
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Patent number: 7410184Abstract: A trailer coupler pivot assembly comprising a pivot mount member connected to a trailer frame member and a hinge bracket connected to a trailer tongue arm. The hinge bracket is pivotally connected to the pivot mount member so that the trailer tongue arm is pivotal relative to the trailer frame member between an open position and a closed position. However, either of the pivot mount member or the hinge bracket comprises a single, prefabricated component to make assembly more efficient and cost effective. With both the pivot mount member and the hinge bracket being single, prefabricate components, the trailer coupler pivot assembly can be more easily installed with fewer components and welds and by less skilled labor.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: Cequent Trailer Products, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Roll, Todd R. Walstrom, Todd A. Trowbridge
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Publication number: 20080169628Abstract: A low profile trailer hitch includes a frame for attachment to a vehicle and a draw bar pivotally attached to the frame that includes upper and lower substantially similar curved plates, a stationary stop plate and a plurality of apertures for extending stop pins through both the upper and lower plates. The draw bar has a first towing position wherein the draw bar abuts against the stationary stop plate of the frame with a trailer coupling end of the draw bar extending outwardly away from a bumper of a vehicle upon which the hitch is mounted. The draw bar may be pivoted to a storage position with the coupling end disposed at a location substantially adjacent or within a periphery of the bumper and captured in the storage position by stop pins extending through the upper and lower plates.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2007Publication date: July 17, 2008Inventor: Robert S. Kerpash
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Patent number: 7387316Abstract: A portable tank apparatus has a yoke pivotal on a transverse member between a service towing position and a raised position, and a pair of hingedly connected brace members at the rear of the apparatus and operable by an actuator to retract the wheels or lower the wheels to the ground.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Inventor: Keril M. Keiser
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Publication number: 20080073871Abstract: A folding transport cart includes a frame assembly having front and rear sections, and a hinge connecting the front and rear sections together for movement between a compact folded position for storage and an unfolded position for use. The hinge provides a transverse pivot axis between the front and rear sections above a floor of the cart. A pair of support wheels are attached on right and left sides of the frame assembly. A hitch tongue includes a vertical offset and is selectively attachable to the frame assembly to provide both low and high hitch towing positions. The hitch tongue can be reversed and attached in a stowed position for compact storage. A handle member is removably attached to the front end of the hitch tongue to facilitate manual towing. The handle member is removably nested within the hitch tongue or the rear section of the frame assembly for storage.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Inventor: Max Winkel
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Patent number: 7338064Abstract: A pivotal fold away trailer hitch mount which comprises a mounting plate secured to an underside of a frame of a motor vehicle and adjacent to a bumper of the motor vehicle. A hitch assembly is also provided. A mechanism is for pivotally connecting an inner end of the hitch assembly to a bottom surface of the mounting plate. The hitch assembly will swing from a towing position extending outwardly from the bumper of the motor vehicle to a stowed position extending under the frame of the motor vehicle away from the bumper. A mechanism is for retaining the hitch assembly in the towing position, while another mechanism is for holding the hitch assembly in the stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2005Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Inventor: James A. Williams
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Patent number: 7273222Abstract: A towing device (1) for towing vehicles has a tow bar (8) movably mounted about at least two axes of rotation, and at least one mechanical drive (13) for moving the tow bar between an operating position and a position of rest. The drive has a mechanism (14) for generating an at least partially superimposed movement of the tow bar about both axes. The preferred features include the axes of rotation being positioned at right angles to each other. The mechanism is designed as a gear unit (21) coupling the pivot axis (16) and the axis of rotation (18). The rotational movement of the tow bar about the axis of rotation is derived from the pivoting movement of the tow bar or a housing (19).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2003Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Al-Ko Kober AGInventor: Armin Rampp
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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: 7237791Abstract: Disclosed is a trailer hitch system that is configured to rotate to a stowing position and an operating position. When in the operational position, a coupler arm of the trailer is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupler arm contributes to the length of the trailer. When in the stowing position, the coupler arm of the trailer is bent at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupling arm does not contribute to the overall length of the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2005Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Pivit Hitch, Inc.Inventor: Dana Stettler
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Patent number: 7229090Abstract: A folding trailer is described, including a wheeled frame portion having a tongue secured thereto which extends forwardly for connection to the hitch of the an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). The tongue is enabled to pivot the folding trailer from a horizontal to a vertical position. The folding trailer includes an adjustable mud flap assembly, a tool holding assembly and accessory assemblies for enabling the driver of the ATV to disperse fertilizer, seed, chemicals and the like while seated in the ATV.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Bobby Cumbie
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Patent number: 7216886Abstract: In order to provide a trailer coupling for motor vehicles comprising a bearing element, a towing element which can be pivoted in relation to the bearing element between an operative position and a rest position and displaced in the direction of the pivot axis between a pivoting position and a fixing position and a fixing device, with which the towing element can be fixed in position on the bearing element, with a simplified fixing of the towing element on the bearing element it is suggested that the towing element have a bearing member, that the bearing element have a receiving member, in which the bearing member engages at least in the fixing position and in relation to which the bearing member can be moved between the pivoting position and the fixing position in a direction of displacement and vice versa, and that the fixing device have a blocking device which blocks the bearing member with respect to any movement in the direction of displacement relative to the receiving member and has at least one blockinType: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Scambia Industrial Developments AktiengesellschaftInventors: Bernhard Rimmelspacher, Wolfgang Gentner, Joerg Riehle, Guenther Mayer
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Patent number: 7204505Abstract: A trunnion, adapted to fit in a receiver, attached to a vehicle as a receiver-type hitch system, provides selective deployment and stowage of a hitch. An optional base secured to the trunnion may receive a pivot. A mount, secured by the pivot to the base, swings between a deployed and a stowed position. Alignments are one-dimensional, typically circumferentially positioning a locking pin aperture and a corresponding locking pin about a radius with respect to a pivot axis. A platform of the mount may contain an aperture for operating as a pin hitch aperture, or for receiving a stud or bolt for securing a ball hitch, or two hitches. In certain embodiments, multiple ball hitches may be attached at once to the platform. Selection of ball hitch sizes, and positioning of the ball hitch altitude may also be accomplished by pivots built into the mount.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: B & W Custom Truck Beds, Inc.Inventor: Newell Ryan Moss
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Patent number: 7204506Abstract: A hitch arrangement includes a hitch member, coupled to a towing vehicle. The hitch member is positionable in a stored position and in a deployed position and conforms to a contour of the rear end of the vehicle when in the stored position.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Nissan Design America, Inc.Inventor: James McJunkin
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Patent number: 7188848Abstract: A hitch assembly for mounting to a trailer to form an interface between the trailer and a towing vehicle, with the trailer having a trailer deck and at least one wheel for ground support, said hitch assembly including a generally horizontally oriented cross member; a first mount arrangement including a shaft projecting from the cross member for telescopic receipt in a corresponding hitch receiver associated with a towing vehicle to connect said hitch assembly to a towing vehicle; and a second mount arrangement including at least two bosses spaced a predetermined distance apart and fixed to the cross member, with the bosses being mountable to the trailer deck to connect said hitch assembly to the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Inventor: Charles D. Chapman
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Patent number: 7163226Abstract: The present invention relates to a retractable king pin assembly for a trailer operable between an extended position, for engagement with a truck or tractor fifth wheel, and a retracted position, wherein the king pin is retracted to prevent engagement by a fifth wheel to permit the trailer to be left unattended without the threat of being stolen. The king pin security device includes a base member having an aperture, a king pin disposed in the base member aperture, and an actuator operatively connected to the king pin. The actuator either rotates or slides the king pin to move it in an axial direction between the extended and retracted positions. The actuator can include an electric motor, a solenoid or a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Falco, LLCInventors: A. Frank Norton, Michael W. Freitas
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Patent number: 7125031Abstract: A tow bar having a first connection mechanism with a forward projection for connecting to a conventional receiver hitch of a towing vehicle, a second connection mechanism for connecting to a towed vehicle, and a third connection mechanism having a ball member rotatively captured with a socket member and a pair of towbar arms pivotally-connected to an exposed portion of the ball member for connecting the first connection mechanism to the second connection mechanism. The tow bar also includes a securing mechanism for locking the tow bar in a stowed configuration on the rear of the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Inventor: Donald R. Schoonover
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Patent number: 7052032Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly that can be extended and turned from side to side to facilitate hookup of a vehicle to be towed and that can when not in use be stowed out of the way without removal from the towing vehicle is shown. The hitch assembly also serves to control fish tailing of a towed vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Inventor: Edward C. Adair
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Patent number: 7032919Abstract: A tow bar for connecting a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle, the tow bar comprising a towing vehicle connection mechanism connected to the towing vehicle; a towed vehicle connection mechanism connected to the towed vehicle; and an interconnecting mechanism connecting the towing vehicle connection mechanism to the towed vehicle connection mechanism. The interconnecting mechanism defines an interconnection central point and an interconnection vertical axis spaced rearwardly from the interconnection central point. The interconnecting mechanism is structured to accommodate substantially all pitch and roll movements between the towing and towed vehicles at and about the interconnection central point, and to accommodate substantially all yaw movements between the towing and towed vehicles at and about the interconnection vertical axis. The interconnection mechanism includes a disk spring device for accommodating variations in manufacturing tolerances and wear during use.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2004Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Inventors: Merton Hahne, Mark Penlerick, Anthony Crippen
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Patent number: 7029022Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a hitch to a vehicle. The apparatus may include a base connected to the vehicle. A mount, having a fastening portion and a main portion, may also be included. The fastening portion may receive a plurality of hitches thereon. The main portion may pivotably engage the base to provide a pivoting motion of the mount with respect to the base between a stowed position and a towing position distinct from the stowed position. A pivot may connect the main portion to the fastening portion to provide rotation therebetween. The apparatus may also include a hitch system having a first ball hitch monolithically formed to have a shank. A second hitch may be monolithically formed to have an aperture therein. The aperture of the second ball hitch may be shaped to axially receive and engage the shank of the first ball hitch.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: B & W Custom Truck Beds, Inc.Inventor: Newell Ryan Moss
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Patent number: 7007967Abstract: A trailer tongue assembly has a base section which is engagable with a trailer and an extension section which supports a coupler. The trailer tongue assembly also has an internal hinge positioned between the extension section and the base section. The internal hinge rotationally connects the base section and the extension section and selectively provides the trailer tongue assembly with an extended operational position and a folded storage position. The internal hinge is housed in the trailer tongue assembly and is essentially shielded from view by the trailer tongue assembly when the trailer tongue assembly is in the extended operational position. The trailer tongue assembly also has a greater length in the extended operational position than in the folded storage position.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Inventor: Bernhardt P. Goettker
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Patent number: 7004490Abstract: A towbar for a vehicle. The towbar includes a yoke and a drawbar rotatably connected to the yoke. The drawbar is attached to the towing vehicle. A pair of connecting bars is attached to the yoke and to the vehicle being towed. A lock assembly is connected between the yoke and the drawbar. The lock assembly is adapted to move from a first position in which the drawbar is free to rotate and a second position in which the drawbar is retained to the yoke.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Inventor: Kenneth J. Klar
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Patent number: 7004489Abstract: A connection device is provided for interconnecting first and second tugger carts. The connection device includes a striker element projecting from the first tugger cart. A connecting arm is pivotably connected to the second tugger cart and includes a terminal end that partially defines a recess for receiving the striker element therein. The connecting arm is pivotable between a storage position and a locking position. A locking pin is operatively connected to the connecting arm and is movable between an extended wherein the locking pin extends over an opening to the recess in the connecting arm and a retracted position wherein the striker element may be inserted into and removed from the recess. A handle is provided to allow a user to maintain the locking pin in the retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Topper Industrial, Inc.Inventor: Edmund W. Brown
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Patent number: 6997472Abstract: A trailer towing device can be swivelled from an operative position into an inoperative position and back. During an adjusting from the operative position into the inoperative position, a socket for an electrical plug device of a trailer is continuously taken along. The coupling neck of the trailer towing device as well as the socket are covered in the vehicle in their inoperative position.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Peter Reutlinger, Eberhard Palmer, Andreas Piede
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Patent number: 6991247Abstract: A tow bar for connecting a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle, the tow bar comprising a towing vehicle connection mechanism connected to the towing vehicle; a towed vehicle connection mechanism connected to the towed vehicle; and an interconnecting mechanism connecting the towing vehicle connection mechanism to the towed vehicle connection mechanism. The interconnecting mechanism defines an interconnection central point and an interconnection vertical axis spaced rearwardly from the interconnection central point. The interconnecting mechanism is structured to accommodate substantially all pitch and roll movements between the towing and towed vehicles at and about the interconnection central point, and to accommodate substantially all yaw movements between the towing and towed vehicles at and about the interconnection vertical axis.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Inventors: Merton Hahne, Mark Penlerick, Anthony Crippen
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Patent number: 6964427Abstract: Apparatus and method for facilitating access to articles from a rear end and a front end of a trailer (A) disclose the use of a hydraulic cylinder (D) exerting a force between a towbar (C) and the trailer for pivoting the trailer on its wheels (B) to make the trailer accessible without obstruction by the towbar and towing vehicle. Cylinders (F) are provided for facilitating raising and lowering ramps at the front and rear ends of the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Inventor: William M. Chumley
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Patent number: 6957826Abstract: A pivotal hitch assembly (14) connection to the draw bar (18) of a trailer includes a hitch housing (22) formed of a hollow tube having a greater breadth than the draw bar. The hitch housing receives the draw bar and is pivotally coupled to the draw bar by aligning two corresponding sets of openings in the hitch housing and the draw bar and inserting a pivot pin (55) through one set of the corresponding aligned openings. The pivotal hitch assembly is placed into the aligned operational or towing position by inserting a removable locking pin (58) into the other set of the corresponding aligned openings. A cuff (64) is positioned between the draw bar and the hitch housing to reduce the frictional contact between the hitch housing and the draw bar. The pivotal hitch assembly is placed in the storage position by removing the locking pin (58) and pivoting the hitch housing (22) around the pivot pin.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
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Patent number: 6908095Abstract: A towing device has a ball neck equipped with a ball head that can be moved by a spindle adjusting element back and forth from an operative position into an inoperative position. The ball neck is arranged in a rotary block which is swivellably held in a carrier part. For supporting the ball neck in all possible loading directions, supporting surfaces, a torsion stop as well as a detent pawl are provided so that a movement of the coupling neck is avoided when forces act upon it, and a precise position is ensured in the operative position.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AGInventors: Peter Reutlinger, Eberhard Palmer, Andreas Piede
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Patent number: 6869095Abstract: A trailer coupler pivot assembly comprising a pivot mount member connected to a trailer frame member and a hinge bracket connected to a trailer tongue arm. The hinge bracket is pivotally connected to the pivot mount member so that the trailer tongue arm is pivotal relative to the trailer frame member between an open position and a closed position. However, either of the pivot mount member or the hinge bracket comprises a single, prefabricated component to make assembly more efficient and cost effective. With both the pivot mount member and the hinge bracket being single, prefabricate components, the trailer coupler pivot assembly can be more easily installed with fewer components and welds and by less skilled labor.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Cequent Trailer Products, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Roll, Todd R. Walstrom, Todd A. Trowbridge
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Patent number: 6863295Abstract: A trailer coupling for motor vehicles able to be moved from a working position to a resting position and the reverse. To increase safety, a motion of the trailer coupling is allowed only if the velocity of the motor vehicle is <=5 Km/h, if the rear window or tailgate is open and if no trailer is fastened on the coupling. The motion is stopped if the torque of the drive motor exceeds a specifiable reference value.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AGInventors: Peter Reutlinger, Andreas Piede, Eberhard Palmer
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Patent number: 6860503Abstract: A retractile trailer hitch has a tube shaft fixed on a motor-vehicle frame and an arm having a tubular inner end pivotal on the shaft and an outer ball end. The arm is limitedly axially displaceable on the shaft between locked and unlocked positions. Formations on the frame and on the inner end angularly arrest the arm in its end positions in the locked position of the inner end. The formations are unengageable with each other in the unlocked position of the inner end. A bolt is axially displaceable inside the shaft between a holding position and a freeing position. Balls inside the inner end are coupled to the bolt for axially displacing the arm into the locked position on displacement of the bolt into the holding position and for displacing the arm axially into the unlocked position on displacement of the bolt into the freeing position.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: Westfalia-Automotive GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Reinhold Aufderheide, Friedrich Domke, Alexander Giesbrecht, Gerhard Hermbusch, Andreas Mersch, Jürgen Peitz, Dirk Vahle, Burkhard Weniger, Martin Wyrwich
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Patent number: 6857651Abstract: A tow-bar having a skeletonized tongue portion is described. A stopper is typically includes on the bottom portion of the tongue. A head piece having handles internal to the head piece is connected to one end of the tongue. The handles are typically positioned in a triangular arrangement. The end of the tongue, opposite the end including the head piece, includes a hinging portion that can be connected to the respective cart having the tongue. The hinging portion and the head piece include “keyed” ends so that they can connect to the tongue like puzzle pieces. These keyed portions are welded to the tongue. In this way, the pull points are not straight welds but rather keyed and welded portions thereby able to withstand typical abuse.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Innovative Peening Systems, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Dickey, Bryan Peters
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Patent number: 6857650Abstract: A dual mode trailer hitch that operates in both a “vehicle-tow” mode and a “manual tow” mode. In the vehicle-tow mode of operation, the trailer hitch is configured such that a trailer can be pivotally coupled to and towed by a towing vehicle, such as a tractor. In the manual-tow mode of operation, the trailer hitch is configured to not articulate, so that the trailer can be towed manually by a person. The trailer hitch includes bar pivot attachment member, a connecting link, a handle attachment fitting, at least one side plate, a tow bracket, and a vehicle coupling pin 23. In the preferred embodiment, the side plates are coupled on both sides of the tow bracket. The combined side plates and tow bracket are pivotally coupled to both the bar pivot attachment member and one end of the connecting link by a first pivot pin. The handle attachment fitting is pivotally coupled to the other end of connecting link by a second pivot pin.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2002Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: World Factory, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth M. Ward
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Patent number: 6789815Abstract: A towing apparatus is provided including, in one embodiment, a pintle hitch having a retainer and an associated retainer lock. The retainer may be coupled with a mount by way of a pivot allowing it to rotate into and out one or more selected positions. The retainer may also be mounted on a guide such that it may translate relative to a mount. The apparatus may be configured to be selectively displaced between a towing position and a stowed position. Additionally, the mount of the apparatus may be adjustably coupled with the base. In such a case, the apparatus may have another guide to enable the mount to translate relative to the base. This may allow the mount to be height-adjustable and provide further versatility. In one embodiment, a swiveling mount may allow the mount to swivel relative to the base to accommodate the towing of trailers over rugged terrain.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Wing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Newell Ryan Moss, Jack W. Bowers, H. Arthur Wing
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Patent number: 6729637Abstract: A side swing hitch for a rear end of an agricultural combine. The hitch includes a hitch support bracket having opposite end portions and an intermediate portion therebetween, a first of the end portions including at least one element for mounting to a rear chassis member of the combine with the other end portion suspended in a position rearward of the rear axle assembly connected to the chassis member. A draw bar is pivotally mounted to the second end portion of the hitch support bracket for pivotal movement between a rearwardly extending towing position generally perpendicular to the rear axle assembly and at least one generally transversely extending stored position at least generally perpendicular to the towing position and beside the rear axle assembly, the draw bar having an opposite end including a hitch element connectable to a tongue of a vehicle such as a trailer or cart to be towed by the combine.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: Case CorporationInventors: Joshua J. Wolters, Robert A. Matousek, Dohn Pfeiffer
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Publication number: 20040075244Abstract: A towing device has a ball neck equipped with a ball head that can be moved by a spindle adjusting element back and forth from an operative position into an inoperative position. The ball neck is arranged in a rotary block which is swivellably held in a carrier part. For supporting the ball neck in all possible loading directions, supporting surfaces, a torsion stop as well as a detent pawl are provided so that a movement of the coupling neck is avoided when forces act upon it, and a precise position is ensured in the operative position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Applicant: DR. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG.Inventors: Peter Reutlinger, Eberhard Palmer, Andreas Piede
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Patent number: 6644680Abstract: A trailer hitch alignment apparatus designed to be used with an existing trailer hitch that includes a hollow frame tube mounted transversely on the rear of a towing vehicle. The apparatus includes a first leg member that slides into an end opening on the transversely aligned frame tube attached to the frame on the towing vehicle. Attached to the distal end of the first leg member is a joint bracket with a ratchet mechanism disposed therein. Pivotally attached to the distal end of the joint bracket is a second leg member. The ratchet mechanism is coupled to the second leg member enabling the user to forcibly pivot the second leg member around the first leg member. Attached inside the rear surface of the first leg member is a cable assembly containing a cable wound onto a spool. Attached to the spool is a locking, tightening mechanism that allows the cable to be forcibly wound and unwound from the spool. Extending from the distal end of the second leg member is a telescopic extension arm.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Inventor: Robert N. Coe
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Patent number: 6619686Abstract: A towbar for a vehicle. The towbar includes a yoke and a drawbar rotatably connected to the yoke. The drawbar is attached to the towing vehicle. A pair of connecting bars is attached to the yoke and to the vehicle being towed. A lock assembly is connected between the yoke and the to drawbar. The lock assembly is adapted to move from a first position in which the drawbar is free a to rotate and a second position in which the drawbar is retained to the yoke.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Inventor: Kenneth J. Klar
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Publication number: 20030141698Abstract: A pivotal hitch assembly (14) includes a housing (22) that is pivotally coupled to mounting plates (57) and (58) that are rigidly attached to a draw bar (60) of a trailer. The housing includes a pair of connector tubes (56) that receive pins (63), (64) that couple the housing (22) to the mounting plates (57), (58). The housing (22) is manufactured from a single blank of material. The connector tubes (56) are formed by bending or rolling a portion of the blank into a generally tubular shape. Bending or folding of the blank forms the housing such that the housing is generally U-shaped.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2002Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
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Patent number: 6595540Abstract: A pivotal hitch assembly (14) includes a housing (22) that is pivotally coupled to mounting plates (57) and (58) that are rigidly attached to a draw bar (60) of a trailer. The housing includes a pair of connector tubes (56) that receive pins (63), (64) that couple the housing (22) to the mounting plates (57), (58). The housing (22) is manufactured from a single blank of material. The connector tubes (56) are formed by bending or rolling a portion of the blank into a generally tubular shape. Bending or folding of the blank forms the housing such that the housing is generally U-shaped.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2002Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
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Publication number: 20030127827Abstract: A trailer hitch is provided for releasable attachment to a trailer frame. At least one aperture is defined in the trailer frame. The trailer hitch includes an elongated cross member having a first end and a second end, a first side member extending from the first end of the elongated cross member to a coupler and a second side member extending from the second end of the elongated cross member to the coupler. At least one aperture is defined in the trailer hitch in a position of coaxial alignment with the aperture defined in the frame when the trailer hitch is in a towing position A removable lock pin is adapted to extend through the apertures in the frame and the trailer hitch to secure the cross member in a fixed position relative to the frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2002Publication date: July 10, 2003Applicant: Trail ManorInventors: William J. Hulsey, Michael A. Hulsey
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Publication number: 20030075900Abstract: In order to achieve as reliable a safety functioning as possible with as simple a construction as possible in the case of a trailer coupling for motor vehicles, comprising a bearing part arranged so as to be fixed on the vehicle, a ball neck which can be moved in relation to the bearing part between an operative position and a rest position and is mounted so as to be rotatable, a ball neck fixing means with form locking elements which can be transferred by way of relative movement from a fixing position into a release position and vice versa, and a mechanical positioning device, with which the relative movement of the form locking elements can be brought about for reaching the fixing position and the release position, it is suggested that form locking elements be arranged on the bearing part and form locking elements be arranged on the bearing head, that the bearing head be movable relative to the bearing part in a direction transverse to a pivoting direction in order to move the form locking elements betweenType: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2002Publication date: April 24, 2003Applicant: ORIS Fahrzeugteile Hans Riehle GmbHInventors: Emmerich Kleb, Hans Riehle, Michael Fischer, Martin Dreher
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Patent number: 6547271Abstract: In order to improve a trailer coupling for motor vehicles comprising a pivot bearing body which is rigidly attached to the vehicle and upon which there is mounted a pivotal element that is pivotal about a pivotal axis, a ball neck which extends outwardly from the pivotal element and carries a coupling ball at the end thereof remote from the pivotal element, and a locking device for fixing the pivotal element relative to the pivot bearing body in interlocking manner, so that the locking device is constructed in as simple a manner as possible and can be implemented in simple manner so that it is free of play, it is proposed that the pivotal element is mounted on the pivot bearing body such that it is displaceable along the pivotal axis thereof and that by displacement of the pivotal element along the pivotal axis the pivotal element is moveable into a position wherein it is pivotal relative to the pivot bearing body and into a position wherein it is fixed relative to the pivot bearing body in mutually non-rotatType: GrantFiled: April 4, 2001Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: ORIS Fahrzeugteile Hans Riehle GmbHInventors: Emmerich Kleb, Michael Fischer, Hans Riehle
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Publication number: 20030067142Abstract: A docking assembly configured to allow a first medical device to move with a second medical device includes a hitch, a base, and a connector. The hitch is configured to be coupled to the first medical device. The base is spaced apart from the hitch and is configured to be coupled to the second medical device. The connector interconnects the hitch and the base and permits movement of the hitch relative to the base.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Inventor: David C. Newkirk
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Patent number: 6527292Abstract: A rugged heavy duty construction for a pivotally mounted hitch receiver that may be pivoted to a stored position from an operating position either alone or without removing a ball mount member inserted therein is shown.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: Edward C. Adair
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Patent number: 6488307Abstract: A trailer tongue that can be rolled to an extended and retracted position. The present trailer tongue comprises a housing having and interior portion and an exterior portion. At least one track is located along the interior portion of the housing. In a particularly preferred embodiment, two tracks are welded to on the interior portion of the housing. The trailer tongue further includes a rollaway mechanism that preferably includes at least one wheel for rolling along the track. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the rollaway mechanism includes two wheels for rolling along the tracks welded to the interior portion of the housing. The wheels are positioned to cooperate with the tracks so that the slide mechanism rolls easily along the tracks from an extended position to a retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2000Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: ASC, Inc.Inventor: George S. Koon
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Patent number: 6460870Abstract: A trunnion, adapted to fit in a receiver, attached to a vehicle as a receiver-type hitch system, provides selective deployment and stowage of a hitch. An optional base secured to the trunnion may receive a pivot. A mount, secured by the pivot to the base, swings between a deployed and a stowed position. Alignments are one-dimensional, typically circumferentially positioning a locking pin aperture and a corresponding locking pin about a radius with respect to a pivot axis. A platform of the mount may contain an aperture for operating as a pin hitch aperture, or for receiving a stud or bolt for securing a ball hitch, or two hitches. In certain embodiments, multiple ball hitches may be attached at once to the platform. Selection of ball hitch sizes, and positioning of the ball hitch altitude may also be accomplished by pivots built into the mount.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Wing Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Newell Ryan Moss