Rattle Preventing Patents (Class 280/506)
  • Patent number: 11859654
    Abstract: A carrying rack connecting device is provided, including a connection rod and a connection assembly. The connection rod is configured to be connected to a mounting rod. The connection assembly has a base, an urging member and an operation member. The base is positioned inside the connection rod. The base has an operation space. The urging member is movably disposed within the operation space. The urging member has a first abutting portion. The operation member is disposed through the operation space and connected with the base. The operation member has a thread portion and an enlarged portion. The thread portion is screwed to the base. The enlarged portion has a second abutting portion. The second abutting portion is configured to push the first abutting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: YOTTA INNOVATION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Stella Huang
  • Patent number: 11738612
    Abstract: A hitch insert set, hitch system, and method of coupling a hitch cover to a hitch receiver are generally disclosed herein. The hitch system includes a hitch receiver designed to couple to a vehicle, with the hitch receiver defining a receiver opening. The hitch system further includes a hitch cover comprising a tube portion and a cover portion that substantially covers the receiver opening. At least one hitch insert from a hitch insert set couples to the hitch receiver and the tub portion, in use, with the at least one hitch insert filling a gap between the hitch receiver and the tube portion of the hitch cover. The tube portion coupled coupled within the receiver opening such that the tube portion is at least partially retained in place by the at least one hitch insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Inventor: Viktor Dolinskiy
  • Patent number: 11642925
    Abstract: A hitch receiver with four walls forming a tube that includes an integrated clamping device for immobilizing inserted accessories. A flexible tube wall acts as a pressure plate to press against the accessory as force is applied. The clamping device further utilizes a backstop attached to a rigid portion of the tube and accommodating a mechanism for generating force. Force can be generated mechanically via a threaded rod operatively connected to a threaded opening in a block located in the space between the backstop and the pressure plate. Clamping force is applied to the pressure plate by the tip of the threaded rod as it is turned in such a way as to force the threaded block against the backstop. Force is applied until the pressure plate deforms, contacts the adjacent wall of the inserted accessory, and presses the accessory against the opposite tube wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Inventor: Ralph Preston Kirtland
  • Patent number: 11590813
    Abstract: A silencer assembly for trailer hitches and a method of use thereof. The silencer assembly includes a sheet of material that is durable, abrasion-resistant, wear-resistant, ultra-violet light resistant, and sound dampening. An adhesive is applied to a bottom surface of the sheet which is then placed on a portion of the drawbar that is selectively receivable in a bore of receiver tube of the trailer hitch. The adhesive fixedly secures the sheet to the drawbar. The drawbar is inserted into the receiver bore. The sheet occupies part of a gap defined between an exterior surface of the drawbar and an interior surface of the receiver tube reducing relative movement between the drawbar and the receiver tube, and thereby reducing rattling noises. An additional sheet of material and one or more shims may be used to further reduce the gap between the drawbar and receiver tube, and thereby further reduce rattling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: RATTLE SILENCER, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas L. Brunson
  • Patent number: 11465458
    Abstract: A vehicle hitch insert, assembly, and system are disclosed. As part of the system, a hitch receiver is coupled to a vehicle. A hitch receiver cover is coupled to the hitch receiver and includes a lateral side that defines at least one receiver cover opening with a first diameter. Further, a hitch insert includes a substantially U-shaped main body that is slidably coupled to a lateral side of a hitch receiver cover. The main body includes a first wall defining a plurality of hitch insert openings that partially overlap with one another, with each hitch insert opening having a second diameter, a second wall connected to the first wall at a first joint, and a third wall connected to the second wall at a second joint. In use, a fastener extends through the at least one receiver cover opening and one of the plurality of hitch insert openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Inventor: Viktor Dolinskiy
  • Patent number: 11427042
    Abstract: An improved anti rattle hitch pin assembly for a trailer hitch assembly enables a threaded member to be inserted into the shank receiver, and allows for an easy alignment of a threaded device to the side hole of the shank receiver. The anti-rattle hitch pin assembly includes an arc-shaped retainer wire, a threaded receiver pin, a threaded member, and an optionally lockable member. The threaded member can be easily moved to the alignment position once the internal components of the hitch pin assembly including the retainer wire has been inserted inside the shank receiver tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Inventor: Maher Pedersoli
  • Patent number: 11141876
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle supported wood splitter comprising a blade portion and a fixation portion extending from the blade portion. The blade portion comprises a generally upward facing cut edge situated between a primary deflector face and a secondary deflector face and wherein at least a portion of the fixation portion is sized and shaped to be received in a hitch receiver or similar apparatus of a vehicle such as an automobile, RV, camper, trailer, or UTV. Methods of use for various embodiments of the apparatus are described. In preferred embodiments, the wood splitting device is supported entirely by a vehicle's hitch receiver. Also disclosed in various embodiments is a kindling collection system, a guide system, and splitter forms adapted to one or more of casting, machining, and welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Inventor: Brian Patrick Janowski
  • Patent number: 9375988
    Abstract: A coupling mechanism couples a towed implement to a prime mover. The coupling mechanism includes a housing fixed to the prime mover, a coupler frame fixed to the implement, and a coupler plate movably mounted to the coupler frame. A pivot pin projects from the housing. A lever member pivots on the pivot pin. The lever member has a first arm with a latch pin and a second arm with a locking recess. A lock pin projects from the coupler plate, and a latch member is fixed to the coupler frame. The latch member has a latch finger which forms a slot. The latch member engages the latch pin, pivots the lever member and moving the latch pin into the slot as the coupler frame moves towards the housing. The locking recess receives the lock pin as the lever member is pivoted by the latch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Tony J. Huegerich
  • Patent number: 9027950
    Abstract: An anti-rattle hitch (100) includes a tubular insert (102) that is configured to be inserted into a receiver (90). A wedge mechanism comprising a first wedge member (112) and a second wedge member (114) are disposed in the insert, and have slidably engaged angled faces. The second wedge member includes one or more pistons that extend through piston (110) apertures in the insert such that the longitudinal position of the second wedge member is fixed. An adjustment member (120) adjusts the position of the first wedge member, thereby adjusting the piston position which can be biased against the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin Lahn
  • Publication number: 20150076793
    Abstract: An anti-rattle device is shown and described. The anti-rattle device may include a frame configured to engage a receiver hitch and to receive a draw bar. The anti-rattle device may also include a cam engaging assembly operatively engaged with the frame, where the cam engaging assembly is selectively positionable between disengaged and engaged positions whereby the cam engaging assembly is adapted to engage the draw bar against the receiver hitch in the engaged position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Jacob S. Belinky, Russell T. Brzezinski, Gail R. Matheus, Jacob L. Hillard, Austin J. Laurer, Mark Scruggs
  • Patent number: 8944516
    Abstract: A cargo hauling system is dimensioned to fit within a bed of a light truck. The bin moves forwardly and rearwardly relative to the truck bed along rollers provided on a tailgate of the truck. The tailgate is modified by reinforcing a perimeter of the tailgate, adding rollers to the tailgate, substituting reinforced linkages and hinges for factory originals, and adding a support member that extends between the trailer hitch and tailgate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: Paul G. Eidsmore
  • Patent number: 8915514
    Abstract: A multi-function, anti-rotational, power-sports utility hitch receiver assembly includes a four-sided hollow receiver tube having a forward end configured to attach to a tow vehicle and a rearward end configured to house an attachment of an accessory shank. Aligned apertures are present in the opposing sidewalls between the forward end and the rearward end for securing a hitch accessory shank within the receiver tube by inserting a hitch-pin through apertures. A removable, adjustable tightening bar is attachable to an underside of the hitch receiver tube for maintaining the receiver tube in a stationary position when the receiver tube is installed on a tow vehicle by abutting a surface on the tow vehicle. The assembly further includes a tow loop, e.g., for attaching tow chains, straps, bungee cords, tow hooks and the like to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: John R. Columbia
  • Publication number: 20140327228
    Abstract: An anti-rattle device is shown and described. The anti-rattle device may include a pin member configured for insertion into aligned apertures of a draw bar and receiver hitch, and a block member configured to be inserted into an interior cavity of the draw bar and to receive the pin member. The anti-rattle device may also include an engaging member engaged with the pin member outside of the draw bar and receiver hitch, where the engagement of the engaging member, the pin member and the block are operable to clamp the draw bar against the receiver hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Austin J. Laurer, Jacob S. Belinky, Gail R. Matheus, David W. Hesch
  • Patent number: 8833791
    Abstract: Insert bar assembly includes an elongate hitch-attachment bar which in turn comprises a hitch-receiver insert portion located at an insertable end of the bar. Assembly can include an expander which accommodates attachment of the assembly to a hitch which is larger than the insert portion of the bar. Adapter assembly includes expandable adapter mountable upon hitch-attachment bar that is square in cross-sectional shape and sized for insertion into first tubular hitch receiver and further includes an expander that diagonally extends and retracts relative to attachment bar. Adapter is configured to substantially house a hitch-receiver insert portion of the bar in a collapsed configuration. Adapter comprises a main body having an interior space defined by at least two substantially perpendicular interior walls positioned adjacent to two exterior walls of the hitch-receiver insert portion, the walls being expandable to attach the insert bar to a hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Thule Sweden AB
    Inventors: Keith L. Prescott, Kevin S. Bogoslofski, John Laverack, Greg G. Weaver
  • Patent number: 8814197
    Abstract: According to the present invention, a fifth wheel hitch assembly includes a support bracket adapted to operably couple with a vehicle frame. The hitch assembly also has a hitch plate that includes a throat adapted to receive a kingpin of a trailer and a rear portion. The hitch plate is pivotably coupled with the support bracket and is pivotable between a first position and a second position. Further, the hitch assembly has a limiter linkage that includes a first end pivotably coupled with the rear portion. A second end of the limiter linkage is movable between a stowed and a deployed position. In the stowed position the second end is spaced from the vehicle frame. In the deployed position the second end of the limiter linkage is detachably coupled with the vehicle frame, thereby limiting movement of the hitch plate between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Keatley
  • Patent number: 8770613
    Abstract: A shock protection apparatus that include, in combination, a machine being towed, a towing vehicle coupled to and for towing the machine being towed, and an electrically insulating insert coupled between the vehicle and machine to prevent the transfer of an electrical shock from the vehicle to the machine. The machine includes a towing tongue and the electrically insulating insert is constructed and arranged in the tongue so as to provide a gap between separate metal portions of the tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Frank A. Malec
  • Patent number: 8706351
    Abstract: Provided is an active noise cancellation apparatus capable of reliably reducing road noise by a technique other than mounting a vibration generator on a floor panel itself or another plate-like interior part itself, while reducing costs and size of the apparatus. A reference signal detector is mounted on a knuckle and the vibration generator is mounted on a wheel housing or a suspension member. An error signal detector detects vibration of the wheel housing or vibration of the suspension member as an error signal, or detects sound in a vehicle interior as an error signal. A controller controls the vibration generator based on the reference signal and the error signal so as to reduce the error signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi Hasegawa, Akira Katagiri, Hideki Oshima
  • Patent number: 8696011
    Abstract: A trailer-hitch system comprises a hitch frame adapted to be secured to a vehicle and having a receiver for accommodating a foremost end of a mount unit. The mount unit has a member portion in mating engagement with the receiver of the hitch frame. A connector for connection with a trailer is provided at a rearmost end. The trailer-hitch system also comprises a mechanism actuated to press a portion of the member portion against the receiver for locking the mount unit into the mating engagement with the receiver. A method for locking a mount unit in a receiver of a hitch frame is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Jean Després
  • Publication number: 20140084568
    Abstract: An anti-rattle hitch (100) includes a tubular insert (102) that is configured to be inserted into a receiver (90). A wedge mechanism comprising a first wedge member (112) and a second wedge member (114) are disposed in the insert, and have slidably engaged angled faces. The second wedge member includes one or more pistons that extend through piston (110) apertures in the insert such that the longitudinal position of the second wedge member is fixed. An adjustment member (120) adjusts the position of the first wedge member, thereby adjusting the piston position which can be biased against the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventor: Kevin Lahn
  • Patent number: 8616576
    Abstract: A hitch apparatus has a tongue member with drawpin hole. Upper and lower clevis straps are pivotally attached to a corresponding top and bottom sides of the tongue member about vertical pivot axes, such that the clevis straps can pivot from an operating position, where the upper clevis strap is above the drawpin hole and the lower clevis strap is below the drawpin hole, to an idle position where the clevis straps extend laterally from the tongue member. When the clevis straps are in the operating position, upper and lower clevis holes in the corresponding clevis straps are vertically aligned with the drawpin hole in the tongue member, and a recess is formed between one of the upper and lower clevis straps and the tongue member. A drawpin retainer prevents upward movement of a drawpin out of engagement with the clevis and drawpin holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Power Pin Inc.
    Inventor: Brian R. Olson
  • Patent number: 8596664
    Abstract: An anti-rattle hitch (100) includes a tubular insert (102) that is configured to be inserted into a receiver (90). A wedge mechanism comprising a first wedge member (112) and a second wedge member (114) are disposed in the insert, and have slidably engaged angled faces. The second wedge member includes one or more pistons that extend through piston (110) apertures in the insert such that the longitudinal position of the second wedge member is fixed. An adjustment member (120) adjusts the position of the first wedge member, thereby adjusting the piston position which can be biased against the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Kevan Lahn
  • Patent number: 8534696
    Abstract: A carrier device for mounting at a rear side of a body of a vehicle, said carrier device comprising, a receiving element, adapted to be fixed to the body of said vehicle, said receiving element comprising a receiving channel with an insert opening, a carrier element, adapted to be releaseably received in said receiving element in a mounted position, said carrier element being insertable into said receiving channel to arrive at its mounted position by movement through said insert opening in direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of said receiving channel, a locking unit for locking said carrier element in said mounted position in said receiving element, a key unit comprising a first key element arranged on said receiving element and a second key element arranged on said carrier element said first and second key elements cooperating in a keying position of said carrier element in order to only allow said carrier element provided with said second key element to arrive at the mounted position when inserte
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Scambia Holdings Cyprus Limited
    Inventors: Raffaele Di Parma, Bert Wegner, Joerg Riehle
  • Patent number: 8490999
    Abstract: A trailer hitch system for improving the speed and safety of attaching the trailer to a tow vehicle. The hitch may include a shank that may be attached to the trailer through a ball hitch. A receiver may be provided on the tow vehicle such that attachment of the trailer to the tow vehicle may be accomplished by introducing the shank into the receiver when the tow vehicle is backed to the trailer. A funnel shaped guide member may be provided to facilitate aligning the shank with the receiver. Also, friction reducing rollers may be used with the shank or the receiver. Moreover, a height adjustment and visual guidance system may be included to facilitate connecting the trailer to the tow vehicle. The shank includes a stop in a fixed position for limiting the depth the shank extends within the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Progress Mfg. Inc
    Inventor: Gary M. Scott
  • Patent number: 8419041
    Abstract: A hitch, which can be rigidly yet removably attached to a vehicle-mounted sleeve, comprises a longitudinally extending member which is configured to slide into the sleeve and which locks therewith with a transverse locking device in a conventional manner. The member is divided into two sections along a plane which is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the member. The sections are connected together by a bolt threading into one section while being operable from the outside of the other section. Due to the inclined plane separating both sections, tightening of the bolt causes the sections to slide in opposite directions within the sleeve until they abut and press on opposite inner walls of the sleeve, thereby eliminating play between the member and sleeve. The hitch is conceived such to prevent a user to drive without the locking device in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Kimpex Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bessette, Robert Handfield
  • Publication number: 20120324767
    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: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Ault, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Patent number: 8308185
    Abstract: A pin-engaging drawbar and lock plate assembly is designed to mount and stabilize in the drawbar of a trailer hitch or alternative trailer and accessory hitch or receiver assembly. In one embodiment the pin-engaging drawbar and lock plate assembly includes a bolt extending into the drawbar, typically having the bolt head secured to a lock plate positioned beneath a locking pin extending transversely through the receiver and the drawbar. An angle brace is fixed to the lock plate and engages the locking pin, and the locking pin openings are typically vertically elliptical or elongated in the drawbar to facilitate rotating a nut on the extending threaded end of the bolt and forcing the angle brace against the locking pin, thus tightening the drawbar against the hitch receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Danny C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 8292318
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drawbar support assembly. There is a need for a drawbar support assembly which can adapt to different types of drawbars. An adaptable drawbar support assembly includes a generally U-shaped front support member for coupling to and supporting the front end of the drawbar. A front spacer member mounts in the front support member above or below the front end of the drawbar. A generally U-shaped rear support member couples to and supports the drawbar. A rear spacer member mounts in the rear support member below the drawbar. The rear spacer member is removable from the rear support member when the front spacer member is mounted above the front end of the drawbar. A ball coupler is attached to the rear end of the drawbar when the front spacer member is mounted above the front end of the drawbar. A clevis coupler is attached to the rear end of the drawbar when the front spacer member is mounted below the front end of the drawbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Rodney D. Lair, Edwin R. Kreis, Michael C. Harting, Michael D. Kollath
  • Patent number: 8262121
    Abstract: A rigid trailer hitch is disclosed that uses pressure produced by a wedge into force against trailer hitch receiver walls, while still retaining a retaining pin as a backup. The wedge can be driven by rotary force translated through a compound miter or a split wedge across a retaining pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Frog Marketing, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent F. Beck
  • Patent number: 8210560
    Abstract: In an example embodiment a drawbar pin bore adapter includes a bushing sized to fit within a drawbar pin bore of a first size and a retainer to secure the bushing to the drawbar. The bushing may include a primary portion having an outer diameter configured for insertion into the drawbar pin bore, an inner diameter configured to receive a drawbar pin of a second diameter; and an extension portion configured to protrude from the drawbar bore and engage the retainer to secure at least a portion of the bushing within the drawbar pin bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventor: Matthew Shaw
  • Patent number: 8141760
    Abstract: Hitch-mounted carriers, including portable bicycle racks, are set forth herein. One carrier includes a height member, an insert arm coupled to height member for movement between storage and use configurations, and at least one support arm coupled to height member for movement between storage and use configurations. Means for coupling insert arm to a tow hitch, for locking insert arm at storage and use configurations, and for locking support arm(s) at storage and use configurations are included. Insert arm is configured for insertion in tow hitch and has a wedge aperture. An attaching element is coupled to support arm(s) for removably attaching a device to support arm(s). A wedge is adjacent wedge aperture, and means are included for moving wedge between a first position generally flush with or inside insert arm and a second position extending outside insert arm to dampen wobble between insert arm and tow hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Kuat Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Luke Kuschmeader, Brian Atkinson
  • Publication number: 20120018980
    Abstract: A ring-mount joint between two vehicle units of an articulated bus, with the joint comprising two cantilevers, wherein each cantilever is arranged on one of the vehicle units, with each cantilever comprising a slewing ring, wherein the two slewing rings of the cantilever are mounted in each other so that they can be pivoted, wherein a damping device is provided for damping the rotational motion of the two cantilever relative to each other, wherein in the space enclosed by the inner slewing ring, there is arranged an annular chamber damper, wherein the annular chamber damper comprises two inter-mounted housing parts that are rotatable relative to each other, wherein the one housing part is in connection with the one cantilever and the other housing part is in connection with the other cantilever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: Hubner GmbH
    Inventors: Jens Karasek, Ralf Schulz, Günther Schneider
  • Patent number: 8100428
    Abstract: The present invention is a configurable trailer hitch that provides an extended towing position for transferring a tractor force to a load, and a retracted storage position for safely stowing the hitch under a towing vehicle. The trailer hitch has a spring loaded retaining pin which engages a hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the towing position, and a storage latch adapted to hold the hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventor: David McConnell
  • Patent number: 8091913
    Abstract: A variably adjustable trailer hitch assembly, comprising a horizontal tube assembly that is fixedly secured onto a vehicle. A journaling tube assembly is mounted upon and journals the horizontal tube assembly. A ball assembly is mounted onto the journaling tube assembly and receives a trailer's hitch ball coupler. Adjustable means laterally move the journaling tube assembly mounted upon the horizontal tube assembly. A torque equalizer assembly is fixed upon the journaling tube assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Donald M. White
  • Patent number: 8079612
    Abstract: A trailer hitch receiver tube comprising a hollow tubular member adapted to receive a hitch bar, the tubular member including a free end, the free end defining a notch. The tube may be fitted with a lip to create a receiver box. The lip includes a tab which is positioned within the notch and accommodates tightening of an inserted bar within the tube cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Curt Tambornino
  • Patent number: 8079613
    Abstract: A hitch pin securing system for receiver mounted accessories. The present invention provides a device for securely clamping a shank tube to a receiver tube. This securing device minimizes the rattling and relative movement of the shank tube and the receiver tube due to the clearance between the shank tube and the receiver tube. The securing device includes a threaded nut or bushing mounted within the shank tube. A hitch pin is inserted through the receiver tube and shank tube and engages the shank tube nut. A locking handle is used to tighten the hitch pin relative to the shank tube nut. Once the hitch pin is tight, the handle is pivoted relative to the hitch pin to cause a cam surface to tighten the shank tube nut against the shank tube which forces the shank tube in tight engagement against the receiver tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Marty Williams
  • Publication number: 20110210530
    Abstract: A tow hitch for connecting a towing vehicle to a towed vehicle or other towed object including a receiving member to receive an insert member. The insert member has multiple connectors for selected use in securing a towed vehicle or other towed object, and a wedge secured to the insert member so that the wedge is positioned on a top surface of the insert member and between the insert member and the receiving member and is held against working it's cog out from between the insert and receiving member during us.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Hancock, Christopher N. Schenck
  • Patent number: 7976054
    Abstract: A hitch ball assembly attenuates the lateral forces experienced by a trailer while being towed by a tractor. A ball assembly has a flange with a neck extending upwardly therefrom and a hitch ball seated atop the neck. A wedge, having a pair of linear points, extends downwardly from the flange as does a threaded shank that passes through the wedge, the points being located on either side of the shank. The ball assembly is attached to a draw bar attached mount arm such that the shank passes through a bore in the mount arm with the points of the wedge seated within slots on an upper surface of the mount arm. A resilient bushing is received on the shank and abuts a lower surface of the mount arm, while a plate abuts the bushing, each held thereat by a locking nut threadably attached to an end of the shank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Growth Innovation, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Sterling Phipps
  • Patent number: 7909351
    Abstract: A trailer coupling dock theft-proof lock to prevent unauthorized coupling and hauling of a trailer during parking includes a locking dock, a coupling assembly and a lock assembly. The coupling assembly can be latched in a dome of a trailer coupling dock. By locking and unlocking of the lock assembly the coupling assembly can be retained or removed so that unauthorized towing of the trailer can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Handyway Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsai Chin Hui
  • Patent number: 7891693
    Abstract: A hitch apparatus includes a hitch member defining a substantially vertical drawpin hole. A spacer member is movably mounted to the hitch member such that the spacer member is movable laterally from a working position, where the spacer extends forward to block a rear portion of the drawpin hole, to an idle position where the spacer is removed from the drawpin hole and the front end of the spacer is located lateral to the drawpin. A lock mechanism is operative to selectively maintain the spacer member in the working position and the idle position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Power Pin Inc.
    Inventor: Brian R. Olson
  • Patent number: 7883103
    Abstract: A protective cover for protecting a pair of tow bar arms has a cover element adapted to fit around the pair of tow arms. The protective cover also includes a fastener adapted for fastening elongate upper edges of the cover element around each of the pair of the tow bar arms once the cover element has been folded along a fold line, so that the cover element substantially surrounds each of the tow bar arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: John C. Greaves, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100283225
    Abstract: An anti-rattle hitch (100) includes a tubular insert (102) that is configured to be inserted into a receiver (90). A wedge mechanism comprising a first wedge member (112) and a second wedge member (114) are disposed in the insert, and have slidably engaged angled faces. The second wedge member includes one or more pistons that extend through piston (110) apertures in the insert such that the longitudinal position of the second wedge member is fixed. An adjustment member (120) adjusts the position of the first wedge member, thereby adjusting the piston position which can be biased against the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Kevin Lahn
  • Patent number: 7823904
    Abstract: A hitch assembly is provided having a hitch shank configured to be received within an opening of a hitch receiver of a tow vehicle and a wedge member disposed about the hitch shank. The wedge member has first and second surfaces on opposing sides of the wedge member, angled relative to one another. An engagement device is coupled to the wedge member to press the wedge member to an engaged position that causes the hitch shank to bias away from the receiver tube to minimize play therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas Coy
  • Patent number: 7815212
    Abstract: An adapter for coupling an actuator having an actuator rod that is linearly translatable along a first axis to a coupler having a lever arm with a contact face adapted to contact the draw arm and move the draw arm translationally along a second axis that is at an angle with respect to the first axis in the range of 1 degree to 120 degrees, the coupler mounted to an existing structure, the adapter including a base plate configured for attachment to the structure; a support plate depending from the base plate and adapted to receive the pneumatic actuator; at least one brace attached to the base plate and to the support plate; and a rotatable cam adapted to transfer force from the actuator rod as it moves along the first axis to the lever arm to cause the draw arm to move along the second axis and into contact with the hook on the coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Beall Corporation
    Inventors: Gordon S. Groshong, Douglas D. Drader
  • Patent number: 7806425
    Abstract: A trailer hitch having a retaining latch bolt to reduce shaking includes a locking head, a bolt seat, a retaining element, a latch bolt and an elastic element. The retaining element has a first directing rib to be rapidly positioned in a first bolt aperture of a first coupling member. The bolt seat has a positioning rib anchored in a second bolt aperture of a second coupling member to facilitate coupling of the first coupling member and the second coupling member. Hence the latch bolt can be coupled easily and adjustment of coupling tolerance can be performed as desired. Locking can be done to thwart pilferage of the trailer. And the latch bolt can be held firmly without sliding or shaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Vulcan Sports Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin Shu Chang
  • Patent number: 7802807
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to securing hitch appliances to a hitch receiver. In one embodiment, a hitch unit includes a frame including first and second wall regions, the first wall region having a first through hole and the second wall region having a second through hole, and first and second units in the frame configured to extend a pin coupled to the second unit through the second through hole when an implement is coupled to the first unit and operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Michael C. Blakley
  • Publication number: 20100201102
    Abstract: A pin-engaging drawbar and lock plate assembly is designed to mount and stabilize in the drawbar of a trailer hitch or alternative trailer and accessory hitch or receiver assembly. In one embodiment the pin-engaging drawbar and lock plate assembly includes a bolt extending into the drawbar, typically having the bolt head secured to a lock plate positioned beneath a locking pin extending transversely through the receiver and the drawbar. An angle brace is fixed to the lock plate and engages the locking pin, and the locking pin openings are typically vertically elliptical or elongated in the drawbar to facilitate rotating a nut on the extending threaded end of the bolt and forcing the angle brace against the locking pin, thus tightening the drawbar against the hitch receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Danny C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 7740267
    Abstract: A nesting stabilizing device for limiting the rotation of accessories connecting to a hitch receiver with an outward end defining an opening. The outward end of the hitch receiver has a protruding ring about an outward surface. The nesting stabilizer has a base with a body portion receivable in the hitch receiver and also has a flanged collar for engaging the protruding ring on the hitch receiver in an interference fit, the flanged collar further being coupled with an accessory. In addition, the nesting stabilizer includes a fastener operatively connected with the base for urging the flanged collar against the outward end to cause the flanged collar to engage the protruding ring on the outward end. The nesting stabilizer connects the accessory to the hitch receiver upon engagement of the flanged collar with the protruding ring on the hitch receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Archimedes Intellectual, LLC
    Inventor: Ralph P. Kirtland
  • Patent number: 7726681
    Abstract: A receiver hitch arrangement includes a receiver tube, a mount having a shank portion received within the receiver tube and a hitch pin inserted through hitch pin apertures which are formed in both the receiver tube and the shank portion and which are aligned at assembly to maintain the mount in a position for towing. A rattling that is usually caused due to movement between hitch components. is prevented by forming a pair of through and threaded apertures in each vertical wall of the receiver tube and in close proximity to a free end thereof, threadeably engaging a threaded shank of a fastener with each of the pair of apertures and then operably advancing each fastener for direct contact with the shank portion of the mount inserted into the receiver tube until the shank portion is frictionally caged and immobilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas J. McKendry
  • Patent number: 7717455
    Abstract: A drawbar assembly includes a shank that can slidingly engage a first hitch receiver having an interior opening with a first size, which may be a class I receiver with a one and one-quarter inch square opening and provisions for a one-half inch hitch pin. First and second adapter parts, each having two sides forming a right angle, are removably coupled to the shank on opposite sides. The drawbar assembly can slidingly engage a second hitch receiver having an interior opening with a second size, which may be a class III receiver with a two inch square opening and provisions for a five-eighths inch hitch pin. A threaded hitch pin may clamp the drawbar assembly to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Danik Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: James C. Morris
  • Patent number: 7600774
    Abstract: A hitch adapter comprises an inner square tube member for receiving Class-II 1.25? drawbars and an outer U-channel member for plugging into a Class-III 2? receiver. The inner square tube and outer U-channel members are welded together such that one wall of the inner square tube bridges the gap between the distal edges on opposite legs of the outer U-channel. One such leg of the outer U-channel is longer than the other and is positioned and aligned to protrude about 1/16? beyond the adjacent outer corner of the inner square tube member. Such protrusion nests into the respective inside corner of the particular Class-III 2? receiver it is mated to. The protrusion provides a camming action to take up any looseness and slack, and thereby eliminate wobble and rattle when installed by a user. A series of hitch pin holes allows a threaded hitch pin to pass through the adapter, a Class-II 1.25? drawbar and a Class-III 2? receiver. Threads inside the Class-II 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventors: William W. Speer, W. Louis Speer