Protector Or Lock Patents (Class 280/507)
  • Patent number: 7441793
    Abstract: For use in a vehicular trailer hitch system, a vehicular trailer hitch lunette assembly is provided. The assembly includes at least one “U” shaped outer laminate plate having two legs with a semi-circular region therebetween, and at least one substantially flat inner laminate plate positioned between the legs of the U-shape of the outer laminate plate to provide support, stiffness, and additional mechanical strength to the assembly. The outer laminate plate and the inner laminate plate have cooperating apertures that are traversely positioned therethrough and the apertures are aligned and sized such that fasteners may be snugly inserted therein to mechanically couple the laminate plates together as a sandwich structure having first and second ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James G. Lim
  • Publication number: 20080258433
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Newell Ryan Moss
  • Patent number: 7434825
    Abstract: A motor vehicle in accordance with the present invention includes a body having a front end, a rear end, a roof, and a rear structural member located at the rear end of the body. A motor vehicle further includes a plurality of wheels coupled to the body. A pair of brackets is coupled to the rear structural member. A rear bumper is configured to both cover the structural member and to allow for access to the brackets. A step is pivotally coupled to the brackets, and therefore to the structural member and motor vehicle. The step is operative to articulate about an axis between a first and second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Bruce Preston Williams
  • Patent number: 7431320
    Abstract: A trailer hitch for resisting inadvertent separation of a trailer tongue coupler from a vehicle's hitch ball. The trailer hitch includes a sleeve, a retainer rotatably disposed within the sleeve and including: a rod rotatably disposed within the sleeve, a displacement member coupled to the rod and extending radially therefrom, and a retaining member coupled to the displacement member and resisting inadvertent separation of the trailer tongue coupler from the vehicle's hitch ball when the retaining member is axially disposed adjacent the vehicle's hitch ball. The sleeve includes a shaft coupler removably coupleable to the vehicle. Further, there is a hitch shaft substantially parallel to the sleeve. Also, the displacement member includes a bent rod and the retaining member includes a disk. Still more, the rod is rotatably coupled to the sleeve by a pair of apertures and a bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventors: Lum H. Madden, III., Lum H. Madden, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7431319
    Abstract: The hitch assembly comprises a hitch member, a shank assembly for attachment to the towing vehicle, a tow vehicle mount for attachment to the towed vehicle, and a hitch alarm. The hitch member comprises a drop ball mount, and a drawbar. The drawbar is secured to the undersurface of the drop ball mount. The shank assembly includes a shank, a ball mount, a pair of ballasts, and a coupling member. The shank extends through the opening of the drop ball mount. The ball mount has a threaded engagement with one end of the shank. Interchangeable ball mounts and the use of one or two ballasts enable the same hitch assembly to be used to tow varying loads. The tow vehicle mount is secured to the undersurface of the towed vehicle. The tow vehicle mount comprises a receiver tube secured to a vehicle guide plate. The drawbar is inserted into and through the receiving tube. The hitch alarm detects an unauthorized removal of either the hitch member or the towed vehicle from the towing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Arnol Staggs
  • Publication number: 20080224448
    Abstract: A storage device is configured to be coupled to the receiver of a tow vehicle. A ball mount, or tongue, may be stowed within a receptacle of the storage device when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Matthew Siemantel, Alan W. Jones
  • Patent number: 7416206
    Abstract: A drawbar hammer strap assembly design achieves a low profile, and prevents rotation of the drawbar and of the cross pin. The drawbar hammer strap assembly includes a drawbar, a hammer strap member attached to the drawbar, a drawbar pin mountable to drawbar and hammer strap member and a cross pin rotatably mounted in the hammer strap for releasably holding the drawbar pin in its mounted position. The hammer strap has a pair of detent recesses formed in the sides thereof. The drawbar hammer strap assembly also includes a handle member which is pivotally coupled to an upper end of the drawbar pin. The handle member is pivotal to an unlatched position wherein it is spaced apart from the detent recess, and to a latched position wherein it is releasably received in the detent recess. The handle member is engagable with a lever arm of the cross pin to hold the cross pin in its locked position when the handle member is in its latched position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Bryan Kirk Buerkle
  • Patent number: 7413212
    Abstract: An improved trailer theft-thwarting coupling dock to prevent unauthorized coupling and hauling of the trailer coupling dock includes a coupling dock body, a upper mechanism, a lower mechanism and a lock assembly. The upper mechanism has a upper handle fastening to the lock assembly. Through locking and unlocking of the lock assembly, unauthorized opening of the upper mechanism can be prevented. Thereby the trailer coupling dock cannot be coupled and hauled unless authorized, and an improved theft-thwarting effect can be achieved for the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Handyway Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Hui Hsai
  • Publication number: 20080164679
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a quick and easily released hitch pin (1) used for securing the coupling of a trailer or similar implement onto a trailer hitch. The hitch pin (1) comprises a guide member (4), pin member (2) and handle. Linkage means (5) provided in the pin member (2) connecting the guide member (4) and the handle (3), allows for the handle (3) to coordinately move the guide member (4) between a first position, where the handle (3) and guide member (4) are substantially aligned with the pin member (2), and a second position where the handle (3) and guide member (4) form an angle to the pin member (2). When the handle (3) and guide member (4) are in the first position, the hitch pin (1) can be easily inserted through a hitch orifice. Once positioned in the hitch orifice, the handle (3) can be physically, or by the force of gravity, moved to the second position to limit lateral movement of the hitch pin (1) through the hitch orifice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
  • Patent number: 7390008
    Abstract: A new and improved trailer coupler for connecting a trailer to a ball hitch mounted on a towing vehicle comprising a housing having a recessed socket, a retractable latching plate, a locking mechanism, an access port, a visual indicator, and an alarm system for indicating coupling and decoupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Barry Hall
  • Patent number: 7370844
    Abstract: The “Universal Utility Trailer” Tilter is designed to be portable and lightweight. This will enable the user to insert it into a standard 2? receiver hitch on a tow vehicle. Upon attaching the Trailer Tilter to the vehicle the operator can attach any one of a number of Utility Trailers to the Trailer Tilters 2? ball. By removing the locking pin and operating the mechanism the operator can raise the front of the Utility Trailer thus lowering the rear to a desired level for loading equipment, cars or material. The lowering of the rear of the Utility Trailer until the ramps are level with the bed will prevent the equipment from dragging on either the front or middle while loading. Once loaded the operator can lower the Tilter back to its locking position and insert the locking pin for towing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Platt McGriff
  • Publication number: 20080106066
    Abstract: A fifth wheel cover comprises a shell arranged to span over the fifth wheel plate of a tractor trailer chassis. The shell has a continuous, circular, peripheral edge to which a continuous band of elastomeric material is integrally joined about the full periphery for retaining the shell on the fifth wheel plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph A. Varjassy
  • Patent number: 7353671
    Abstract: An adjustable coupler lock for locking a trailer hitch such that a trailer cannot be removed from a vehicle. The coupler lock comprises a lock body with a locking mechanism and a locking plate, and also comprises a shaft having a narrow and a flange end, and also having multiple recesses along the length of the shaft for engagement with the locking plate of the lock body. The recesses along the length of the shaft have a vertical edge which engages the locking plate such that the lock body cannot be removed from the shaft without unlocking the locking mechanism. The recesses also have a tapered edge that allows for slidable movement of the lock body along the shaft, without unlocking the locking mechanism, for the purpose of adjusting the lock to the size of the latch. The components of the coupler lock are made of stainless steel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Master Lock Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jim Recknagel, Ken Burmesch, Victor Yip, John Zapushek
  • Patent number: 7347441
    Abstract: A receptacle has a recess and a passageway. A ball extends upwardly for receiving thereon a hitch. The ball is secured with respect to a coupling plate. A projection is received within the recess. The projection has a passageway with a pin. A locking assembly has a fixed portion. The fixed portion has a sleeve. The sleeve is secured with respect to the coupling plate. A passageway extends through the coupling plate. A removable portion has a retaining bar. The removable portion has a portion adapted to be removably coupled with respect to the sleeve with a passageway and a pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Inventor: Israel Rosario
  • Publication number: 20080067783
    Abstract: A hitch lock has a base component and a cover component overlapping the base component. The base component is mechanically fastened to the tow bar in a permanent fashion or can even extend integrally therefrom. A locking means passing through holes made into both the base component and the cover component. The locking means being in the guise of a pin passing through holes made into both the base component and the cover component. The pin being configured and sized at one end so as to not pass through the holes and configured at its opposite end so as to receive a locking means to lock the pin in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventor: Camille Rousseau
  • Patent number: 7338065
    Abstract: A hitch assembly 24 configured for reducing or eliminating undesirable play or movement between its components. The hitch assembly 24 includes a conventional hitch receiver 24 and a hitch receiver attachment structure 28, which is adapted to be telescopingly inserted into the hitch receiver 24. The hitch assembly 20 includes a securement and anti-chatter assembly for securing together the hitch receiver 24 and a hitch receiver attachment structure 28 while reducing the chatter generated therebetween during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Allsop, Inc.
    Inventor: Eivind Clausen
  • Patent number: 7334809
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly better secures a trailer to a vehicle trailer hitch. By restricting vertical travel of the trailer coupling, a hitch ball on a draw bar is better engaged by the trailer coupling as any vertical dislodgement of the trailer coupling from the hitch ball is restricted by the underlying trailer hitch assembly. The underlying trailer hitch assembly cannot travel upward when locked into position as the draw bar obstructs its upward travel, thus preventing the trailer coupling from disengaging the hitch ball. The trailer hitch assembly is lockably pivotable away from the underside of the draw bar in order to allow controlled disengagement of the trailer coupling from the hitch ball. The trailer hitch assembly may act as a support when placed in the vertical or downward position with a wheel, pad, or skid providing support for the accompanying trailer and its load. Additionally, a new trailer hitch ball system is detachably attachable to the draw bar without a shank, nut, or washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas Coy
  • Publication number: 20080023939
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing an accessory to a kingpin of a camper or trailer includes a base having a compound opening and an accessory holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Robert F. Mater
  • Publication number: 20080023940
    Abstract: A unitary compact trailer hitch safety device for use on a vehicle with a trailer ball and ball receiver type connection between a vehicle and a trailer. The unitary compact trailer hitch safety device includes a “z” shaped arrestor plate fixed to vehicle's draw bar; a stop plate is pivotally fixed to the upper region of the “z” shaped arrestor plate to swing a bulbous end region of the stop plate over the trailer ball coupled to a ball receiver. A pinning assembly positioned below the upper region of the “z” shaped arrestor plate facing the vehicle is protected by the arrestor plate from ball receiver strikes during coupling to or uncoupling from the trailer ball. The pinning assembly releaseably fixes the bulbous end region of the stop plate over the ball and receiver to prevent uncoupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Eley Coy Warford
  • Publication number: 20070290483
    Abstract: A vehicle tow bar is provided which includes a harness and a flange, for the harness to be shaped and configured to be securable to a vehicle and for the flange to be shaped and configured for a hitch ball to be securable thereto, for the harness or the flange to include a receiver and the harness or the flange to include a complimentary shaped connector piece, for the connector piece to be receivable and securable in the receiver by means of a bolt which extends through a bolt passage in the receiver, for the tow bar to include means to rotate the bolt in the bolt passage between a first and a second position, and for the connection piece to include a formation shaped and configured to interfere with the bolt in the first position and to not interfere with the bolt in the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: Dirk Jacobus Visser
  • Publication number: 20070284852
    Abstract: A pin box assembly is provided for a trailer. The pin box assembly includes a first section having a trailer attachment point, a second section carrying a king pin and a pivot connecting the first and second sections together. In addition the pin box assembly includes a shock absorber having a first end connected to the first section and a second end connected to the second section. Still further, the pin box assembly includes an air spring connected between the first and second sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventors: Robert F. Mater, Gomer B. Jones
  • Patent number: 7306254
    Abstract: A security device is disclosed which mounts to a king pin of a trailer to prevent unauthorized coupling of the trailer to a tractor. The security device includes a austempered ductile iron dual shell body having an inner shell for receiving a trailer kingpin and an outer conical or contoured shell to prevent unauthorized coupling to the trailer kingpin. The security device further includes a stainless steel collar placed between the inner and outer shells for deterring damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Dickey Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Daniel J. Maffey, Constant O. Maffey
  • Patent number: 7300068
    Abstract: An integral keyed lock (10) for a trailer trigger-lock coupler for use as an aftermarket kit or to be incorporated by an original equipment manufacturer. The coupler integral keyed lock (10) utilizes an actuating lever (20) that is configured to interface with and enclose a lock (52). The lock (52) is preferably keyed and includes an outward-extending plunger (54). The lock is disposed within the actuating lever, inside an enlarged portion (26) of one end. The plunger of the lock extends when actuated with a key and prevents rotational travel of the coupler trigger latch, thereby locking the trailer coupler until the plunger is retracted with the key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Roger L. Johnsen
  • Publication number: 20070222186
    Abstract: The trailer hitch receiver cover of the present invention has a resilient means for covering and sealing the peripheral collar or flange of the hitch receiver. It also has integrally-formed means for covering and sealing the lateral holes in the hitch receiver. In alternative embodiments, the lateral hole sealing means is accomplished by structure that is disposed either internally to the trailer hitch receiver or externally to it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventors: Steven M. Yokosh, Bryon P. Martin
  • Publication number: 20070222185
    Abstract: A hitch release system for releasing the locked engagement of a hitch, the hitch having a manually operable release bar coupled to a locking mechanism, the hitch release system includes a selectively actuatable power assist system, the power assist system being releasably, operably coupled to the release bar, wherein actuation of the power assist system acts to translate the release bar in a first axial direction, such translation acting to release the locking mechanism. A method of release is further included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: Michael C. Domine
  • Patent number: 7264261
    Abstract: A pintle hitch adaptor enables a vehicle equipped with a drawbar or DMI bumper to tow trailers having different towing components. The pintle hitch adaptor comprises a sleeve that fits over arid is held to the drawbar. A pintle hitch is mounted to the sleeve. Aligned holes in the sleeve and the drawbar receive a hitch ball shank. A trailer tongue with a cup or eye engages the ball. A pintle hitch latch locks to prevent disengagement of the trailer tongue cup or eye from the ball. Shoulders on a pintle hitch post prevent: the latch from contacting the cup. Alternately, the ball can be removed, and a tow pin can to used between a hole in the trailer tongue and the drawbar and sleeve holes. A locking screw on the sleeve holds the sleeve and drawbar holes in alignment when the ball is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventor: Dean Konsela
  • Patent number: 7246810
    Abstract: A hitch locking module constituted of a box like device having a hingedly attached cover which locks shut over the ball attachment of a tow bar, thus making it impossible to unhitch the tow bar unless one has a key to open the cover of the hitch locking module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Daniel Bussiere, Pierre-Andre Vallee
  • Patent number: 7237792
    Abstract: This invention relates to a protective cushion assembly that is adapted to protect equipment involved with vehicle towing, particularly the towing vehicle's rear bumper which contemporarily may be comprised of plastic. The cushion assembly includes an elastomeric plastic body and an associated bracket means for fastening the plastic body to an arm member that extends outwardly from the location of a vehicle-associated trailer hitch. The cushion and the bracket means can each be embodied in various forms and constructions. Combinations of the cushion assembly with various arms are disclosed. The arm preferably is a transversely extending, horizontally oriented, elongated cross bar that extends across and medially adjoins the rear end of a tow bar, more preferably the cross bar is part of a trailer hitch extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Robert J. Mrofka, Ted Kowalski
  • Patent number: 7232145
    Abstract: A mechanism for ensuring that a trailer is properly attached to a trailer hitch on the back of a vehicle. The mechanism ensures that the trailer tongue on the trailer is properly and securely mounted on the metal ball on the trailer hitch on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventors: Clyde Reece, Joel L. Reece, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7204507
    Abstract: A ball hitch covering for protecting a ball hitch from the elements includes a cover that has a top wall and a peripheral wall that is attached to and extends downwardly from the top wall. The peripheral wall has a bottom edge defining an opening into an interior of the cover. A ball hitch may be removably extended through the opening. A flap has an upper edge, a lower edge and a pair of lateral edges. The upper edge is attached to an outer surface of the peripheral wall. The flap extends below the bottom edge of the peripheral wall. Indicia are positioned on a forward surface of the flap that faces away from the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Inventor: Bernell E. James
  • Patent number: 7204508
    Abstract: A trailer lock and particularly a trailer lock for locking a trailer ball cap includes a lock housing, a lock, a latch bolt, a holding seat and a detent member. The lock housing has an opening to hold the lock, a U-shaped trough to hold the latch bolt, a through trough to hold the holding seat and allow the detent member to slide on the holding seat. The lock has a housing chamber on one side to couple with the trailer ball cap. The latch bolt can control movement of the detent member by turning of the lock so that the detent member is wedged in a latch trough on one end of the latch bolt, and a latch end of the latch bolt is extended and anchored in the housing chamber of the lock housing and locked on the trailer ball cap. When the trailer is separated from a vehicle, the trailer ball cannot be coupled thereby to provide theft-proof function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Handyway Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin-Hui Hsai
  • Patent number: 7192046
    Abstract: A pintle hitch guard for protecting a pintle hitch extending from a vehicle. The pintle hitch guard may include a base plate and a loop member fixedly interconnected to the base plate. The loop member may be sized to receive a hook or horn portion of a pintle hitch. The base plate is generally sized to cover the pintle hitch and protect the hitch form rearward impacts. In further arrangements, the hitch guard may also include side plates to protect the pintle hitch from side impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Loren Quernemoen
  • Patent number: 7174751
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of using a durable, cylinder-like device that is inserted within the main cylinder part of a kingpin lock. One preferred embodiment, of several, has an outside diameter in close tolerance to the inside diameter of a kingpin lock device. In addition, the holder is easily insertable into the kingpin lock device. A round hole is located within the wall of the holder such that the hole in a cylinder wall of each kingpin lock device aligns with the hole in the holder. The diameter of the hole in the holder is sufficient to allow a metal tongue to be inserted from the kingpin lock device through the hole in the holder. Then a key in the lockpin device is removed leaving the lock device secured to the holder. In addition, the holder has a metal plate perpendicularly welded to the cylinder part. The surface could be the underside of a trailer or box or in a storage compartment behind the cab of a tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Juan Nepomuseno Escalante, III
  • Patent number: 7165348
    Abstract: A plow security device, configured in accordance with embodiments of the invention, includes an attachment assembly that corresponds to a headgear assembly, or mounting portions, of a plow. During operation, a user couples the attachment assembly of the plow security device to the mounting portions of the plow. The user secures the plow security device to the plow such that the attachment assembly blocks or limits an unauthorized user from accessing the mounting portions of the plow and coupling the plow to an unauthorized vehicle. The plow security device, therefore, minimizes an unauthorized user from attaching a vehicle to the plow and removing the plow from a storage location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Kelly E. Ward
  • Patent number: 7125035
    Abstract: A lubricating hitch receiver cover preferably includes a male body, an end cap, a quantity of a lubricant and a fastener. The end cap terminates one end of the male body. An outer perimeter of the male body is sized to be received by a female cavity of the female hitch receiver. The quantity of lubricant is applied to the outside surface of the male body. A retention hole is formed through a cross section of the male body. The fastener is inserted through the female hitch receiver and the male body to retain the lubricating hitch receiver cover in the female hitch receiver. At least one projection is substituted for the retention hole and the fastener in a second embodiment of the lubricating hitch receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Donald A. Huenefeld
  • Patent number: 7121574
    Abstract: A pin box for connecting a trailer to a tow vehicle includes a hollow receiver tube attached to a pair of support beams positioned on opposite sides of the receiver tube. A forward mounting bracket for attaching the pin box to a frame of the trailer is disposed between the two support beams. The mounting bracket is fixedly attached to both support beams. A second mounting bracket is attached to the ends of the support beams opposite the receiver tube. The pin box also includes a hitch connector that is slideably engageable with the receiver tube. The hitch connector may be positioned within the receiver tube at a plurality of discrete predetermined locations. An attaching means is provided for securing the hitch connector to the receiver tube at each of the predetermined locations. The hitch connector may be configured to include a king pin connector or a gooseneck connector. Differently configured hitch connectors may be interchangeably connected to the receiver tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Leland Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip M. Bouwkamp
  • Patent number: 7121121
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to secure the coupler section of a trailer provides a locking device that includes a lock housing having a hitch ball element to engage the recess in the coupler, a shackle member lockable to the housing and having a bridge section that spans the hitch ball element, and a latch assembly to latch and unlatch the shackle member. The shackle member is shown to be U-shaped with legs that extend through and secure to the lock housing. The latch assembly provides a ratchet-type engagement to allow adjustable locking. A rotatable lock mechanism drives a cam based latch mechanism between a latch state and an unlatch state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Philip W. Wyers
  • Patent number: 7107799
    Abstract: A trailer hitch locking device for securing a trailer having a ball type hitch includes a rigid U-shaped frame member having a central lower mounting member, an upper pin shield, a locking pin having a flattened locking end, a shaft and a pin head, the locking end engaging a cylindrical security lock which engages the locking pin through a hole in the frame member, the cylindrical security lock being surrounded by a lock security collar, preventing access to the entire cylindrical lock except for the outer surface of the cylindrical lock, exposed from the lock security collar, the pin head being sunken into a pin head recess in the frame member across from the lock security collar. The pin head access prevents access to the pin, the upper pin shield prevents access to the shaft of the pin and the cylindrical security lock and lock security collar preventing access to the locking end of the pin, the pin preventing removal of the device from the applied ball type hitch of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventors: Kenneth Ray Marley, Stanley N. Solloway
  • Patent number: 7104563
    Abstract: An integral locking coupler comprising a locking mechanism mechanically coupled to a set of engagement pins for securing a coupler to a receiver. The locking mechanism translates movement to the engagement pins to move them to and from an extended position and a retracted position. When in the extended position, the engagement pins engage the receiver thereby securing the coupler. When in the retracted position, the engagement pins are generally contained within the coupler housing allowing the coupler to be inserted into and removed from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventors: Tim Makos, Chris Irgens, Joe Elliott, John Zapushek
  • Patent number: 7100937
    Abstract: A gooseneck trailer coupler lock which disables normal coupler operation by restricting movement of the lower latching plate of the coupler when the coupler is placed in the fully closed position. The locking device is a single piece of hardened metallic material which inserts into a gap formed between the upper coupler plate and a band attached to the lower latching coupler plate. The locking device is secured in place with a block type lock or other theft resistant lock. When the locking device is installed, the coupler opening is secured in a position which will not accept a typical towing ball without first removing the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: Larry Ross Hogan
  • Patent number: 7090238
    Abstract: A hitch assembly is provided to prevent trailer towing by unauthorized persons. The hitch assembly includes a hitch catch which can be removed from a modified tongue of a conventional trailer. When the hitch catch of the tongue is removed, a tongue lock can be secured therein for additional security.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Steven D. Moore
  • Patent number: 7086661
    Abstract: A protective towing shield or curtain attachable to the rear of a towing vehicle. The towing shield has a flexible mesh panel which is coupled to a retractor. When in use, the panel is deployed and attached to the front of the towed vehicle. The deployed curtain extends horizontally between the vehicles to downwardly direct and deflect road debris, rock, gravel, salt and the like. The curtain is readily attached and detached to the towed vehicle at fasteners such as by detent pins engageable in eye bolts. A turn support strut is attached when the curtain is deployed. The curtain, including the strut and fasteners, may be stored on the retractor when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Charles Osborn
  • Patent number: 7066483
    Abstract: An integral locking coupler comprising a locking mechanism mechanically coupled to a set of engagement pins for securing a coupler to a receiver. The locking mechanism translates movement to the engagement pins to move them to and from an extended position and a retracted position. When in the extended position, the engagement pins engage the receiver thereby securing the coupler. When in the retracted position, the engagement pins are generally contained within the coupler housing allowing the coupler to be inserted into and removed from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventors: Tim Makos, Chris Irgens, Joe Elliott, John Zapushek
  • Patent number: 7048294
    Abstract: A securing bolt device is inserted into a bore of a subassembly body. The device has a bolt and a spring element. The bolt has a shank which is insertable into the bore. A radial transverse bore extends through an end portion of the shank opposite to the insertable portion of the shank, and the shank has a blind bore in an axially directed end face. The spring element includes a loop, a first end of which is insertable into the transverse bore and a second end which is insertable into the end face bore. The loop forms a crossmember which extends across the shank of the bolt, and pressed against the bolt element by the spring force of the spring element. The locking device includes a subassembly body having a bore in which the bolt is axially movable. In a locked state a free end of the shank extends out of the bore and locks the securing bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Martin Heitlinger
  • Patent number: 7040646
    Abstract: A locking assembly which comprises at least a first housing member which is designed to be secured to a second member, the housing member having a channel extending therethrough and an elongated inner component with an axially extending cavity therein, an actuator which is axially movable within the cavity and moves the locking protrusion into locking engagement with a recess associated with the second member, and a stop to limit the axial movement of the actuator. A lock is mounted internally of the actuator and engages the actuator and the inner component when in a locked position to prevent axial movement of the actuator while engaging only the actuator when in the opened position to permit axial movement. The locking assembly is particular suitable for use with various types of trailer hitches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventor: André Paré
  • Patent number: 7036841
    Abstract: A safety device (20) for maintaining in place a pin (30) retaining a double hand attach (22) of a trailer hitch to a tractor or truck tow bar (24). The device prevents the release of the pin during the transport of the trailer by having a superior plate (34) above the pin limiting the vertical movement of the pin avoiding the popping out. The attaching and the detaching of the device is done because the superior plate may pivot when the pin is released and is maintained in place by a latch (36) that has a counterweight (38). The latch is then rocked and kept closed with the action of gravity. The device comprises also fitting screws (52, 74) allowing to adapt the safety device to several sizes and thicknesses of the different tow bars used on tractors and trucks nowadays so that the device fits any trailer of a farmer yard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Marcel Champagne
  • Patent number: 7014205
    Abstract: A king pin cover system for protecting a king pin and individuals from engaging a king pin. The king pin cover system includes a cover having a receiver channel that receives the king pin. A pair of rear straps are attached to the rear portion of the cover for securing the cover to the king pin. One or more sleeves may be attached to the cover for receiving flags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Jude M. Reilly
  • Patent number: 6976695
    Abstract: The present invention provides a trailer coupler lock assembly for securing a coupler whether attached to or detached from a hitch ball of a trailer or vehicle, the coupler attachable to the hitch ball supported by one of the trailer or vehicle, the locking assembly having a first bracket member and a second bracket member, each of the first and second bracket members having a locking tab with a locking bore. A hinge connects the first and second bracket members, the first and second bracket members having an open position and a closed position, the first and second bracket members configured to form a body receiving cavity disposable about the coupler and lock thereto when the first and second bracket members are in the closed position, the locking bores being disposed in axial alignment to receive the shackle of a padlock there through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: SDS Enterprises, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Samuel D. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 6974147
    Abstract: A system for preventing relative movement between first and second members, in which the first member is received within a passage defined by the second member. The system includes an engagement or locking member, which may in the form of a cam, that is movably mounted within an interior defined by the first member. An actuator arrangement is carried by the first member and is interconnected with the cam, for moving the cam between an operative position and a release position. In one embodiment, the first member may be in the form of a mounting member associated with a device such as a trailer tow bar or the mounting member of an equipment carrier, and the second member may be in the form of a hitch receiver secured to a vehicle. A cross member is located within the interior of the first member, and may be in the form of a hitch pin that extends through aligned openings in the first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Saris Cycling Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Clint D. Kolda
  • Patent number: 6971663
    Abstract: A trailer hitch cover assembly for a motor vehicle includes a hitch insert having an aperture extending longitudinally therethrough to fit over a hitch tube of a trailer hitch on a motor vehicle, and a rotatable door covering the aperture. The trailer hitch cover assembly also includes a top cover plate mounted to the hitch insert and a front cover plate mounted to the hitch insert and having an aperture extending therethrough aligned with the hitch tube of the trailer hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Blake Design Group, LLC.
    Inventor: Robert B. Blake