Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
Attorney Docket No. 6164.PROG.PR.2
United States Provisional Patent Application
for
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING A TRAILER TO A TOW VEHICLE
TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR PATENTS:
JED K. ANDERSON, JASON R. HARPER, and DAVID F.
LUNDGREEN, are citizens of the United States, whose post
office addresses are 1031 East 100 North, Lindon, Utah
84042, 1304 West Archmore Drive, Springville, Utah, 84663
and 1332 East 360 North, Spanish Fork, Utah 84660,
respectively, pray that they may preserve their rights to
letters patent, by this provisional patent application, as
the joint inventors of a SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING A
TRAILER TO A TOW VEHICLE as set forth in the following
specification.
CA 3069599 2020-01-24
,
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ATTACHING A TRAILER TO A TOW VEHICLE
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
Not Applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED
RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND
1. The Field of the Present Disclosure.
The present disclosure relates generally to trailer
hitch systems, and more particularly, but not necessarily
entirely, to trailer hitch systems that facilitate
connecting trailers to tow vehicles.
2. Description of Related Art.
Various different types of trailer hitches are known in
the art for attaching trailers to towing vehicles. One of
the most common types of towing systems utilizes a ball
hitch.
Typical ball hitches have a generally spherical
shaped ball with a stem or threaded rod extending from a
base of the ball.
The threaded rod may be configured to
engage a hitch head mounted on the towing vehicle using a
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threaded receiver or ball hitch fitting. A trailer coupling
member, such as a ball clamp, positioned on a front of the
trailer tongue, may engage the ball hitch in a loose
friction fit, and may be secured to the ball in preparation
for towing.
Some hitches may also have load equalizing
systems to distribute loads and allow the towing vehicle and
trailer to remain level. Other mechanisms may also be used
in association with a trailer hitch to reduce side sway of
the trailer.
A common challenge with the known trailer hitch systems
is attaching the trailer to the tow vehicle. Difficulty may
arise in properly aligning the trailer with the tow vehicle
as the tow vehicle is backed to engage with the trailer.
Often during attempts to attach the trailer to the tow
vehicle, the sharp rigid end of the trailer tongue may
strike the back of the tow vehicle causing damage to the tow
vehicle.
There have been many attempts to improve the method of
connecting trailers to tow vehicles, yet the most common
method remains the conventional ball connection, even though
such method has several drawbacks. One of the drawbacks of
the conventional ball mount system and method may include
the necessity to precisely position the hitch ball that is
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connected to the vehicle under the trailer tongue ball
clamp.
On weight distribution hitches, the difficulty of
attaching the trailer may be increased by the common
necessity of installing and removing the heavy ball mount
assembly, spring bars and anti-sway bars if so equipped,
every time the trailer is connected or disconnected.
Other trailer hitch systems may include plug-in type
hitches in which receivers are joined to the tow vehicle,
and the hitch ball is joined to the trailer. A bar on the
trailer tongue may be plugged into the receiver to attach
the trailer to the tow vehicle.
A drawback of the known
plug-in hitches may include the requirement of a unique
receiver hitch unit to be installed on the tow vehicle.
Since vehicles used for towing are commonly equipped by the
manufacturer with a receiver hitch already installed,
removing and replacing the existing receiver hitch may be a
significant impediment to the success of such towing
systems.
Other trailer hitch systems require unique
mechanisms to be installed on the trailer.
Yet other
trailer hitch systems allow the plug-in receiver to be
installed on the exterior of the manufacturer installed
receiver, but such systems may add considerable cost,
weight, and complexity to the trailer hitch.
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Some of the known plug-in type trailer hitch systems
are prone to binding during engagement or disengagement of
the trailer with the tow vehicle.
Such binding may be
caused by different heights of the receiver with respect to
the connecting bar on the trailer tongue, misalignment,
improperly shaped engaging elements, and/or the lack of
adequate bearing surfaces or rolling elements to reduce
friction between the receiver and the connecting bar on the
trailer tongue. Because of the considerable weight of both
the tow vehicle and the trailer, even small misalignments
can generate considerable frictional forces.
Various different mechanisms are known in the art for
assisting in backing or aligning the tow vehicle with the
trailer to facilitate attaching the trailer to the tow
vehicle. Such mechanisms may be visual, optical, mechanical
or electronic devices to assist in achieving the proper
height, angle and position of the tow vehicle with respect
to the trailer. Many of the devices are complex or bulky
such that they may result in more of a hindrance than an
aid.
Despite the advantages of known trailer hitch systems,
improvements are still being sought.
The prior art is
characterized by several disadvantages that are addressed by
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the present disclosure.
The present disclosure minimizes,
and in some aspects eliminates, the above-mentioned
failures, and other problems, by utilizing the methods and
structural features described herein.
The features and advantages of the present disclosure
will be set forth in the description which follows, and in
part will be apparent from the description, or may be
learned by the practice of the present disclosure without
undue experimentation.
The features and advantages of the
present disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of
the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in
the appended claims.
Any discussion of documents, acts,
materials, devices, articles or the like which has been
included in the present specification is not to be taken as
an admission that any or all of these matters form part of
the prior art base, or were common general knowledge in the
field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed
before the priority date of each claim of this application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The features and advantages of the disclosure will
become apparent from a consideration of the subsequent
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detailed description presented in connection with the
accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
disclosed invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 5 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 9 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 11 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 10;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 13 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 12;
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,
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 15 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 17 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 16;
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of the
embodiment of FIG. 18;
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of the
embodiment of FIG. 20;
FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment
of the disclosed invention;
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
22;
FIG. 24 is a partial cut-away view of the embodiment of
FIG. 22;
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
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FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of
FIG. 25;
FIG. 27 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 28 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 27;
FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of
FIG. 29;
FIG. 31 is a side view of another embodiment of the
disclosed invention;
FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
31;
FIG. 33 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 34 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 33;
FIG. 35 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 36 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 35;
FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 38 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 37;
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FIG. 39 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 40 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 39;
FIG. 41 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 42 is a side view of another embodiment of the
disclosed invention;
FIG. 43 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
42;
FIG. 44 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 45 is a side view of another embodiment of the
disclosed invention;
FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 47 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 46;
FIG. 48 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 46;
FIG. 49 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 50 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 49;
FIG. 51 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 52 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 51;
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FIG. 53 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention;
FIG. 54 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 51; and
FIG. 55 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
the disclosed invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles in accordance with the disclosure, reference will
now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings
and specific language will be used to describe the same. It
will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the
scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Any
alterations and further modifications of the inventive
features illustrated herein, and any additional applications
of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein,
which would normally occur to one skilled in the relevant
art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be
considered within the scope of the disclosure claimed.
Before the present apparatus and methods for providing
a trailer hitch system are disclosed and described, it is to
be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the
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particular configurations, process steps, and materials
disclosed herein as such configurations, process steps, and
materials may vary somewhat.
It is also to be understood
that the terminology employed herein is used for the purpose
of describing particular embodiments only and is not
intended to be limiting since the scope of the present
disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims and
equivalents thereof.
The publications and other reference materials referred
to herein to describe the background of the disclosure, and
to provide additional detail regarding its practice, are
hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties,
with the following exception: In the event that any portion
of said reference materials is inconsistent with this
application, this application supercedes said reference
materials.
The reference materials discussed herein are
provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing
date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be
construed as a suggestion or admission that the inventors
are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of
prior disclosure, or to distinguish the present disclosure
from the subject matter disclosed in the reference
materials.
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,
It must be noted that, as used in this specification
and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and
"the" include plural referents unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise. Moreover, as used herein, the terms
"comprising," "including," "containing," "characterized by,"
and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-
ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited
elements or method steps.
As used herein, the term "elongate" shall be construed
broadly to include structures that have one dimension, such
as a length, that is greater than another dimension, such as
a width or diameter.
As used herein, the term "proximal" shall refer broadly
to the concept of a nearest portion. For example, the
vertical adjustment is the proximal-most portion of the
shank, because it is the nearest portion when said shank is
installed.
As used herein, the term "distal" shall generally refer
to the opposite of proximal, and thus to the concept of a
further portion, or a furthest portion, depending upon the
context.
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As used herein, the general term "shank" shall
generally refer to a shank used in a rise or drop position,
as known in the art.
The following inventive embodiments are related to a
trailer hitch system for attaching a trailer to a tow
vehicle, where the trailer hitch system includes at least a
shank attachable to a trailer and a tow vehicle.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a first shank embodiment
includes a shank 10, having a nose 12 a mid-shank 14, a
support 16 and a vertical adjustment 18. The mid-
shank 14
can extend from the vertical adjustment 18, or upright
portion, to the nose 12. The nose 12 may be defined as an
end portion, extending to a terminating free end of the
shank 10, having a cross-sectional area less than the cross-
sectional area of the mid-shank 14. The nose 12, as shown
in FIG. 1, includes a tapered angular shape, which reduces
in cross-sectional area until reaching a terminating free
end of the nose 12. By reducing the cross-sectional shape
of the nose 12, the nose 12 can improve the speed and time
to install the shank 10 into a receiver, attachable to a tow
vehicle, due to the tight tolerances between the exterior of
the nose 12 and the interior of the receiver.
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,
While the tapered angular shape, shown in FIG. 1,
includes a substantially square cross-section, various nose
12 geometries can be used with reduced cross-sectional
areas, which can allow the shank 10 to initially enter into
a receiver opening while allowing for some misalignment. A
receiver, not shown, can be fixed, or otherwise attachable
to a tow vehicle to enable the shank 10, which can be
connected to a trailer, to facilitate a removable connection
between a tow vehicle and a trailer (also not shown).
The support 16 can function to provide strength support
to between the mid-shank 14 and the vertical adjustment,
such that the mid-shank 14 and the vertical adjustment 18
may maintain a substantially 90 degree angles, or other,
predetermined or desired angle. The vertical adjustment 18
can provide numerous adjustable positions, using holes 18a,
which can receive a pin for attachment of a ball hitch or
other hitch attachment.
Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 20, having a nose 22 a mid-shank
24, a support 26 and a vertical adjustment 28, wherein the
mid-shank 24, support 26, and vertical adjustment 28, may be
substantially the same as those shown and described in FIG.
1, or of the form or shape, or combination of form or shape,
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of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, the vertical adjustment 28 can provide
numerous adjustable positions, using holes 28a, which can
receive a pin for attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch
attachment.
The nose 22 may be defined as an end portion, extending
to a terminating free end of the shank 20, having a cross-
sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of the
mid-shank 24.
The nose 22, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3,
includes a rounded, substantially semicircular shape, which
reduces in cross-sectional area until reaching a terminating
free end of the nose 22.
By reducing the cross-sectional
shape of the nose 22, the nose 22 can improve the speed and
time to install the shank 20 into a receiver, and thereby
improve the initial entry of the shank 20 into the receiver
by allowing the shank 20 to be out of alignment with the
receiver, for example, up to a
inch out of alignment, or
more, and still enter the receiver.
Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 30, having a nose 32 a mid-shank
34, a support 36 and a vertical adjustment 38, wherein the
mid-shank 34, support 36, and vertical adjustment 38, may be
substantially the same as those shown and described in FIG.
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,
1, or of the form or shape, or combination of form or shape,
of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, the vertical adjustment 38 can provide
numerous adjustable positions, using holes 38a, which can
receive a pin for attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch
attachment.
The nose 32 may be defined as an end portion, extending
to a terminating free end of the shank 30, having a cross-
sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of the
mid-shank 34. The nose 32, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4,
includes a rounded perimeter, which reduces in cross-
sectional area until reaching a terminating free end, which
includes a substantially planar terminal end surface 32a.
By reducing the cross-sectional shape of the nose 32, the
nose 32 can improve the speed and time to install the shank
30 into a receiver, and thereby improve the initial entry of
the shank 30 into the receiver by allowing the shank 30 to
be out of alignment with the receiver, for example, up to a
',.. inch out of alignment, or more, and still enter the
receiver.
Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 40, having a nose 42 a mid-shank
44, a support 46 and a vertical adjustment 48, wherein the
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mid-shank 44, support 46, and vertical adjustment 48, may be
substantially the same as those shown and described in FIG.
1, or of the form or shape, or combination of form or shape,
of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, the vertical adjustment 48 can provide
numerous adjustable positions, using holes 48a, which can
receive a pin for attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch
attachment.
The nose 42 may be defined as an end portion, extending
to a terminating free end of the shank 40, having a cross-
sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of the
mid-shank 44.
The nose 42, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4,
includes a rounded, substantially semi-circular or oblong
shape, which reduces in cross-sectional area until reaching
a terminating free end.
By reducing the cross-sectional
shape of the nose 42, the nose 42 can improve the speed and
time to install the shank 40 into a receiver, and thereby
improve the initial entry of the shank 40 into the receiver
by allowing the shank 40 to be out of alignment with the
receiver, for example, up to a inch out
of alignment, or
more, and still enter the receiver.
Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 50, having a nose 52 a mid-shank
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,
54, a support 56 and a vertical adjustment 58, wherein the
mid-shank 54, support 56, and vertical adjustment 58, may be
substantially the same as those shown and described in FIG.
1, or of the form or shape, or combination of form or shape,
of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, The vertical adjustment 58 can provide
numerous adjustable positions, using holes 58a, which can
receive a pin for attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch
attachment.
The nose 52 may be defined as an end portion, extending
to a terminating free end of the shank 50, having a cross-
sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of the
mid-shank 54.
The nose 52, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9,
includes a rounded, cone-shaped perimeter, which reduces in
cross-sectional area until reaching a terminating free end,
which can come to a point or include a substantially planar
terminal end surface 52a.
By reducing the cross-sectional
shape of the nose 52, the nose 52 can improve the speed and
time to install the shank 50 into a receiver, and thereby
improve the initial entry of the shank 50 into the receiver
by allowing the shank 50 to be out of alignment with the
receiver, for example, up to a
inch out of alignment, or
more, and still enter the receiver.
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Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 100, having a nose 122 a mid-shank 124, a
support 126 and a vertical adjustment 128. The nose 122 is
shown having a substantially straight, block-type
configuration, however, various shapes or geometries can be
used.
The mid-shank 124 is shown having a decreased
perimeter or cross-sectional area, via a step reduction
124a, immediately adjacent to the nose 122, which can allow
the shank 100 to continue to more easily and completely
enter into the receiver opening after the nose 122 initially
enters into the receiver. The term "step reduction" as used
herein and used through this specification, may include, but
shall not be limited to, a 90 degree step or a right-angled
corner. Various geometries of the mid-shank 124 can be used
which can allow the shank 100 to easily and completely enter
into a receiver opening.
By reducing the cross-sectional area of the mid-shank
124, the step reduction 124a can improve the speed and time
to install the shank 100 into a receiver, reducing, and
possibly eliminating any binding that may take place between
the shank 100 and the receiver, due to the tight tolerances
between the exterior of the mid-shank 124 and the interior
of the receiver.
Specifically, the shank 100 may be
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attached or coupled to a trailer, prior to being received
into the receiver.
In this circumstance, a tow vehicle,
having the receiver, may be backed into engagement with the
shank 100 such that the receiver receives the shank 100 as
the tow vehicle is backed up. If the mid-shank 124 is not
reduced in cross-sectional area, or waisted, as disclosed
herein, the shank 100 can bind with the receiver, unless the
shank 100 and the receiver are aligned within a tight
tolerance.
The support 126 can function to provide strength
support to between the mid-shank 124 and the vertical
adjustment, such that the mid-shank 124 and the vertical
adjustment 128 may maintain a substantially 90 degree
angles, or other, predetermined or desired angle.
The
vertical adjustment 128 can provide numerous adjustable
positions, using holes 128a, which can receive a pin
for
attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch attachment.
Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 200, having a nose 222 a mid-
shank 224, a support 226 and a vertical adjustment 228,
wherein the nose 222, mid-shank 224, support 226, and
vertical adjustment 228, may be substantially the same as
those shown and described in FIGS. 1 or 10, or of the form
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or shape, or combination of form or shape, of any or the
shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, the
vertical adjustment 228 can provide numerous adjustable
positions, using holes 228a, which can receive a pin for
attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch attachment.
The mid-shank 224 is shown having a decreased perimeter
or cross-sectional area, via a concave or curved reduction
224a, immediately adjacent to the nose 222, which can allow
the shank 200 to continue to more easily and completely
enter into the receiver opening after the nose 222 initially
enters into the receiver.
The curved reduction 224a may,
include four sides of the mid-shank 224 having the same, or
substantially the same, curved reduction 224a, or hour-glass
shape. Various geometries of the mid-shank 224 can be used
which can allow the shank 200 to easily and completely enter
into a receiver opening.
By reducing the cross-sectional area of the mid-shank
224, the curved reduction 224a can improve the speed and
time to install the shank 200 into a receiver, reducing, and
possibly eliminating any binding that may take place between
the shank 200 and the receiver, due to the tight tolerances
between the exterior of the mid-shank 224 and the interior
of the receiver.
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t
4
Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 300, having a nose 322 a mid-
shank 324, a support 326 and a vertical adjustment 328,
wherein the nose 322, mid-shank 324, support 326, and
vertical adjustment 328, may be substantially the same as
those shown and described in FIGS. 1 or 10, or of the form
or shape, or combination of form or shape, of any or the
shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, the
vertical adjustment 328 can provide numerous adjustable
positions, using holes 328a, which can receive a pin for
attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch attachment.
The mid-shank 324 is shown having a decreased perimeter
or cross-sectional area, via a reduction 324a, which may be
stepped or rounded until merging with a substantially flat
or planar portion 324c, immediately adjacent to the nose
322.
The substantially planar portion 334c may be
substantially parallel with the remaining portion of the
mid-shank 324.
The mid-shank 324 may also include an
increase 324b, which may be stepped or rounded until merging
with the substantially planar portion 324c, proximal to the
reduction 324a. The combination of the reduction 324a and
the increase 324b provides a section of decreased cross-
sectional area, compared to the remaining portion of the
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CA 3069599 2020-01-24
mid-shank 324, which can allow the shank 300 to continue to
more easily and completely enter into the receiver opening
after the nose 322 initially enters into the receiver. The
step reduction 324a and step increase Various geometries of
the mid-shank 324 can be used which can allow the shank 300
to easily and completely enter into a receiver opening.
By reducing the cross-sectional area of the mid-shank
324, the reduction 324a and increase 324b, can improve the
speed and time to install the shank 300 into a receiver,
reducing, and possibly eliminating any binding that may take
place between the shank 300 and the receiver, due to the
tight tolerances between the exterior of the mid-shank 324
and the interior of the receiver.
Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, another shank
embodiment includes a shank 400, having a nose 422 a mid-
shank 424, a support 426 and a vertical adjustment 428,
wherein the nose 422, mid-shank 424, support 426, and
vertical adjustment 428, may be substantially the same as
those shown and described in FIGS. 1 or 10, or of the form
or shape, or combination of form or shape, of any or the
shank embodiments disclosed herein.
Additionally, the
vertical adjustment 428 can provide numerous adjustable
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a
4
positions, using holes 428a, which can receive a pin for
attachment of a ball hitch or other hitch attachment.
The mid-shank 424 is shown having a decreased perimeter
or cross-sectional area, via a concave or curved reduction
424a, immediately adjacent to the nose 422, which can allow
the shank 400 to continue to more easily and completely
enter into the receiver opening after the nose 422 initially
enters into the receiver.
The curved reduction 424a may
include a double conical shape where the cross-section area
reduces immediately adjacent to the nose 422, until the
center of the curved reduction 424a, and then increase
towards the remainder of the mid-shank 424.
Various
geometries of the mid-shank 424 can be used which can allow
the shank 400 to easily and completely enter into a receiver
opening.
By reducing the cross-sectional area of the mid-shank
424, the curved reduction 424a can improve the speed and
time to install the shank 400 into a receiver, reducing, and
possibly eliminating any binding that may take place between
the shank 400 and the receiver, due to the tight tolerances
between the exterior of the mid-shank 424 and the interior
of the receiver.
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,
,
Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 1000, partially inserted into a receiver
1012. The shank 1000 also includes a mid-shank 1014, a
depth stop 1016 and a vertical adjustment 1018, wherein the
mid-shank 1014 and vertical adjustment 1018, and nose (not
shown) may be of the form or shape, or combination of form
or shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The depth stop 1016 can contact the receiver 1012 when the
desired shank 1000 depth has been reached. The depth stop
1016 can be adjustable to alter the desired depth of the
shank 1000 within the receiver 1012. This adjustability can
be facilitated by a threaded member 1017a which can be
received and threadedly engaged with a receiving portion
1017b, which can enable the threaded member 1017a to extend
in a proximal/distal, or lateral, direction towards or away
from the receiver 1012.
The threaded member 1017a may also include a flat or
blunt end 1017c which can be configured to abut a rim 1012a
of the receiver 1012, thereby restricting or limiting the
depth that the shank 1000 can enter into the receiver 1012.
Although only a threaded adjustable depth stop 1016 is shown
in FIGS. 18 and 19, alternative depth stops can be used
which can limit the depth of the shank 1000 in the receiver
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=
,
1012, and such depth stops can be fixed in position or
adjustable.
Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 1100, partially inserted into a receiver
1112.
The shank 1100 also includes a mid-shank 1114, a
depth stop 1116 and a vertical adjustment 1118, wherein the
mid-shank 1114 and vertical adjustment 1118, and nose (not
shown) may be of the form or shape, or combination of form
or shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The depth stop 1116 can contact the receiver 1112 when
the desired shank 1100 depth has been reached.
The depth
stop 1116 may be formed as a collar having an increased
diameter when compared to the mid-shank 1114 and can be
adjustably secured or coupled to the mid-shank 1114 via
bolts or fasteners 1117, which enables the depth stop 1116
to alter or change the depth of the shank 1100 within the
receiver 1112 or the position of the depth stop 1116 with
respect to the mid-shank 1114.
The depth stop 1116 may have a substantially planer or
blunt surface which can be configured to abut a rim 1112a of
the receiver 1112, thereby restricting or limiting the depth
that the shank 1100 can enter into the receiver 1112.
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,
,
Referring to FIGS. 22-24, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 1200, partially inserted into a receiver
1212.
The shank 1200 also includes a mid-shank 1214, a
depth stop 1216 and a vertical adjustment 1218, wherein the
mid-shank 1214 and vertical adjustment 1218, and nose (not
shown) may be of the form or shape, or combination of form
or shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The depth stop 1216 can contact the receiver 1212 when
the desired shank 1200 depth has been reached.
The depth
stop 1216 be formed as a collar having an increased diameter
when compared to the mid-shank 1214 and can fixed or secured
to the mid-shank 1214, at a desired depth of the shank 1200
within the receiver 1212.
The depth stop 1216 may have a substantially planer or
blunt surface which can be configured to abut a rim 1212a of
the receiver 1212, thereby restricting or limiting the depth
that the shank 1200 can enter into the receiver 1212.
Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 1300, partially inserted into a receiver
1312. The shank
1300 also includes a mid-shank 1314, a
depth stop 1316 and a vertical adjustment 1318, wherein the
mid-shank 1314 and vertical adjustment 1318, and nose (not
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shown) may be of the form or shape, or combination of form
or shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The depth stop 1316 can contact the receiver 1312 when
the desired shank 1300 depth has been reached.
The depth
stop 1316 be formed as a plate essentially increasing the
diameter of the mid-shank 1314, and the plate positioning
can be adjustably secured to the mid-shank 1314 via bolts or
fasteners 1317, to alter the desired depth of the shank 1300
within the receiver 1312. The depth stop 1316 may have a
substantially planer or blunt surface which can be
configured to abut a rim 1312a of the receiver 1312, thereby
restricting or limiting the depth that the shank 1300 can
enter into the receiver 1312.
Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 1400, partially inserted into a receiver
1412.
The shank 1400 also includes a mid-shank 1414, a
depth stop 1416 and a vertical adjustment 1418, wherein the
mid-shank 1414 and vertical adjustment 1418, and nose (not
shown) may be of the form or shape, or combination of form
or shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The depth stop 1416 can contact the receiver 1412 when
the desired shank 1400 depth has been reached.
The depth
stop 1416 be formed as a pin which can be inserted into and
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laterally fixed to the mid-shank 1414, to alter the desired
depth of the shank 1400 within the receiver 1412. The depth
stop 1416 may be configured to abut a rim 1412a of the
receiver 1412, thereby restricting or limiting the depth
that the shank 1400 can enter into the receiver 1412.
Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 1500, partially inserted into a receiver
1512.
The shank 1500 also includes a nose 1513, mid-shank
1514, a depth stop 1516 and a vertical adjustment 1518,
wherein the nose 1513, mid-shank 1514, vertical adjustment
1518, may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The depth stop 1516 can be formed as a plug which can
be inserted into the receiver 1512 and attached to the
receiver at a desired depth. The depth
stop 1516 may be
attached to the receiver via a pin (not shown) inserted into
hole 1516a which extends through both the receiver 1512 and
the depth stop 1516, or by any other suitable attachment
mechanism.
The depth stop 1516, when attached to the
receiver 1512, will limit or restrict the depth that the
shank 1500 can enter into the receiver 1512, by abutting the
nose 1513 of the shank 1500.
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. ,
Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 2000, having a nose 2012 a mid-shank 2014,
a support 2016 and a vertical adjustment 2018, wherein the
mid-shank 2014 and vertical adjustment 2018, and nose 2012
may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 2000 also includes an alignment indicator 2019,
shown as a horizontal, or substantially horizontal, stripe
which extends substantially linearly, or substantially
horizontally, along the mid-shank 2014 from the vertical
adjustment 2018 to the nose 2012.
The term "substantially
horizontally," as used herein and throughout this
specification, may include horizontal or a position or
direction that is within 15 degrees of horizontal, or 15
degrees from horizontal. The
alignment indicator 2019 may
be reflective, or at least more reflective than the rest of
the shank 2000, including the nose 2012 and the mid-shank
2014, and/or a different color, such as red, yellow, or
orange, for example, than the rest of the shank 2000,
including the nose 2012 and mid-shank 2014, to more easily
distinguish it from the rest of the shank 2000, and enable a
user to visually identify the orientation of the shank 2000,
such that the alignment indicator can provide a visual
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indicator of the orientation of the shank 200.
The
alignment indicator may also be recessed along the mid-shank
2014, which can reduce the likelihood that the alignment
indicator 2019 may be scraped off the mid-shank 2014 during
use. The shank
2000, for example, may be inserted into a
receiver (not shown) of a vehicle, as the vehicle is
reversed into engagement with the shank 2000.
The alignment indicator 2019 may also be present on
each side of the mid-shank 2014, including top and bottom
surfaces. Alternatively, the alignment indicator 2019 can
be present on a single side of the mid-shank 2014 or any
desired combination of sides, including only the top and
bottom surfaces of the mid-shank 2014.
Additionally, the
alignment indicator 2019 can be removably attached to the
mid-shank 2014, permanently fixed thereto, or integrated
with the mid-shank 2014. Therefore, the alignment indicator
2019 can help a driver of the vehicle to more easily see the
alignment of the shank 2000, using rear view mirror or a
"back-up camera", for example, and thereby, improve the
speed and efficiency of inserting the shank 2000 into the
receiver. The alignment indicator 2019 can alternatively be
a structural or textured feature of the shank 2000, which
can also run substantially parallel with the mid-shank 2014,
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,
in the same way the horizontal stripe of the alignment
indicator 2019 runs substantially parallel to the mid-shank
2014.
Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 2100, having a nose 2112 a mid-shank 2114,
a support 2116 and a vertical adjustment 2118, wherein the
mid-shank 2114 and vertical adjustment 2118, and nose 2112
may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 2100 also includes an alignment indicator 2119,
shown as multiple horizontal channels creating raised
horizontal stripes (as shown on the side surface of the mid-
shank 2114), or a single horizontal channel (as shown on the
top surface of the mid-shank 2114) which extends
substantially linearly from the vertical adjustment 2118 to
the nose 2112.
The alignment indicator 2119 may be a
different color or more reflective than the rest of the
shank 2100, in a similar or identical manner as discussed in
previously discussed embodiments, and may be integrally
formed into the shank 2100, to more easily distinguish it
from the rest of the shank 2100.
The shank 2100, for
example, may be inserted into a receiver (not shown) of a
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,
vehicle, as the vehicle is reversed into engagement with the
shank 2100.
The alignment indicator 2119 may also be present on
each side of the mid-shank 2114, or alternatively, the
alignment indicator 2119 can be present on a single side of
the mid-shank 2114 or any desired combination of sides.
Therefore, the alignment indicator 2119 can help a driver of
the vehicle to more easily see the alignment of the shank
2100, using rear view mirror or a "back-up camera", for
example, and thereby, improve the speed and efficiency of
inserting the shank 2100 into the receiver.
Referring to FIGS. 35 and 36, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 2200, having a nose 2212 a mid-shank 2214,
a support 2216 and a vertical adjustment 2218, wherein the
mid-shank 2214 and vertical adjustment 2218, and nose 2212
may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 2200 also includes an alignment indicator 2219,
shown as light or laser pointer, emitting a linear beam of
light 2219a from the alignment indicator 2219 toward a
receiver (not shown). The alignment indicator 2219 may be
integrally formed, fixed or removably attached, to the shank
2200, and enable a driver to align the receiver with the
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shank 2200, by following the emitted light beam 2219a.
Alternatively, the alignment indicator 2219 may be
integrally formed, fixed or removably attached, to the
receiver, pointing the light beam 2219a toward the shank
2200. In another embodiment, the alignment indicator 2219
may, include a cord retraction device which can retain a
cord (the cord may instead constitute a flexible cable or
any suitable flexible strand), which can be connected to the
receiver, which can be retracted into the alignment
indicator 2219 as the receiver approaches the shank 2200.
The cord can then enable a driver to align the receiver with
the shank 2200, by following the cord. The shank 2200, for
example, may then be inserted into a receiver (not shown) of
a vehicle, as the vehicle is reversed into engagement with
the shank 2200.
Therefore, the alignment indicator 2219 can help a
driver of the vehicle to more easily see the alignment of
the shank 2200, using rear view mirror or a "back-up
camera", for example, and thereby, improve the speed and
efficiency of inserting the shank 2200 into the receiver.
Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 2300, having a nose 2312 a mid-shank 2314,
a support 2316 and a vertical adjustment 2318, wherein the
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mid-shank 2314 and vertical adjustment 2318, and nose 2312
may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 2300 also includes an alignment indicator 2319,
shown as light emitting device, emitting light from the
alignment indicator 2319 illuminating the area surrounding,
and including, the shank 2314 (particularly in low light
conditions). The alignment indicator 2319 may be integrally
formed, fixed, or removably attached, to the shank 2300 and
enable a driver to better see and align the receiver with
the shank 2300. The shank 2300, for example, may be
inserted into a receiver (not shown) of a vehicle, as the
vehicle is reversed into engagement with the shank 2300.
Therefore, the alignment indicator 2319 can help a
driver of the vehicle to more easily see the alignment of
the shank 2300, using rear view mirror or a "back-up
camera", for example, and thereby, improve the speed and
efficiency of inserting the shank 2300 into the receiver.
Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 2400, having a nose 2412 a mid-shank 2414,
a support 2416 and a vertical adjustment 2418, wherein the
mid-shank 2414 and vertical adjustment 2418, and nose 2412
may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
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shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 2400 also includes an alignment indicator 2419,
shown as an indent, carve-out, or recessed feature, centered
on the terminal end or surface of the nose 2412.
The
alignment indicator 2419 may also be formed as a different
color than the rest of the shank 2400, including the nose
2412 and mid-shank 2414, such as red, yellow, or orange, for
example, or may be more reflective than the rest of the
shank 2400, in a similar or identical manner as discussed in
previously discussed embodiments.
The alignment indicator
2419 may be integrally formed into the shank nose 2412 and
enable a driver to align the receiver with the shank 2400.
As shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the alignment indicator 2419,
may be substantially square-shaped, or alternatively, the
alignment indicator 2419 may be circular, triangular, star-
shaped, or any other desired shape.
Thus, the alignment
indicator 2419 may aide a user to align the shank 2400, for
example, as the shank 2400 is inserted into a receiver (not
shown)of a vehicle, as the vehicle is reversed into
engagement with the shank 2400.
Therefore, the alignment indicator 2419 can help a
driver of the vehicle to more easily see the alignment of
the shank 2400, using rear view mirror or a "back-up
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=
camera", for example, and thereby, improve the speed and
efficiency of inserting the shank 2400 into the receiver.
Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 2500, having a nose 2512 a mid-shank 2514,
a support 2516 and a vertical adjustment 2518, wherein the
mid-shank 2514 and vertical adjustment 2518, and nose 2512
may be of the form or shape, or combination of form or
shape, of any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 2500 also includes an alignment indicator 2519,
shown as an indent, carve-out, or recessed feature, centered
on the terminal end or surface of the nose 2412, and an
additional alignment indicator located on an upper surface
of the shank 2500. The alignment indicator 2519 may also be
formed as a different color than the rest of the shank 2500,
including the nose 2512 and mid-shank 2514, such as red,
yellow, or orange, for example, or may be more reflective
than the rest of the shank 2500, in a similar or identical
manner as discussed in previously discussed embodiments.
The alignment indicator 2519 may be integrally formed into
the shank nose 2412 and enable a driver to align the
receiver with the shank 2400. As shown in FIGS. 41 and 42,
the alignment indicator 2519, may be substantially square-
shaped, or alternatively, the alignment indicator 2519 may
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A,
be circular, triangular, star-shaped, or any other desired
shape.
Thus, the alignment indicator 2519 may aide a user
to align the shank 2500, for example, as the shank 2500 is
inserted into a receiver (not shown)of a vehicle, as the
vehicle is reversed into engagement with the shank 2500.
Therefore, the alignment indicator 2419 can help a
driver of the vehicle to more easily see the alignment of
the shank 2400, using rear view mirror or a "back-up
camera", for example, and thereby, improve the speed and
efficiency of inserting the shank 2400 into the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 41, another shank embodiment includes
a shank 3000, having a nose 3012, a mid-shank 3014, a
support 3016, a vertical adjustment 3018, and an alignment
indicator 3019, wherein the mid-shank 3014, vertical
adjustment 3018, nose 3012 and alignment indicator 3019, may
be of the form or shape, or combination of form or shape, of
any or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The shank 3000 is attached to a hitch 3020 which is
mounted to weight distribution spring bars 3022, to adjust
the weight distribution of the trailer with respect to the
to hitch 3020 after the shank 3000, including the nose 3012
and mid-shank 3014, is received into the receiver.
The
hitch 3020 is shown coupled to a coupler 3024 of a trailer
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0
4
(not shown). In use, the shank 3000 needs to be nearly
horizontal (slight variances are acceptable) to allow the
tow vehicle to back the receiver into engagement with the
shank 3000.
As shown in FIG. 41, the hitch 3020 is
connected to the spring bars 3022 which are secured to a
trailer frame 3026, via brackets 3028.
The engagement
between the spring bars 3022, trailer frame 3026 and the
shank 3000, enable the shank 3000 to be held in a
substantially horizontal position, even prior to engagement
with the receiver, thus aiding in an increased speed and
accuracy of engaging the shank 3000 with the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 42, another shank embodiment includes
the shank 3000, hitch 3020 and trailer frame 3026 (and
corresponding features) of FIG. 41, however, this embodiment
includes a spring bar stand 3030 which can be used to
support the spring bars 3022 in a desired position.
Thus,
the engagement between the spring bars 3022, spring bar
stand 3030, and the shank 3000, enable the shank 3000 to be
held in a substantially horizontal position, even prior to
engagement with the receiver, thus aiding in an increased
speed and accuracy of engaging the shank 3000 with the
receiver.
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4
Referring to FIG. 43, another shank embodiment includes
the shank 3000, hitch 3020 and trailer frame 3026 (and
corresponding features) of FIG. 41, however, this embodiment
includes a shank stand 3032 which can be used to support the
shank 3000 in a desired position.
Thus, the engagement
between the shank 3000 and shank stand 3032, enable the
shank 3000 to be held in a substantially horizontal
position, even prior to engagement with the receiver, thus
aiding in an increased speed and accuracy of engaging the
shank 3000 with the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 44, another shank embodiment includes
the shank 3000, hitch 3020 and trailer frame 3026 (and
corresponding features) of FIG. 41, however, this embodiment
includes a spring bar band 3034 which can be used to support
the spring bars 3022 in a desired position.
Thus, the
engagement between the shank 3000, the hitch 3020, the
spring bars 3022 and the spring bar band 3034, enable the
shank 3000 to be held in a substantially horizontal
position, even prior to engagement with the receiver, thus
aiding in an increased speed and accuracy of engaging the
shank 3000 with the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 45, another shank embodiment includes
the shank 3000, hitch 3020 and trailer frame 3026 (and
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4
corresponding features) of FIG. 41, however, this embodiment
includes a hitch band 3036 which can be used to support the
hitch 3020 in a desired position. Thus, the engagement
between the shank 3000, the hitch 3020, the hitch band 3036,
enable the shank 3000 to be held in a substantially
horizontal position, even prior to engagement with the
receiver, thus aiding in an increased speed and accuracy of
engaging the shank 3000 with the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 46-48, another shank embodiment
includes the shank 3000, hitch 3020 and trailer frame 3026
(and corresponding features) of the embodiment of FIG. 41,
however, this embodiment includes an adjustment member or
spring bar chain 3040 (a pair of adjustment members are
used, although only one can be seen in FIGS 46-48,
corresponding to the pair of spring bars 3022), which can be
used to support the spring bars 3022 in a desired position.
The spring bar chains 3040 are flexible and adjustably
coupled to the trailer frame 3026 via the corresponding
brackets 3028, the brackets 3028 having an adjustment
feature 3028a which can receive and adjust the position and
length of the spring bar chains 3040 and removably couple
the spring bar chains 3040 to the brackets 3028.
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6 0
The spring bar chains 3040 may be removably coupled to
the spring bars 3022 via a ring 3040a which can receive and
support the spring bars 3022, prior to the shank 3000 being
received into the receiver.
Thus, the engagement between
the shank 3000, the hitch 3020, the spring bars 3022, and
spring bar chains 3040, enable the shank 3000 to be held in
a substantially horizontal position, or easily adjust the
horizontal portion (mid-shank) of the shank 3000 to a level
position, even prior to engagement with the receiver, thus
aiding in an increased speed and accuracy of engaging the
shank 3000 with the receiver.
Referring to FIGS. 49 and 50, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 4000, having a nose 4012 a mid-shank 4014,
a support 4016 and a vertical adjustment 4018.
The nose
4012 is shown having a tapered angular shape, with chamfer
edges, which reduces in cross-sectional area until reaching
a terminating free end of the nose 4012.
The terminating
end of the nose 4012 includes an alignment indicator 4019
which includes an indent, recess, or carve-out, centered on
the terminal end surface of the nose 4012. The
alignment
indicator 4019 may be integrally formed into the shank nose
4012, or in any manner discussed above with respect to other
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embodiments, and enable a driver to align a receiver with
the shank 4000.
The mid-shank 4014 is shown having a decreased
perimeter or cross-sectional area, via a step reduction
4014a, immediately adjacent to the nose 4012, which can
allow the shank 4000 to continue to more easily and
completely enter into the receiver opening after the nose
4012 initially enters into the receiver. Various geometries
of the mid-shank 4014 can be used which can allow the shank
4000 to easily and completely enter into a receiver opening.
The step reduction 4014a may be have a continuously sloped
portion extending until reaching the greatest width of the
mid-shank 4014. The continuously sloped portion of the step
reduction may be 0.125 inches in length L, or 0.1 to 0.5
inches, for example. The angle B of the sloped portion of
the step reduction may be 2 to 10 degrees, or 4 degrees, for
example.
This continuously sloped portion can provide a
shallower angle, while maintaining the same, or better,
binding avoidance characteristics, as a circular scallop
having max slope of about 15 degrees, for example.
This
continuously sloped portion of the step reduction 4014a can
thus avoid binding within a receiver that is about 10
degrees, or more, out of direct alignment with the shank
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4000, than a comparable circular scallop having a 15 degree
maximum angle, for example.
A terminal surface of the nose 4012a may have a height
or width of 0.5 to 1.5 inches, or 1 inch, for example. The
nose 4012 may then extend at an angle A from the terminal
surface 4012a. The angle A may be less than 45 degrees, 25
to 40 degrees, or 30 degrees, for example. The angle A may
cause binding of the shank 4000 as it is inserted into a
receiver if the angle A is too steep, for example if the
angle A is 45 degrees or more. The nose 4012 may increase
in width from the terminal surface 4012a to a its greatest
width, which may be 1.5 to 3 inches, or two inches, for
example.
The mid-shank 4014 may also include a pin hole 4015
which may be positioned behind the step reduction 4014a in a
portion of the mid-shank having a constant width. The pin
hole 4015 may have any desired diameter, for example, 1
inch, and may be configured to receive a retaining pin which
can be inserted through the receiver, as a means of
retaining the shank 4000 within the receiver.
This
configuration may provide a stronger pin connection, as the
majority of the forces acting on a pin within the pin hole
4015 will be in shear, as opposed to a bending stress.
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I .
The vertical adjustment 4018 can provide numerous
adjustable positions, using holes 4018a, which can receive a
pin 4050 for attachment of a ball hitch 4052 or other hitch
attachment, including, but not limited to, standard or non-
height adjustable ball mounts.
The shank 4000 also includes a depth stop 4017 which
can contact a receiver when the desired shank 4000 depth has
been reached.
The depth stop 4017 can be adjustable to
alter the desired depth of the shank 4000 within the
receiver.
This adjustability can be facilitated by a
threaded member 4017a which can be received and threadedly
engaged with a receiving portion 4017b, which can enable the
threaded member 4017a to extend in a proximal/distal, or
lateral, direction towards or away from the receiver, along
the mid-shank 4014.
Referring to FIGS. 51 and 52, another shank embodiment
includes a shank 5000, having a nose 5012 a mid-shank 5014,
a support 5016 and a vertical adjustment 5018.
The nose
5012 is shown having a tapered angular shape, with chamfer
edges, which reduces in cross-sectional area until reaching
a terminating free end of the nose 5012.
The terminating
end of the nose 5012 includes an alignment indicator 5019
which includes an indent, recess, or carve-out, centered on
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G
the terminal end surface of the nose 5012.
The alignment
indicator 5019 may be integrally formed into the shank nose
5012, or in any manner discussed above with respect to other
embodiments, and enable a driver to align a receiver 6000
with the shank 5000. A second alignment indicator 5020 may
be connected or otherwise incorporated on a top surface of
the mid-shank 5014. The second alignment indicator 5020 may
be linear or substantially linear, or may be substituted
with any other alignment indicated disclosed herein.
The mid-shank 5014 is shown having a decreased
perimeter or cross-sectional area, via a step reduction
5014a, immediately adjacent to the nose 5012, which can
allow the shank 5000 to continue to more easily and
completely enter into the receiver opening 6002 after the
nose 5012 initially enters into the receiver 6000. Various
geometries of the mid-shank 5014 can be used which can allow
the shank 5000 to easily and completely enter into a
receiver 6002 opening.
The vertical adjustment 5018 can provide numerous
adjustable positions, using holes 5018a, which can receive a
pin (not shown) for attachment of a ball hitch, for example,
or other hitch attachment, including, but not limited to,
standard or non-height adjustable ball mounts.
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I ' 4
The receiver 6000 may be attached to a tow vehicle, not
shown, but may be visible to a driver of the tow vehicle via
a back-up or rear facing camera (not shown), which may
conventionally be attached to a rear bumper of the tow
vehicle or at another rear-facing location on the tow
vehicle.
The receiver may include an alignment indicator
6004 on a top surface or portion of the receiver 6000 and
positioned centered, or substantially centered, above the
receiver opening 6002. The alignment indicator 6004 on the
receiver 6000 may be a different color (any desired color)
than the rest of the receiver 6000 and may be formed as any
desired shape.
The alignment indicator 6004 may also be
integral with the receiver 6000, affixed thereto, using
paint, tape or glue, for example. The receiver alignment
indicator 6004 may also be aligned, collinear or
substantially collinear, with the shank alignment indicator
5019 on the nose 5012 and the second alignment indicator
5020 on the mid-shank 5014, when the shank 5000 is received
within the opening 6002 of the receiver 6000.
This
configuration and alignment of the alignment indicators
5019, 5019 and 6004 enables the driver of the tow vehicle to
more easily navigate and align the receiver opening 6002
into engagement with the shank 5000, while operating the
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vehicle. Accordingly, the alignment indicator 6004 on the
receiver 6004 may be visible to the tow vehicle driver via
the back-up camera.
In an alternative embodiment as shown in FIGS. 53 and
54, for example, a tow vehicle bumper 7000, may also include
an alignment indicator 7002 on a top portion of the bumper
7000 in addition to, or instead of, having the alignment
indicator 6004 on the receiver 6000, particularly if the
alignment indicator 6004 on the receiver 6002 is not visible
to the tow vehicle operator via the back-up camera. The
alignment indicator 7002 on the bumper 7000 may be a
different color (any desired color) than the rest of the
bumper 7000 and may be formed as any desired shape.
The
alignment indicator 7002 may also be integral with the
bumper 7000, affixed thereto, using
paint, tape or glue,
for example. The alignment indicator 7002 on the bumper 7000
may also be aligned, collinear or substantially collinear,
with the shank alignment indicator 5019 on the nose 5012 and
the second alignment indicator 5020 on the mid-shank 5014,
when the shank 5000 is received within the opening 6002 of
the receiver 6000. This configuration and alignment of the
alignment indicators 5019, 5019, 6004 and 7002 enables the
driver of the tow vehicle to more easily navigate and align
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4
the receiver opening 6002 into engagement with the shank
5000, while operating the vehicle. Accordingly, the
alignment indicator 7002 on the bumper 7000 may be visible
to the tow vehicle driver via the back-up camera.
In alternative embodiments a colored alignment
indicator may affixed to a display of the back-up camera
within the tow vehicle, thereby providing a reference point
indicating when the shank is substantially aligned with the
receiver. Additional or alternatively, an alignment
indicator may be integrated with the edge of the display or
an imbedded electronic marker may be programmed into the
back-up camera system, and visible on the display within the
vehicle, providing a reference point indicating when the
shank is substantially aligned with the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 55, another shank embodiment includes
a shank 8000, having a nose 8012 a mid-shank 8014, a support
8016 and a vertical adjustment 8018, wherein the mid-shank
8014 and vertical adjustment 8018, and nose 8012 may be of
the form or shape, or combination of form or shape, of any
or the shank embodiments disclosed herein.
The vertical adjustment 8018 can provide numerous
adjustable positions, using holes 8018a, which can receive a
pin (not shown) for attachment of a ball hitch, for example,
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,
,
or other hitch attachment, including, but not limited to,
standard or non-height adjustable ball mounts.
The shank 8000 also includes an alignment indicator
8019, shown as a plurality of dots or perforations,
extending substantially linearly from the vertical
adjustment 8018 to the nose 8012.
The alignment indicator
8019 may be a different color or more reflective than the
rest of the shank 8000, in a similar or identical manner as
discussed in previously discussed embodiments, and may be
integrally formed into the shank 8000, to more easily
distinguish it from the rest of the shank 8000. The shank
8000, for example, may be inserted into a receiver (not
shown)of a vehicle, as the vehicle is reversed into
engagement with the shank 8000.
Therefore, the alignment indicator 8019 can help a
driver of the vehicle to more easily see the alignment of
the shank 8000, using a rear view mirror or a "back-up
camera", for example, and thereby, improve the speed and
efficiency of inserting the shank 8000 into the receiver.
In the foregoing Detailed Description, various features
of the present disclosure are grouped together in a single
embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure.
This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as
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reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires
more features than are expressly recited in each claim.
Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects
lie in less than all features of a single foregoing
disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby
incorporated into this Detailed Description of the
Disclosure by this reference, with each claim standing on
its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.
It is to be understood that the above-described
arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the
principles of the present disclosure.
Numerous
modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by
those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit
and scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims
are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements.
Thus, while the present disclosure has been shown in the
drawings and described above with particularity and detail,
it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art
that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to,
variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and
manner of operation, assembly and use may be made without
departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein.
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