Ball hitch with locking swivel and ramp
US10112449B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 11, 2017 |
| Grant date | Oct 30, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 11, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60D1/36
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A socket hitch apparatus comprises a socket member defining a socket. A swivel member is attached to the socket member about a horizontal swivel pivot axis located rearward of the socket, such that the swivel member can pivot from an open position to a closed position. The front ball engaging portion of the swivel member defines a ball recess between upper and lower recess ends, the recess configured such that as the hitch ball moves upward into the socket, same pushes the upper recess end upward and when the hitch ball reaches the top of the socket, the swivel member is locked in the closed position and the lower recess end is under a periphery of the hitch ball. A forward end of a lower surface of a ramp member is located below a rear edge of the socket and slopes downward and rearward from the forward end thereof.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.