Method for manufacturing a trailer hitch assembly
US6348112B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 5, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 19, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC21D2211/002
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Disclosed is a method of making a trailer hitch assembly for use with automobiles, trucks and other vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly comprises a crossbeam assembly and a pair of side brackets disposed on opposite ends of the crossbeam assembly. The crossbeam assembly and the side brackets are made of an ultra-high-strength steel material having a bainitic microstructure. The trailer hitch is fabricated from boron steel preheated to a temperature in the austenite range. The steel is then formed while in the austenite range in a forming die then subsequently quenched to achieve a bainitic microstructure and assembled as a trailer hitch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.