Gooseneck hitch assembly
US8272661B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 18, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 25, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 18, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60D1/488
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A gooseneck hitch assembly is provided for attaching to a towing vehicle. The hitch assembly generally includes a hitch ball head assembly and retaining assembly for receiving and securing the hitch ball head assembly. The retaining assembly includes a channel coupled to a locking collar. Once the hitch ball head assembly is inserted into the channel, the collar is released and resilient members guide the collar to its offset resting position to lock the hitch ball head assembly in place. Alternatively, the collar is released and resilient members guide a lever into a circumscribed groove of the hitch ball head assembly, thereby locking the hitch ball head assembly in place. The hitch ball head is removable and may be selectively received by the retaining assembly in both towing and inverted positions. Optionally, the hitch assembly may be protected or covered by a housing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.