Hitch lock
US9114678B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 4, 2013 |
| Grant date | Aug 25, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60D1/28
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hitch apparatus has a base with rearward extending upper and lower jaws. A pin extends upward from a rear end of the lower jaw. A lock plate is pivotally attached to a rear portion of the upper jaw limit can pivot through a pivot range from a closed position through a balanced position to an open position. When the lock plate is between the closed and balanced positions, gravity biases same toward the closed position where a locking portion of the lock plate extends downward into the gap and the closed stop prevents rearward movement thereof. The locking portion moves forward and upward as the lock plate pivots from the closed position to the open position, and when the lock plate is between the balanced and open positions, gravity biases same toward the open position where the locking portion extends upward.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.