US20050001408A1 - Anti-rotational hitch ball - Google Patents
Anti-rotational hitch ball Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050001408A1 US20050001408A1 US10/709,947 US70994704A US2005001408A1 US 20050001408 A1 US20050001408 A1 US 20050001408A1 US 70994704 A US70994704 A US 70994704A US 2005001408 A1 US2005001408 A1 US 2005001408A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- ball
- hitch
- mount
- ball mount
- pin
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60D—VEHICLE CONNECTIONS
- B60D1/00—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices
- B60D1/48—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by the mounting
- B60D1/52—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by the mounting removably mounted
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60D—VEHICLE CONNECTIONS
- B60D1/00—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices
- B60D1/01—Traction couplings or hitches characterised by their type
- B60D1/06—Ball-and-socket hitches, e.g. constructional details, auxiliary devices, their arrangement on the vehicle
Definitions
- a hitch assembly connects a towing vehicle with a towed vehicle, such as a trailer.
- One common type of hitch assembly includes a hitch ball on the towing vehicle.
- the hitch ball is often removably mounted on a ball mount secured to the frame of the towing vehicle.
- the ball mount includes a through hole for receiving a shank portion of the hitch ball.
- the hitch ball is secured to the ball mount with a fastener that is threaded on the shank portion and tightened down against the ball mount.
- the hitch ball tends to rotate along with it.
- the fastener tends to rotate along with it.
- the hitch ball has a tendency to rotate also. Therefore, to tighten the hitch ball and fastener onto the ball mount, one of the hitch ball or fastener must be blocked from rotating relative to the ball mount while the other is rotated. Typically, this is accomplished by using two wrenches to grasp both the hitch ball and fastener. One wrench is used to hold either the hitch ball or the fastener stationary, while the other wrench is used to tighten down the other.
- the present invention relates to a hitch assembly that includes an anti-rotation mechanism.
- the hitch assembly generally includes a hitch ball, a ball mount, and a fastener.
- the invention is directed to a mechanism for preventing rotation of either the hitch ball or the fastener relative to the ball mount.
- the anti-rotation mechanism of the present invention provides an engagement means for interlocking sections of the hitch ball or fastener with the ball mount, thereby blocking rotation of the hitch ball or fastener relative to the ball mount.
- hitch assembly of the present invention may be more readily understood by reference to the following drawings. While certain embodiments are shown as illustrative examples of the hitch assembly, the scope of this application should not be construed as limited to these illustrative examples.
- FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is an elevation view of the first embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention that includes a tear-shaped hitch ball flange;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention that includes a tear-shaped hitch ball flange and a pin that hangs over the side of the ball mount;
- FIG. 5 is a top-view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly that includes a key and corresponding keyway configuration
- FIG. 8 is a cross sectional elevation view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 9 is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the ball mount shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly that includes a horizontal pin projecting from the hitch ball;
- FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional plan view of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly including a key and corresponding keyway configuration
- FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional plan view of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 12 ;
- FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly including a notch defined within the hitch ball flange;
- FIG. 15 is a elevation view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 14 ;
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional plan view of the hitch assembly shown in FIG. 14 ;
- FIG. 17 is an elevation view of an alternative embodiment of a ball mount
- FIG. 18 is an elevation view of an alternative embodiment hitch assembly utilizing an anti-rotation nut with the ball mount shown in FIG. 17 ;
- FIG. 19 is a plan view of the nut of the alternative embodiment hitch assembly shown in FIG. 18 ;
- FIG. 20A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment nut with the shuttle pin in the engaged position
- FIG. 20B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment nut with the shuttle pin in the engaged position
- FIG. 20C is a perspective view of the nut shown in FIG. 20A with the shuttle pin in the disengaged position;
- FIG. 20D is a perspective view of the nut shown in FIG. 20B with the shuttle pin in the disengaged position;
- FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view of an alternative ball mount including a blind pin receiving hole
- FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount shown in FIG. 21 with the nut shown in FIG. 20B installed;
- FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount shown in FIG. 21 with the nut shown in FIG. 20A installed;
- FIG. 24 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount with an alternative embodiment nut installed with the static pin engaged in the ball mount;
- FIG. 25 is an elevation view of a hitch assembly including the nut shown in FIG. 24 with the static pin engaged in the ball mount;
- FIG. 26 is an elevation view of a hitch assembly including the nut shown in FIG. 24 with the static pin not engaged in the ball mount;
- FIG. 27 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount with the nut shown in FIG. 24 with the static pin not engaged in the ball mount;
- FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including a set screw
- FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including a threaded pin
- FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including a plunger pin
- FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including an interference fit pin
- FIG. 32 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment hitch assembly including a blocking arm
- FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the alternative embodiment hitch assembly shown in FIG. 32 .
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention.
- the hitch assembly 10 includes a hitch ball 12 .
- the hitch ball 12 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is described below.
- a standard hitch ball can be used providing that it is modified with or for the reception of one of the anti-rotation mechanisms disclosed herein.
- the hitch ball 12 can be a new piece including such an anti-rotational modification, or it can be a standard hitch ball modified to include an anti-rotational piece.
- Such modified hitch balls allow for retrofitting.
- the hitch ball 12 is preferably formed as one piece from a metal, such as stainless steel, although other suitable materials, such as plastic, can be used. Additionally, the hitch ball may be formed of multiple interconnecting pieces.
- the hitch ball 12 includes a ball portion 14 having a generally spherical configuration centered on a longitudinal axis 16 of the hitch ball.
- the ball portion 14 has a flattened upper end surface 18 , but this flattened surface is not required.
- a flange portion, 20 of the hitch ball 12 extends from the ball portion 14 .
- the flange 20 includes a flared section 22 and a cylindrical section 24 .
- the flared section 22 of the flange 20 of the hitch ball 12 flares, that is, increases in diameter, from a smaller diameter part 26 adjacent the ball portion 14 , to a larger diameter part 28 adjacent the cylindrical section 24 .
- the cylindrical section 24 of the flange 20 of the hitch ball 12 has a cylindrical outer side surface 30 centered on the axis 16 .
- the cylindrical section 24 also has a planar, annular end surface 32 centered on the axis 16 and extending normal to the axis.
- the hitch ball 12 includes a shank 34 .
- the shank 34 extends from the end surface 32 of the flange 20 of the hitch ball 12 , in a direction away from the ball portion 14 .
- the shank 34 has a cylindrical configuration centered on the axis 16 .
- the shank 34 has an external thread convolution 36 .
- hitch ball 12 could also be shaped or configured differently then described herein.
- the entire flange 20 could be a cylindrical shape and not include a flared portion. Such modifications are contemplated and are included within this disclosure to the extent they are within the scope of the claims.
- the hitch assembly 10 includes a ball mount 40 .
- the ball mount 40 is a portion of the hitch assembly 10 that is fixed to the towing vehicle. In some applications, the vehicle must be fitted for the receipt of a ball mount 40 .
- the ball mount 40 has a bar-like configuration including a body portion 42 that extends generally horizontal when the ball mount is mounted on the vehicle.
- the body portion 42 has an upper side surface 44 and a lower side surface 45 .
- a generally circular shank opening 46 is formed in the body portion 42 of the ball mount 40 .
- the shank opening 46 extends completely through the body portion 42 of the ball mount 40 .
- the shank opening 46 of the ball mount 40 is slightly larger in diameter than the shank 34 of the hitch ball 12 .
- the shank 34 of the hitch ball 12 can be inserted freely through the shank opening 46 in the ball mount 40 .
- the hitch ball 12 is rotatable relative to the ball mount 40 , about the axis 16 .
- the hitch assembly 10 also includes a fastener.
- the fastener is a nut 50 , but the fastener could also be a threaded cap, a wing nut or other type of fastener.
- the nut 50 has an internal thread convolution 52 that is engageable with the external thread convolution 36 on the shank 34 of the hitch ball 12 .
- the hitch assembly 10 also includes a mechanism for blocking rotation of the hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 relative to the ball mount 40 .
- the mechanism includes a surface located on the hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 that interact with a surface on the ball mount 40 to prevent the rotation of either the hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 that relative to the ball mount 40 . With either the hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 blocked from rotating relative to the ball mount 40 , only one tool is required to effectively tighten the other component.
- the mechanism includes a pin 60 , a first pin opening 62 in the hitch ball 12 , and a second pin opening 64 in the ball mount 40 .
- the first pin opening 62 is formed in the flange 20 of the hitch ball 12 .
- the first pin opening 62 has a cylindrical configuration, although other configurations are possible, extending parallel to the axis 16 .
- the first pin opening 62 is located radially outward of the shank 34
- the first pin opening 62 does not extend completely through the flange 20 of the hitch ball 12 , but rather is formed as a bore extending only partially into the flange of the hitch ball.
- the second pin opening 64 is formed in the upper side surface 44 of the body portion 42 of the ball mount 40 .
- the second pin opening 64 has a cylindrical configuration, although other configurations are possible, extending parallel to the axis 16 .
- the second pin opening 64 does not extend completely through the body portion 42 of the ball mount 40 , but rather is formed as a bore extending only partially into the ball mount.
- the second pin opening 64 is located radially outward of the shank opening 46 .
- the second pin opening 64 is spaced apart from the shank opening 46 by the same distance that the first pin opening 62 is spaced apart from the shank opening when the hitch ball is installed through the shank opening.
- the pin 60 is preferably formed of a rigid material, such as metal, although other suitable materials, such as plastic, can be used.
- the pin 60 has a cylindrical configuration with a diameter slightly smaller than the diameters of the first and second pin openings 62 and 64 .
- the pin 60 may have an interference fit in one or both of the first and second pin openings 62 and 64 .
- the pin 60 is cylindrical but, in general, the pin can be shaped in many configurations so long as it conforms to the shape of the first and second openings 62 and 64 .
- the length of the pin 60 is slightly less than the combined lengths of the first and second pin openings 62 and 64 .
- the hitch assembly 10 is used by inserting the pin 60 into the first pin opening 62 in the hitch ball 12 .
- the pin 60 could also be integrally formed with the hitch ball 12 . In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , a portion of the pin 60 projects down from the flange 20 of the hitch ball 12 .
- the hitch ball 12 is then positioned on the ball mount 40 so that the shank 34 of the hitch ball extends into the shank opening 46 in the ball mount, and the pin 60 fits into the second pin opening 64 in the ball mount 40 .
- the hitch ball 12 is moved axially into position on the ball mount 40 , so that the end surface 32 of the hitch ball 12 is in abutting engagement with the upper side surface 44 of the ball mount.
- the fastener 50 is screwed onto the projecting shank 34 of the hitch ball 12 .
- the fastener 50 is as nut.
- the engagement of the pin 60 in the first and second pin openings 62 and 64 blocks rotation of the hitch ball 12 relative to the ball mount 40 .
- the nut 50 can be tightened on the hitch ball 12 , without the need for holding the hitch ball with a tool, such as a wrench.
- This embodiment provides for the complete encapsulation of the pin within the hitch ball and hitch mount, and therefore it is not cosmetically different from traditional ball mount assemblies. When assembled, it would not be visually apparent that the hitch assembly includes an anti-rotational feature.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a hitch assembly 10 a constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. Parts of the hitch assembly 10 a that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “a” attached.
- the hitch assembly 10 a ( FIG. 3 ) includes a hitch ball 12 a .
- the hitch ball 12 a has a flange 20 a that is not cylindrical in shape but instead has a teardrop shape including a radially projecting portion 66 .
- a first pin opening 62 a is formed in the projecting portion 66 of the flange 20 a of the hitch ball 12 a .
- the first pin opening 62 a is therefore spaced radially outward by a greater distance than the first pin opening 62 of the hitch ball 12 ( FIGS. 1-2 ).
- a second pin opening 64 a on the ball mount 40 a is spaced radially outward by a greater distance than the second pin opening 64 of the ball mount 40 .
- the pin 60 a engages in the pin openings 62 a and 64 a to block rotation of the ball hitch 12 a relative to the ball mount 40 a .
- the pin 60 a could be placed in the pin opening 64 a of the ball mount 40 a and the hitch ball 12 a could be inserted into the ball mount 40 a so its pin opening 62 a engages the pin. During assembly, the pin 60 a could also be inserted into the pin opening 62 a of the hitch ball 12 a first and then the hitch ball could be inserted into the ball mount 40 a.
- the flange 20 a is tear-drop shaped to allow for the additional radial spacing of the first pin opening 62 a .
- Other shapes may be used to provide this same feature, for example the flange 20 a could be oval shaped.
- the increased radial spacing can provide an increased mechanical advantage as the pin 60 a resists rotation of the hitch ball 12 a . It can also provide an orientation feature so that the user can identify the location of the pin 60 a (and the first pin opening 62 a ) from above when assembling the hitch ball 12 a to the ball mount 40 a with the pin.
- the radial spacing of the pin 60 a allows the hitch ball 12 a to be used with a conventional ball mount that does not include an anti-rotational feature.
- FIGS. 4-6 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 b constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention. Parts of the hitch assembly 10 b that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffixes “b” attached.
- the hitch assembly 10 b ( FIG. 4-6 ) includes a hitch ball 12 b and a ball mount 40 b .
- the hitch ball 12 b has a flange 20 b that is not cylindrical in shape but instead has a teardrop shape including a radially projecting portion 66 b.
- a pin opening 62 b is formed in the projecting portion 66 b of the flange 20 b of the hitch ball 12 b .
- the pin opening 62 b is therefore spaced radially outward by a greater distance than the first pin opening 62 of the hitch ball ( FIG. 1-2 ).
- the pin 60 b engages in the pin opening 62 b in the flange 20 b of the hitch ball 12 b .
- the combination of the teardrop shape of the flange 20 b and the location of the pin opening 62 b allow the pin to hang off of the side of the ball mount 40 b .
- the pin 60 b engages a side portion 66 of the ball mount 40 b to prevent relative rotation of the hitch ball 12 b to the ball mount 40 b.
- the flange is tear-drop shaped so that only a small portion of the flange extends beyond the edge of the ball mount.
- Other shapes may be used to provide the same feature, such as an oval or rectangular shaped flange.
- An advantage of this design is that the standard ball mount need not be altered, as the pin engages the side of the ball mount instead of a hole or recess in the ball mount.
- the pin 60 b includes one or more flat surfaces that engage the surface of the ball mount 40 b when the hitch ball 12 b is mounted.
- the section of the pin 60 b that engages the ball mount 40 b is coated or padded to prevent the scratching of the ball mount.
- FIGS. 7-9 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 c constructed in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention. Parts of the hitch assembly 10 c that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “c” attached.
- An additional embodiment of the present invention includes a recessed portion that extends from the shank opening 46 of the ball mount 40 .
- the recessed portion is configured to receive a mating piece that is located on either the hitch ball 12 or the fastener 50 .
- the mating piece that is located on the hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 engages with the recessed portion located on the ball mount to prevent rotation of the hitch ball or fastener relative to the ball mount.
- the recessed portion could vary in size from a small recessed portion on the ball mount to a larger recessed portion that extends around a greater portion of the shank opening 46 .
- the hitch assembly 10 c includes a ball mount 12 c .
- the shank portion 34 c of the hitch ball 12 c has a mating portion 68 in the shape of a male key.
- the mating protrusion 68 has a rectangular cross section, but other shapes and configurations could be used, such as a rounded protrusion with a semi-circular cross-section.
- the ball mount 40 c has a corresponding recessed portion 70 which is in the shape of a keyway extending from the shank opening 46 c . The recessed portion 70 only passes through a section of the body portion 42 c of the ball mount 40 c .
- the recessed portion 70 is a notch with a rectangular cross-section that is defined in the body portion 42 c of the ball mount; however, the recessed portion 70 could be shaped and configured in many different ways, such as a semi-circular cut-out.
- the recessed portion 70 could be a small portion, or a larger portion extending generally around the circumference of the shank opening 46 .
- the mating portion 68 on the hitch ball 12 c is receivable in the recessed portion 70 of the ball mount 40 c to block rotation of the hitch ball 12 c relative to the ball mount 40 c.
- FIGS. 10-11 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 d constructed in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention. Parts of the hitch assembly 10 d that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “d” attached.
- the hitch assembly 10 d shown in FIGS. 10-11 illustrates another example of an extended recess used as an anti-rotational mechanism.
- the hitch assembly 10 d includes a hitch ball 12 d .
- the shank portion 34 d of the hitch ball 12 d has a horizontal pin 72 extending radially outward from the shank portion of the hitch ball.
- the pin 72 can be removable from the shank portion 34 d or can be integrally formed with the shank portion 34 d of the hitch ball 12 d .
- a slot 74 is defined within the ball mount 40 d .
- the horizontal pin 72 on the shank portion 34 d of the hitch ball 12 d is receivable in the corresponding slot 74 of the ball mount 40 d to block rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount.
- FIG. 12-13 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 e constructed in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the invention. Parts of the hitch assembly 10 e that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “e” attached.
- the hitch assembly 10 e ( FIG. 12-13 ) includes a hitch ball 12 e .
- a male key 76 is attached to the ball mount 40 e .
- the key 76 can be removable from the ball mount 40 e or it can be integrally formed with the ball mount.
- the key 76 is a protrusion with a rectangular cross section, but other shapes and configurations could be used, such as a rounded protrusion with a semi-circular cross-section.
- the key 76 can be a small piece or it could extend down the length of the shank opening 46 .
- a corresponding keyway 78 is defined within the shank portion 34 e of the hitch ball 12 e .
- the keyway 78 is a notch with a rectangular cross-section; however, the keyway 78 could be shaped and configured in many different ways, such as a semi-circular cut-out
- the male key 76 on the ball mount 40 e is receivable in the keyway 78 of the shank portion 34 e of the hitch ball 12 e to block rotation of the hitch ball 12 e relative to the ball mount 40 e as shown in FIG. 13 .
- FIGS. 14-16 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 f constructed in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention. Parts of the hitch assembly 10 e that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 ( FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “f” attached.
- the hitch assembly 10 f ( FIGS. 14-16 ) includes a hitch ball 12 f .
- a pin opening 64 f is defined in the ball mount 40 f of the hitch assembly 10 f .
- the pin 60 f engages in the pin opening 64 f.
- a notch, slot or recess 80 is defined in a portion of the hitch ball flange 20 f such that when the shank portion 34 f of the hitch ball 12 f is inserted through the shank opening 46 f of the ball mount 40 f , the notch, slot or recess aligns with the pin 60 f on the ball mount.
- the hitch assembly 10 f could include one recess 80 or it could include multiple such recesses. The engagement of the notch, slot or recess 80 with the pin 60 f prevents the hitch ball 12 f from moving relative to the ball mount 40 f during the installation or removal of the hitch ball.
- the pin 60 f can be visible after installation of the hitch ball 12 f .
- the visually perceptible pin 60 f allows the user to recognize when the anti-rotation feature is engaged.
- the location of the pin 60 f on the ball mount 40 f can be either close to the shank opening 46 f or further away. When the pin 60 f is located a sufficient distance away from the shank opening 46 f , traditional hitch balls can be used because the pin does not interfere with the operation of the traditional hitch balls.
- the fastener of the present invention can be adapted to include an anti-rotation feature. Illustrative examples of these embodiments are shown in FIGS. 17-31 .
- hitch assemblies the hitch ball is driven by a wrench or other tool while the fastener is held stationary with another wrench or tool.
- Many hitch balls include wrench flats or socket drivers so they can be installed using a driving mechanism. Since the hitch ball is often the active piece of the hitch assembly, additional embodiments of the invention include fasteners that are adapted to prevent rotation of the fastener relative to the ball mount. Consequently, the installer will be able to install the hitch ball with only one tool; using the tool to drive the hitch ball 12 while the fastener 50 is held stationary.
- anti-rotational fasteners when using such a configuration, it is desired that the fastener should be unable to be torqued after installation. If the fastener were torqued, the anti-rotational mechanism could be damaged. For this reason, many of the embodiments including anti-rotational fasteners also include an anti-tamper feature that help prevent the fastener from being turned, or otherwise tampered with after installation. These anti-tamper fasteners could be combined with a hitch ball utilizing a security key socket driver, to serve as a type of hitch lock. Since the fasteners cannot be turned and the hitch ball could only be rotated by a custom formed socket, the hitch assembly could not be unassembled without the custom formed socket.
- FIGS. 17-19 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 g constructed in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the invention that includes a nut 82 adapted to prevent rotation.
- Parts of the hitch assembly that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “g” attached.
- the hitch assembly 10 g ( FIGS. 17-19 ) includes a hitch ball 12 g .
- a pin opening 64 g is defined in the ball mount 40 g of the hitch assembly 10 g .
- the pin 60 g engages in the pin opening 64 g.
- the hitch assembly 10 g includes a nut 82 .
- a pin opening 52 is defined within the surface of the nut 82 .
- the pin opening 52 is adapted to receive the pin 60 g of the ball mount 40 g .
- the pin 60 g prevents the nut 82 from moving relative to the ball mount 40 g during the installation of the hitch ball 12 g . This allows the installer to turn the hitch ball 12 g with a wrench or other driver while the nut 82 remains stationary.
- a lock washer pocket 84 is defined in the mounting face of the nut 82 and holds a lock washer 88 in place. Alternative embodiments of this nut 82 may not include this lock washer pocket 84 and lock washer 88 .
- the nut in the embodiment shown in FIGS.
- the shape of the nut 82 is configured in a manner that would make it difficult to torque the nut.
- the tear drop shape of the nut would make it difficult to apply torque to the nut with a tool, such as a wrench, since there are no flat grabbing surfaces.
- Other nut configurations and shapes could be employed to achieve this same anti-tamper function.
- a trim piece (not shown), such as a plastic piece, could be used to cover the portion of the pin extending from the top surface of the ball mount 44 g , thereby making the assembly more attractive.
- FIGS. 20-23 illustrate two additional nuts 90 and 92 that could be used to provide the anti-rotational nut feature.
- These nuts include a shuttle pin 94 that could be moved to and from an engagement position 96 .
- FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate the nuts 90 and 92 with the shuttle pin 94 protruding in the engaged position 96
- FIGS. 20C and 20D illustrate the nuts 90 and 92 with the shuttle pin retracted into the disengaged position 98 .
- the difference between nut 90 illustrated in FIG. 20A and the nut 92 illustrated in FIG. 20B is that nut 92 includes a set of wrench flats, while nut 90 is a teardrop shape and does not include any wrench flats. Other differently configured and shaped nuts could also be used to provide this feature.
- a blind pin receiving hole 100 is defined within the ball mount 40 h that receives the shuttle pin 94 of the anti rotational nut when the shuttle pin is in the engagement position 96 .
- the shuttle pin 94 is placed in the engagement position 96 and inserted into the blind pin receiving hole 100 during installation. If it is desired that the nut 90 or 92 should rotate freely or if the ball mount 40 h being used does not include a pin receiving hole, the shuttle pin 94 is placed in the disengagement position 98 .
- the engagement of the shuttle pins 94 in the blind pin receiving hole 100 prevents the nuts 90 or 92 from moving relative to the ball mount 40 h when the hitch ball 12 h is rotated.
- the blind pin receiving hole 100 totally receives the engagement portion 102 of the shuttle pin 94 but the shuttle pins is not accessible or visible from the upper side of the ball mount 40 h .
- This configuration gives the hitch assembly 10 h an improved appearance and also prevents access to the shuttle pin 94 of the nut 90 or 92 while the hitch ball 12 h is installed. Since the shuttle pin 94 is inaccessible when the hitch ball 12 h is installed the nut 90 or 92 cannot be tampered with while the hitch ball is installed.
- FIGS. 24-27 illustrate an additional embodiment of a hitch assembly 10 i including a nut with an anti-rotational feature 104 .
- the nut 104 includes a static pin 106 protruding outward from the engagement surface 108 of the nut. This static pin 106 is received by the pin receiving hole 64 i of the ball mount 40 i to prevent the movement of the nut 104 relative the ball mount. If it is desired that the nut remain stationary, the engagement surface 108 is placed against the ball mount 40 i and the static pin 106 is inserted into the pin receiving hole 64 i of the ball mount.
- the non-engagement surface 110 of the nut is placed against the ball mount 40 i with the engagement surface 108 and static pin 106 facing away from the ball mount.
- Recesses 112 adapted for receiving lock washers are defined within both the engagement surface 108 and non-engagement surface 110 of the nut 104 . This allows a lock washer to be used regardless of whether the engagement surface 108 or non-engagement surface 110 of the nut 104 is facing the ball mount 40 i during installation. Alternative embodiments of the nut 104 may not include these recesses.
- the pin could be integrally formed in the hitch ball 12 , or fastener 50 and engage with the ball mount 40 .
- the pin could be integrally formed in the ball mount 40 and engage with the hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 .
- the pin 60 may be positioned in one of the ball mount 40 , hitch ball 12 or fastener 50 and then the components of the hitch assembly 10 could then be fitted together so the pin properly engages the desired components.
- the pins 60 that are used by the various embodiments of the present invention could be replaced by a protrusion.
- the protrusion could be configured and shaped in multiple ways, such as a pyramid or dome shaped protrusion.
- the protrusion could be located on either the hitch ball 12 or the ball mount 40 and engage with a corresponding recess formed in the other of the hitch ball or ball mount to prevent rotation of the hitch ball in relation to the ball mount.
- the protrusion could be located on either the ball mount 40 or the fastener 50 and engage with a corresponding recess formed in the other of the ball mount or fastener.
- the present invention also includes methods that allow its components to be used with other conventional hitch assembly components that are not similarly adapted for anti-rotation. These methods, such as a pin that can be moved between multiple positions, could also be utilized by the installer to disengage the anti-rotational mechanism of the hitch assembly if it is not needed.
- FIG. 28 illustrates a ball mount 40 j including a set screw mechanism that can be utilized to move the pins of the present invention between various positions and lock it in a desired position.
- a pin receiving hole 64 j and set screw receiving hole 114 which abuts the pin receiving hole, are defined within the ball mount 40 j .
- the pin 60 j is received in the pin receiving hole 64 j of the ball mount 40 j and the set screw 116 is received within the set screw receiving hole 114 .
- the set screw mechanism in FIG. 28 can be used to lock the pin 60 j into two positions, a raised position and a dropped position.
- the raised position allows for engagement of the pin 60 j located in the ball mount 40 j with the hitch ball (not shown) as it is raised from the surface of the ball mount.
- the pin is situated in the raised position and the set screw 116 is tightened, thus locking the pin into position.
- the set screw 116 is loosened, allowing the pin to be moved to the dropped position.
- the pin 60 j is in the dropped position it can be flush with the top surface 44 of the ball mount 60 j and project from the bottom surface 45 of the ball mount.
- the pin 60 j could also be totally encapsulated within the ball mount 40 j and be flush with both the top surface 44 and bottom surface 45 when it is in the dropped position.
- the set screw 116 can be retightened to secure the pin 60 i in the dropped position.
- Grooves 118 can be defined in the pin 60 i to help secure the pin in position and further assist in locating the pin in its proper position, but these grooves are not required.
- FIG. 29 illustrates a similar embodiment that utilizes a threaded pin 120 .
- a threaded pin receiving hole 122 is defined within the ball mount 40 k .
- a pin crown receiving hole 124 is defined within the upper surface 44 k and lower surface 45 k of the ball mount 40 k .
- the diameter of the pin crown receiving hole 124 is larger than the diameter of the pin receiving hole 122 .
- the pin crown receiving hole 124 is helpful in locating the pin, but it is not required and this embodiment would be effective without it.
- the threaded pin 120 includes a threaded portion 126 and an unthreaded crown portion 128 .
- the crown portion 128 of the pin has a larger diameter than the threaded portion 126 .
- the threaded portion 126 of the threaded pin 120 engages with the threaded pin receiving hole 122 of the ball mount 40 k .
- the crown portion 128 of the threaded pin 120 is received by the pin crown receiving hole 124 of the ball mount 40 k .
- the crown portion 128 contacts the surface of the ball mount. This helps locate the threaded pin 120 in the proper position and prevents the threaded pin from being screwed in further than it should be. It is not required that the pin 120 include a crown portion 128 or that the ball mount 40 k include a pin crown receiving hole 124 , but this configuration is helpful in locating the pin.
- the threaded pin 120 could be threaded into the upper surface 44 k of the ball mount 40 k to engage a hitch ball equipped with a pin receiving hole or it could be threaded into the lower surface 45 k of the ball mount 40 k to engage a nut so equipped. Additionally, when the anti-rotation mechanism is not to be used, the threaded pin 120 can be removed all together or it could be threaded into a side of the ball mount 40 k where it would not interfere with the installation of the hitch assembly 10 k . Having the pin receiving hole 122 on both the upper surface 44 k and the lower surface 45 k of the ball mount 40 k provides a convenient storage location for the threaded pin 120 when it is not in use.
- FIG. 30 illustrate an additional embodiment that utilizes a plunger pin design to facilitate the positioning of the pin.
- a plunger pin receiving hole 64 m and a detent receiving hole 132 which abuts the plunger pin receiving hole, are defined within the surface of the ball mount 40 m .
- the plunger pin 60 m is received within the plunger pin receiving hole 64 m of the ball mount 40 m and a spring-biased detent 136 is received within the detent receiving hole 132 .
- the plunger pin 60 m can be manually forced into a raised position, in which it interferes with a portion of the hitch ball 12 m (not shown), or a dropped position, in which it does not interfere with the hitch ball. As shown in FIG.
- an upper groove 138 and a lower groove 140 are defined within the surface of the pin 60 m .
- These grooves correspond to the raised position and the dropped position and are adapted to accept the spring biased detent 136 . However, these grooves are not required.
- These grooves 138 and 140 may include a camming surface 142 , which allows the detent 136 to move into and out of the grooves upon the application of pressure. If the pin 60 m was in the dropped position and was totally encapsulated within the ball mount 40 m it may be necessary to include a way to retrieve the pin from within the ball mount. Accordingly, additional embodiments of the pin 60 m could include a springing mechanism configured in such a manner that when the pin is pushed down it is released and allowed to spring to a raised position (not shown).
- FIG. 31 illustrates another pin embodiment of the present invention.
- the pin receiving hole 64 n of the ball mount 40 n houses a pair of interference rings 144 that correspond with a raised position and a dropped position.
- Various numbers and configurations of interference rings could be used, for example, one or more o-rings.
- An interference fit is formed between the pin 60 n and an interference ring 144 within the pin receiving hole 64 n of the ball mount 40 n .
- a formed detent 146 is located on the pin to assist in the location of the pin.
- the interference fit version is movable between the raised position and dropped position through the application of an axial force on the pin 60 n.
- each pin could have multiple positions.
- a pin mechanism with three positions: a raised position, a dropped position, and a centered position, could be used.
- Such a pin could be centered within the ball mount 40 with both the top and the bottom of the pin being flush with the upper surface 44 and lower surface 45 of the ball mount.
- FIGS. 28-32 are each shown in use with the ball mounts 40 , these pin embodiments could also be adapted to facilitate the movement of any of the pins 60 that are located on the hitch balls 12 or fasteners 50 of various embodiments of the hitch assembly 10 .
- the embodiments that include pins 60 on the hitch ball 12 or nut 50 could use the set screw, threaded, plunger, or interference fit pin mechanisms to move their pins between multiple positions.
- the movable pins allow the components of the hitch assembly 10 to be used with standard hitch assembly components that do not include anti-rotational features. For example, if a movable pin 60 was located on a hitch ball 12 , the pin could be retracted into the hitch ball so the hitch ball could be used with a standard ball mount 40 that does not include a pin opening 64 .
- FIGS. 32-33 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 o constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- the hitch assembly 10 o ( FIGS. 32-33 ) includes a hitch ball 12 o with a flange 20 o having a cylindrical section 24 o with a cylindrical outer side surface 30 o .
- a blocking arm opening, or bore, 148 is formed in the outer side surface 30 o .
- the opening 148 extends radially inward from the surface 30 o in a direction toward the axis 16 o .
- the opening 148 has a cylindrical configuration but other shaped openings could be used.
- the hitch assembly 10 o also includes a blocking arm 150 .
- the blocking arm 150 is a member that is engageable with the hitch ball 12 o and with the ball mount 40 o , in a different manner than as described above, to block rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount.
- the blocking arm 150 in the illustrated embodiment is a single piece of cylindrical metal rod bent to form a three-dimensional (non-planar) configuration which, as illustrated, includes four legs 152 , 154 , 156 and 158 . Three of the legs 152 , 154 and 156 are arranged so that they wrap fairly closely around the ball mount 40 o .
- the fourth leg 158 of the blocking arm 150 is arranged so that when the three legs 152 - 156 are wrapped around the ball mount 40 o , the fourth leg extends laterally into the blocking arm opening 148 in the hitch ball 12 o.
- the blocking arm 150 is inserted into the blocking arm opening 148 in the hitch ball 12 o , and wrapped around the ball mount 40 o , after the shank portion 34 o of the hitch ball is inserted into the shank opening 46 o of the ball mount.
- the engagement of the blocking arm 150 in the opening 148 of the hitch ball 12 o when the blocking arm is wrapped around the ball mount 40 o , blocks rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount. After the nut 50 o is tightened, the blocking arm 150 can be removed.
- the blocking arm is not limited to the configuration or shape of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 32-33 .
- the blocking arm could have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as a bent rod with a rectangular cross-section.
- the blocking arm could also be configured in many different ways, such as member bent into a L-shape that engaged with the hitch ball 12 and the ball mount 40 .
Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/481,028 filed Jun. 26, 2003 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/521,067 filed Feb. 13, 2004, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
- A hitch assembly connects a towing vehicle with a towed vehicle, such as a trailer. One common type of hitch assembly includes a hitch ball on the towing vehicle. The hitch ball is often removably mounted on a ball mount secured to the frame of the towing vehicle. The ball mount includes a through hole for receiving a shank portion of the hitch ball. The hitch ball is secured to the ball mount with a fastener that is threaded on the shank portion and tightened down against the ball mount.
- During assembly, if the hitch ball is rotated by a wrench, socket driver, or other tool, the fastener tends to rotate along with it. Similarly, if the fastener is rotated by a tool, the hitch ball has a tendency to rotate also. Therefore, to tighten the hitch ball and fastener onto the ball mount, one of the hitch ball or fastener must be blocked from rotating relative to the ball mount while the other is rotated. Typically, this is accomplished by using two wrenches to grasp both the hitch ball and fastener. One wrench is used to hold either the hitch ball or the fastener stationary, while the other wrench is used to tighten down the other.
- The present invention relates to a hitch assembly that includes an anti-rotation mechanism. The hitch assembly generally includes a hitch ball, a ball mount, and a fastener. The invention is directed to a mechanism for preventing rotation of either the hitch ball or the fastener relative to the ball mount. The anti-rotation mechanism of the present invention provides an engagement means for interlocking sections of the hitch ball or fastener with the ball mount, thereby blocking rotation of the hitch ball or fastener relative to the ball mount.
- The hitch assembly of the present invention may be more readily understood by reference to the following drawings. While certain embodiments are shown as illustrative examples of the hitch assembly, the scope of this application should not be construed as limited to these illustrative examples.
-
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is an elevation view of the first embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention that includes a tear-shaped hitch ball flange; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly of the present invention that includes a tear-shaped hitch ball flange and a pin that hangs over the side of the ball mount; -
FIG. 5 is a top-view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly that includes a key and corresponding keyway configuration; -
FIG. 8 is a cross sectional elevation view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the ball mount shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly that includes a horizontal pin projecting from the hitch ball; -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional plan view of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly including a key and corresponding keyway configuration; -
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional plan view of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 12 ; -
FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly including a notch defined within the hitch ball flange; -
FIG. 15 is a elevation view of the alternative embodiment of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 14 ; -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional plan view of the hitch assembly shown inFIG. 14 ; -
FIG. 17 is an elevation view of an alternative embodiment of a ball mount; -
FIG. 18 is an elevation view of an alternative embodiment hitch assembly utilizing an anti-rotation nut with the ball mount shown inFIG. 17 ; -
FIG. 19 is a plan view of the nut of the alternative embodiment hitch assembly shown inFIG. 18 ; -
FIG. 20A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment nut with the shuttle pin in the engaged position; -
FIG. 20B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment nut with the shuttle pin in the engaged position; -
FIG. 20C is a perspective view of the nut shown inFIG. 20A with the shuttle pin in the disengaged position; -
FIG. 20D is a perspective view of the nut shown inFIG. 20B with the shuttle pin in the disengaged position; -
FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view of an alternative ball mount including a blind pin receiving hole; -
FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount shown inFIG. 21 with the nut shown inFIG. 20B installed; -
FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount shown inFIG. 21 with the nut shown inFIG. 20A installed; -
FIG. 24 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount with an alternative embodiment nut installed with the static pin engaged in the ball mount; -
FIG. 25 is an elevation view of a hitch assembly including the nut shown inFIG. 24 with the static pin engaged in the ball mount; -
FIG. 26 is an elevation view of a hitch assembly including the nut shown inFIG. 24 with the static pin not engaged in the ball mount; -
FIG. 27 is a bottom plan view of the ball mount with the nut shown inFIG. 24 with the static pin not engaged in the ball mount; -
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including a set screw; -
FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including a threaded pin; -
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including a plunger pin; -
FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional plan view of an alternative embodiment ball mount including an interference fit pin; -
FIG. 32 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment hitch assembly including a blocking arm; and -
FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the alternative embodiment hitch assembly shown inFIG. 32 . - The present invention can take the form of a number of embodiments, many of which are described herein. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that other embodiments incorporating the invention described herein can be formed. The invention is directed to a hitch ball, a ball mount and a fastener and a mechanism for preventing rotation of either the hitch ball or the fastener relative to the ball mount. The anti-rotation mechanism provides an engagement means for interlocking sections of the hitch ball or fastener with the ball mount. The invention is best illustrated in the description of the embodiments below. As representative of the invention,
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. - The
hitch assembly 10 includes ahitch ball 12. Thehitch ball 12 shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 is described below. Generally, a standard hitch ball can be used providing that it is modified with or for the reception of one of the anti-rotation mechanisms disclosed herein. To that extent, thehitch ball 12 can be a new piece including such an anti-rotational modification, or it can be a standard hitch ball modified to include an anti-rotational piece. Such modified hitch balls allow for retrofitting. - The
hitch ball 12 is preferably formed as one piece from a metal, such as stainless steel, although other suitable materials, such as plastic, can be used. Additionally, the hitch ball may be formed of multiple interconnecting pieces. - The
hitch ball 12 includes aball portion 14 having a generally spherical configuration centered on alongitudinal axis 16 of the hitch ball. In the illustrated embodiment, theball portion 14 has a flattenedupper end surface 18, but this flattened surface is not required. - A flange portion, 20 of the
hitch ball 12 extends from theball portion 14. Theflange 20 includes a flaredsection 22 and acylindrical section 24. The flaredsection 22 of theflange 20 of thehitch ball 12 flares, that is, increases in diameter, from asmaller diameter part 26 adjacent theball portion 14, to alarger diameter part 28 adjacent thecylindrical section 24. - The
cylindrical section 24 of theflange 20 of thehitch ball 12 has a cylindricalouter side surface 30 centered on theaxis 16. Thecylindrical section 24 also has a planar,annular end surface 32 centered on theaxis 16 and extending normal to the axis. - The
hitch ball 12 includes ashank 34. Theshank 34 extends from theend surface 32 of theflange 20 of thehitch ball 12, in a direction away from theball portion 14. Theshank 34 has a cylindrical configuration centered on theaxis 16. Theshank 34 has anexternal thread convolution 36. - It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the
hitch ball 12 could also be shaped or configured differently then described herein. For example, theentire flange 20 could be a cylindrical shape and not include a flared portion. Such modifications are contemplated and are included within this disclosure to the extent they are within the scope of the claims. - The
hitch assembly 10 includes aball mount 40. The ball mount 40 is a portion of thehitch assembly 10 that is fixed to the towing vehicle. In some applications, the vehicle must be fitted for the receipt of aball mount 40. The ball mount 40 has a bar-like configuration including abody portion 42 that extends generally horizontal when the ball mount is mounted on the vehicle. Thebody portion 42 has anupper side surface 44 and alower side surface 45. - A generally
circular shank opening 46 is formed in thebody portion 42 of theball mount 40. Theshank opening 46 extends completely through thebody portion 42 of theball mount 40. Theshank opening 46 of the ball mount 40 is slightly larger in diameter than theshank 34 of thehitch ball 12. As a result, theshank 34 of thehitch ball 12 can be inserted freely through theshank opening 46 in theball mount 40. When this is done, thehitch ball 12 is rotatable relative to theball mount 40, about theaxis 16. - The
hitch assembly 10 also includes a fastener. In the illustrated embodiments, the fastener is anut 50, but the fastener could also be a threaded cap, a wing nut or other type of fastener. Thenut 50 has aninternal thread convolution 52 that is engageable with theexternal thread convolution 36 on theshank 34 of thehitch ball 12. - The
hitch assembly 10 also includes a mechanism for blocking rotation of thehitch ball 12 orfastener 50 relative to theball mount 40. Generally, the mechanism includes a surface located on thehitch ball 12 orfastener 50 that interact with a surface on the ball mount 40 to prevent the rotation of either thehitch ball 12 orfastener 50 that relative to theball mount 40. With either thehitch ball 12 orfastener 50 blocked from rotating relative to theball mount 40, only one tool is required to effectively tighten the other component. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the mechanism includes apin 60, a first pin opening 62 in thehitch ball 12, and a second pin opening 64 in theball mount 40. The first pin opening 62 is formed in theflange 20 of thehitch ball 12. The first pin opening 62 has a cylindrical configuration, although other configurations are possible, extending parallel to theaxis 16. The first pin opening 62 is located radially outward of theshank 34 The first pin opening 62 does not extend completely through theflange 20 of thehitch ball 12, but rather is formed as a bore extending only partially into the flange of the hitch ball. - The second pin opening 64 is formed in the
upper side surface 44 of thebody portion 42 of theball mount 40. The second pin opening 64 has a cylindrical configuration, although other configurations are possible, extending parallel to theaxis 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pin opening 64 does not extend completely through thebody portion 42 of theball mount 40, but rather is formed as a bore extending only partially into the ball mount. The second pin opening 64 is located radially outward of theshank opening 46. The second pin opening 64 is spaced apart from theshank opening 46 by the same distance that the first pin opening 62 is spaced apart from the shank opening when the hitch ball is installed through the shank opening. - The
pin 60 is preferably formed of a rigid material, such as metal, although other suitable materials, such as plastic, can be used. Thepin 60 has a cylindrical configuration with a diameter slightly smaller than the diameters of the first andsecond pin openings pin 60 may have an interference fit in one or both of the first andsecond pin openings pin 60 is cylindrical but, in general, the pin can be shaped in many configurations so long as it conforms to the shape of the first andsecond openings pin 60 is slightly less than the combined lengths of the first andsecond pin openings - The
hitch assembly 10 is used by inserting thepin 60 into the first pin opening 62 in thehitch ball 12. Thepin 60 could also be integrally formed with thehitch ball 12. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , a portion of thepin 60 projects down from theflange 20 of thehitch ball 12. - The
hitch ball 12 is then positioned on the ball mount 40 so that theshank 34 of the hitch ball extends into theshank opening 46 in the ball mount, and thepin 60 fits into the second pin opening 64 in theball mount 40. Thehitch ball 12 is moved axially into position on theball mount 40, so that theend surface 32 of thehitch ball 12 is in abutting engagement with theupper side surface 44 of the ball mount. - The
fastener 50 is screwed onto the projectingshank 34 of thehitch ball 12. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , thefastener 50 is as nut. As thenut 50 is tightened on thehitch ball 12, the engagement of thepin 60 in the first andsecond pin openings hitch ball 12 relative to theball mount 40. As a result, thenut 50 can be tightened on thehitch ball 12, without the need for holding the hitch ball with a tool, such as a wrench. This embodiment provides for the complete encapsulation of the pin within the hitch ball and hitch mount, and therefore it is not cosmetically different from traditional ball mount assemblies. When assembled, it would not be visually apparent that the hitch assembly includes an anti-rotational feature. -
FIG. 3 illustrates ahitch assembly 10 a constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. Parts of thehitch assembly 10 a that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “a” attached. - The
hitch assembly 10 a (FIG. 3 ) includes ahitch ball 12 a. Thehitch ball 12 a has aflange 20 a that is not cylindrical in shape but instead has a teardrop shape including aradially projecting portion 66. - A first pin opening 62 a is formed in the projecting
portion 66 of theflange 20 a of thehitch ball 12 a. The first pin opening 62 a is therefore spaced radially outward by a greater distance than the first pin opening 62 of the hitch ball 12 (FIGS. 1-2 ). A second pin opening 64 a on the ball mount 40 a is spaced radially outward by a greater distance than the second pin opening 64 of theball mount 40. Thepin 60 a engages in thepin openings pin 60 a could be placed in the pin opening 64 a of the ball mount 40 a and thehitch ball 12 a could be inserted into the ball mount 40 a so itspin opening 62 a engages the pin. During assembly, thepin 60 a could also be inserted into the pin opening 62 a of thehitch ball 12 a first and then the hitch ball could be inserted into the ball mount 40 a. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3 , theflange 20 a is tear-drop shaped to allow for the additional radial spacing of the first pin opening 62 a. Other shapes may be used to provide this same feature, for example theflange 20 a could be oval shaped. The increased radial spacing can provide an increased mechanical advantage as thepin 60 a resists rotation of thehitch ball 12 a. It can also provide an orientation feature so that the user can identify the location of thepin 60 a (and the first pin opening 62 a) from above when assembling thehitch ball 12 a to the ball mount 40 a with the pin. In addition, the radial spacing of thepin 60 a allows thehitch ball 12 a to be used with a conventional ball mount that does not include an anti-rotational feature. -
FIGS. 4-6 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 b constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention. Parts of thehitch assembly 10 b that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffixes “b” attached. - The
hitch assembly 10 b (FIG. 4-6 ) includes ahitch ball 12 b and aball mount 40 b. Thehitch ball 12 b has aflange 20 b that is not cylindrical in shape but instead has a teardrop shape including a radially projecting portion 66 b. - A
pin opening 62 b is formed in the projecting portion 66 b of theflange 20 b of thehitch ball 12 b. Thepin opening 62 b is therefore spaced radially outward by a greater distance than the first pin opening 62 of the hitch ball (FIG. 1-2 ). Thepin 60 b engages in the pin opening 62 b in theflange 20 b of thehitch ball 12 b. The combination of the teardrop shape of theflange 20 b and the location of the pin opening 62 b allow the pin to hang off of the side of the ball mount 40 b. When thehitch ball 12 b is turned, thepin 60 b engages aside portion 66 of the ball mount 40 b to prevent relative rotation of thehitch ball 12 b to the ball mount 40 b. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 4-6 , the flange is tear-drop shaped so that only a small portion of the flange extends beyond the edge of the ball mount. Other shapes may be used to provide the same feature, such as an oval or rectangular shaped flange. An advantage of this design is that the standard ball mount need not be altered, as the pin engages the side of the ball mount instead of a hole or recess in the ball mount. In an alternative embodiment, thepin 60 b includes one or more flat surfaces that engage the surface of the ball mount 40 b when thehitch ball 12 b is mounted. In yet another embodiment, the section of thepin 60 b that engages the ball mount 40 b is coated or padded to prevent the scratching of the ball mount. -
FIGS. 7-9 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 c constructed in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention. Parts of thehitch assembly 10 c that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “c” attached. - An additional embodiment of the present invention includes a recessed portion that extends from the
shank opening 46 of theball mount 40. The recessed portion is configured to receive a mating piece that is located on either thehitch ball 12 or thefastener 50. The mating piece that is located on thehitch ball 12 orfastener 50 engages with the recessed portion located on the ball mount to prevent rotation of the hitch ball or fastener relative to the ball mount. The recessed portion could vary in size from a small recessed portion on the ball mount to a larger recessed portion that extends around a greater portion of theshank opening 46. - One example of this embodiment is displayed in
FIGS. 7-9 . Thehitch assembly 10 c includes aball mount 12 c. Theshank portion 34 c of thehitch ball 12 c has amating portion 68 in the shape of a male key. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 7-9 , themating protrusion 68 has a rectangular cross section, but other shapes and configurations could be used, such as a rounded protrusion with a semi-circular cross-section. The ball mount 40 c has a corresponding recessedportion 70 which is in the shape of a keyway extending from theshank opening 46 c. The recessedportion 70 only passes through a section of thebody portion 42 c of the ball mount 40 c. Due to the fact that theshank opening 46 c extends completely through thebody portion 42 c, the recessedportion 70 only extends from a portion of theshank opening 46 c. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 7-9 , the recessedportion 70 is a notch with a rectangular cross-section that is defined in thebody portion 42 c of the ball mount; however, the recessedportion 70 could be shaped and configured in many different ways, such as a semi-circular cut-out. The recessedportion 70 could be a small portion, or a larger portion extending generally around the circumference of theshank opening 46. Themating portion 68 on thehitch ball 12 c is receivable in the recessedportion 70 of the ball mount 40 c to block rotation of thehitch ball 12 c relative to the ball mount 40 c. -
FIGS. 10-11 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 d constructed in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention. Parts of thehitch assembly 10 d that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “d” attached. - The
hitch assembly 10 d shown inFIGS. 10-11 illustrates another example of an extended recess used as an anti-rotational mechanism. Thehitch assembly 10 d includes ahitch ball 12 d. Theshank portion 34 d of thehitch ball 12 d has ahorizontal pin 72 extending radially outward from the shank portion of the hitch ball. Thepin 72 can be removable from theshank portion 34 d or can be integrally formed with theshank portion 34 d of thehitch ball 12 d. Aslot 74 is defined within the ball mount 40 d. Thehorizontal pin 72 on theshank portion 34 d of thehitch ball 12 d is receivable in thecorresponding slot 74 of the ball mount 40 d to block rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount. -
FIG. 12-13 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 e constructed in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the invention. Parts of thehitch assembly 10 e that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “e” attached. - The
hitch assembly 10 e (FIG. 12-13 ) includes ahitch ball 12 e. Amale key 76 is attached to the ball mount 40 e. The key 76 can be removable from the ball mount 40 e or it can be integrally formed with the ball mount. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 12-13 , the key 76 is a protrusion with a rectangular cross section, but other shapes and configurations could be used, such as a rounded protrusion with a semi-circular cross-section. The key 76 can be a small piece or it could extend down the length of theshank opening 46. - A corresponding
keyway 78 is defined within theshank portion 34 e of thehitch ball 12 e. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 12-13 , thekeyway 78 is a notch with a rectangular cross-section; however, thekeyway 78 could be shaped and configured in many different ways, such as a semi-circular cut-out The male key 76 on the ball mount 40 e is receivable in thekeyway 78 of theshank portion 34 e of thehitch ball 12 e to block rotation of thehitch ball 12 e relative to the ball mount 40 e as shown inFIG. 13 . -
FIGS. 14-16 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 f constructed in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention. Parts of thehitch assembly 10 e that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “f” attached. - The
hitch assembly 10 f (FIGS. 14-16 ) includes ahitch ball 12 f. Apin opening 64 f is defined in the ball mount 40 f of thehitch assembly 10 f. Thepin 60 f engages in the pin opening 64 f. - A notch, slot or
recess 80 is defined in a portion of thehitch ball flange 20 f such that when theshank portion 34 f of thehitch ball 12 f is inserted through theshank opening 46 f of the ball mount 40 f, the notch, slot or recess aligns with thepin 60 f on the ball mount. Thehitch assembly 10 f could include onerecess 80 or it could include multiple such recesses. The engagement of the notch, slot orrecess 80 with thepin 60 f prevents thehitch ball 12 f from moving relative to the ball mount 40 f during the installation or removal of the hitch ball. - The
pin 60 f can be visible after installation of thehitch ball 12 f. The visuallyperceptible pin 60 f allows the user to recognize when the anti-rotation feature is engaged. The location of thepin 60 f on the ball mount 40 f can be either close to theshank opening 46 f or further away. When thepin 60 f is located a sufficient distance away from theshank opening 46 f, traditional hitch balls can be used because the pin does not interfere with the operation of the traditional hitch balls. - Additionally, the fastener of the present invention can be adapted to include an anti-rotation feature. Illustrative examples of these embodiments are shown in
FIGS. 17-31 . Frequently, with hitch assemblies, the hitch ball is driven by a wrench or other tool while the fastener is held stationary with another wrench or tool. Many hitch balls include wrench flats or socket drivers so they can be installed using a driving mechanism. Since the hitch ball is often the active piece of the hitch assembly, additional embodiments of the invention include fasteners that are adapted to prevent rotation of the fastener relative to the ball mount. Consequently, the installer will be able to install the hitch ball with only one tool; using the tool to drive thehitch ball 12 while thefastener 50 is held stationary. - In addition, when using such a configuration, it is desired that the fastener should be unable to be torqued after installation. If the fastener were torqued, the anti-rotational mechanism could be damaged. For this reason, many of the embodiments including anti-rotational fasteners also include an anti-tamper feature that help prevent the fastener from being turned, or otherwise tampered with after installation. These anti-tamper fasteners could be combined with a hitch ball utilizing a security key socket driver, to serve as a type of hitch lock. Since the fasteners cannot be turned and the hitch ball could only be rotated by a custom formed socket, the hitch assembly could not be unassembled without the custom formed socket.
-
FIGS. 17-19 illustrate ahitch assembly 10 g constructed in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the invention that includes anut 82 adapted to prevent rotation. Parts of the hitch assembly that are the same or similar to parts of the hitch assembly 10 (FIGS. 1-2 ) are given the same reference numeral, with the suffix “g” attached. - The
hitch assembly 10 g (FIGS. 17-19 ) includes ahitch ball 12 g. A pin opening 64 g is defined in the ball mount 40 g of thehitch assembly 10 g. Thepin 60 g engages in the pin opening 64 g. - The
hitch assembly 10 g includes anut 82. Apin opening 52 is defined within the surface of thenut 82. Thepin opening 52 is adapted to receive thepin 60 g of the ball mount 40 g. Thepin 60 g prevents thenut 82 from moving relative to the ball mount 40 g during the installation of thehitch ball 12 g. This allows the installer to turn thehitch ball 12 g with a wrench or other driver while thenut 82 remains stationary. Alock washer pocket 84 is defined in the mounting face of thenut 82 and holds alock washer 88 in place. Alternative embodiments of thisnut 82 may not include thislock washer pocket 84 andlock washer 88. The nut in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 17-19 also provides an anti-tampering feature. The shape of thenut 82 is configured in a manner that would make it difficult to torque the nut. The tear drop shape of the nut would make it difficult to apply torque to the nut with a tool, such as a wrench, since there are no flat grabbing surfaces. Other nut configurations and shapes could be employed to achieve this same anti-tamper function. If so desired, a trim piece (not shown), such as a plastic piece, could be used to cover the portion of the pin extending from the top surface of the ball mount 44 g, thereby making the assembly more attractive. -
FIGS. 20-23 illustrate twoadditional nuts shuttle pin 94 that could be moved to and from anengagement position 96.FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate the nuts 90 and 92 with theshuttle pin 94 protruding in the engagedposition 96, whileFIGS. 20C and 20D illustrate the nuts 90 and 92 with the shuttle pin retracted into thedisengaged position 98. The difference betweennut 90 illustrated inFIG. 20A and thenut 92 illustrated inFIG. 20B is thatnut 92 includes a set of wrench flats, whilenut 90 is a teardrop shape and does not include any wrench flats. Other differently configured and shaped nuts could also be used to provide this feature. - The nuts utilizing the shuttle pin feature engage with the ball mount 40 h as shown in
FIGS. 21-23 . With these embodiments, a blindpin receiving hole 100 is defined within the ball mount 40 h that receives theshuttle pin 94 of the anti rotational nut when the shuttle pin is in theengagement position 96. When it is desired that thenut shuttle pin 94 is placed in theengagement position 96 and inserted into the blindpin receiving hole 100 during installation. If it is desired that thenut shuttle pin 94 is placed in thedisengagement position 98. The engagement of the shuttle pins 94 in the blindpin receiving hole 100 prevents the nuts 90 or 92 from moving relative to the ball mount 40 h when thehitch ball 12 h is rotated. - The blind
pin receiving hole 100 totally receives the engagement portion 102 of theshuttle pin 94 but the shuttle pins is not accessible or visible from the upper side of the ball mount 40 h. This configuration gives the hitch assembly 10 h an improved appearance and also prevents access to theshuttle pin 94 of thenut hitch ball 12 h is installed. Since theshuttle pin 94 is inaccessible when thehitch ball 12 h is installed thenut -
FIGS. 24-27 illustrate an additional embodiment of ahitch assembly 10 i including a nut with ananti-rotational feature 104. Thenut 104 includes astatic pin 106 protruding outward from theengagement surface 108 of the nut. Thisstatic pin 106 is received by thepin receiving hole 64 i of the ball mount 40 i to prevent the movement of thenut 104 relative the ball mount. If it is desired that the nut remain stationary, theengagement surface 108 is placed against the ball mount 40 i and thestatic pin 106 is inserted into thepin receiving hole 64 i of the ball mount. If it is desired that thenut 104 freely rotate or if the ball mount being used does not include a pin receiving hole, thenon-engagement surface 110 of the nut is placed against the ball mount 40 i with theengagement surface 108 andstatic pin 106 facing away from the ball mount.Recesses 112 adapted for receiving lock washers are defined within both theengagement surface 108 andnon-engagement surface 110 of thenut 104. This allows a lock washer to be used regardless of whether theengagement surface 108 ornon-engagement surface 110 of thenut 104 is facing the ball mount 40 i during installation. Alternative embodiments of thenut 104 may not include these recesses. - With each of the embodiments of the present invention utilizing a
pin 60, the pin could be integrally formed in thehitch ball 12, orfastener 50 and engage with theball mount 40. Also, the pin could be integrally formed in theball mount 40 and engage with thehitch ball 12 orfastener 50. Alternatively, thepin 60 may be positioned in one of theball mount 40,hitch ball 12 orfastener 50 and then the components of thehitch assembly 10 could then be fitted together so the pin properly engages the desired components. - The
pins 60 that are used by the various embodiments of the present invention could be replaced by a protrusion. The protrusion could be configured and shaped in multiple ways, such as a pyramid or dome shaped protrusion. The protrusion could be located on either thehitch ball 12 or theball mount 40 and engage with a corresponding recess formed in the other of the hitch ball or ball mount to prevent rotation of the hitch ball in relation to the ball mount. Alternatively, the protrusion could be located on either the ball mount 40 or thefastener 50 and engage with a corresponding recess formed in the other of the ball mount or fastener. - The present invention also includes methods that allow its components to be used with other conventional hitch assembly components that are not similarly adapted for anti-rotation. These methods, such as a pin that can be moved between multiple positions, could also be utilized by the installer to disengage the anti-rotational mechanism of the hitch assembly if it is not needed.
-
FIG. 28 illustrates aball mount 40 j including a set screw mechanism that can be utilized to move the pins of the present invention between various positions and lock it in a desired position. Apin receiving hole 64 j and setscrew receiving hole 114, which abuts the pin receiving hole, are defined within the ball mount 40 j. Thepin 60 j is received in thepin receiving hole 64 j of the ball mount 40 j and theset screw 116 is received within the setscrew receiving hole 114. - The set screw mechanism in
FIG. 28 can be used to lock thepin 60 j into two positions, a raised position and a dropped position. The raised position allows for engagement of thepin 60 j located in the ball mount 40 j with the hitch ball (not shown) as it is raised from the surface of the ball mount. To locate thepin 60 j in the raised position, the pin is situated in the raised position and theset screw 116 is tightened, thus locking the pin into position. When thepin 60 j is not to be used, theset screw 116 is loosened, allowing the pin to be moved to the dropped position. When thepin 60 j is in the dropped position it can be flush with thetop surface 44 of the ball mount 60 j and project from thebottom surface 45 of the ball mount. Also, thepin 60 j could also be totally encapsulated within the ball mount 40 j and be flush with both thetop surface 44 andbottom surface 45 when it is in the dropped position. Theset screw 116 can be retightened to secure the pin 60 i in the dropped position.Grooves 118 can be defined in the pin 60 i to help secure the pin in position and further assist in locating the pin in its proper position, but these grooves are not required. -
FIG. 29 illustrates a similar embodiment that utilizes a threadedpin 120. A threadedpin receiving hole 122 is defined within the ball mount 40 k. A pincrown receiving hole 124 is defined within theupper surface 44 k andlower surface 45 k of the ball mount 40 k. The diameter of the pincrown receiving hole 124 is larger than the diameter of thepin receiving hole 122. The pincrown receiving hole 124 is helpful in locating the pin, but it is not required and this embodiment would be effective without it. The threadedpin 120 includes a threadedportion 126 and an unthreadedcrown portion 128. Thecrown portion 128 of the pin has a larger diameter than the threadedportion 126. The threadedportion 126 of the threadedpin 120 engages with the threadedpin receiving hole 122 of the ball mount 40 k. Thecrown portion 128 of the threadedpin 120 is received by the pincrown receiving hole 124 of the ball mount 40 k. As the threadedpin 120 is threaded into thepin receiving hole 122 of the ball mount 40 k, thecrown portion 128 contacts the surface of the ball mount. This helps locate the threadedpin 120 in the proper position and prevents the threaded pin from being screwed in further than it should be. It is not required that thepin 120 include acrown portion 128 or that the ball mount 40 k include a pincrown receiving hole 124, but this configuration is helpful in locating the pin. - The threaded
pin 120 could be threaded into theupper surface 44 k of the ball mount 40 k to engage a hitch ball equipped with a pin receiving hole or it could be threaded into thelower surface 45 k of the ball mount 40 k to engage a nut so equipped. Additionally, when the anti-rotation mechanism is not to be used, the threadedpin 120 can be removed all together or it could be threaded into a side of the ball mount 40 k where it would not interfere with the installation of the hitch assembly 10 k. Having thepin receiving hole 122 on both theupper surface 44 k and thelower surface 45 k of the ball mount 40 k provides a convenient storage location for the threadedpin 120 when it is not in use. -
FIG. 30 illustrate an additional embodiment that utilizes a plunger pin design to facilitate the positioning of the pin. A plungerpin receiving hole 64 m and adetent receiving hole 132, which abuts the plunger pin receiving hole, are defined within the surface of the ball mount 40 m. Theplunger pin 60 m is received within the plungerpin receiving hole 64 m of the ball mount 40 m and a spring-biaseddetent 136 is received within thedetent receiving hole 132. Theplunger pin 60 m can be manually forced into a raised position, in which it interferes with a portion of the hitch ball 12 m (not shown), or a dropped position, in which it does not interfere with the hitch ball. As shown inFIG. 30 , anupper groove 138 and alower groove 140, are defined within the surface of thepin 60 m. These grooves correspond to the raised position and the dropped position and are adapted to accept the springbiased detent 136. However, these grooves are not required. Thesegrooves camming surface 142, which allows thedetent 136 to move into and out of the grooves upon the application of pressure. If thepin 60 m was in the dropped position and was totally encapsulated within the ball mount 40 m it may be necessary to include a way to retrieve the pin from within the ball mount. Accordingly, additional embodiments of thepin 60 m could include a springing mechanism configured in such a manner that when the pin is pushed down it is released and allowed to spring to a raised position (not shown). - When the
pin 60 m is in the raised position, application of a downward force will force thedetent 136 out of thelower groove 140 and into theupper groove 138, which corresponds to the dropped position. To move thepin 60 m back to the raised position, an upward force is applied to the pin. The upward force moves thedetent 136 from theupper groove 138 to thelower groove 140, which corresponds to the raised position. -
FIG. 31 illustrates another pin embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, thepin receiving hole 64 n of the ball mount 40 n houses a pair of interference rings 144 that correspond with a raised position and a dropped position. Various numbers and configurations of interference rings could be used, for example, one or more o-rings. An interference fit is formed between thepin 60 n and aninterference ring 144 within thepin receiving hole 64 n of the ball mount 40 n. A formeddetent 146 is located on the pin to assist in the location of the pin. As with the spring-biased version, the interference fit version is movable between the raised position and dropped position through the application of an axial force on thepin 60 n. - Although, the set screw, plunger pin and interference fit pin designs illustrate two-position pins, with a raised position and a dropped position, each pin could have multiple positions. For example, a pin mechanism with three positions: a raised position, a dropped position, and a centered position, could be used. Such a pin could be centered within the ball mount 40 with both the top and the bottom of the pin being flush with the
upper surface 44 andlower surface 45 of the ball mount. - While the different pin embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 28-32 are each shown in use with the ball mounts 40, these pin embodiments could also be adapted to facilitate the movement of any of thepins 60 that are located on thehitch balls 12 orfasteners 50 of various embodiments of thehitch assembly 10. Accordingly, the embodiments that include pins 60 on thehitch ball 12 ornut 50 could use the set screw, threaded, plunger, or interference fit pin mechanisms to move their pins between multiple positions. The movable pins allow the components of thehitch assembly 10 to be used with standard hitch assembly components that do not include anti-rotational features. For example, if amovable pin 60 was located on ahitch ball 12, the pin could be retracted into the hitch ball so the hitch ball could be used with a standard ball mount 40 that does not include apin opening 64. -
FIGS. 32-33 illustrate a hitch assembly 10 o constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The hitch assembly 10 o (FIGS. 32-33 ) includes a hitch ball 12 o with a flange 20 o having a cylindrical section 24 o with a cylindrical outer side surface 30 o. A blocking arm opening, or bore, 148 is formed in the outer side surface 30 o. Theopening 148 extends radially inward from the surface 30 o in a direction toward the axis 16 o. In the illustrated embodiment, theopening 148 has a cylindrical configuration but other shaped openings could be used. - The hitch assembly 10 o also includes a blocking
arm 150. The blockingarm 150 is a member that is engageable with the hitch ball 12 o and with the ball mount 40 o, in a different manner than as described above, to block rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount. - The blocking
arm 150 in the illustrated embodiment is a single piece of cylindrical metal rod bent to form a three-dimensional (non-planar) configuration which, as illustrated, includes fourlegs legs fourth leg 158 of the blockingarm 150 is arranged so that when the three legs 152-156 are wrapped around the ball mount 40 o, the fourth leg extends laterally into the blockingarm opening 148 in the hitch ball 12 o. - The blocking
arm 150 is inserted into the blockingarm opening 148 in the hitch ball 12 o, and wrapped around the ball mount 40 o, after the shank portion 34 o of the hitch ball is inserted into the shank opening 46 o of the ball mount. The engagement of the blockingarm 150 in theopening 148 of the hitch ball 12 o, when the blocking arm is wrapped around the ball mount 40 o, blocks rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount. After the nut 50 o is tightened, the blockingarm 150 can be removed. The blocking arm is not limited to the configuration or shape of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 32-33 . The blocking arm could have a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as a bent rod with a rectangular cross-section. In addition the blocking arm could also be configured in many different ways, such as member bent into a L-shape that engaged with thehitch ball 12 and theball mount 40.
Claims (39)
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/709,947 US20050001408A1 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2004-06-08 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US11/023,310 US7267355B2 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2004-12-27 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US11/508,659 US20060279067A1 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2006-08-23 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US48102803P | 2003-06-26 | 2003-06-26 | |
US52106704P | 2004-02-13 | 2004-02-13 | |
US10/709,947 US20050001408A1 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2004-06-08 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
Related Child Applications (2)
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US11/023,310 Division US7267355B2 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2004-12-27 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US11/508,659 Continuation US20060279067A1 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2006-08-23 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050001408A1 true US20050001408A1 (en) | 2005-01-06 |
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US11/023,310 Expired - Fee Related US7267355B2 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2004-12-27 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US11/508,659 Abandoned US20060279067A1 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2006-08-23 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/023,310 Expired - Fee Related US7267355B2 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2004-12-27 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US11/508,659 Abandoned US20060279067A1 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2006-08-23 | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
Country Status (6)
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US (3) | US20050001408A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1644207A2 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2004253935A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2527652A1 (en) |
NZ (1) | NZ543820A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2005002888A2 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050151349A1 (en) * | 2003-06-26 | 2005-07-14 | Christopher Irgens | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US20090026730A1 (en) * | 2007-07-25 | 2009-01-29 | Frantz Donald R | Ball mount and hitch ball assembly |
US20110221167A1 (en) * | 2010-03-13 | 2011-09-15 | Merten David J | Hitch |
US20160236525A1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2016-08-18 | Cequent Performance Products, Inc. | Gooseneck Hitch Ball |
US20190255896A1 (en) * | 2018-02-22 | 2019-08-22 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Self-adjusting fifth wheel hitch pedestal anchor bushings |
US10890015B2 (en) | 2018-09-21 | 2021-01-12 | Knox Associates, Inc. | Electronic lock state detection systems and methods |
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US7661694B2 (en) * | 2003-08-18 | 2010-02-16 | Cequent Towing Products, Inc. | Towing assembly |
USD838579S1 (en) * | 2018-06-20 | 2019-01-22 | Wild West Investments, LLC | Adapter with ball mount for supporting an electronic device |
US20090302574A1 (en) * | 2008-06-04 | 2009-12-10 | Columbia John R | Multi-Function Anti-Rotational/Anti-Theft Hitch Ball Assembly |
EP2174039B1 (en) * | 2007-07-23 | 2012-08-22 | BorgWarner Inc. | Modular hydraulic tensioner with ratchet |
US8376387B2 (en) * | 2007-09-17 | 2013-02-19 | John R. Columbia | Multi-function anti-rotational/anti-theft hitch ball assembly |
CA2771488C (en) * | 2011-03-15 | 2019-09-24 | Anthony Hayton | Gooseneck hitch assembly |
US20150210132A1 (en) * | 2014-01-26 | 2015-07-30 | Rickey Jay Christensen | Retrofittable and interchangeable, hitch tightening reciever assembly |
US11572021B2 (en) | 2020-01-31 | 2023-02-07 | Wild West Investments, LLC | Vehicular mounted rail system |
USD976758S1 (en) * | 2022-07-29 | 2023-01-31 | Zhiqin WU | Motorcycle fork stem mount |
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---|---|---|---|---|
US20050151349A1 (en) * | 2003-06-26 | 2005-07-14 | Christopher Irgens | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US20060279067A1 (en) * | 2003-06-26 | 2006-12-14 | Master Lock Company | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US7267355B2 (en) | 2003-06-26 | 2007-09-11 | Master Lock Company Llc | Anti-rotational hitch ball |
US20090026730A1 (en) * | 2007-07-25 | 2009-01-29 | Frantz Donald R | Ball mount and hitch ball assembly |
US20110221167A1 (en) * | 2010-03-13 | 2011-09-15 | Merten David J | Hitch |
US8636297B2 (en) * | 2010-03-13 | 2014-01-28 | M Group, Inc. | Hitch |
US20160236525A1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2016-08-18 | Cequent Performance Products, Inc. | Gooseneck Hitch Ball |
US9802451B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2017-10-31 | Horizon Global Americas Inc. | Gooseneck hitch ball |
US20190255896A1 (en) * | 2018-02-22 | 2019-08-22 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Self-adjusting fifth wheel hitch pedestal anchor bushings |
US10787049B2 (en) * | 2018-02-22 | 2020-09-29 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Self-adjusting fifth wheel hitch pedestal anchor bushings |
US10890015B2 (en) | 2018-09-21 | 2021-01-12 | Knox Associates, Inc. | Electronic lock state detection systems and methods |
US11598121B2 (en) | 2018-09-21 | 2023-03-07 | Knox Associates, Inc. | Electronic lock state detection systems and methods |
US11933075B2 (en) | 2018-09-21 | 2024-03-19 | Knox Associates, Inc. | Electronic lock state detection systems and methods |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
NZ543820A (en) | 2008-06-30 |
CA2527652A1 (en) | 2005-01-13 |
EP1644207A2 (en) | 2006-04-12 |
WO2005002888A3 (en) | 2005-05-26 |
WO2005002888A2 (en) | 2005-01-13 |
AU2004253935A1 (en) | 2005-01-13 |
US20050151349A1 (en) | 2005-07-14 |
US7267355B2 (en) | 2007-09-11 |
US20060279067A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: MASTER LOCK COMPANY, WISCONSIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:IRGENS, CHRISTOPHER;SCOTT, FRANK;ZAPUSHEK, JOHN;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:015315/0816 Effective date: 20040701 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: MASTER LOCK COMPANY LLC,WISCONSIN Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:MASTER LOCK COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:018589/0724 Effective date: 20050815 Owner name: MASTER LOCK COMPANY LLC, WISCONSIN Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:MASTER LOCK COMPANY;REEL/FRAME:018589/0724 Effective date: 20050815 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |