Trailer hitch monitor
First Claim
1. An electrical circuit attachment apparatus for monitoring a connection between a trailer and a conventional ball-type trailer hitch, said ball hitch having a single piece metal ball secured to a frame mounted on a motor vehicle, said trailer having a metal tongue member which is releasably connected to said ball, said electrical apparatus connected to a DC power source, comprising:
- (a) electrical conductor means for connecting said metal tongue member to said DC power source;
(b) electrical conductor means for grounding said single piece metal ball so that a path of electrical continuity is established between said tongue member and said ground through said metal ball when said tongue member is in contact with said ball; and
(c) indicator means connected in series between said power source and said tongue member for providing an indication of contact between said metal ball and said tongue member.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An electrical circuit for monitoring the connection between a trailer and a trailer hitch. An electrical conductor is connected to the tongue of the trailer and the trailer hitch is grounded. A visual indicator is in series between the electrical conductor and a power source to provide an indication of trailer coupling as long as electrical continuity is maintained by the connection of the trailer to the hitch. An audible warning device and switch are in parallel with the visual indicator to provide a warning when electrical continuity is broken.
26 Citations
5 Claims
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1. An electrical circuit attachment apparatus for monitoring a connection between a trailer and a conventional ball-type trailer hitch, said ball hitch having a single piece metal ball secured to a frame mounted on a motor vehicle, said trailer having a metal tongue member which is releasably connected to said ball, said electrical apparatus connected to a DC power source, comprising:
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(a) electrical conductor means for connecting said metal tongue member to said DC power source; (b) electrical conductor means for grounding said single piece metal ball so that a path of electrical continuity is established between said tongue member and said ground through said metal ball when said tongue member is in contact with said ball; and (c) indicator means connected in series between said power source and said tongue member for providing an indication of contact between said metal ball and said tongue member. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
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Specification