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Trailer hitch security system with separate and selectively set loose connection and theft prevention alarms

  • US 5,434,552 A
  • Filed: 01/24/1994
  • Issued: 07/18/1995
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/24/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A trailer hitch security system having a socket fixedly attached to a trailer and a ball assembly fixedly attached to a towing vehicle, said ball being adapted to be received by said trailer socket so as to allow said trailer to pivot with respect to said towing vehicle, comprising:

  • (a) first sensor means for detecting a loose coupling between said trailer socket and said ball assembly;

    (b) second sensor means for detecting a loose coupling between said ball assembly and a frame of said towing vehicle on which said ball assembly is mounted;

    (c) first visual indicator means responsive to said first and second sensor means, said first visual indicator means being energized in response to a proper coupling of said trailer with said towing vehicle and a proper coupling of said ball assembly with said frame;

    (d) second visual indicator means responsive to said first and second sensor means, said second visual indicator means being energized in response to a detected faulty coupling between either said trailer and said towing vehicle or between said ball assembly and said frame;

    (e) first audible alarm means responsive to said first and second sensor means, said first audible alarm means being energized in response to a detected faulty coupling between either said trailer and said towing vehicle or between said ball assembly and said frame;

    (f) second audible alarm means responsive to said first and second sensor means, said second audible alarm means being energized in response to an unauthorized uncoupling of said trailer from said towing vehicle when said vehicle'"'"'s ignition has been turned off;

    (g) means for causing said second audible alarm means to continue to be activated in the event that said trailer is recoupled to said vehicle after an unauthorized uncoupling; and

    (h) switch means for deactivating said second audible alarm means only from within said vehicle.

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