Patent ID: 7341264
Filing Date: 2008-03-11
Classification: G01S

Abstract:
1. A trailer hitch-mounted reverse sensing device for sensing an object behind a vehicle, comprising: a) a housing; b) an extension extending from said housing, said extension being configured to be removably received within a receiver of a towing hitch; c) said housing including a front face having a central portion, and first and second end portions, said first and second portions being angled such that a line transverse to either said first or second end portions is directed toward a centerline of the vehicle between the front and rear of the vehicle; d) first and second sensors disposed in respective said first and second end portions and directed toward the rear of the vehicle; e) a control module disposed within said housing and operably connected to said sensors to determine the distance of the object sensed by said sensors; f) an indicator operably connected to said control module, said indicator being activated by said control module to provide an indication of distance to the object sensed by said sensors at the rear of the vehicle; g) said housing including an opening at its back, said housing including top and bottom walls; and h) a cover plate configured to close said opening, said cover plate including members extending therefrom and into the interior of said housing, said members engaging said top and bottom walls, thereby to reinforce said housing when used as a step.