Patent ID: 8573626
Filing Date: 2013-11-05
Classification: B60T

Abstract:
1. A coupler system comprising: a trailer coupler coupled to a trailer brake system; a vehicle coupler for rotationally coupling to the trailer coupler, the vehicle coupler being connected to a vehicle brake system having a pressure source connected to a belt drive by a controllable clutch unit, the vehicle coupler having a valve opening and a locking tab; a first sensor mounted on the vehicle coupler, the first sensor sensing when the trailer coupler is coupled to the vehicle coupler; a second sensor is mounted to the vehicle coupler and senses when the trailer coupler is coupled to the vehicle coupler, the valve opening being positioned between the locking tab and the sensors; and an electronic control unit connected to the first and second sensors, the control unit activating the clutch unit in response to a signal from both sensors, indicating a correct coupling of the trailer brake system only when the two couplers are completely connected to one another.