Patent ID: 7677588
Filing Date: 2010-03-16
Classification: B60D

Abstract:
1. A hitch assembly comprising: a longitudinally extending first coupling element; a second coupling element configured to be latched to the first coupling element; a rod member having a length disposed longitudinally, a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the first coupling element; an actuator with a longitudinally movable output member arranged to move between a retracted and an extended position, the output member being connected to the second end of the rod member via a pivot element defining a vertical pivot axis; and a longitudinally extending guide element arranged for selectively simultaneously embracing the pivot element and at least a part of the length of the rod member so as to prevent pivoting of said rod member about said vertical axis; wherein the pivot element and the part of the length of the rod member are embraced by the guide element when the actuator is in the retracted positions and the pivot element and rod member are free of the guide element when the actuator is in the extended position, such that the guide element guides the rod member longitudinally when the actuator moves the first coupling element towards the second coupling element and such that the pivot element allows a pivot movement of the first coupling element with respect to the actuator about the vertical pivot axis only when the actuator is in the extended position.