Patent ID: 6848522
Filing Date: 2005-02-01
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. A system intended for use in at least partially connecting a removable ground-engaging motive device to a vehicle in either an extended or a retracted mounting position using a plurality of connectors, comprising: a first stable mounting structure associated with one of the motive device or the vehicle, the first mounting structure capable of supporting a first connector in a first position corresponding to the retracted position or supporting the first connector or another connector in a second position corresponding to the extended position, and including a first aperture for receiving a second connector in the retracted position and a second aperture for receiving the second connector in the extended position; and a first linking structure associated with the other of the motive device or the vehicle for engaging the first mounting structure in both the extended and retracted positions, the first linking structure including a first receiver for receiving and guiding the first connector into place such that a third aperture formed in the first linking structure aligns and registers with the first aperture in the retracted position or receiving and guiding either the first connector or another connector mounted in the second position such that the third aperture aligns and registers with the second aperture; whereby the guidance provided by the first receiver in aligning the third aperture with the first or second apertures facilitates connecting the motive device to the vehicle in both the extended and refracted positions.