In a first aspect of the invention the power is transmitted from the vehicle to the trailer through induction. The system comprises a primary winding mounted in a groove formed on the tow ball, a secondary winding mounted in a groove formed on an inner surface of the tow cup. Once the tow ball and tow cup are in close proximity an alternating current passing through the primary winding induces an alternating current in the secondary winding. The tow cup may also include an underjaw which in use closes the magnetic circuit around the winding mounted in the groove of the tow cup. In another aspect of the invention the power is transmitted from the vehicle to the trailer by the surfaces of the tow ball and tow cup being conductive. In this system the tow ball is connected to a positive power supply from the vehicle and, an inner surface of a tow cup is electrically connected to the tow ball and insulated from a body of the trailer, the inside surface is also connected to a positive part of the trailers power supply. Both systems may be used to transmit signals to the trailer from the vehicle.
Automatic car trailer hitching and unhitching system - electric connection
2018-11-14
Patent
Electronic Resource
English
Automatic car trailer hitching and unhitching system - electric connection
European Patent Office | 2018