| 摘要 |
<p>A hitch point 1 provided on a vehicle for towing a trailer or such-like is capable of moving in a sideways direction in order to assist in steering the towed trailer. Sideways movement of the hitch point is preferably under the control of the vehicle steering mechanism. In a preferred embodiment the hitch point is a fifth wheel 1 provided on the towing cab or tractor of an articulated lorry. Alternatively, the hitch point may be a towing ball provided on a car or similar for towing a caravan or trailer (see fig. 3). The hitch may be moved by hydraulically, pneumatically or electrically powered jacks 3. The moveable hitch and vehicle steering may include an electronic interface (not shown), with movement of the hitch occurring in adjustably variable proportion to actuation of the vehicle steering. The vehicle driver/operator may be provided with switch means (not shown) for switching movement of the hitch on and off, and for switching between automatic and manual movement modes.</p> |
