# US 12,600,184 B1 · Modular multi-height hitch attachment system for skid steer equipment

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- Number: US 12,600,184 B1
- Document ID: US12600184B1
- Status: Granted
- Kind: B1
- Application number: 19/281,488
- Filed: 2025-07-25
- Granted: 2026-04-14
- Earliest claimed: 2025-07-25
- Applicants: Knox A. Sparks
- Inventors: Knox A. Sparks
- Web page: https://patentgrep.com/patent/US12600184B1

## CPC

- B60D 1/46: vertically
- B60D 1/52: removably mounted
- B60D 2001/001: {specially adapted for use on vehicles other than cars}
- B60D: VEHICLE CONNECTIONS

## Abstract

A modular, multi-height hitch attachment system for skid steer loaders is disclosed. The system includes a lightweight, high-strength frame configured to engage the quick-attach mounting plate of a skid steer without tools, utilizing the machine's integrated locking pin mechanism. The frame comprises a vertically oriented aperture array that permits selective height adjustment of trailer hitches or modular worksite tools. In single-unit use, the system supports accessories such as vises, workbenches, and welding platforms. In dual-unit configuration, two systems operate in tandem to support wide-span or load-bearing implements such as forks or hay spears. The device reduces attachment weight by over 70%, fits within a standard truck toolbox, and offers enhanced visibility and operational versatility. Modular accessories are quickly interchangeable in the field, enabling rapid task transitions and expanding the functional capability of skid steer equipment across construction, agricultural, and industrial applications.

## Claims

### Claim 1

A hitch attachment system for a skid steer loader, comprising:
a frame configured to be mounted to a quick-attach mounting plate of a skid steer loader, the frame having a front face and a rear face;
at least one receiver aperture formed vertically along the frame, the receiver aperture configured to receive a modular accessory;
an upper diagonal flange extending from the frame and forming a channel configured to sit atop the quick-attach mounting plate of the skid steer loader; and
a lower diagonal flange extending from the frame and being configured to sit beneath the skid steer loader's lower receiver rail with an opening adapted to receive a locking pin from the quick-attach mounting plate, securing the frame to the skid steer loader, wherein:
the frame is mounted to one side of the quick-attach mounting plate of the skid steer loader; and
the frame extends side-to-side less than the full width of the skid steer attachment plate.

### Claim 2 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, wherein the frame is fabricated from high-strength steel or aluminum alloy and weighs less than 30 pounds.

### Claim 3 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, wherein the receiver aperture comprises a vertically spaced array of apertures, each configured to allow selective height adjustment of the modular accessory.

### Claim 4 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, further comprising an accessory mount selected from the group consisting of: a trailer hitch, a workbench platform, a vise holder, a hay spear, a pallet fork, and a welding table.

### Claim 5 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, wherein the frame is coated with a corrosion-resistant finish conforming to ASTM B117 standards.

### Claim 6 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, wherein the modular accessory is secured using a locking pin, clevis, or bolt, and includes a detent or spring-loaded mechanism for retention.

### Claim 7 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, wherein two such hitch attachment systems are configured to be mounted to opposite sides of a skid steer mounting plate, enabling dual-point modular accessory support.

### Claim 8 (depends on 7)

The hitch attachment system of claim 7, wherein a bridging element spans between the two hitch attachment systems, thereby supporting wide-span implements.

### Claim 9 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, further comprising indicia on the frame corresponding to each receiver aperture to facilitate repeatable height settings.

### Claim 10 (depends on 1)

The hitch attachment system of claim 1, wherein the system is sized such that it can fit within a box mountable in or on a truck bed.