Progress Mfg. LLC recently secured a major technological breakthrough with the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12722431. This patent, titled ‘Single motion system for coupling a trailer hitch’, introduces an advanced method for connecting a trailer to a towing vehicle in a seamless, unified motion. Developed by inventors Jed K. Anderson, David F. Lundgreen, and Jason R. Harper, this system streamlines the towing process by making trailer coupling safer, faster, and remarkably efficient.

Innovative Design and Prestigious Recognition

The innovation focuses on eliminating the complex, multi step procedures traditionally required to secure a trailer. By integrating the latching and locking mechanisms into a single motion system, the design reduces user error and physical strain during the coupling process. Because of its practical impact on towing safety and mechanical efficiency, this invention was proudly awarded the patent of the month for the Utah state for the month of October 2026 granted by Swanson Reed. The system sets a new standard in the industry by ensuring a secure connection with minimal effort.

Unlocking R&D Tax Credits Through Practical Application

The practical applications of this patent present a clear pathway for companies to be eligible for the R&D tax credit in the USA. Developing such a refined mechanical system requires extensive prototyping, iterative engineering, and rigorous physical testing to overcome technical uncertainties related to load bearing capabilities and material stress. When companies invest resources into designing, testing, and improving hitching mechanisms or similar specialized automotive hardware, those developmental activities often qualify as eligible research expenses. Under Section 41 of the Internal Revenue Code, businesses that systematically evaluate structural integrity and refine mechanical coupling technologies can offset their development costs, making continuous innovation in the towing sector both financially and technologically rewarding.