Single End Suspension Of Transported Vehicle Patents (Class 280/402)
  • Patent number: 7527278
    Abstract: A method for transporting vehicles is disclosed. The method uses relatively light weight, flexible webbing atop the truck frame in place of hardwood timbers presently used. The advantage is that the timbers need not be transported back to the truck factory or dealership for reuse, only the chains and webbing need to be returned. Thus, it is easier and more economical to return the towing equipment for re-use for the next shipment of trucks. Protective material may be placed atop the truck frame to protect the webbing from sharp corners or edges of the truck frame. Chains may be used on either side of the intermediate axle to attach to the webbing. In one embodiment, sturdy strapping or other materials may be used on either side of the intermediate axle to attach to the webbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: ATC Leasing Company LLC
    Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
  • Patent number: 7503577
    Abstract: The invention is a tow bar adapter which is attached to the existing fittings of the commonly used tow bar used to tow a vehicle behind a motor coach and selectively elevate the front end of the towed vehicle. The invention is a also a method for providing a tow bar adapter attached to the existing fittings of a standard tow bar used to tow a vehicle behind a motor coach and selectively elevate the front end of the towed vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Michael J McEvoy
  • Patent number: 7481444
    Abstract: A deployment system and associated products utilize a magazine for holding and dispensing the products. The products may have any of a number of internal and external trusses that may be in tension and/or compression for rigidifying the product in selected directions. Thus the product may be shaped to fit a predetermined contour. The magazine may be supported on a deployment vehicle for ease of deployment of the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Michael V. Pavlov
  • Patent number: 7475901
    Abstract: A folding trailer may be capable of moving between a use position and a storage position. The folding trailer may include an axle that is capable of moving between a first position in which the axle is generally aligned along an axis and a second position in which the axle is disposed in a folded configuration. The folding trailer may also include a towing arm that is movable between an extended position in which a portion of the towing arm extends beyond the front portion of the frame to facilitate attached to a towing vehicle and a collapsed position in which the towing arm is at least substantially disposed underneath the frame. In addition, the trailer may include an adjustment assembly that is sized and configured to adjust the position of the axle between the first and second positions, and adjust the position of the towing arm between the extended and collapsed positions. Advantageously, the adjustment assembly may have different configurations and arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Winter, Brandon Smith, S. Curtis Nye, Mitch Johnson, Jered Larsen, Doug Fuller
  • Patent number: 7472919
    Abstract: In one embodiment a detachable tow hook assembly comprises a housing defining a passageway for detachably receiving a locking end portion of a tow hook for use in towing a vehicle. Desirably, the tow hook is inserted and rotated to a locking position for retention in place during towing of a vehicle without requiring fasteners or any retaining pins to retain the tow hook in place. Exemplary configurations for tow hooks, tow hook locking portions and tow hook receiving housings are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Daimler Trucks North America LLC
    Inventors: Walter Hill Pratt, Napolyon Isikbay
  • Publication number: 20080284131
    Abstract: A tube shaped cargo container and method of manufacture. The cargo container is manufactured by a process that includes pultruding or extruding a seamless container with two sides, a roof, and a floor. Doors, landing gear, structural supports, another side, and a wheel assembly may be added after the pultrusion/extrusion process. The cargo container may include rounded side/floor and side/roof connections. The cargo container may include one or two rounded ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: VANGUARD NATIONAL TRAILER CORPORATION
    Inventor: Mark A. Roush
  • Patent number: 7441791
    Abstract: A wheelbarrow towing system includes a wheelbarrow that includes a housing with a bottom wall and a peripheral wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. An axle is attached to the bottom wall adjacent to a front end of the housing. At least one wheel is rotatably to the axle. A pair of supports is attached to and extends downward from the bottom wall. The supports are positioned adjacent to a back end of the housing and is spaced from each other. A pair of handles is attached to the housing and extends rearward from the back end. An elongated member has a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to be attached to a tow hitch. The axle is releasably attached to the elongated member adjacent to the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Russel E. Mathys
  • Publication number: 20080197605
    Abstract: A method for servicing a well comprises providing at least one trailer, providing at least one towing vehicle, providing servicing equipment, supporting the equipment with the trailer, and moving the towing vehicle, so as to move the trailer along with the equipment. The combination gross weight rating or combination gross vehicle weight of the trailer and the towing vehicle may be less than 26,001 pounds or less than less than the commercial drivers license threshold, under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's regulations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventors: Keith Blaschke, Stanley Combs, John Heaton, Bryan Walker
  • Publication number: 20080197668
    Abstract: A traffic control trailer is provided. The traffic control trailer includes a three-dimensional patrol car body section, which appears to an approaching motorist to be a patrol car regardless of naturally-occurring terrain and road conditions. A plurality of systems simulate actions performed by a law enforcement patrol car, such as turning on a light bar or activating a speed detection radar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: John M. Allovio
  • Patent number: 7407170
    Abstract: A short-nosed wheeled walking aid has (a) a substantially horizontal base member having a front perimeter, a rear perimeter, a right perimeter and a left perimeter; (b) a front wheel assembly mounted to and supporting the base member adjacent the front perimeter, (c) a rear wheel assembly mounted to and supporting the base member adjacent the rear perimeter, (d) at least three upright right panels mounted on the base member, (e) a hand grip spaced behind and substantially parallel to the upright rear panel having a ground height (height off the ground, measured from the plane on which the wheels rest) of from about thirty to about forty inches, and (f) a seat assembly mounted to the exterior side of the rear panel, the seat assembly including a seat member translatable from a substantially vertical posture substantially parallel to the rear panel to a substantially horizontal posture substantially normal to the rear panel. A method of assisting the ambulation of a person employs the wheeled walking aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Ann Williams
  • Publication number: 20080157504
    Abstract: An extended forward tow, single rail saddlemount or tow bar is disclosed. The tow bar allows a first towing truck to mount a second truck, facing forward, behind the first truck, in order to tow the second truck. The tow bar allows the towed truck to face forward during transport, thus allowing for normal loads and stresses of movement on the towed truck, rather than the much higher high wind loads and unusual stresses imposed by a rear-ward facing tow. The saddlemount is also designed to minimize the required vertical rise on the towed truck, which also avoids additional stresses during loading and unloading onto the towing truck. Lower stress is achieved by using a pivot pin nearer the towed truck rather than the usual pivot pin or king pin on the towing truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
  • Publication number: 20080157505
    Abstract: A method for transporting vehicles is disclosed. The method uses relatively light weight, flexible webbing atop the truck frame in place of hardwood timbers presently used. The advantage is that the timbers need not be transported back to the truck factory or dealership for reuse, only the chains and webbing need to be returned. Thus, it is easier and more economical to return the towing equipment for re-use for the next shipment of trucks. Protective material may be placed atop the truck frame to protect the webbing from sharp corners or edges of the truck frame. Chains may be used on either side of the intermediate axle to attach to the webbing. In one embodiment, sturdy strapping or other materials may be used on either side of the intermediate axle to attach to the webbing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
  • Publication number: 20080143077
    Abstract: A motorcycle towing device includes a substantially vertical member and a substantially horizontal member being interconnected for supporting a motorcycle wheel. A support column is pivotably and releasably mounted on at least one of the members, such as with a removable hinge pin passing through holes in the support column and in brackets on the support column. A draw bar is connected to the support column for insertion into a receiver mounted on a vehicle and at least one shim is disposed between the draw bar and the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: W. Thomas McClellan
  • Publication number: 20080143076
    Abstract: The present invention is a combination stroller/jogger and bicycle trailer, wherein a single complete product can be converted from one to the other. The product can be interchanged between a bike trailer and a stroller/jogger and vice versa without the need for a conversion kit, as all of the necessary components are built into the unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: Dynamic Brands, LLC
    Inventors: Leighton Klevana, David Boardman
  • Patent number: 7350790
    Abstract: A snowmobile dolly usable with a wide variety of snowmobiles of different sizes and/or designs. The dolly approaches the snowmobile from the front and engages its front bumper. A downward force on the tongue of the dolly raises the snowmobile and positions the front wheels of the dolly under the front of the snowmobile. An auxiliary rear axle is then slid under a rear portion of the snowmobile. A swivel connection on the front bumper-engaging member allows the snowmobile supported by the dolly to be easily maneuvered in tight spaces. An additional feature of the dolly is that it may also be reconfigured for use as a jack stand allowing service or repair work to be performed. The dolly is adapted to be towed behind a riding lawnmower, yard tractor, or the like, further enhancing the utility of the dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Jassen Wilson
  • Publication number: 20080056873
    Abstract: A device and method for moving tilt frame and transfer bed portions of a cargo transfer system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention includes a table and a pin. The table may be mounted on a horizontal axis and secured to the tilt frame. The table has a first surface permitting coaxial rotation of an opposing second surface, where the opposing second surface is on the transfer bed. The pin may extend from the table and may be secured to the transfer bed such that the first surface opposes the second surface. The table may pivot on the horizontal axis such that the transfer bed may be horizontal during inclination of the tilt frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Applicant: Miller Industries Towing Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Cullum, David W. Bannon, Dean T. Mullin, Christopher L. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 7318698
    Abstract: A tow lift apparatus for a towing vehicle includes a pair of vertically aligned and horizontally and fore-to aft oriented receiver hitches fixedly secured to the rear of the towing vehicle; a lift releasably connected to the receiver hitches, the lift connected to a power source for displacing the tow lift apparatus to and from a loading configuration and a transporting configuration; a connecting mechanism including first and second cradle with a securing device for releasable connection to a vehicle to be towed. The tow lift apparatus is adjustable to accommodate vehicles having different wheel sizes and different wheel widths. A method of assembling and using the tow lift apparatus is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Roy Gipson
  • Patent number: 7267354
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a towing device which can be attached to a vehicle, in order to tow a heavy equipment vehicle, such as a tractor. The towing device includes a towbar hitch having two ends, a first end which attaches to a towing vehicle and a second end attached to a vehicle to be towed; a holder disposed at the second end of the towbar hitch, which holds the vehicle to be towed; and an attachment mechanism which attaches the vehicle to be towed, to the holder. The attachment mechanism includes a plurality of connectors or turnbuckles; and a plurality of links or chains which are attached to the holder, and to the vehicle to be towed. The connectors and the links can be adjusted in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventors: John P. Cunningham, Robert Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20070170691
    Abstract: A low profile saddle mount for use in the transportation of vehicles including a saddle body configuration capable of withstanding increased load capacity over conventional saddle mounts is disclosed. The saddle mount generally includes a pair of laterally spaced support plates and a substantially tubular cross member extending therebetween. Each of the support plates is at least partially disposed inside the cross member at opposing ends thereof and secured therein using at least one dampening or filler plate. The configuration of the support plates in combination with one or more filler plate provides limited yield/deflection of the saddle body during operation and provides a load dissipation function, thereby permitting the support plates to withstand an increased load capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
  • Patent number: 7219754
    Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, is a device for moving a hospital bed. The device comprises a body, a motor driven wheel coupled to the body, and a hitch coupled to the body and adapted for engaging the hospital bed. Finally, the present invention, in yet another embodiment, is a method for moving a hospital bed with a motorized device. The method comprises maneuvering the device into position next to the hospital bed, hitching the device to the hospital bed, and moving the hospital bed with the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Dane Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Johnson
  • Patent number: 7188856
    Abstract: An apparatus for towing at least one wheeled vehicle includes a frame including at least one generally vertically oriented support member and at least one generally horizontally oriented support member, the horizontal support member being at least partially hollow and formed with a ramp in a distal end thereof; a mounting arrangement for selectively mounting the frame to a towing vehicle; a vehicle support assembly for receiving and holding a vehicle tire, including at least one generally curved forward tire support member mounted to the horizontal frame member, and a rear support assembly, the rear support assembly including a generally L-shaped frame and a generally curved aft tire support member for removable telescopic engagement with the horizontal support member; and a lifting assembly for moving the vehicle support assembly generally vertically between a first position for loading a vehicle and a second position for towing a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: H&R, LLC
    Inventor: Hansel Maynard
  • Patent number: 7153082
    Abstract: Wheel lift tow device for a tow truck includes a centrally located extendable support beam having a cross bar pivotably attached to it, so that it can be oriented obliquely for towing obliquely placed disabled cars, especially for front wheel drive vehicles. The telescoping slider arms of the cross bar provide lateral movement for a pair of swivel arm scoops, or claws, which cradle and lift a pair of wheels of the disabled vehicle. The swivel arm scoops are rotatable about a pivot on each telescoping slider arm, but in their position of use are supported by a lateral stop bracket, which supports the lateral forces of the wheel while in the cradled position and distributes the weight therefrom. The swivel arm scoop claws are configured to isolate the front end parts from the moving parts of the wheel lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Autolift Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Pablo Nolasco
  • Patent number: 7100933
    Abstract: A fifth wheel mounting frame can be used to convert a conventional vehicle having a fifth wheel, such as the semi-tractor, into a tow truck. The fifth wheel mounting frame advantageously mounts to the tow vehicle's fifth wheel assembly to provide stability and other advantages. Additionally, various coupling members having selectably adjustable lengths and having various coupling mechanisms are used for variable placement of the coupling mechanisms and coupling members to the frame of the fifth wheel vehicle to accommodate such things as obstructions found on the vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Zacklift International, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley E. Zackovich, David B. Stine
  • Patent number: 7083182
    Abstract: A trailer (10) for the recovery of vehicles has a drawbar (12) having first and second sections (14,16) hinged together at adjacent ends, about a horizontal transverse axis; the first section (14) of the drawbar (12) has a ball cup (24) by which it may be secured to a towing hitch (100) of a recovery vehicle, the second section (16) of the drawbar (12) has a pair of arms (30) pivotally mounted adjacent the end thereof remote from the end hinged to the first section (14), the arms (30) are pivotal between a stowed position in which they are disposed parallel to the drawbar (12) and a deployed position in which they are disposed coaxially of one another on an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the drawbar (12); a pair of wheel pans (50) are mounted and able to slide, one on each of the arms (30), the wheel pans (50) are interconnected to the second section (16) of the drawbar (12) by a linkage mechanism (60, 62), so that when the arms (30) are in the stowed position, the wheel pans (50) are slid inward
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignees: RAC Motoring Services, LPD Limited
    Inventors: John Clayton, Roger Walford, Sean O'Connell, Charles Murray
  • Patent number: 7074003
    Abstract: A helicopter moving device has a lever arm, a helicopter support arm to attach to a helicopter, and a wheel mounted to the lever arm, such that applying downward pressure to the lever arm causes a corresponding upward movement of the helicopter support arm about a pivot point. In this manner, the helicopter may be moved from place to place along the ground. The helicopter moving device is lightweight, capable of being disassembled, self propelled (does not require external power source) and portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Donald R. Klein
  • Patent number: 7029018
    Abstract: An apparatus for towing up to two bicycles with another bicycle when the first bicycle is also towing a baby jogging cart or, alternately, a bicycle trailer or trail-a-bike. Particularly useful for exercising a child (or two children) and allowing her to ride a bike until tired, and then towing the child's bike while she rests in the jogging cart, the apparatus comprises a bracket assembly which is removably mounted on the rear wheel support structure of the towing bicycle. The bracket assembly comprises a hitch pin which is removably attached by a flexible connector to a towing arm. The latter is connected to the front of the jogging cart and its undercarriage. Prior to towing the child's or children's bicycle(s), one turns its front wheel approximately 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Anthony Leon
  • Patent number: 6938910
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tow carriage, especially for towing motorcars with the aid of a motor-cycle (2) or some other small vehicle. The carriage (1) comprises at least two wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) which supported are steerable by means of a steering device (22, 23) and via articulated pulling rods (7-10) can be coupled to preferably, the rear frame portion (11) of motor-cycle. On said pulling rods (7-10) there is, at each respective joint (16, 17), mounted an angle information transmitter (18, 19) which, when the rods (7, 9 and 8, 10) turn relatively each other in response to the motor-cycle (2) turning, actuate the steering device (22, 23) steering the wheels or, alternatively, said steering device (22, 23) being actuated by direction sensor mounted on the motor-cycle in order to detect a acceleration and turning/banking, the wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) always assuming a correct steering angle as determined by the route of the motor-cycle (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventors: Mattias Liljeberg, Michael Liljeberg
  • Patent number: 6808194
    Abstract: A disabled truck recovery unit is detachably mountable on the back of a standard truck tractor to permit the standard truck tractor to be operable to tow a disabled truck tractor over the highway in a safe and effective manner. The disabled truck recovery unit includes an anchoring frame assembly connected to the standard truck tractor and an attaching frame assembly that can be connected to a disabled truck tractor to permit the towing thereof. The two frame assemblies are pivotally connected and powered by a single hydraulic actuator to convert the frame mechanism from a compact transport configuration to an operative position to engage the disabled truck tractor. A scissors linkage mechanism interconnects the hydraulic cylinder and the frame assemblies to effect proper movement thereof. An engine is mounted on the anchoring frame assembly to provide an independent source of operative power for the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Floyd G. Martin
  • Patent number: 6764092
    Abstract: A tow bar apparatus has a pair of socket members adapted to be attached to a towed vehicle and a pair of ball rod end joints adapted to be attached to a towing vehicle. The pair of socket members each includes a girdle around a sidewall, the girdle being adapted to support the sidewall to prevent the sidewall from bending out of shape under the stress of towing; the girdle further including a first bolt aperture opposite the bar slot of the sidewall for pivotal attachment of the socket member to the towed vehicle. The ball rod end joint includes an external ring attached to the second end of one of the tow bars, and an internal ring pivotally mounted within the external ring. The internal ring is adapted to be mounted on a post of the towing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: John C. Greaves, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040036255
    Abstract: An extended tow dolly frame (24), a cargo platform frame (32), and cargo platform springs (30), assembled together to provide added cushioned cargo carrying space for various types of cargo (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Sam Stephen Orlando
  • Patent number: 6688622
    Abstract: An apparatus for towing a bicycle with another bicycle when the first bicycle is also towing a baby jogging cart or, alternately, a bicycle trailer or trail-a-bike. Particularly useful for exercising with a child and allowing her to ride a bike until tired, and then towing the child's bike while she rests in the jogging cart, the apparatus comprises a bracket assembly which is removably mounted on the rear wheel support structure of the towing bicycle. The bracket assembly comprises a hitch pin which is removably attached by a flexible connector to the towing arm. The latter is connected to the front of the jogging cart and its undercarriage. Prior to towing the child's bike, one turns its front wheel approximately 90 degrees and places it between the axle of the jogging cart and the back of the cart's seat. Straps hold the wheel of the towed bicycle and its handle bar to the axle and to jogging cart handle, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Anthony Leon
  • Patent number: 6682292
    Abstract: A motorcycle tow rack (12) has a cradle (20) which is pivotally secured to a tow rack frame (50) for receiving a wheel (22) of a motorcycle (14). The cradle (20) and the tow rack frame (50) are pivotally secured to a receiver hitch (16) of a towing vehicle (18). Two clamping plates (30), two clamp arms (28) and a pivot plate (32) secure the motorcycle wheel (22) to the cradle (20). Stabilizer bars (62) are pivotally secured to the receiver hitch (16) and are slidably secured to the tow rack frame (50). Tie down members (34) extend from two stabilizer bars (62) to the motorcycle frame (40). Tie down members (35) extend from the tow rack frame (50) to the motorcycle frame (40). Yaw braces (44) secure handlebars (46) of the motorcycle (14) in fixed relation to the motorcycle frame (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: CODEV Corp.
    Inventor: David W. Estes
  • Patent number: 6655709
    Abstract: A steering apparatus (10) for turning steerable wheels of a vehicle in response to rotation of a vehicle steering wheel (12) comprises a first assembly (16), a second assembly (26), and a mechanism (108). The first assembly (16) is operatively coupled to the steering wheel (12) and includes components (18 and 22) for monitoring applied torque and angular rotation of the steering wheel. The second assembly (26) includes a steering gear (34) and components (28 and 30) for receiving the first signal and actuating the steering gear (34) in response to the first signal. The mechanism (108) when in a first mode of operation provides a mechanical connection between the steering wheel (12) and the steering gear (34). When the mechanism (108) is in the second mode of operation, the steering wheel (12) and the steering gear (34) lack a mechanical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Sherwin, Robert T. Ducharme
  • Patent number: 6651996
    Abstract: A support device is provided for supporting a wheeled vehicle, such as a motorcycle, in a substantially upright position on a supporting surface. The support device comprises a wheel engaging section to contact and hold a wheel of the vehicle. The wheel engaging section is coupled to a lateral support beam which contacts the supporting surface to resist tilting of the wheeled vehicle. In one embodiment, the lateral support beam is removable from the wheel engaging section to facilitate storing or transporting the support device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Merl G. Allemang
  • Patent number: 6644706
    Abstract: A trailer and hitch assembly are arranged so that the trailer may be towed closely behind a motor vehicle without articulation. A pair of frame members extends forward from the trailer for engagement into a corresponding pair of receivers that are included in a hitch extension assembly. Locking mechanisms are arranged to secure the frame members to a hitch cross member that may be included in a standard trailer hitch connected to the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: James N. Rolph
  • Patent number: 6612604
    Abstract: A tow bar apparatus, that allows a towing vehicle to tow a towed vehicle, has a hitch member, a pair of tow bars, and a pair of socket members. The hitch member is adapted to engage a tow bar receiver of the towing vehicle. The pair of socket members are adapted to be attached to the towed vehicle. Each of the pair of tow bars includes a plate ball member at a first end for pivotally engaging one of the pair of socket members. Each of the pair of tow bars further includes a second end, the second ends of the pair of tow bars being joined to form a hitch ball member that pivotably and rotatably engages the hitch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: John Greaves
  • Publication number: 20030160426
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tow carriage, especially for towing motorcars with the aid of a motor-cycle (2) or some other small vehicle. The carriage (1) comprises at least two wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) which supported are steerable by means of a steering device (22, 23) and via articulated pulling rods (7-10) can be coupled to preferably, the rear frame portion (11) of the motor-cycle. On said pulling rods (7-10) there is, at each respective joint (16, 17), mounted an angle information transmitter(18, 19) which, when the rods (7, 9 and 8, 10) turn relatively each other in response to the motor-cycle (2) turning, actuate the steering device (22, 23) steering the wheels or, alternatively, said steering device (22, 23) being actuated by a direction sensor mounted on the motor-cycle (2) in order to detect acceleration and turning/banking, the wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) always assuming a correct steering angle as determined by the route of the motor-cycle (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventors: Mattias Liljeberg, Michael Liljeberg
  • Publication number: 20030123964
    Abstract: A motorcycle tow rack (12) has a cradle (20) which is pivotally secured to a tow rack frame (50) for receiving a wheel (22) of a motorcycle (14). The cradle (20) and the tow rack frame (50) are pivotally secured to a receiver hitch (16) of a towing vehicle (18). Two clamping plates (30), two clamp arms (28) and a pivot plate (32) secure the motorcycle wheel (22) to the cradle (20). Stabilizer bars (62) are pivotally secured to the receiver hitch (16) and are slidably secured to the tow rack frame (50). Tie down members (34) extend from two stabilizer bars (62) to the motorcycle frame (40). Tie down members (35) extend from the tow rack frame (50) to the motorcycle frame (40). Yaw braces (44) secure handlebars (46) of the motorcycle (14) in fixed relation to the motorcycle frame (40).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: David W. Estes
  • Patent number: 6581954
    Abstract: A multi-use motorcycle apparatus and method therefor capable of being easily transported and configured into any of three different apparatuses usable for motorcycles: (a) a towing trailer for a motorcycle where the trailer is dimensioned to be coupled to a vehicle receiver hitch; (b) a frame lift for lifting and supporting the frame of a motorcycle; and (c) a motorcycle lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Chadwick
  • Patent number: 6557881
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a working machine, e.g., an excavating machine, movable on crawler tracks and being provided with an excavating mechanism. The apparatus includes at least two spaced-apart wheels and a load platform mounted therebetween. The working machine is secured at one end to the load platform and at the other end props against a tractor vehicle via the excavating mechanism. The working machine may be driven onto the load platform where its advancement is stopped by a guard on the load platform. As the working machine moves into contact with the guard, the mass of the working machine delivers to the load platform a moment that forces the load platform to pivot against the bottom surface of a crawler track. At least one gripping element on the load platform eliminates relative slippage between the crawler track and the load platform and locks the working machine against the guard. One such apparatus is provided for each track of the working machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Ossi Kortesalmi
  • Patent number: 6524056
    Abstract: An apparatus for easily loading and unloading a motorcycle or similar vehicle onto and from the bed of a utility vehicle such as a pick-up truck which only requires a single operator. The apparatus comprises a guide rail subassembly secured to the bed of a utility vehicle, a main ramp subassembly detachably secured to the guide rail subassembly, a dolly subassembly which is adapted to support the motorcycle and ride on the main ramp subassembly and the guide rail subassembly, a plurality of adjustable tie down straps for detachably securing the motorcycle to the dolly subassembly, and an approach ramp subassembly which is detachably secured to the dolly subassembly. The dolly subassembly has a winch and a battery mounted thereon with the battery powering the winch which has one end of a flexible cable secured thereto and a free end of the flexible cable having a hook secured thereto which is adapted to be attached to an eye bolt secured to the guide rail subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Kloster
  • Patent number: 6491490
    Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and a method of using the apparatus to lift a load, such as one end of a vehicle, to enable movement of the load from one location to another. The apparatus is comprised of an elongated member, such as a beam, and a winch slidably mounted on the elongated member which, in combination with the load itself and a stationary base, such as another vehicle, operates to lift and move the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Wayne G. Trobee
  • Publication number: 20020145267
    Abstract: A gooseneck associated with a lowbed trailer. The gooseneck is hydraulically operated. Hydraulic cylinders are mounted within box beams which make up the gooseneck and are located a distance apart. The hydraulic cylinders act on a linkage assembly which linkage assembly is connected to and acts upon a push frame. The push frame interacts with the lowbed trailer thereby to raise or lower the lowbed trailer upon operation of the hydraulic cylinders. An auto steer dolly is conveniently connected to the gooseneck or directly under a long load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Applicant: K-LINE TRAILERS LTD.
    Inventor: Edwin L. Boon
  • Publication number: 20020125681
    Abstract: A device and method for lifting and towing has at least three prongs, with two prongs curved in an opposite direction from the other prong. A cable, rope or chain is able to be interlaced between the opposed curved prongs, thus retaining the cable, rope or chain in engagement, even if tension is released during a pulling or lifting operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Dennis L. Graham, Edward Lucero
  • Patent number: 6443685
    Abstract: A towing device for a tow truck that employs a contact beam with or without a rotatable bracket so that the tow truck does not have to move to make adjustments when towing a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Mamoru Maeno
  • Patent number: 6357989
    Abstract: A device and method for lifting an aircraft wheel assembly. The device comprises first and second wheel-engaging supports connectable to a bearing structure and rotatable relative to one another between open and wheel-cradling configurations, the device further comprising an actuator connected to the bearing structure to enable raising or lowering of the supports relative to the ground when in the wheel-cradling configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Frank Iles
  • Patent number: 6352401
    Abstract: The invention herein is a carrier apparatus structured to be attached to a motor vehicle for carrying motorcycles and similar vehicles, which carrier is adapted for external attachment to a motor vehicle for supporting and carrying motorcycles in an upright position externally to said motor vehicle, with such apparatus having three major subcomponents, specifically, a base support member, referred to as a main support member, which is rigidly affixed to a portion of the vehicle through a connecting elevating mechanism, with the base support member having a bottom wheel support member to hold a portion of the front wheel of the carried motorcycle, and a vertical support portion, with an elevating member adapted to raise or lower the wheel base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventor: Richard P. LeMay
  • Patent number: 6336783
    Abstract: An improved wheel-lift apparatus attachable to various types of transport trucks, including rollback trucks for loading and carrying disabled vehicles. The improved wheel-lift apparatus provides a horizontal extendable boom mechanism long enough for receiving disabled vehicles. As a result of the wheel-lift's “low angle” or horizontal approach, the risk of damage occurring to the chassis or body of the disabled vehicle while in the loading and carrying modes is greatly diminished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Jerr-Dan Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Young, David D. Hedstrom
  • Publication number: 20010042728
    Abstract: A wheeled crane constructed in such a manner that when the crane is to be transported on a road, the whole of the crane is lifted upward on a front side thereof, allowing front wheels 4 of a lower travel body 1 float from a road surface, and a coupling frame 19 provided at a front end portion of the lower travel body 1 is coupled to a coupler 23 of a tractor T, thereby permitting the crane to travel by itself as a semi-trailer while ensuring a long wheel base, as well as a method for transporting the wheeled crane, and a coupling type vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe
    Inventor: HIROSHI MIYAZAWA
  • Patent number: 6315515
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheel grid assembly and vehicle towing apparatus. The wheel grid assembly includes a wheel boom and a pair of lift arms. Each lift arm consists of an extension arm segment and an engaging arm segment pivotally mounted to the extension arm segment. Each engaging arm segment consists of an actuating arm segment and a gripping arm segment extending in opposite directions from the pivot point. A pair of linear actuators rotate the engaging arm segments about their pivot points to engage the wheels of a vehicle to be towed. Each linear actuator is attached to a respective engaging arm segment through an over-center locking mechanism. The over-center locking mechanisms lock the engaging arm segments in wheel engaging positions without aid of force from the linear actuators. The present invention also relates to a position lock mechanism and a wheel grid self-centering device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Jerr-Dan Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Young, Scott A. Watson