Trailer Type Patents (Class 280/789)
  • Publication number: 20090194968
    Abstract: A high-performance, light-duty, utility trailer that is pulled by a tow vehicle utilizing a two point coupling to the tow vehicle and a swiveling axle assembly. This novel design includes a tilting hitch assembly attached to the trailer frame and swiveling casters attached to the rear corners of the trailer frame, creating a three point “landing gear” for easy installation onto the tow vehicle and providing good un-hitched mobility allowing the trailer owner to easily move the trailer out-of-the-way when stored between each use. A wheel swiveling assembly that can be configured to provide steering geometry capable of being customized to accommodate driving habits and road conditions. A two point hitch assembly that allows the removal of adaptors when not in use for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Ned Anthony Ardagna
  • Patent number: 7568856
    Abstract: A joint and a main beam of a container semi-trailer provided with the joint. The joint includes a first connecting plate disposed on a connecting end of a first main beam of the container semi-trailer, wherein at least one side of the first connecting plate extends outwardly and forms a first extension, first connecting holes are disposed on the first connecting plate and the first extension; a second connecting plate is disposed on the connecting end of a second main beam of the container semi-trailer, wherein at least one side extends outwardly and forms a second extension, second connecting holes corresponding to the first connecting holes are disposed on the second connecting plate and the second extension; and fasteners are inserted into the first and second connecting holes and fastened to connect the connecting ends of the two main beams to form a complete main beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignees: China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd., CIMC Vehicles Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhuoan Wu, Liangfu Xie, Xiya Li
  • Publication number: 20090189382
    Abstract: A header trailer for transporting a header for a combine harvester has a chassis (1-4) and a support saddle (12) which is shaped so as to support stably a header (16) placed on the support saddle (12). The support saddle is mounted pivotably on the chassis (1-4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas Nubel, Attila Goblyos
  • Patent number: 7559400
    Abstract: A low profile chassis and suspension system for a road vehicle. The chassis supports a payload section or cargo compartment, such as for a delivery truck, ambulance, or shuttle bus. The chassis includes a largely planar frame having a top surface which is located beneath the rotational axes of the rear wheels. The wheel suspension system is particularly compact and close to the road surface. A trailing arm-type wheel support supports a stub axle in a cantilevered fashion. A spring urges the wheel support apart from the frame. A planar portion of the wheel support, the wheel support pivot joints, and the spring are located beneath the rotational axis of the wheel. In another embodiment, the frame includes a recessed pocket which facilitates use of ramp for wheel chair access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Aloha, LLC
    Inventor: Earl Dallas Smith
  • Publication number: 20090160160
    Abstract: An adjustable trailer for receiving a container, comprising a main member adapted to be attached at a free end thereof to a vehicle, at least one adjustable unit extending transversally of and being connected to the longitudinal main member. A length of the adjustable unit is adapted to be varied. An attachment mechanism is provided for locking the adjustable unit in a selected position. The trailer defines an area for receiving the container, with the width of this area being adapted to be adjusted via the adjustable unit so as to accommodate the container. The container is adapted to be mounted to the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Rene Bellerose, Alexandre Bellerose
  • Patent number: 7490856
    Abstract: A head hauler has a movable longitudinal rail that is movable without tools in vertical elevation and transverse horizontal position. The movable longitudinal rail is supported by two support assemblies, each of which contains a bracket having an upper sloped surface, a screw, a coupling attached to the bracket, a threaded coupling through which the screw passes, an underlying plate that is attached to the threaded coupling, and a means for attaching the plate to the movable longitudinal rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Abe B. Kuhns
  • Publication number: 20090001702
    Abstract: In a particular embodiment, a trailer is disclosed that includes a base, a frame extending from the base, and mounting structures coupled to the frame. The mounting structures are adapted to releasably secure an engine, such as an aircraft engine, to the frame such that the engine is secured to the frame and suspended above the base without contacting the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Standard Aero (San Antonio), Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald Coleman Miller
  • Patent number: 7467810
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a sensor having a sensing surface at an operational distance from a target surface is disclosed. The apparatus includes an upper frame and spaced apart parallel front and rear struts. The upper ends of the struts are connected to the upper frame. The lower ends of the struts are connected to the sensor. The front and rear struts pivot about the upper frame to move the sensor in response to an obstacle on the target surface, The sensor pivots about the lower ends of the front and rear struts to maintain the sensing surface in substantially parallel orientation to the target surface. The angle between the sensing surface and the front and rear struts is less than 90°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Sensors & Software Inc.
    Inventor: Charles David Leggatt
  • Publication number: 20080303249
    Abstract: A trailer including: (i) a trailer frame supported by ground engaging wheels; (ii) an auxiliary drawbar pivotable from a retracted inoperative position to an extended or towing position located behind the trailer frame; and a (iii) main drawbar to a prime mover. There is also provided a pivot frame pivotally attached to the trailer frame by pivot attachment means which may extend from an extended leading position for maintenance apparatus to a retracted transportation position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond J. Dufty
  • Patent number: 7461865
    Abstract: A hanger assembly comprises a pair of hangers; a pair of trailer attachment plates, each attachment plate attached to one of the pair of hangers; and a transverse support member having a first end attached to one of the pair of hangers and a second end attached to the remaining hanger of the pair of hangers. The hanger assembly is made of aluminum and provides a lightweight, high strength hanger assembly for a trailer that cuts down on the weight of the trailer without diminishing the strength as compared to conventional trailers, and that is compatible with a conventional air ride suspension system and retrofittable on existing aluminum trailers in a bolt-on configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: James H. Adams
  • Patent number: 7458602
    Abstract: A motorcycle trailer converts between a single mode, for towing one motorcycle, and a dual mode for towing two motorcycles. In the single mode, a longitudinal frame includes a front member, a center member and a rear member which assemble to provide an elongate, narrow platform with a tire channel for receiving the front and rear wheels of a motorcycle. Left and right wheel assemblies each include a wheel with a tire, an axle and an axle extension that slides into an axle sleeve fixed to the underside of the longitudinal frame. A straight coupler is fitted to the front member for hitching the assembled trailer to a tow vehicle. In the dual mode, two assembled longitudinal frames, each having the front member, center member and rear member, are positioned in parallel spaced relation and an axle extension is connected between the axle sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Trailer In A Bag, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Maxwell
  • Publication number: 20080231034
    Abstract: A primary frame for a heavy-duty vehicle includes a pair of spaced-apart, parallel, elongated and longitudinally extending main members. Each one of a pair of hangers is attached to and depends below a respective one of the main members. An axle/suspension system is mounted on the hangers. A vertically disposed brace structure extends between and is attached to the hangers or, alternatively, to both the hangers and the main members. The brace structure includes a hanger cross member disposed perpendicularly between the hangers and a pair of inclined members each of which extend between and are attached to the hanger cross member and a respective one of the main members or an upper wing of a respective one of the hangers. The brace structure efficiently dissipates loads from the axle/suspension system into the primary frame adjacent the hangers and eliminates the need for additional cross members within the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Kimm L. Carr, James G. Copeland
  • Publication number: 20080211218
    Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the present development, a platform trailer includes a chassis comprising first and second aluminum beams each including an upper flange and a lower flange connected by a web. The first and second beams are arranged parallel to each other and each extend from a forward end to a rear end in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the trailer. The first and second beams are each defined with an arch comprising an upwardly oriented apex located between the forward and rear ends. At least one axle assembly connected to the chassis and includes a left wheel and tire assembly and a right wheel and tire assembly. A platform is supported on the first and second beams of the chassis. The platform includes spaced-apart left and right side rails and a plurality of extruded aluminum panels that each extend from a left lateral end abutted with said left side rail to a right lateral end abutted with said right side rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Howard D. Booher
  • Patent number: 7374193
    Abstract: A conversion kit and method of using a conversion kit is provided which converts a metal shipping crate into a transporting apparatus. In one preferred embodiment, the conversion kit utilizes a hinge and locking mechanism to angle the trailer for loading of a cargo vehicle and lock the trailer into a horizontal transport position. In another preferred embodiment, the conversion kit utilizes a locking ramp which is lowered for loading of a cargo vehicle and then locked in a vertical position to keep a cargo vehicle in place. A method for using the conversion kit is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Dunn Right Incorporated
    Inventor: Larry W. Dunn
  • Patent number: 7318608
    Abstract: A running gear support assembly for supporting a portable machine. The running gear support assembly includes a pair of wheel hubs, an axle beam supported between the pair of wheel hubs, and at least one support bracket. The support bracket is coupled to the axle beam and configured to support the portable machine. Substantially the entire weight of the portable machine is supported by the axle beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventors: Charles Swartz, David Franklin Rowe, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20070290495
    Abstract: A transport frame includes a plurality of polymer beams interconnected to form the frame with a first group of the polymer beams intersecting and extending through a second group of the polymer beams. The first group of the polymer beams is secured to the second group of polymer beams by an adhesive at their respective intersections. At least one of the polymer beams provides a non-conductive raceway for routing electrical wires or cables through the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: Philip Biscan
  • Patent number: 7303200
    Abstract: A movable subframe or slider box for tractor-trailers includes a pair of elongated, longitudinally-extending, spaced-apart, parallel main members, and a plurality of cross members which extend between and are attached to the main members to form a rigid slider box structure. The slider box includes a retractable pin mechanism for selectively positioning the slider box beneath the trailer. The slider box supports one or more axle/suspension systems which in turn support the vehicle wheels and tires. The slider box is free of hangers for pivotally mounting beams of the axle/suspension systems on the slider box. The beams instead are pivotally mounted directly on the main members. Each main member has an inverted generally U-shaped configuration which forms a channel, so that a bushing assembly end of each beam nests within the channel of its respective main member and is pivotally attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventor: John Edward Ramsey
  • Publication number: 20070252357
    Abstract: A utility trailer that is converted from an ATV loading ramp. The loading ramp frame is adjusted to form a V-shaped trailer body. An axle and wheels are attached to the V-shaped body along with an elongate handle. The handle also functions as a hitch for connecting the wheeled V-shaped body to the ATV. A system of metal pins, bolts and brackets serve to connect the various parts of the converted device. The various parts of the device, excluding the loading ramp, can be made available in the form of a kit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Randall D. Hoskins
  • Patent number: 7287780
    Abstract: A trailer frame for use on a trailer including at least one pair of main support frame members that extend in a longitudinal direction of the trailer frame. The main support frame members have a deck side and a bottom side. In one embodiment, the trailer frame also includes a plurality of cross frame members extending between the main support frame members; and a plurality of extension frame members converging to a hitch point at a front extension of the trailer frame. The extension frame members are attached to respective main support frame members with one end of each extension frame member being notched so that upper sides of the extension frame members are flush with the deck side of the main support frame members while a portion of lower sides of the extension frame members overlap the bottom sides of the main support frame members. The main support frame members include I-beams and plate members extending between and attached to flanges on each of the I-beam main support frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Haulmark Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Kent W Reese, Michael P Brady, Joe H McMillin, Roderick L Evans
  • Patent number: 7278650
    Abstract: A travel trailer configured to be coupled to and towed by a vehicle is provided. The travel trailer has a compartment that is attached to a chassis which includes a front end and a rear end. A plurality of wheels are attached to the chassis adjacent the rear end, and a hitch assembly is attached to the chassis adjacent the front end. The compartment at the front end of the chassis forms first and second corners. A recess, directed inwardly toward the interior of the compartment, is located at each corner of the compartment. Cavities formed by each recess may receive a portion of the vehicle while the vehicle is engaged in a turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Heartland REcreational Vehicles, LLC
    Inventors: Brian R. Brady, John Mitchell Rhymer, Douglas Martin Lantz, Timothy Arthur Hoffman, Scott James Tuttle
  • Publication number: 20070222201
    Abstract: A mobile trailer for use with a mobile robot, the trailer comprising a rollable frame for releasably attaching to a robot, a mechanism attached to the frame for selectively dispensing a communication cable, the cable providing communication between the trailer and command centre, a wireless communication mechanism for communicating wirelessly between the trailer and the robot, and a mechanism for selectively moving the trailer between a hitched position and unhitched, such that in the hitched position the trailer being pulled by the mobile robot, and in the unhitched position the trailer being detached from the mobile robot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: TOM BRAITHWAITE
  • Publication number: 20070194564
    Abstract: A trailer and method of assembling a trailer is disclosed. A trailer or motor vehicle may include a frame having fabricated beams. The beams generally include a web section and a pair of opposing flanges. The flanges may be I-shaped or T-shaped, and include web-receiving slots. The flanges may also include obtuse ends along the flange portions thereof, which may also include recesses for cross-member securing fasteners. Top and bottom portions of the web are inserted into the web-receiving slot of a flange and secured therein by a plurality of fasteners. The fasteners for may comprise self-piercing rivets. Because the beams maybe assembled solely with fasteners and without welds, the web and flanges may be pre-coated to provide a finished beam upon assembly. Consequently, the entire frame may be assembled with fasteners, and consequently, may be shipped in pieces and assembled with fasteners at a remote location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventors: Bernard F. Garceau, Jon M. Smith
  • Patent number: 7216884
    Abstract: The aluminum trailer frame and trailer includes aluminum side rails with bowed forward sections which converge on an aluminum trailer tongue beam. A plurality of aluminum cross members are laterally mounted to opposing side rails. Each cross member has a generally C-shaped cross section with an embedded, generally C-shaped bolt head channel near the mid-section of the C-shaped cross member. The channel has opposing tabs which trap a bolt head and the channel extends the length of the cross members. Two bunk rail beams or other accessory supports or beam supports are mounted on the cross members via bolts having bolt heads that are slidably disposed in the bolt head channels. Accessories are movably mounted on the cross members by bolts in bolt head channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Eastern Metal Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory L. Weekes
  • Patent number: 7216896
    Abstract: A carriage for transporting heavy loads on conventional roads is disclosed. The carriage comprises a central beam extending the length of the carriage and a plurality of cross beams. At least one of the plurality of cross beams comprises a hollow element having a first end and a second end, wherein the hollow element is coupled to and extends perpendicularly to the central beam; a first beam slidably positioned within the first end of the hollow element, wherein the first beam is coupled to at least one axle; and a second beam slidably positioned within the second end of the hollow element, wherein the second beam is coupled to at least one axle. The carriage further comprises a hydraulic system coupled to each of the plurality of cross beams for hydraulically sliding each beam positioned within each hollow element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Robb Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: James R. McGhie, Robb I. McGhie
  • Patent number: 7207593
    Abstract: A tractor-trailer slider includes spaced apart longitudinal side rails having control arm supports extending downwardly from the side rails for supporting the slider. Portions of the longitudinal side rails and the control arms supports are integrated using one or more common plates. Lightening holes and edge of the slider are flanged to reinforce the walls. Coining and ribbing are also used for additional reinforcement. Lateral cross-members extend between the longitudinal side rails. The lateral cross-members have tabs on opposing ends that are received in an interlocking relationship with complementary elongated slots in the longitudinal side rails. Air spring supports arranged at forward and rearward portions of the slider are secured to the longitudinal side rails, the control arm supports, and the lateral cross-members to provide a structurally rigid frame. The air spring supports provide spaced apart air spring mounting pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Nancy L. Saxon, Braden Bromley, Steven R. Miller, James Eckelberry, Craig Holt, Steven G. Saieg, Shaun Muston, Jos Timmermans, John Raymond Brink, Martin J. Watterson
  • Patent number: 7191567
    Abstract: A floor frame for a transportable manufactured home includes spaced apart perimeter frame members having a vertical wall and two horizontal walls extending therefrom. A plurality of floor joists extend between the spaced apart perimeter frame members and have notched ends configured to each receive a portion of one perimeter frame member. An arrangement for coupling a transport structure to the floor frame is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Fairmont Homes, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Brandt, James F. Shea
  • Patent number: 7175205
    Abstract: A collapsible utility trailer having a trailer bed, a trailer frame, a front pair of wheels and a rear pair of wheels. The trailer bed has at least two bed sections and each of the bed sections has a length and a width. The trailer frame has a plurality of frame sections and each of the trailer frame sections have a length and a width that are less than the length and the width of the bed sections, respectively. The trailer bed sections are attached to the trailer frame. The front and rear pairs of wheels rotatably attached to the trailer frame so that the front and rear wheels are oriented substantially below the trailer bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Tricam International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Simpson
  • Patent number: 7156422
    Abstract: An undercarriage for a vehicle including at least two longitudinal beams, at least one transverse beam and at least one wheel axle. The height of the foremost part of the longitudinal beams has a reduction in height that defines a swan-neck. The longitudinal beams are made of a composite material including a thermoplastic synthetic material with reinforcing fibers. The height of the foremost part of the longitudinal beams is reduced by means of plastic deformation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Groep Stevens International, naamloze vennootschap
    Inventor: Jan Jozef Verhaeghe
  • Patent number: 7144041
    Abstract: A hanger assembly comprises a pair of hangers; a pair of trailer attachment plates, each attachment plate attached to one of the pair of hangers; and a transverse support member having a first end attached to one of the pair of hangers and a second end attached to the remaining hanger of the pair of hangers. The hanger assembly is made of aluminum and provides a lightweight, high strength hanger assembly for a trailer that cuts down on the weight of the trailer without diminishing the strength as compared to conventional trailers, and that is compatible with a conventional air ride suspension system and retrofittable on existing aluminum trailers in a bolt-on configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: James H. Adams
  • Patent number: 7131666
    Abstract: A trailer for all terrain vehicles and/or snowmobiles for transporting injured persons from remote locations. Trailer has a frame of tubing, a main axle, spring and shock suspension, flotation type tires, IV pole with multiple mounting locations, carrier area for injured personnel transport, and accessory tube for attaching miscellaneous accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Empire Welding & Fabricating, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Jenney
  • Patent number: 7111854
    Abstract: A sub-frame assembly for use with a vehicle having wheels such as a trailer is provided. The sub-frame assembly comprises two or more frame members, one or more cross members, and two or more stub torsion axle assemblies. Each of the stub torsion axle assemblies have a torsion arm, a spindle extending from the torsion arm for mounting one of the wheels, and a distal end extending from the stub torsion axle assembly for mounting to the frame assembly. The frame assembly may further comprise one or more shim plates for reception between the cross member and the distal end of the stub torsion axle assembly for allowing adjustment of the toe angle of the wheel assembly. In addition, the stub torsion axle assembly may be rotatably mounted to the cross member whereby the camber angle of the wheel assembly may be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Dexter Axle
    Inventors: James C. Tuthill, John C. Poague
  • Patent number: 7073816
    Abstract: An adjustable width trailer including a center frame with a center deck, and attached tongue and an attached guide beam that is transverse to the direction of forward movement. Left and right wheel support assemblies are slidably mounted on the guide beam. Left and right tire and wheel assemblies are attached to the wheel support assemblies by suspension assemblies. A left wing frame and a right wing frame, with wing decks are pivotally attached to the center frame, when the wheel support assemblies are in inboard positions, the wing frames are folded. When the wheel support assemblies are slid on the guide beam to outboard positions, the left and right wheels are outboard from the sides of the center frame and the left and right wing frames sit on the adjacent wheel support assemblies and are held in horizontal positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Hiniker Company
    Inventors: Jeremy Larson, Roger J. Scheurer, Vincent J. Tomlonovic
  • Patent number: 7065926
    Abstract: A floor frame for a transportable manufactured home includes spaced apart perimeter frame members having a vertical wall and two horizontal walls extending therefrom. A plurality of floor joists extend between the spaced apart perimeter frame members and have notched ends configured to each receive a portion of one perimeter frame member. An arrangement for coupling a transport structure to the floor frame is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Fairmont Homes, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Brandt, James F. Shea
  • Patent number: 7004495
    Abstract: A vertically stowable modular multi-purpose trailer is provided. The trailer includes a forward support section including a first tubular frame having a main body portion with a first upper platform and rear interface side, and forward trailer neck; a pair of caster wheels attached proximate said rear interface; and a first planar deck substantially covering the first upper platform. The trailer further includes a rear support section including a second tubular frame having a second upper platform and a forward interface; and a second planar deck substantially covering the second upper platform. A pair of hinge assemblies interconnecting rear interface and said forward interface. The trailer is adapted to be configured in a deployed configuration, wherein the forward support section and rear support section are longitudinally positioned next to each other forming a generally horizontally oriented common planar platform for supporting a payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Thurm
  • Patent number: 6986519
    Abstract: A low profile chassis and suspension system for a road vehicle. The chassis supports a payload section or cargo compartment, such as for a delivery truck, ambulance, or shuttle bus. The chassis includes a largely planar frame having a top surface which is located beneath the rotational axes of the rear wheels. The wheel suspension system is particularly compact and close to the road surface. A trailing arm-type wheel support supports a stub axle in a cantilevered fashion. A spring urges the wheel support apart from the frame. A planar portion of the wheel support, the wheel support pivot joints, and the spring are located beneath the rotational axis of the wheel. In another embodiment, the frame includes a recessed pocket which facilitates use of ramp for wheel chair access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Aloha, LLC
    Inventor: Earl Dallas Smith
  • Patent number: 6962370
    Abstract: A collapsible utility trailer having a trailer bed, a trailer frame, a front pair of wheels and a rear pair of wheels. The trailer bed has at least two bed sections and each of the bed sections has a length and a width. The trailer frame has a plurality of frame sections and each of the trailer frame sections have a length and a width that are less than the length and the width of the bed sections, respectively. The trailer bed sections are attached to the trailer frame. The front and rear pairs of wheels rotatably attached to the trailer frame so that the front and rear wheels are oriented substantially below the trailer bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Tricam International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Simpson
  • Patent number: 6955375
    Abstract: A vertically stowable modular multi-purpose trailer is provided. The trailer includes a forward support section including a first tubular frame having a main body portion with a first upper platform and rear interface side, and forward trailer neck; a pair of caster wheels attached proximate said rear interface; and a first planar deck substantially covering the first upper platform. The trailer further includes a rear support section including a second tubular frame having a second upper platform and a forward interface; and a second planar deck substantially covering the second upper platform. A pair of hinge assemblies interconnecting rear interface and said forward interface. The trailer is adapted to be configured in a deployed configuration, wherein the forward support section and rear support section are longitudinally positioned next to each other forming a generally horizontally oriented common planar platform for supporting a payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Thurm
  • Patent number: 6932388
    Abstract: A bolt-together trailer frame that can have either a torsion axle or a sprung axle attached thereto without modification of the trailer frame side members. The side frame of the trailer includes at least one axle cut-out with an axle cut-out reinforcement plate attached about the cut-out. A torsion axle is welded to the axle cut-out reinforcement plates. A sprung axle is attached to the trailer frame with a plurality of spring hangers to which leaf springs are connected. The axle of the sprung axle is then attached to the spring hangers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Few, Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 6923475
    Abstract: An ATV trailer with fully-rotatable suspension is provided. The ATV trailer is formed of frame members fabricated of square, metal tubing and welded together to form a framework of rails. A downwardly sloping tongue terminates into a ball hitch coupler being mountable to a hitch of a standard ATV. An I-suspension wheel assembly is provided which includes a wheel assembly bracket with a stub axle being adapted to mountably support an I-beam suspension apparatus. The I-beam suspension apparatus includes an I-member being fully rotatable 360° about the stub axle. Spindles are mounted to the I-member for mountably supporting standard ATV wheels. A metal box-like enclosure of walls forming a water-storage tank is mounted atop the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventors: Richard K. Martin, Michael A. Raven, Gene A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6920721
    Abstract: Off-site factory built structure employs a chassis including two interior longitudinal beam members joined at their ends to a perimeter structure. A floor system is integrated within the chassis perimeter. A ledger member is fixed to the inner surface of each longitudinal perimeter member so that a top surface lies in a plane coincident with top surfaces of the interior longitudinal beams. Lateral members are coupled to the tops of the interior longitudinal beams and to the top of the ledger members. The lateral members include secondary stiffening members such as C-channel members, metal Z-channel members, or other metal members of similar structural capacity, spaced apart from each other by a maximum distance S, related to the width of the floor system W, by the equation: S 12?½W.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Adv-Tech Building Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Evor F. Johns, James E. Rose, Skyler J. Epperson, Marc H. Pulver, Kenneth A. Long
  • Patent number: 6890003
    Abstract: A lightweight, high strength, one-piece subframe and suspension for a trailer that cuts down on the weight of the trailer without diminishing the strength as compared to conventional trailers, and that is compatible with a conventional air ride suspension system. The invention comprises at least two beams positioned generally parallel to each other; a plurality of ribs attached to the at least two beams and positioned extending transverse between and generally perpendicular to the at least two beams; at least one hanger attached to each beam; and wherein the trailer suspension subframe is made of aluminum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: James H. Adams
  • Patent number: 6877581
    Abstract: A networkable engine-generator control system for use with mobile generators mounted on a frame with ground engaging wheels enabling air transport. Each control system consists of a microprocessor based controller and associated field inputs and outputs. Each processor also includes asynchronous communications allowing it to poll external devices from one port and communicate over a network out of another port. Each onboard generator is operated based on runtime hours and system load. The controller monitors engine and generator parameters and makes this information available to an operator using an external monitoring software package. Local operation of each generator is also available on the trailer itself. When operated in conjunction with other systems any one of the controllers may be made the master. The other controllers then automatically are polled by the master. The master coordinates generator operations on all networked systems. The frame utilizing a spine truss and outer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Radian, Inc.
    Inventors: Mazen Badr, Mel Chison, Donald Cope, Norman Edwards, Wayne Moore
  • Patent number: 6854793
    Abstract: A reinforcing bracket for trailer frame-member butt joints comprises a first flange adapted to be parallel to the face of the frame members, a second flange extending perpendicularly from the first flange, and a third flange extending from the second flange parallel to the first flange. The first flange includes a plurality of dimples that correspond to dimples in the frame members. Each dimple in the first flange has an aperture therein that corresponds to an aperture in the corresponding frame-member dimple. In operation, the bracket is bolted to the frame members forming the joint. The present invention also describes a trailer frame utilizing the reinforcing bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Few
  • Patent number: 6840543
    Abstract: There is provided a trailer (65) having a trailer frame (68) supported by ground engaging wheels (84). A pivot frame (69) is pivotally attached to the trailer frame (68) by pivot attachment means (72). The pivot frame (69) is attachable to maintenance apparatus such as a mower (100) in use. There is also provided connection means such as a drawbar (70) to a prime mover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Forestfield PTY Ltd.
    Inventor: Raymond Jeffrey Dufty
  • Patent number: 6834882
    Abstract: A trailer system that includes a main chassis assembly including a detachable, trailer tongue assembly that is assembled from multiple trailer tongue assembly parts; a pair of detachable ramp members each detachably connectable to the main chassis assembly; multiple fasteners; and a multi-panel enclosure assembly attachable to the main chassis assembly. The fasteners are used to secure the multiple trailer tongue assembly parts together, the multi-panel enclosure assembly together and the assembled trailer tongue assembly and the assembled multi-panel enclosure assembly to the main chassis assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Ellis J. Boyd
  • Patent number: 6805379
    Abstract: In a vehicle frame having a first and second frame member extending along the vehicle and disposed spaced and parallel relative to each other, a sub-frame device for supporting a pick-up box. The sub-frame device is secured to the frame of the vehicle. An elongate first longitudinal member has a first and a second end, the first member being disposed adjacent to and extending parallel relative to the first frame member. An elongate second longitudinal member having a first and a second extremity, is disposed adjacent to and extends parallel relative to the second frame member. The longitudinal members are disposed such that the frame members are disposed between the longitudinal members. A plurality of cross members extend between the longitudinal members. A first and second resilient support are disposed between the longitudinal members for resiliently supporting the sub-frame device relative to the frame of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Monroe Truck Equipment Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Nommensen
  • Patent number: 6802521
    Abstract: A construction for a cargo trailer side wall providing a plurality of horizontal scruff rails to extend farthest inwardly from the side wall and a plurality of post framing segments which do not extend inwardly past the scruff rails interconnecting one or more of the scruff rails and/or the floor and roof so as to provide a structural frame member reinforcing the side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Alan Boughton
  • Patent number: 6782965
    Abstract: A powertrain configuration for a truck chassis includes a chassis having at least two frame rails and at least one intermediate cross member. A forward wheel assembly is attached to a forward region of the chassis and a rearward wheel assembly is attached to a rearward region of the chassis. An engine is positioned adjacent to the forward wheel assembly and attached to two chassis frame rails such that, at most, only ten percent of an overall engine height extends above a top of the chassis frame rails. The powertrain configuration may further include a transmission attached to the engine and a driveshaft attached to the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Spartan Motors Inc.
    Inventors: George W. Sztykiel, David L. Cain
  • Patent number: 6745954
    Abstract: In a trailer-mounted atomizer, preset to be towed with a tractor (2) and including a spreading apparatus (1) fed from a tank (3) and a trailer (4) with a towing drawbar (5), the tank (3) is fixed directly onto the trailer (4), and the towing drawbar (5) of the trailer (4) is articulated to the tractor (2) by way of the spreading apparatus (1), this latter being removably fixed to the tractor (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: C.I.M.A. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Smeraldi
  • Patent number: 6742787
    Abstract: This device is a trailer hitched to an atv or off road vehicle to haul cargo over an uneven or rough terrain. The trailer has a frame of steel tubing, a main axle, low pressure tires, trailer cargo box. The axle is comprised of a plurality of wheels rotatable about an axes that are fixed with respect to a cluster arm where cluster arm itself is rotated about an axis so that the wheels will rotate or climb over uneven terrain. The cargo box is constructed of a plastic composite material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Steven A. Wheeler