About Joint Or Other Connection In Structure (e.g., Drawbar, Frame, Etc.) Normally Extending Linearly, Or Planarly, From Tow-engaging End Of Vehicle To Axis Of Wheels Of Vehicle, And Relative To Said End Patents (Class 414/483)
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Patent number: 5653566Abstract: A loading device uses a hitch to support a boat trailer and boat in an elevated position on the rear of a camper. A first member attaches to the aft end of the boat trailer, a second member attaches to the rear of the camper, and latches on the first member engage dogs on the second member to pivotably couple the members together. A winch line is attached at one end to the fore end of the boat trailer and at an opposing end to a winch mounted on the camper. The winch can thus raise the fore end of the boat trailer and thereby rotate the boat trailer about a pivot point through the dogs from a pre-loading horizontal position on the ground to an elevated position supported on the rear of the camper. The loading device is thus mechanically simple because it only needs a hitch, a winch, and a winch line. It is also power efficient because it only pivots the boat trailer, rather than lifting it and then moving it laterally.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1995Date of Patent: August 5, 1997Inventors: Jack R. Williams, Gary L. Inman
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Patent number: 5649802Abstract: A trailer frame and independent wheels including a stationary frame member with a tongue assembly attached and a pair of side bars with each side bar having a free end. Included is a movable frame member being positionable juxtapose the stationary frame member. The movable frame has a front bar and a pair of side bars and each side bar has a rear end. A pair of vertical supports project upwardly from an upper side of the movable frame member. A pair of wheel assemblies, with one each attached to one of the side bars of the movable frame member. Each wheel assembly having an axle arm with an interior end that is coupled between a pair of axle plates. The pair of axle plates are welded to the movable frame member and coupled to the free end of the stationary frame. A hub of each wheel assembly supports a tire rim with a tire. A pair of elongated suspension bands are provided. Each has an upper end bolted to the side bar of the movable frame and a lower end welded to the axle arm.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1996Date of Patent: July 22, 1997Inventor: James S. Babcock
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Patent number: 5564883Abstract: The forward portion of a cargo trailer bed is pivotally supported within a U-shaped frame; the rearward portion of the bed is supported by a lift bar pivotally attached to a rear of the frame, the lift bar acting as a lever to lower the rear end of the bed to ground level and to raise the bed to a loaded position for towing.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1994Date of Patent: October 15, 1996Inventor: Melvin B. Swanner
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Patent number: 5558486Abstract: A flat bed trailer for snowmobiles has a width sufficient to receive two snowmobiles side by side. A front edge of the flat bed trailer includes two portions inclined inwardly and forwardly to an apex on a center line of the trailer thus defining a triangular forward area for storage in front of the snowmobiles. Two gravel guards are provided in the form of flat panels which can be used for loading or as gravel guards. In the gravel guard position, each of the panels is mounted on a respective one of the front edge portions by posts at the edge of the panel which engage vertically into tubular pockets at the front edge portion. The length of the panels is equal to the length of the front edge portion so that at the apex the panels are squeezed together by a transverse rod. The panels can be removed from the guard position and used for unloading by engaging lugs at the end of the panels into loops at the rear beam of the trailer or into the tubular pockets.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1995Date of Patent: September 24, 1996Inventor: Vern Paproski
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Patent number: 5544944Abstract: A utility trailer that can be configured to the cargo being hauled. The trailer having a right side, left side, opening front and rear endgates, an adjustable length tongue to allow long loads to extend forward of trailer box, a frame that pivots forward of the axle, which allows the trailer box to tilt rearward.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1994Date of Patent: August 13, 1996Inventor: Charles R. Keech
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Patent number: 5540538Abstract: A trailer for carrying power driven equipment which can be driven onto or off from either side or the rear thereof is disclosed. The trailer comprises a drawbar having a trailer hitch for coupling to a vehicle that tows the trailer, a second coupling device for allowing the trailer bed of the trailer to be disconnected from the drawbar, and a universal joint that not only allows for the tilting up and down of the trailer bed, but also rotational motion of the trailer bed, thereby allowing the trailer bed to be arranged to accommodate side loading/unloading of the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 1995Date of Patent: July 30, 1996Inventor: Ronald R. Head, Sr.
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Patent number: 5533855Abstract: A self-loading bale transporter (1) for agricultural use is particularly adapted for use with round bales (20). The self-loading bale transporter includes a support (2) which is movable between a position in which bales (20) may be loaded and unloaded, and a position for transporting the bales. The bale transporter (1) is further provided with loading arms which are capable of clamping the bale (20) onto the support during loading and transportation, and then releasing the bale (20) when it is unloaded.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1994Date of Patent: July 9, 1996Inventor: David Mitchell
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Patent number: 5421612Abstract: An improved trailer structure constructed of light-weight material and especially adapted for hauling snowmobiles is described. An improved tongue structure, having a pair of opposed channels extending longitudinally, is shown arranged to cooperate with a hitch structure on a vehicle to allow an enhanced turning radius between the trailer and the vehicle. The improved tongue works in cooperation with an integrally formed tongue support channel for vertical and lateral support. An improved rear frame member protects associated lights and has a ramp member to protect the deck of the trailer when objects are slid onto the trailer from the rear. Side panel members and support beams support the trailer deck and can support associated stake holders for mounting auxiliary removable sides and ends on the trailer frame around the trailer deck. Each of the components is integrally formed by extruding a light-weight material, and cut to length for assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1992Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Inventor: Wayne Floe
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Patent number: 5411284Abstract: A new and improved tilt trailer stabilizer apparatus includes a first bracket assembly which is connected to a first edge of a tiltable bed assembly of a tilt trailer. A second bracket assembly is connected to a frame assembly of the tilt trailer. A brake assembly is connected between the first bracket assembly and the second bracket assembly for slowing relative motion between the tiltable bed assembly and the frame assembly when the tiltable bed assembly is moved from a horizontal orientation to a tilted orientation and vice versa. The first bracket assembly includes a first hinge assembly for connecting to a first end of the brake assembly, and the second bracket assembly includes a second hinge assembly for connecting to a second end of the brake assembly. The brake assembly includes a fluid-based, motion damping assembly. A lock assembly is provided for locking the tiltable bed assembly to the frame assembly when the tiltable bed assembly is in a horizontal orientation.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1994Date of Patent: May 2, 1995Inventor: Kenneth L. Harbin
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Patent number: 5387070Abstract: The present invention provides a coupling device which, when mounted to a transport, serves to catch and immobilize a moving vehicle equipped with a coupling unit. The coupling device may be mounted onto a snowmobile trailer and includes a coupling system which effectively couples onto a snowmobile ski eyelet when the ski enters a coupling zone. The device includes appropriate mounts for mounting the device to the snowmobile trailer bed and a ski impacting plate which, when struck by the ski, causes a coupling pin retainer to move sufficiently to release the coupling pin. The released coupling pin couples to the eyelet and stops the snowmobile from further movement.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1993Date of Patent: February 7, 1995Inventor: James E. Roeling
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Patent number: 5362195Abstract: A trailer to be towed behind a motor vehicle for transporting a motorcycle. The trailer has a frame with a U-shaped opening in the rear which supports a tilting frame which is hinged to the middle of the trailer. A long guide rail is held on a floor supported by the tilting frame. This permits the user to ride a motorcycle up the tilting trailer floor until it passes the center of gravity at which time the tilting floor and guide rail tilt forward so that the floor and guide rail are horizontal with the trailer floor.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1993Date of Patent: November 8, 1994Inventor: Michael D. Wagner
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Patent number: 5342162Abstract: A tow dolly having both ramp loading and tilt loading capability. The dolly includes a vertical pivot bolt to allow the towed vehicle to be more easily maneuvered around turns. Additionally, the dolly has the capacity to be folded to stand on its ramps, and thus assume a substantially upright configuration for storage.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1993Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Inventors: Larry Robinette, Carl Gibson
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Patent number: 5308213Abstract: This invention relates to a ground level loading universal trailer comprising a U-shaped frame; a support bed being pivotally connected to either side and near the rear end thereof to the frame which is mounted upon two stub axles having wheels mounted thereupon; a pair of clevis-like members fixedly attached to the sides and near the forward end of the support bed to receive a portion of the frame to lock the support bed in a transport mode with locking pins; a tongue device having a first tongue extension member fixedly attached to and extending forward the frame and having a second tongue extension member hingedly attached near a central portion thereof to the outer end of the first tongue extension member; and a winch mechanism mounted upon an upright elongate support member fixedly attached to the second tongue extension member for lowering and raising the support bed without any part of the tongue device being disconnected and with ease and convenience for a lone user, in particular.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1993Date of Patent: May 3, 1994Inventor: Gerald M. Gilbertson
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Patent number: 5263807Abstract: A roll-back, flat-bed truck comprising a cab at the front end and a frame at the rear end and a flat-bed with a curved leading edge secured thereto by securement members. The securement members include a hinge having a lower hinge half coupled to the frame adjacent to the rear end of the frame and an upper hinge half coupled to the bed. A hinge pin couples the hinge halves to allow tilting the upper hinge half and bed with respect to the lower hinge half and frame about a horizontal axis. A swivel plate is attached to the frame adjacent to the rear end of the frame and a swivel member positioned in an aperture extending through the swivel plate to allow swiveling of the bed with respect to the frame about a vertical axis. The center of curvature of the leading edge of the bed is coextensive with the axis of rotation of the swivel member.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1992Date of Patent: November 23, 1993Inventor: Joseph A. Pijanowski
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Patent number: 5259720Abstract: A trailer is arranged to have a rigid trailer frame, including radial rods projecting medially of the trailer frame, with the radial rods having rod rollers equally spaced relative to a cylindrical support collar. The cylindrical support collar rotatably mounts a trailer floor arranged for selective securement relative to the trailer and for selective rotation thereto. The trailer structure is arranged for tilting relative to an associated support leg that is selectively secured to a support tongue mounted overlying the leg.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1992Date of Patent: November 9, 1993Inventor: Anthony R. Lobner
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Patent number: 5256024Abstract: A pair of tiltable, flatbed sport vehicle transport trailers coupled in side-by-side arrangement. The invention is a modification which employs a common drawage hitch, for coupling thereto a pair of trailer drawbars, an axle extender for coupling the hubs of the side-by-side arranged trailers to form a common axle and an optional modification of each trailer drawbar fixing mounts that allows the drawbars of the individual trailers to be canted, that is obliquely postured so that the centerlines of the drawbars will then converge at a common point, to which is proximately fixed the common drawage hitch. Thereafter, a towing vehicle will be coupled to the common drawage hitch and the side-by-side pair of trailers drawn as a single unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1992Date of Patent: October 26, 1993Inventor: Ronald A. Ross
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Patent number: 5228713Abstract: A boat trailer adapted to be towed behind a vehicle, comprising a lower, boat-carrying frame and an upper, boat-guiding frame pivotally associated with the lower frame and provided with flotation devices. During launch, or recovery, of a boat into or out of a body of water, the upper frame floats pivoted from the lower frame to maintain boat restraining side rails in operable position during launch and recovery of the boat. Quickly attached and detached foot platforms are provided which allow the operator to walk along the upper frame to manually tend to the boat as necessary. A telescopingly extendible tongue is provided, to prevent the necessity of backing the towing vehicle into the water at gradually sloped launching sites.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1991Date of Patent: July 20, 1993Inventor: Jere C. Kovach
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Patent number: 5195764Abstract: A rectractable trailer having a spring loaded hydraulic piston is provided. The trailer has a bell crank connection for the axles to enable the trailer to be moved between a lowered loading position to an elevated traveling position. The hydraulic piston powers an operating train for raising and lowering the axles. In the operating train the hydraulic piston is pivotally connected to a forward end of a cradle or carriage slidable longitudinally upon a rail-like frame. A rear portion of the cradle is pivotally connected to a telescopic spring loaded operating rod which is pivotally connected at a rear end to an arm of the bell crank axle which is raised and lowered by the hydraulic piston and the operating train.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1991Date of Patent: March 23, 1993Inventors: Ray G. Schantz, Michael A. Schantz
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Patent number: 5184872Abstract: A semi-trailer dump trailer having a very long dump body supported by a middle axle bearing wheels is described. The dump body bottom frame, the rear support frame member and the front beam member form an articulated quadrilateral support frame assembly that can be folded down on itself. Such a semi-trailer is capable of handling an increased capacity, both structurally and legally without exceeding the maximum axle load permitted.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1991Date of Patent: February 9, 1993Assignee: Phil Larochelle Equipments Inc.Inventors: Bernard Larochelle, Robert Dupont
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Patent number: 5178509Abstract: Apparatus and method for increasing the ability of a cotton module mover to reach remote locations in soil conditions which typically hinder travel; to load and unload modules on soft, uneven, and wet ground; and, to equalize the horizontal movement of the ground engaging portions of the tires, the track units, and to drive the live floor of the mover's bed at the same horizontal rate as the mover's actual movement with respect to the ground. The invention includes self-adjusting supports which distribute a portion of the weight of the mover equally to each of the track units and allows each track unit to independently extend to various positions below the mover. The equalization of the horizontal movement of the tires, the track units, and the live floor includes mechanically interconnecting the tires and track units and controlling the live floor with a system which detects the mover's actual movement relative to the ground and then drives the live floor at that speed.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1990Date of Patent: January 12, 1993Assignee: Module Truck Service, Inc.Inventors: Larry D. Webb, Henry W. Hurt
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Patent number: 5176394Abstract: An improved towing rig for objects such as mobile floating dock sections for small craft moorings includes a towing fixture with a connection for a tow tractor, at least one connector adapted for swivelable connection to a forward or side vertical surface of the object to be towed and a load-distributing assembly adapted to bear upon at least the upper surface of the towed object when a pull is exerted upon the tow bar assembly of the towing fixture. The towing rig can further include at least one wheel-axle assembly adapted for temporary attachment to the object to be towed. The wheel-axle assembly is preferably buoyant in water to permit easy mounting and recovery with a towed floating object in the water.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1989Date of Patent: January 5, 1993Inventor: Sidney E. Veazey
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Patent number: 5174596Abstract: A trailer for catamarans, which can also function as a launch trolley, uses a lever mechanism to actuate a pivotally mounted lifting arm (20) which engages the front cross beam (44) of the catamaran. The reaction thrust is transmitted through the frame to a second lifting arm (22) engaging the rear cross beam (42), whereby the weight of the whole boat is transferred to the trailer frame (14). The lever mechanism is self-locking in its raised position. A roller on the actuating lever provides a moving pivot point whereby a cam-like action is obtained.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 1991Date of Patent: December 29, 1992Inventor: Roger S. Benest
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Patent number: 5173028Abstract: The invention relates to a semitrailer (1) comprising devices (6) for shifting a load, such as a container (9), to the support of the trailer (1) and away from the support thereof; as well as devices (3) for shifting the bogie (2) in the lengthwise direction of the trailer. According to the invention, the trailer (1) comprises devices (10; 12) for raising and lowering both the front end (1a) and rear end (1b) of the trailer. By employing the said devices, the front and rear ends of the trailer can be raised and lowered irrespective of each other in order to load and unload the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1991Date of Patent: December 22, 1992Assignee: Rautaruukki OyInventors: Jaakko Heikkinen, Markku Huttunen, Pentti Moilanen
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Patent number: 5165836Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and transporting one or more large bales of material, comprising a trailer to be towed by a towing device and hydraulically powered by an outside source, preferably incorporated in the towing vehicle. The apparatus has tines adapted to fit beneath a bale and cradle and lift the bale in the manner of a fork lift, which is done by exerting force downwards on the wheels of the trailer, thus lifting the frame and attached tines. Connection to the towing device's three-point hitch also affords a lifting device. A device may be provided for shifting the trailer between a transport position, where the trailer is generally aligned behind the towing device, and a working position where the trailer is aligned outwardly and behind the towing device. The tines are positioned generally horizontally and substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the trailer. Bales are lifted by the apparatus off the ground for transportation.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1991Date of Patent: November 24, 1992Inventor: Ernest Shonka
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Patent number: 5137414Abstract: An improved translatable tilt-bed trailer has an elongated support bed which is rollingly mounted on the top side of a dual axle, wheeled undercarriage provided with a manually operable mechanical brake system and a front-to-rear spring equalizing system. The front end of the support bed is provided with a lockable, articulated tongue portion connectable to the hitch ball of a towing vehicle. To load an item onto the support bed, the mechanical trailer brakes are locked; the articulated tongue, and a pair of support bed retaining pins, are unlocked; and the towing vehicle is backed toward the stationary undercarriage to rearwardly move and downwardly tilt the bed. As the rear end of the tilting bed touches the ground, a pair of front stops on the bed engage the undercarriage frame and stop the rearward movement of the bed. The item to be loaded is then moved up the inclined bed and suitably secured thereto.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1990Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Inventors: Wesley S. Sloan, Marvin D. Sloan
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Patent number: 5133571Abstract: A boat trailer is described which combines the advantages of previously available hydraulic and roller-type trailer constructions. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the trailer bed is of a U-frame construction, with a plurality of side rollers and an adjustable roller member for supporting the keel of a boat to be carried about a marina, boat yard, or boat showroom or area. The trailer, at the same time, is arranged to couple to any appropriate towing vehicle by a pivotable tongue, on which a hydraulic cylinder or some other means is secured to tilt the trailer bed and to assist in the loading and unloading of the boat for transport.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1990Date of Patent: July 28, 1992Inventor: Vincent A. Urbank
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Patent number: 5069471Abstract: A travel and utility trailer combination includes a house trailer with a wheel mounted main frame supporting a main closure or house. The main frame has two spaced-apart side beams rearwardly thereof. An auxiliary trailer is hitched to the main frame to have position between the side beams. Side beam extensions are pivoted to the ends of the side beams to have end portions underlying the axle of the auxiliary trailer. A hydraulic linear motor is provided to raise the side beam extensions to horizontal positions to lift the auxiliary trailer wheels off of the ground for over-the-road travel. Removable positioning pins passing through openings in the side beam extensions and plates integral with the side beams maintain these extensions in horizontal position.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1990Date of Patent: December 3, 1991Assignees: James A. Van Der Linden, John J. Van Der LindenInventors: James A. Van Der Linden, John J. Van Der Linden
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Patent number: 5051053Abstract: A trailer apparatus having a perimeter frame with a front, rear and intermediate portion thereof includes a trailer hitch attached to the front of the perimeter frame for permitting it to be attached to a towing vehicle. Wheels are rotatably attached to the perimeter frame and have axle-supporting structures passing between the left and right side aligned wheels. The tilting bed is pivotally attached at a point above and midway between the rotational axes of the axles, in the case of a tandem wheel arrangement having two wheels on each side thereof, or immediately above the axle on a trailer having just one wheel on each side thereof. By having the tilting bed pivotally connected to a perimeter frame at this point, the perimeter frame of the trailer will not have a tendency to tip during the loading process.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1990Date of Patent: September 24, 1991Inventor: Ronald L. Groeneweg
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Patent number: 5030053Abstract: A bale handling apparatus for receiving, transporting, discharging, and feeding of large round bales of hay is provided. The apparatus includes an upwardly open semi-cylindrical cradle rotatably supported above a trailer frame on a scissor device attached to the trailer frame and an undercarriage slideably mounted on the trailer frame. A restraining bail is pivotally mounted to the top of the cradle for restraining the bale of hay as the cradle is rotated. A hitch mechanism is attached to the trailer for connecting the apparatus to a towing vehicle.As the invention moves in a rearward or forward direction the undercarriage slides along the frame causing the scissor to open and close, and thereby raising or lowering the cradle into engagement or disengagement with the underlying surface, causing rotation of the cradle for receiving, transporting, and discharging the bale of hay.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1989Date of Patent: July 9, 1991Inventor: Albert L. Wickizer
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Patent number: 5016896Abstract: A double bed snowmobile trailer includes an axle assembly, trailer support wheels rotatably mounted to the axle assembly to rotate about a common axle axis, a pair of trailer beds each mounted to the axle assembly to pivot independently of the other about the common axle axis, a draw bar pivotally connected with respect to the middle of the axle assembly and extending forwardly in normal relation to a vertical plane including the common axle axis, and means to releasably fasten each of the trailer beds to the draw bar to prevent rotation of the trailer bed with respect to the draw bar when the trailer beds are in a substantially horizontal over-the-road snowmobile transport position.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1989Date of Patent: May 21, 1991Inventor: Robert L. Shafer
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Patent number: 5013206Abstract: A boat trailer is disclosed, having a rigid frame, a guide member adapted for guiding a boat being loaded onto or launched from the trailer, and buoyant members for elevating the guide member to an altitude proximate a surface level of a body of water into which the trailer has been driven. The trailer may include a subframe pivotally mounted to the main frame. The guide member, which may be a pair of cables trained over a plurality of upright stanchions mounted on the frame, defines a "V"-shaped channel dimensioned to receive and guide a boat. The subframe may be fitted with low density material blocks which upon being placed in water effect a hydrostatically-induced, buoyant force against the subframe causing that subframe to rise as it pivots about its frame mounting. The trailer is adapted for forming an automatic connection with an incoming boat and further, for automatically uncoupling itself from a boat being launched. The trailer is thereby suited for one-man loading and launching operations.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1989Date of Patent: May 7, 1991Inventors: Guenter Ernst, Steven S. Davis
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Patent number: 5011362Abstract: A roll-back flat-bed truck comprising a cab at the front end and a frame at the rear end and a flat bed secured thereto by securement member. The securement member includes a hinge having a lower hinge half-coupled to the frame and an upper hinge half coupled to the bed and a hinge pin coupling the hinge halves to allow tilting the upper hinge half and bed with respect to the lower hinge half and frame about a horizontal axis. A swivel plate is attached to the frame adjacent to the rear end of the bed. A swivel pin is positioned in an aperture extending through the swivel plate and lower hinge half to allow swiveling of the bed with respect to the frame about a vertical axis. An intermediate support is attached to the upper surface of the upper hinge half to slidably couple the bed thereto to allow for rolling the bed longitudinally with respect to the intermediate support, hinge and frame.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1989Date of Patent: April 30, 1991Inventor: Joseph A. Pijanowski
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Patent number: 5000645Abstract: The invention concerns an apparatus (10) for handling containers, load pallets or similar load units comprising an auxiliary body (12) on which the container or similar load object can be disposed to be movable, the auxiliary body being turnable relative to a body or chassis (11). The apparatus comprises a coupler connected to the auxiliary body (12), by the aid of which coupler the container or equivalent can be moved higher on the auxiliary body and off of the auxiliary body. The coupler comprises a tilting cylinder (17) between the body or chassis (11) and the auxiliary body (12) and a lifting cylinder (16) between the body or chassis (11) and the auxiliary body (12), and an intermediate lever (13). The intermediate lever (13) is at one end with a pivot (21) turnably connected to the auxiliary body (12) and at the other end with a pivot (20) to the body (11).Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1989Date of Patent: March 19, 1991Assignee: Orion-Yhtyma Oy NormetInventor: Raimo J. Polojarvi
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Patent number: 4971509Abstract: A carrier for handicapped vehicle comprises a fulcrum frame which is adapted to be coupled rigidly to a trailer hitch mounted at the rear of an automobile, truck, or van. A horizontal platform is mounted on the fulcrum frame for tilting movement about a tilt axis provided by the fulcrum frame from a horizontal position to an inclined position wherein one edge engages the ground. The platform is also pivotal about a second axis perpendicular to the tilt axis and includes casters at its rear edge for engaging the ground and permitting articulation of the platform about the second axis.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1989Date of Patent: November 20, 1990Inventors: Frank C. Sechovec, Roscoe W. McDaniel
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Patent number: 4958978Abstract: The trailer chassis of a tractor-trailer is provided with a dumping apparatus for interchangeable shipping containers, operable to dump the contents of the container or to unload the container itself, and optionally to reload containers onto the chassis. The chassis is divided into fore and aft sections articulated on a horizontal axis at a knuckle which will bend only in a direction causing the chassis to form a hump. The knuckle is located forward of the center of gravity of the container, whereby the container remains on the aft section during dumping. A pivotable king pin plate is provided between the fore section of the trailer chassis and the tractor, avoiding stress on the king pin assembly when inclined. Vertical pins are preferably provided at each corner of the trailer chassis, the rear pins being controllably retractable for releasing the shipping container if the container itself is to be unloaded from the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1988Date of Patent: September 25, 1990Assignee: George E. WilkinsonInventor: Joseph Shedleski
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Patent number: 4954039Abstract: A dump trailer for transporting containers includes a movable frame that receives an associated container. A support plate operatively engages a fifth wheel of a tractor. Interposed between the support plate and the frame is a telescopic hoist assembly to pivot the frame relative to the support plate. A draft arm also extends between the support plate and frame to guide movement of the frame during the hoisting operation. Loading and unloading of the container relative to the tilted frame is controlled by a cylinder and cable assembly secured to the frame. The support plate and frame also include a series of flanges for locking the frame against lateral and longitudinal movement relative to the support plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1988Date of Patent: September 4, 1990Assignee: Trailstar Mfg. Corp.Inventors: William T. Johnston, Leslie Smith, Jr., David K. Barker
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Patent number: 4946332Abstract: A trailer capable of carrying a boat and vehicle in a dual load mode of operation wherein the boat is mounted rearwardly of the vehicle in an inclined position with the bow of the boat above portions of the vehicle being carried. The trailer is also convertible into a single load mode of operation wherein the boat is carried low in a conventional orientation by lowering a supporting boat carriage into a collapsed position near the frame of the trailer. The trailer is provided with a boat carriage which is connected to the frame of the trailer and supported by a lifting mechanism which causes the boat carriage and any supported boat to shift rearwardly when they are moved from the collapsed position into the extended raised position. This rearward movement automatically shifts the weight of the boat carriage and any supported boat rearwardly to counteract the loading associated with a vehicle on forward portions of the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1988Date of Patent: August 7, 1990Inventor: Lewis D. Daniels
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Patent number: 4944648Abstract: A trailer assembly comprises spaced wheels connected by an axle, an elongate tow bar assembly projecting forwardly from the axle, and a load carrying frame pivotally mounted on the axle for movement between an upright, ground position for loading and unloading, a first towing position in which the frame is inclined forwardly, and a second towing position in which the frame is horizontal. First and second latching mechanisms are provided for releasably latching the frame in the first and second towing positions, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1989Date of Patent: July 31, 1990Inventor: Willard J. Parr
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Patent number: 4944646Abstract: A portable self-erecting storage apparatus for asphaltic mix or the like is disclosed, and which comprises a main frame, and three separate wheeled carriages which are mounted in tandem and are concurrently pivotable between a lowered ground engaging position so that the apparatus is highway transportable, and a raised position so that the frame contacts the ground and thus forms the foundation pad for the apparatus during use. The illustrated embodiment includes a secondary frame which supports a storage container, and the secondary frame and the container may be pivoted about an elevated axis between a generally horizontal transport position and a vertical upright or operative position.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1989Date of Patent: July 31, 1990Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.Inventors: M. Earl Edwards, James G. May
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Patent number: 4943200Abstract: A portable self-erecting storage apparatus for asphaltic mix is disclosed and which comprises an elongate material conveying assembly and a separate material storage assembly. The two assemblies are adapted to be separately transported on a highway to the construction site. To effect erection at the construction site, the two assemblies are joined in a nose-to-nose arrangement, and then lifted together in a smooth, continuous lifting operation by a pair of hydraulic jacks mounted on the storage assembly. In the erected position, the container of the storage assembly is vertically oriented and positioned at an elevated location above ground level so as to permit a truck to be driven below the container, and the conveying assembly is inclined upwardly so that its discharge end overlies the top of the container.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1989Date of Patent: July 24, 1990Assignee: Astec Industries, Inc.Inventors: M. Earl Edwards, James G. May
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Patent number: 4921390Abstract: A motor vehicle towing aid in which the vehicle to be towed can be rolled directly onto a lowered frame assembly which also includes a turntable like assembly relative to ground engaging wheel which frame assembly can afterwards be lifted relative to the wheels for towing of the motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1987Date of Patent: May 1, 1990Inventor: Ronald J. Baines
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Patent number: 4909694Abstract: A round bale trailer includes a trailer that travels in a hay field in the same direction that the field is normally worked to approach round hay bales in a direction perpendicular to the bales' axes. A U-shaped fork on the round bale trailer engages three sides of the bale. A closing arm on the fork closes to engage the bale on the fourth side. Continued motion of the trailer causes the fork and bale to rotate together 90 degrees about a vertical axis such that the fork closes to nest within a generally U-shaped frame. A hydraulic cylinder immediately operates to pivot the frame and fork to a vertical attitude, such that the bale rolls off the fork and onto the trailer. Pivoting the frame to the horizontal attitude automatically opens the fork by the use of a spring. All the bales are unloaded at one time by an unloading mechanism that tilts the trailer such that the bales roll off one side thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 1988Date of Patent: March 20, 1990Inventors: Francis A. Peters, Edward G. Peters
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Patent number: 4872728Abstract: A tilt-bed trailer having a rotating flat bed is described. The trailer includes a hinge member for pivotally connecting the draw bar or tongue of the trailer to the trailer frame. The hinge member includes stabilizer plates mounted in fixed relation to the trailer frame and a bushing to prevent the deformation of the shape of the draw bar in order to enhance the precision of the rotation of the trailer bed with respect to the draw bar. In this manner, the trailer bed may rotate in precise locking engagement on the draw bar. Further, the trailer of the present invention may be provided with a device to increase the resistance in rotation of the trailer bed with respect to the draw bar.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1988Date of Patent: October 10, 1989Inventor: Kevin T. Adams
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Patent number: 4806061Abstract: A trailer unloaded onto the ground or like surface using an unarticulated frame and no power sources other than the tractor or prime mover. The frame supports three rows of overlapping transverse rollers and has a tail-end roller substantially across its width. A wheeled carriage is mounted to the underside of the frame, so that it can be longitudinally shifted. When mounted on a conventional "fifth wheel" connection to the tractor, shifting of the carriage forward lowers the tail end of the frame which pivots downward about the connection to the trailer. Shifting the carriage back raises the tail. A pair of ground rollers is provided at the tail of the trailer which contacts the ground as it is lowered. A load may be placed onto the ground by unlocking the carriage, applying the brakes to the wheels of the carriage and backing up the tractor-trailer.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1986Date of Patent: February 21, 1989Assignee: Automation Sales, Inc.Inventor: E. Dale Fenton
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Patent number: 4801153Abstract: A trailer for a pontoon boat or other multiple-hull water craft has a pair of V-shaped glide members positioned for supporting the pontoons along substantially their entire length. The glide members are covered with a fabric, such as carpet, and are provided with a plurality of rollers in the bight of the V to provide superior support and to assist in loading and unloading a craft. The glides and frame beneath are articulated so that a rear trailer portion may be pivoted to assist in loading and unloading a craft. The trailer wheels are located laterally beyond the glides to provide exceptional load stability.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1987Date of Patent: January 31, 1989Assignee: World Pride Welding, Inc.Inventor: Parks B. Wilson
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Patent number: 4753566Abstract: The invention concerns an inside loader, designed as a trailer for a semi-tractor, for road traffic, and for loading, transporting and unloading transportation racks, preferably for plate glass. The loader includes an undercarriage having parallel longitudinal members, on the outside of each of which are located the axles of one side of the trailer. The axles are individually mounted on axle rocker arms supported by air shocks which, in their filled condition, serve as axle shocks, and in their empty condition are used to load or unload a transportation racks. Preferably, the invention's inside loader is equipped at the back of the undercarriage with a hinged gate which, when closed, connects the longitudinal members of the undercarriage with one another.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1985Date of Patent: June 28, 1988Assignee: Fahrzeugbau Langendorf GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Alfons Wegner
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Patent number: 4730974Abstract: In a trailer adapted to be connected with a front end thereof to a rear-end of a carrier vehicle, and where the front end of the trailer is held at a predetermined height above ground when connected to the carrier-vehicle, the trailer includes a frame defining a trailer frame plane extending in a hauling position of the trailer substantially parallel to the ground, a front extension and a rear extension of the trailer extending substantially along the trailer frame plane, the front extension being connected between the front end and the trailer frame, the trailer front end including an elongated drawbar defining a drawbar plane subtending a first angle close to 180.degree.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1985Date of Patent: March 15, 1988Assignee: Lohr S.A.Inventor: Jean-Luc Andre
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Patent number: 4711499Abstract: The trailer bed plate (3) is tipped by the towing vehicle moving backwards. The tow bar (1) is hinged to a sliding hinge (2) disposed on the underside of the bed plate, and connected via at least one connecting rod (4) to wheel-supporting frame (5) which is hinged to the rear of the bed plate at (11). When the sliding hinge is released to slide rearwardly, the rod-frame-bed triangle changes shape at the same time as the trailer tips. The trailer may then be locked in this position and tilted back about the wheels so that its bed plate occupies a higher horizontal plane than that occupied in the running position. The trailer then constitutes a table, or work bench.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1985Date of Patent: December 8, 1987Inventor: Jean-Louis Fortin
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Patent number: 4699558Abstract: A generally U-shaped frame is formed with a pair of elongated beams, each having a pair of pivotally mounted load-engaging dogs, and with a pair of elongated sleeves, each extending upwardly from the free end of one of the beams. An elongated post is slidably and telescopically mounted in each of the sleeve. Each post is mounted on a wheel-supporting carriage. A hydraulic jack is mounted in each of the telescoping post and sleeve assemblies to raise and lower the frame relative to the base assemblies. Hydraulic motors and lines are provided so that the dogs can be pivoted and the frame raised and lowered by the operator of a fork lift which is attached to a hitch extending from the closed end of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1986Date of Patent: October 13, 1987Assignee: Cardinal Industries, Inc.Inventors: Douglas R. Hagge, Clifford V. Johnston
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Patent number: 4674942Abstract: Load-hauling tandem combination formed of a motor driven truck releasably hitched to a wheel-mounted trailer which is self-propelled and self-steerable when unhitched from the truck. A lifting mechanism is provided on the trailer for mounting and removing a container or the like load box on and from its chassis.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1985Date of Patent: June 23, 1987Inventors: Daniel Assh, Saul Assh