Abstract: A multi-vehicle arrangement for heavy haulage includes at least a first tractor unit mechanically connected with a second tractor unit, wherein each tractor unit forms a separately drivable tractor unit including a driver cab), a digital communication device, steering wheels, a braking system, and a power train comprising a power source, a friction clutch, and an automatic transmission, where the friction clutch is arranged to be disengaged or engaged for drive torque transmission from the power source to the automatic transmission, a digital communication link is provided between the tractor units by the digital communication devices, and a control system of the first tractor unit is arranged to control at least a clutch load of the friction clutch of each of the first and second tractor units for the purpose of reducing the risk of over-heating of any of the friction clutches during engagement or disengagement of the friction clutches.

Abstract: A system and method for determining dynamically changing distributions of vehicles in a vehicle system are disclosed. The system and method determine handling parameters of the vehicle system. The handling parameters are determined for different distributions of the vehicles among different groups at different potential change points along a route. The system and method also determine whether to change the distributions at potential change points based on the handling parameters. Based on determining that the distributions are to change, a selected sequence of changes to the distributions is determined at one or more of the potential change points along the route. Change indices are generated based on the selected sequence. The change indices designate times and/or the one or more potential change points at which the distributions changes. The vehicles included in a common group have common designated operational settings while the vehicles are in the common group.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device or apparatus for assisting in the operation of a wheelbarrow having a tray, handles and at least one front wheel. The present device may generally include a motor, a power/fuel source, a drive wheel and a drive mechanism for rotationally coupling the drive motor to the drive wheel, the drive wheel able to contact the front wheel of the wheelbarrow in a direct wheel-on-wheel engagement when the present device is attached to the underside of the wheelbarrow tray. The present device may be slidingly attached to the wheelbarrow, such as by one or more slides, to permit its movement forward and backward for the drive wheel to engage or disengage the front wheel. The present invention further includes the present device attached to a wheelbarrow or tray, and methods for assembling and operating the device and attaching it to a wheelbarrow or tray.

Abstract: A vehicle trailer for a tractive unit, in particular in the form of a semitrailer or a drawbar trailer, has at least one electric drive system component which is integrated into the vehicle trailer and can be coupled to an electric drive system of the tractive unit. The at least one electric drive system component has an electric energy store that can be coupled to the electric drive system through an interface.

Abstract: A robotic control system for a vehicle having a chassis and a drive system carrying the chassis. The robotic control system including a controller configured to control the drive system. The controller being further configured to at least one of auto-load the vehicle onto a trailer, preclude tipping of the vehicle, stabilize yaw of the vehicle, simulate Ackerman steering, balance the vehicle on two wheels, retrieve an other vehicle, transfer a payload from the vehicle to the other vehicle, coupling of at least one other vehicle to the vehicle, retrieval or movement of a container using either relative sensing or absolute position referencing, profile cutting of plants, and 3D print cement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive train (1; 52) between a power take-off shaft (27) of a tractor unit (26) and the gearbox (34) of a trailer vehicle (33), the drawbar of which is coupled in a bottom hitching arrangement to the hitch (28) of the tractor unit (26), wherein the drive train (1; 52) extends above the drawbar beam. Depending on the rotational speed and length of the propeller shaft, a long propeller shaft may result problems in revolution that is agitated and vibratory. The novel drive exhibits smooth running properties and allows for easy handling.

Abstract: A road trailer (1) includes, under a chassis (2) with fixed draw bar (4), a main wheelset (3) and a secondary wheelset (6). A retraction device (M, V, 6d) allows the wheelset (6) to be moved in such a way that the trailer (1) rests on the ground (S) selectively either via the main wheelset (3) or via the secondary wheelset (6). An orientation device allows the secondary wheelset (6) to have its direction oriented according to a reversing path followed by a towing vehicle (5) to which the trailer (1) is hitched. Orienting the secondary wheelset (6) allows the trailer (1) to be kept always along the axis of the towing vehicle (5) during reversing.

Abstract: A communication system for a vehicle consist may include a control module that interfaces with router transceiver units coupled to a cable bus, and can communicate network data between vehicles having a transceiver unit over a cable bus.

Abstract: A system includes a router transceiver unit that is configured to be disposed on-board a vehicle system. The vehicle system may have at least a source vehicle and a separate linked vehicle that are mechanically linked with each other to travel together along a route and that are communicatively linked with each other through a system network of the vehicle system. The router transceiver unit is configured to be communicatively coupled to a requesting operational component of the source vehicle and the system network. The router transceiver unit is also configured to receive a local data packet from the requesting operational component that is directed toward a target operational component of the linked vehicle. The router transceiver unit includes an encapsulation module that is configured to transform the local data packet into an in-tunnel data packet, where the local and in-tunnel data packets have different packet formats.

Abstract: A method of controlling the braking of a tractor-trailer combination (10) in which the tractor (11) includes a drive train having an engine and at least one ground-engaging member (14, 16) driveably connected thereto via an adjustable-ratio transmission; at least one ground-engaging member (14, 16) of the tractor includes at least one tractor brake; and at least one ground-engaging member (17) of the trailer (12) includes at least one further, trailer brake, comprises the steps of determining (i) the deceleration of the tractor-trailer combination (10) resulting from braking effort applied via the tractor brake and/or (ii) the deceleration of the tractor-trailer combination resulting from engine braking. The method also includes establishing from one or both the said, determined decelerations as a target value in a control system a braking effort of the trailer brake that approximates the braking of the tractor-trailer combination (10) to the braking of the tractor (11) when considered alone.

Abstract: A multi-unit mobile robot comprising a plurality of separate carriages or units linked together by linkages. Each unit comprises hinged first and second segments which facilitates pitch relative motion between the segments, and accordingly the units. By controlling actuators to the hinges, one can cause the robot to coil around and compress against the exterior, or compress against the interior, of an object to be traversed. The linkage between mobile units facilitates at least one of lateral pivot or yaw relative motion between units, and optionally roll. Each hinged platform is carried by a pair of Mecanum wheels, which facilitate movement of the unit in any direction. Among other possible uses, the multi-unit mobile robot can be used to service windmill blades and towers, and carrying cargo up and down windmill towers by directing a multi-unit mobile robot to wrap around the and traverse the tower.

Abstract: A method includes identifying power outputs to be provided by propulsion-generating vehicles of a vehicle system for different locations along a route and calculating handling parameters of the vehicle system at the locations along the route. The handling parameters are representative of at least one of coupler forces, coupler energies, relative vehicle velocities, or natural forces exerted on the vehicle system. The method also includes determining asynchronous operational settings for the propulsion-generating vehicles at the locations. The asynchronous operational settings represent different operational settings that cause the propulsion-generating vehicles to provide at least the power outputs at the locations while changing the handling parameters of the vehicle system to designated values at the locations.

Abstract: A method of controlling a vehicle and a trailer. The vehicle has a front and a rear end, and the trailer is coupled to the rear end. The method includes sensing a plurality of vehicle characteristics, sensing a distance between the vehicle and the trailer with at least one sensor positioned on the rear end of the vehicle, determining an oscillatory action of the trailer based on the sensed distance, and applying a braking force on at least one wheel of the vehicle in response to the oscillatory action.

Abstract: A wheel assembly includes an attachment member with a spindle attachment interface and a brake attachment interface. A spindle is attached to the spindle attachment interface and a brake component is attached to the brake attachment interface. The spindle attachment interface is configured to be a detachable connection that allows the spindle to be selectively attached and detached from the wheel assembly.

Abstract: Here invented are efficient road vehicles having special aerodynamic shapes, with stabilizing provisions that enable aerodynamic efficiency. It is a vehicle that is configured to include a carriage part that encloses a driver and passenger riding in tandem. This car width is for persons seated in single file, enabling a narrow width that makes a body shaped like an airship practical, where that shape is characterized by a very low drag coefficient in free flow conditions. This body is elevated on struts above a wheel system to enable such free flow aerodynamic conditions, thus, the drag coefficient of the airship is made applicable to this road vehicle. The wheel system includes wheels on each side of the vehicle that are arranged in horizontal columns, to which the struts are attached. The horizontal columns act as individual aerodynamic entities that function independently of the carriage aerodynamic operation.

Abstract: A riding lawn mower may include a first frame portion, a second frame portion, an articulated joint and a battery system. The articulated joint may couple the first frame portion to the second frame portion. The battery system may include a first battery and a second battery. The first and second batteries may be electrically connected in series and collectively coupled to a load. The first battery may be mounted to the first frame portion and the second battery may be mounted to the second frame portion.

Abstract: A system is disclosed comprising a tractor vehicle, at least one trailer vehicle and a skin between and in contact with the tractor and trailer vehicles. One of the tractor and trailer vehicles is disposed in a non-inverted position above the skin and the other is disposed in an inverted position below the skin. The trailer vehicle comprises one or more magnets, while the tractor vehicle comprises one or more magnets magnetically coupled to each opposing magnet on the trailer vehicle. For example, the tractor and trailer vehicles may have mutually opposing permanent magnets in one-to-one relationship. Alternatively, each permanent magnet on the trailer vehicle could be opposed by one or more electro-permanent magnets on the tractor vehicle. The magnetic coupling between the magnets on the tractor and trailer vehicles produces an attraction force.

Abstract: A multi-vehicle arrangement for heavy haulage includes at least a first tractor unit mechanically connected with a second tractor unit, wherein each tractor unit forms a separately drivable tractor unit including a driver cab), a digital communication device, steering wheels, a braking system, and a power train comprising a power source, a friction clutch, and an automatic transmission, where the friction clutch is arranged to be disengaged or engaged for drive torque transmission from the power source to the automatic transmission, a digital communication link is provided between the tractor units by the digital communication devices, and a control system of the first tractor unit is arranged to control at least a clutch load of the friction clutch of each of the first and second tractor units for the purpose of reducing the risk of over-heating of any of the friction clutches during engagement or disengagement of the friction clutches.

Abstract: An all in one towing solution provides its own drive train. The drive train of the trailer is matched to an ECU and engine of a lead vehicle which communicate to ensure that the drive axle of both the lead vehicle and the trailer rotate at the same speed. The trailer is connected to a lead vehicle by an attachment system, which utilizes trailer tongues and a latching mechanism such as ball hitches. The main body of the trailer is built from a hollow base and a plurality of bulkheads, which form storage compartments for the present invention. The main body additional provides tow points for towing a larger or heavier cargo that may require specialized connections, such as a fifth wheel coupling. The present invention allows common family sedans and other commuter vehicles to tow loads that would otherwise require vehicles with sufficient power and suspension.

Abstract: A control system is disclosed. The control system includes a first set of operator input devices and a laser target located on a first machine. The control system also includes a first laser measurement system located on a second machine and configured to measure a distance to the laser target. The control system further includes a communications system configured to selectively communicate a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the second machine follows the first machine based on the measured distance. In the second mode of operation, the second machine moves based on a signal from the first set of operator input devices.

Abstract: A vehicle or machine is suitable for operation on uneven or inclined surfaces, the vehicle or machine being a forest work unit and including at least three frame parts and two rotational planes, each of which rotational planes is arranged to be formed, in each particular case, on an interface between two successive frame parts of the vehicle or machine. The rotational planes are, in each particular case, planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle or machine in the neutral position. The frame parts are thus arranged to be mutually rotatable in relation to said rotational plane.

Abstract: A combination including a harvester, a generator vehicle, and a transport vehicle including a chassis, a motor, a plurality of traction devices, and a control unit aligning the transport vehicle in relation to at least one of the harvester and a previous path of the harvester. A method of positioning a train of transport vehicles in relation to a path of the harvester.

Abstract: A grain cart capable of self-propulsion and receiving steering and propulsion inputs from a lateral extendable connector to a tractor for the grain cart so that the grain cart may be deployed close to the central chassis of a combine for unloading of grain.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive train (1; 52) between a power take-off shaft (27) of a tractor unit (26) and the gearbox (34) of a trailer vehicle (33), the drawbar of which is coupled in a bottom hitching arrangement to the hitch (28) of the tractor unit (26), wherein the drive train (1; 52) extends above the drawbar beam. Depending on the rotational speed and length of the propeller shaft, a long propeller shaft may result problems in revolution that is agitated and vibratory. The novel drive exhibits smooth running properties and allows for easy handling.

Abstract: A wheel assembly includes an attachment member with a spindle attachment interface and a brake attachment interface. A spindle is attached to the spindle attachment interface and a brake component is attached to the brake attachment interface. The spindle attachment interface is configured to be a detachable connection that allows the spindle to be selectively attached and detached from the wheel assembly.

Abstract: A dual lane, multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes a forward module mounted on a plurality of axles and a rearward module mounted on a plurality of axles. The forward module is mechanically connected to the rearward module for providing a dual lane transport body. The forward module and the rearward module of the transport body each have a single central spine wherein the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module are each attached to the corresponding single central spine. The axles of both the forward module and the rearward module have an axle spacing of at least six feet. A hydraulic suspension is provided for dynamically stabilizing the axles for reducing axle yaw. An axle steering system having a plurality of steering rods controls the position of the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module.

Abstract: An intermodal transportation system having interconnected railcars adapted for transporting interconnected freight trailers where the freight trailers remain connected while being transported on the railcars. Individual trailers are assembled into trailer assemblies at an assembly area. Trailers containing freight are assembled into trailer assembles using specialized dollies. A preferred embodiment includes using a self-powered dolly having tires and mounting a fifth-wheel pickup plate and a ring coupler for engaging the kingpin of a trailer. Multiple dolly-trailer assemblies are connected together to form a trailer assembly. A self-powered movable ramp is positioned at an end of the railcar assembly and a tractor pulls the trailer assembly onto a railcar assembly by driving up a self-powered movable ramp and across the top of the railcars.

Abstract: A drive unit couples to a steering unit for a multi-axle vehicle for conveying a passenger. The drive unit includes a chassis configured as a supporting structure of the drive unit, a drive module with a motor and a first axle with wheels for driving the vehicle, a coupling device for coupling the drive unit to the steering unit, an operating element for operating the drive module, and a seat arrangement for supporting the passenger. The drive unit is also configured such that a total center of mass of the drive unit is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in front of the first axle. A corresponding steering unit and a vehicle comprising a corresponding drive unit and a steering unit are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to removal of excavated rock material in mine and underground as well as surface excavation, and particularly to transport equipment suitable for transporting excavated rock material. The transport equipment suitable for transporting excavated rock material according to the invention comprises a trailer connectable to a body of the transport equipment by a fastening articulation, the trailer comprising a body of the trailer, a transport box of the trailer, and a plurality of wheels of which at least two are arranged to be steerable wheels.

Abstract: A trailer sway intervention system. The trailer sway intervention system includes a trailer having a plurality of wheels, each wheel having a brake, and a vehicle towing the trailer. The vehicle includes a plurality of sensors configured to sense operating characteristics of the vehicle, and a controller. The controller receives the sensed operating characteristics from the sensors, determines an error based on a difference between an expected yaw rate and a sensed yaw rate, asymmetrically applies braking forces to one or more trailer wheels based on the difference, and symmetrically applies braking forces to the trailer wheels when the absolute value of the difference between the expected yaw rate and the sensed yaw rate is declining.

Abstract: A vehicle convoy system for use in connection with a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes at least one drive mechanism to impart drive to the vehicle, includes at least a first processor that is adapted to be placed in operative or communicative connection with the drive mechanism to effect control of the drive mechanism based upon data of the position of a leading vehicle in front of the vehicle so that the vehicle moves to follow movement of the leading vehicle. The vehicle can, for example, be a self-propelled wheelchair.

Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing a hybrid electric vehicle (“HEV”) towing a trailer. One system includes a regenerative braking system, a non-regenerative braking system, and a stabilization system. The stabilization system determines a direction of rotation and a speed of the HEV and compares the HEV's speed to a predetermined low speed threshold value and a predetermined high speed threshold value. The stabilization system instructs the regenerative braking system to brake at least one wheel when the speed is less than or equal to the predetermined low speed threshold value and instructs the regenerative braking system to brake at least one wheel opposite the direction of rotation and at least one of the regenerative braking system and the non-regenerative braking system to provide an extra stabilizing braking torque to at least one wheel opposite the direction of rotation when the speed is greater than the predetermined high speed threshold value.

Abstract: A control system is disclosed. The control system includes a first set of operator input devices and a laser target located on a first machine. The control system also includes a first laser measurement system located on a second machine and configured to measure a distance to the laser target. The control system further includes a communications system configured to selectively communicate a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the second machine follows the first machine based on the measured distance. In the second mode of operation, the second machine moves based on a signal from the first set of operator input devices.

Abstract: A system for inserting a robot through an opening which includes a robot, the robot, payload, a tether, and a remote controller. The robot includes a first body supporting a first ground engaging drive and a second body supporting a second ground engaging drive. A pivoting connective linkage is provided between the first body and the second body. The connective linkage has an operative position in which the first body and the second body are in parallel spaced relation and an insertion position in which the first body and the second body are aligned on a common axis. An actuator is provided for moving the connective linkage from the insertion position to the operative position.

Abstract: An aircraft tug includes a tow bar which extends from a chassis, the tow bar operable to autonomously attach with an aircraft main landing gear assembly and transfer electrical power therebetween.

Abstract: A movement stabilizing control ECU 25 includes a differential unit 25a, a cycle calculation unit 25b, a time constant/gain setting portion 25c, a first-order lag processing unit 25d, a pendulum movement detection unit 25e, a control amount calculation portion 25f and a control amount output unit 25g. The time constant/gain setting portion 25c sets a time constant ? and a gain K used at the time of subjecting a yaw acceleration ?? which is a time-differential value of a yaw rate ? to the first-order lag processing at the first-order lag processing unit 25d, with reference to a function or data of a look-up table, for example, depending on the cycle or the frequency of the yaw acceleration ?? due to the pendulum movement.

Abstract: A multi-unit mobile robot comprising a plurality of separate carriages or units linked together by linkages. Each unit comprises hinged first and second segments which facilitates pitch relative motion between the segments, and accordingly the units. By controlling actuators to the hinges, one can cause the robot to coil around and compress against the exterior, or compress against the interior, of an object to be traversed. The linkage between mobile units facilitates at least one of lateral pivot or yaw relative motion between units, and optionally roll. Each hinged platform is carried by a pair of Mecanum wheels, which facilitate movement of the unit in any direction. Among other possible uses, the multi-unit mobile robot can be used to service windmill blades and towers, and carrying cargo up and down windmill towers by directing a multi-unit mobile robot to wrap around the and traverse the tower.

Abstract: A hybrid dinghy pusher for pushing motorhomes is provided. A hybrid vehicle can be connected to a motorhome by a tow bar for towing the hybrid vehicle. When being towed behind a motorhome, the hybrid vehicle can be switched into hybrid dinghy pusher mode. In this mode, during acceleration of the motorhome, the electrical batteries and motors of the hybrid vehicle can provide a propulsive force through the tow bar to the motorhome, which assists the motorhome in accelerating and improves fuel efficiency. Additionally, the dinghy motors can act as generators when appropriate, creating energy which can be stored in batteries for later use during acceleration. The resistance created by the hybrid vehicle can also provide an additional braking force to the motorhome via the tow bar.

Abstract: A system for linking two or more vehicles to achieve reduced aerodynamic drag while the vehicles are travelling on the road is disclosed. The disclosed system not only physically connects the vehicles but also allows the driver of the leading vehicle to monitor and control essential functions of the trailing vehicles. Preferably, the driving mechanisms of the trailing vehicles, such as throttles, brakes, and gears, are fully operational so as not to put excessive burden on the driving mechanisms of the leading vehicle. Methods for linking individual vehicles as well as streamlining the operation of a fleet of vehicles are also disclosed.

Abstract: A material handling system with improved load handling and product distribution capabilities including, a stock chaser vehicle having a motorized truck portion, an operator platform, a load bearing deck portion having a front end and a rear end, and at least two wheels in a rear portion of the vehicle, wherein the deck portion is facing a load area; a picker cart removably coupled to the stock chaser vehicle, with the cart having a front and a rear end, and defining a volume above a portion of the vehicle deck for receiving objects picked by the operator, having four wheels each generally attached at one of the corresponding four corners of the cart; and, a coupling means for secure engagement of the picker cart to the stock chaser vehicle, whereby the picker cart and the stock chaser vehicle are aligned as to substantially share the same travel footprint.

Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle, system, and method for mass transit transportation, the system according to one embodiment including a plurality of passenger vehicles configured such that each passenger vehicle includes a passenger module (110) for transporting at least one passenger being attachable and detachable from a transport-base (120) and a rail-base (220). At each of a plurality of transport-rail interchange hubs (204) the passenger modules are transferred from transport-bases (120) to the rail-bases (220). At each of a plurality of rail-transport interchange hubs the passenger modules are transferred from rail-bases (220) to transport-bases (120). Each passenger vehicle is adapted to transport the at least one passenger on at least one of transport and rail without exiting the passenger module (110).

Abstract: A combination of an agricultural apparatus and a hauling or towing vehicle is provided. The hauling or towing vehicle has a power take-off shaft that can be activated and deactivated selectively by means of a coupling. The apparatus comprises drivable elements that can be connected to the power take-off shaft. An electronic control unit of the apparatus is connected via a bus to an electronic control unit of the hauling or towing vehicle. The electronic control unit of the apparatus is connected to a sensor for detecting a living creature present in a danger zone of the machine. In the case that a living creature is detected in the danger zone, the electronic control unit of the apparatus causes the electronic control unit of the hauling or towing vehicle to order an actuator to disconnect the coupling of the power take-off shaft and/or to prevent the actuator from closing the coupling.

Abstract: A power take off (PTO) driveline shaft of an agricultural implement may be securely stowed when not in use using a PTO driveline storage device. The storage device is pivotably mounted to the frame of the agricultural implement, such as the hitch, and may be rotated from its own stowed position to a position to provide support for the PTO driveline shaft when the PTO driveline shaft is not connected to the PTO of a tractor or other machine having a PTO output. The storage device includes an arm having a first end that is mounted to the hitch and has a second end that is adapted to fit against the PTO driveline shaft when the device is being used to stow the PTO driveline shaft. When not in use, the storage device may be rotated clear of the PTO driveline shaft and pivoted to a position where it may be securely stowed.

Abstract: Here is invented an efficient road vehicles having special aerodynamic shapes, with stabilizing devices that enable aerodynamic efficiency. It is an articulated vehicle that is tall and narrow. It includes a carriage part that encloses a driver and passenger riding in tandem. This car is only wide enough for persons seated in single file, so it has very low projected frontal area compared with typical cars. Further, the narrow width makes a body shaped like an airship practical, where that shape is characterized by a very low drag coefficient in free flow conditions. The carriage is elevated on struts to enable such free flow aerodynamic conditions, thus the drag coefficient of the airship is made applicable to this road vehicle. Because this car has both low frontal area and low drag coefficient it will require minimal energy for high speed operation.

Abstract: A mobile multi-functional shelter unit, for use as a general working area or for storing and maintaining heavy machinery. The mobile multi-functional shelter unit includes a central structure that has a deployed state and a non-deployed state as well as means for translating from the deployed state to the non-deployed state. The central structure has a base section, a central floor mounted on top of the base section, track means for raising a vehicle from a ground surface onto and off of the central floor. The central structure supports a raisable roof assembly and a lateral pullout assembly.

Abstract: The invention is an autonomous dual tracked mobile (10) robot system comprising two or more tracked driving units (12x) configured to travel in tandem and a separate mechanical linkage (16), which joins each of the mobile units to the unit immediately preceding and following it, and enables efficient power transmission between the two driving units. Each of the mechanical linkages comprises one connecting bar (14) and three revolute joints (18y) located on each of the adjacent units and a connecting beam that connects the connecting bar on one of the units with the connecting bar on the adjacent unit.

Abstract: A steering system and method are capable of steering a plurality of vehicles arranged in a train with adjacent vehicles pivotally connected to each other for movement about a vertical axis. Each vehicle has a pair of steerable wheels with one pair at one end of the train being a selected leading pair having its steering angle determined by an operator. An electrical control system automatically steers all of the wheels trailing behind the leading pair. Vehicle angle sensors measure intercar angles between adjacent vehicles and provide this information to the control system. An indicator provides the controller with the current distance traveled by the train. Wheel angle sensors provide signals indicative of the current steering angle for each wheel pair. The controller adjusts the actual steering angle for each trailing pair to a desired angle by calculating adjustments based on the measurement inputs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a traction vehicle (21) for semi-trailers (3), preferably for loading and unloading the semi-trailers (3) onto and off of a freight train (18), in particular, as part of the rolling highway, wherein the freight train (18) comprises several freight cars coupled to one another, in particular low-floor railcars (10), and a continuous driving lane in the longitudinal direction (20) of the train for moving the semi-trailers (3) on the freight train (18), wherein the traction vehicle (21) is unmanned and self-propelled, as well as a tractor-trailer unit (30) formed from the traction vehicle (21) and a semi-trailer (3), a method for transferring semi-trailers (3) from the railway (12) to the roadway and vice versa, as well as a freight transfer terminal thereto, and a method for transferring semi-trailers (3) from the railway (12) to the roadway and vice versa and for transporting the semi-trailers (3) on the railway (12).

Abstract: A multi-wheeled, self-propelled device that alters an existing walk behind caddy in that the operator stands on a motorized platform while holding onto an assembly which is attached to the handlebar of said walk behind golf caddy. The self-propelled device is temporarily attached to the bottom portion of the walk behind golf caddy. The power supply and motor remain part of the platform and the control (throttle/brake) remains part of the attached handlebar assembly.

Abstract: A powered towing vehicle having steering wheels and a wheeled trailer is connected to the vehicle for its towing. The wheels of the trailer are connected to a source of power for generating forward and rearward movement of the trailer. These wheels also are connected to a source of power for turning such wheels in order to steer the trailer. These wheels further are connected to a sensor to sense the position of the trailer wheels as they are being steered. The steering wheels of the towing vehicle also are connected to a sensor to sense the position of the vehicle wheels as they are being steered. The trailer steering wheel sensor is displayed to an operator of the vehicle so that the vehicle operator knows the relative position of each of the steering wheels. The trailer steering power source is connected to the vehicle so that an operator of the vehicle can remotely steer the wheels of the trailer.