Abstract: A windrower having an adjustable axle to vary a width of steerable caster-mounted rear wheels operably connected by right and left steering cylinders mounted to right and left reaction arms pivoted to respective rods coupled to steering arms fixed to respective spindles mounted within a cylindrical receptacle at outer ends of the adjustable axle. One embodiment each reaction arm has a bracket coupled to a fixed portion of the rear axle when telescopic end sections of the axle are in a narrow width position, and selectively mounted to outer ends of the telescopic end sections of the axle when in a wide width position. A second embodiment has the reaction arms mounted to spindle receptacles at outer ends of the axle sections to provide the reaction arms with an infinite number of angular positions about the spindle receptacles for different tread widths of the steered rear wheels.

Abstract: An agricultural harvesting machine, in particular a self-propelled forage harvester, has a body which includes frame parts and parts of the outer shell, a chassis having at least two drive axles which form the ground drive, and various working units and drive units, and the harvesting machine is separatable into at least one front module and one rear module which are displaceable relative to one another.

Abstract: A floor conveyor, with a frame on which a drive unit and a load unit are attached, the load unit having a load carrying means adjustable in its height, further with two parallel wheel arms which are adapted to be mounted on the outer sides of the frame, each wheel arm mounting one load wheel, and with means for reducing the distance of the wheel arms from each other, wherein a frame portion or a frame plate is fixedly connected to the frame on each outer side thereof, said frame portion or frame plate having an outer bearing surface and holes which result in a first hole pattern, wherein a wheel arm plate is connected to the wheel arms, which has first through bores resulting in a second hole pattern, and an inner bearing surface.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wheel drive vehicle including a main body having a rotatable arm and an arm driving unit for driving the arm, a wheel rotatably mounted to the arm, respectively, and a sensing unit for sensing a non-contact state of the wheel from a ground, wherein the sensing unit includes a spring, first and second sensors, and a controller.

Abstract: A road building machine for road surface paving is provided.

Abstract: An agricultural vehicle comprises separate wheel suspension assemblies corresponding to each wheel of the vehicle. Each wheel suspension assembly includes a strut assembly wherein the strut assembly is connected to the chassis at a pivot and to a respective wheel, and a dual action hydraulic cylinder that is connected to both the strut assembly at a point distal from the pivot and the chassis of the vehicle. Motion of the strut assembly around the pivot is affected by action of the hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the dual action hydraulic cylinders are in fluid communication with the diagonally opposite hydraulic cylinder such that when one cylinder moves into an extended or retracted position the other diagonally opposite cylinder is urged into the same position. In some embodiments, the wheel suspension assemblies are attached to slidable drawer assemblies on each side of the vehicle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for permitting construction equipment, and particularly backhoe loaders, to be transported in the hold of a seagoing vessel within the interior of an enclosed cargo container includes front and rear rollers that temporarily replace the wheels of the equipment and allow it to be driven into and out of the container without any disassembly of the equipment.

Abstract: A locking pin mechanism for a transport semi-trailer, the locking pin mechanism is used for locking longitudinally extending members of a frame of a transport semi-trailer together with a trailer body movably arranged on the longitudinally extending members. The locking pin mechanism comprises at least two bolt assemblies and a linkage assembly for driving the at least two bolt assemblies. The bolt assembly comprises a bolt, an inner spring, a sliding sleeve, an outer spring and a bracket. The sliding sleeve at an end away from its sliding sleeve end-plate is connected with the linkage assembly; the linkage assembly can be pulled such that the sliding sleeve of the bolt assembly is compresses the inner and outer springs to force the bolt to be pulled out from a locating hole under an action of an elastic force of the inner spring; and after the linkage assembly is released, the bolt can be inserted into the locating hole under the action of the elastic force of the outer spring.

Abstract: A self-propelled high-clearance vehicle includes a front half-chassis and a rear half-chassis placed one behind the other and assembled together by a pivot connection, the front and rear half-chassis respectively including firstly a front wheel set and a rear wheel set disposed in line one behind the other along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and secondly a first stabilizer wheel set on the left and a second stabilizer wheel set on the right located on either side of the longitudinal axis of the high-clearance vehicle; a driver's cab mounted on one and/or the other of the half-chassis; and an engine unit for driving the vehicle, mounted on one and/or the other of the half-chassis.

Abstract: A system and related method for a regenerative braking system on a towed vehicle, such as a trailer or semi-trailer. The system provides power and braking to the respective trailer wheels, as needed, to help stabilize the trailer. Power is regenerated during braking. While batteries may be used to store the energy, the system also may use capacitive storage units, which charge and discharge large amounts of energy at a fast rate. A multiple-axis sensor system in conjunction with wheel sensors, load sensors, and proportional control of the brakes and motor power to the axles and wheels, is used to achieve superior load stabilization. The invention can be easily retrofit into new or used trailers, and is self-contained with low maintenance.

Abstract: A method for changing the track of a vehicle (100) having first and second wheels (108, 110) disposed on opposing sides of the vehicle (100) along a line generally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the first and second wheels (108, 110 are supported on first and second wheel supports (114, 116, 204) to permit the track of the first and second wheels (108, 110) to be adjusted, at least one actuator (218, 220) is coupled to at least one wheel of the first and second wheels (108, 110) and is configured to change the toe angle of said first and second wheels (108, 110), and an electronic control unit (402) is coupled to the actuator (218, 220) that is configured to command the actuator (218, 220) to change the toe angle, the method comprising the steps of changing the toe angle of the first and second wheels (108, 110); rolling the vehicle (100) on the first and second wheels (108, 110) over the ground to generate opposing lateral forces on the first and second wheels (108, 110); and applyi

Abstract: An extendible axle member (146 or 148) is provided for a pivoting axle of an agricultural harvester (100), the extendible axle member (146 or 148) having an elongate telescopic portion (400) with bearing surfaces for being slidably received in an outer axle member (142 or 144), wherein the elongate telescopic portion (400) is formed integral with and abuts a C-frame for supporting a steering knuckle (158 or 160).

Abstract: The present invention provides an integrated composite floor unit and front wall assembly that can be used in a variety of structures. The integrated composite floor unit and front wall assembly is formed of a floor unit having a front portion and a front wall integrally formed with and rising up from the front portion of the floor unit. The assembly can include other structural features and may be easily combined with a number of further structural components to form a structure. In specific embodiments, the assembly forms part of a modular trailer. In particular, the trailer can be formed of the composite assembly, a composite roof, composite side walls, and a composite rear frame. Such composite trailers advantageously provide a storage volume approximately equal to or greater than conventional trailers but are lighter in weight, thus allowing for storage and/or hauling of a greater weight of cargo than in conventional trailers.

Abstract: A forecab and additional electrical and mechanical components attachable to a motorcycle for converting a motorcycle between its standard configuration and a three-wheeled vehicle is disclosed. The forecab has two front wheels, chassis, a body, a motorcycle front wheel cradle, headlights and parking lights, and standard automobile-type components such as a steering wheel, foot brake, clutch, and foot-manipulated gas pedal. The forecab components are connected to corresponding motorcycle components using both electrical connections, and mechanical linkages as appropriate. The invention adds components to the motorcycle so that the linkages between the forecab and the motorcycle component may be implemented. The mechanical linkages, electrical connections and motorcycle-securing mechanisms are designed to they can be easily connected and disconnected in a manner so that the biker can easily transition between the three-wheeled motorcycle-powered vehicle and the standard motorcycle without tools.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for effecting wheelbase adjustment for utility vehicles having one or more axles with wheels, includes one or more adjustment mechanisms to which compressed air can be applied. The adjustment mechanism(s) adjust at least one of the axles in relation to the body of the vehicle. A pressure sensor measures the pressure of the compressed air in the adjustment mechanism(s) and generates corresponding pressure signals. A pulse-controlled valve or, alternatively, a spring-return valve, is employed to optionally feed the compressed air into the adjustment mechanism(s) and discharge the compressed air from the adjustment mechanism(s).

Abstract: A vehicle steering means with a first front ground-engaging steerable wheel located in the front center of the vehicle; second and third front ground-engaging wheels located either side of the first front ground-engaging wheel with means for adjusting the steer angle and the height depending on the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel. When the first front ground-engaging wheel has a straight-ahead steer angle, the second and third wheels are also straight-ahead and all three front ground-engaging wheels are in contact with the ground; and when the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel is turned, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the outside of said curve is turned at least partly towards the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the inside of said curve is not substantially turned towards the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel.

Abstract: In conventional vehicle cranes it is usually necessary in consideration of current safety regulations to provide at least two separate steering circuits for all steered axles so that, in the event of a failure of one circuit, the vehicle crane can continue to be steered by way of the other. In order to avoid that in accordance with the invention at least one steered rear axle of a vehicle crane (1) is provided with a caster (a) so that at least one axle (11-16), in the event of a steering failure, remains steerable passively by utilizing the caster friction. That principle is applied in a similar manner to a module axle (2) which can be mounted to the vehicle crane (1) and which can be required for transporting additional equipment or an additional counterweight which is possibly required.

Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle includes an base unit having a frame and front and rear pivot arms pivotally mounted at respective front and rear pivot points. The front and rear pivot arms support casters. A drive unit having a ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction. The base unit may also include a drive unit that is pivotally supported on the base unit by a torque arm and a suspension system that includes a suspension stop. The torque arm selectively disengages the suspension stop to allow movement of the front caster wheel in response to the terrain traversed.

Abstract: A robotic platform for autonomous automotive vehicle development. The platform includes a frame having a plurality of wheels rotatably mounted to the frame. A motor mechanism is associated with at least one of the wheels and the motor mechanism is responsive to drive signals to rotatably drive its associated wheel. At least one sensor is mounted to the vehicle which provides an output signal representative of a parameter relevant to the position of the robotic platform. A programmable control circuit is programmed to generate drive signals in response to the sensor output(s) to simulate the operation of an automotive vehicle for vehicle development.

Abstract: A guiding wheel assembly, mainly for a hospital bed, including a wheel (1) with a horizontal rotation axis (6) installed on an arm (7) that is fixed to the frame (5) with the use of an axis (4) allowing swinging in the vertical plane. The wheel (1) is firmly fixed in the straight direction. The arm (7) is provided with a track (3), against which a pressing element (8) leans. The pressing element (8) is fixed with a pin (9) to the frame (5) in a swinging way.

Abstract: A motorized tricycle comprising a frame including first, second, and third coupling members, two rear wheels, and a rear wheels mounting structure comprising side pieces on either side; cross pieces interconnecting the side pieces; two forward cylindrical first joints; two seats each projecting upward from the topmost side piece and comprising a top second joint and a bottom first threaded hole; two second threaded holes each disposed on a section between the first and second joints of the same side; two inverted L-shaped reinforcement plates comprising a hollow boss projecting inward from a bending point, and first and second through holes at both ends respectively; two sleeves each put on the first joint; two cylinders each disposed in the second joint; and screws for securing the reinforcement plate, the rear wheels mounting structure, and the frame together.

Abstract: A rollover stability control system for a vehicle may include an object information device. An active suspension or an active steering system may be coupled to a wheel of the vehicle. The rollover system may include a lateral support system. A controller determines that an obstacle is an imminent tripping obstacle and raises or steers the wheel, to prevent the wheel from colliding with the obstacle, or deploys the lateral support system in response to a rollover notification signal and the determination. A rollover stability control system for a vehicle may include a chassis and a driving surface wheel. A wheel assembly is coupled to the chassis inward from the driving surface wheel relative to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle. The wheel assembly contacts the driving surface when a roll angle of the vehicle is greater than a predetermined level.

Abstract: A parking device for motor vehicles to facilitate and expedite the parallel parking operation especially when the space available between two parked vehicles is not abundant. The device is typically operated after the car has entered the parking spot diagonally so that one of the front wheels is touching the sidewalk curb. The device is normally mounted on the bottom surface of a motor vehicle, preferably in the rear part of a motor vehicle. The device consists essentially of a powered wheel that is lowered to the ground and it is further pushed down to raise the rear part of a motor vehicle until the rear wheels are no longer in contact with the ground. The lowered wheel, perpendicular to the other wheels of the motor vehicle, is then powered to turn in either directions to cause the rear part of the motor vehicle to move toward the sidewalk until the motor vehicle is parallel to the sidewalk curb and mostly aligned with the other parked vehicles.

Abstract: A light-duty vehicle with an adjustable wheelbase includes a linkage assembly composed of at least one main rod, a movable support, at least one movable rod and at least one adjusting rod, at least one power source connected in the linkage assembly, a seat mounted on a connecting rod having one end pivotally connected to the movable rod, and a driving wheel set composed of at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel. The rear wheel is rotatably connected to the adjusting rod, while an opposite end of the main rod is connected to a fixed rod, which is coupled to a front fork above the front wheel. Thereby, when the power source modifies the linkage assembly in posture, the wheelbase between the front wheel and the rear wheel is changed so that the seat is adjusted in posture and altitude.

Abstract: A rear axle/suspension module (18) is associated with a chassis frame (10) in a way that facilitates installation and removal to provide more efficient assembly plant operations with fewer parts and less floor space. Also provided is a method of re-equipping a truck that has one particular model of drive axle and suspension module with a different model.

Abstract: A trailer is provided with a bed and a slidably adjustable axle assembly. The bed includes a frame with left and right, inverted U-shaped channels. The axle assembly includes left and right rails upon which the channels are slidably mounted. Pins extend through the channels, but not through the rails, to limit sliding movement of the bed relative to the axle assembly. The pins are inserted into the channels with a twist lock action under spring bias. Lock members are provided to prevent accidental removal of a pin from the channel during travel.

Abstract: A trailer slider locking system includes body rails longitudinally slidable relative to a suspension frame side rail. The body rails have holes providing multiple suspension positions. A pin locking system includes a pin moveable between retracted and locked positions. An end of the pin is received in one of the holes in the locked position. The pin has a first centerline and the holes have a second centerline. The end of the pin extends through the hole with the centerlines being offset from one another in the locked position. The pins have tapered ends so that the pin will extend through the body rail hole prior to advancing to the fully locked position.

Abstract: An arrangement in passenger vehicles, that diverts the impact energy in impacts away from the passengers to the remaining mass of the vehicle thereby protecting the passengers, and in the same arrangement provides utilitarian access to the vehicle, such utilitarian access making it possible to both install multi-element contoured surround seats for passengers and the driver, and also safety devices and arrangements for head-on collision protection that protect the passenger. An indo-skeletal structural arrangement proposed for the vehicle, provides further benefits by targeting the strength of the vehicle to protect passengers while minimizing other massive elements in the vehicle.

Abstract: A wheelchair suspension system includes a suspension member which clamps to longitudinal bars of the wheelchair frame located below the seat of the wheelchair. The suspension member is elongate with upper and lower parallel leaf springs extending between the opposing ends of the suspension member. An axle support member is hinged to each end of the suspension member, by pivotal connection to each of the leaf springs. Each axle support member receives the axle of one of the opposing large rear wheels of the wheelchair. As the large wheels encounter uneven areas on the ground surface on which the wheelchair moves, the leaf springs flex reducing vibrations and shock to the wheelchair occupant. The axle support members maintain their generally upright orientation as the leaf springs flex so that camber angle of the rear wheels does not change.

Abstract: A tractor-trailer combination includes a semitrailer tractor having a front axle and at least one drive axle having a predefined nominal axle load, a semitrailer having a first axle and at least one second axle, and an axle load adjusting device, which has an axle center height drive for the first axle enabling the axle load acting on the drive axle to be changed by adjusting a center height of the first axle, that can automatically switch into a starting assistance mode in which the second-axle axle load is increased to a starting-assistance axle load that is always below a predefined maximum axle load. An axle center height controller is adapted to automatically detect actuation of an off-road starting sensing device, and increase the second-axle axle load to an off-road starting axle load that is greater than the maximum axle load if the off-road starting sensing device is actuated.

Abstract: A load stabilizer for an automobile is provided. The load stabilizer includes a hitch assembly having an elongate cross member that extends between opposing frame rails of the automobile and that is pivotable about an axis of rotation defined along a length of the cross member in response to a load applied upon the hitch assembly. A first torsion bar is carried on a first end by the cross member and on a second end by the automobile frame for retarding load variations on the hitch assembly.

Abstract: A liftable independent suspension system which may also be steerable. In a described embodiment, a liftable suspension system for use on a vehicle includes wheel spindles positioned to extend outwardly at each respective lateral side of the vehicle. The spindles are displaceable independent of each other. An actuator is operable to raise at least one of the spindles, so that a tire rotatably connected to the spindle is liftable out of engagement with a road surface when the actuator raises the spindle.

Abstract: An arrangement for pivotally coupling an auxiliary axle frame to a vehicle chassis includes a pair of support brackets, each fastened to one of two opposite longitudinal rails of the chassis. Each bracket is coupled to its associated rail with a set of threaded fasteners extended through aligned openings in the bracket and rail. Each fastener is tightened to a predetermined level of tensile force, after which its movable components are welded together to positively and permanently set the fastener. Each bracket extends behind the chassis to support a rotational coupling device including a pin rotatable about a transverse axis. Opposite arms of the tag axle frame support clevis type coupling features at their forward ends. Each clevis type feature is integrally coupled to one of the pins. An actuator used to pivot the tag axle frame can be coupled to the chassis and frame through similar rotational coupling devices and clevis type features.

Abstract: An agricultural harvester rear axle arrangement for an agricultural harvester (10) having a body (12), the arrangement comprising left and right rear wheels (18, 20); means for supporting the wheels for rotation about a generally vertical steering axis (38, 40, 78, 94) and for supporting the wheels for extension and retraction from the body of the combine (26, 28, 30, 90); actuator means for steering the wheels (38, 40, 70, 72, 94) and for extending and retracting the wheels (34, 36, 70, 72); an electronic controller (50) coupled to the actuator means to steer, extend and retract the wheels.

Abstract: A man-carrying vehicle has a chassis, which can be reduced for the vehicle to be easy to store, put away and transport; the chassis includes a front part, a rear part, and a stretching and reducing device interposed between the front and the rear parts; the stretching and reducing device includes first and second stationary components, first and second crank and connecting rod combinations, and a stretching and reducing assistant unit; the first and the second stationary components are fixedly joined on the front and the rear parts respectively; the crank and connecting rod combinations are interposed between and pivoted to the stationary components; the stretching and reducing assistant unit is interposed between and pivoted on one of the stationary components and one of the crank and connecting rod combinations to provide power to change position of the front part in relation to the rear part of the chassis.

Abstract: A cargo carrier for movably supporting cargo includes a frame configured to support cargo at the cargo carrier and at least two wheels at each side of the frame. Each of the wheels is rotatably mounted to a respective support arm. The support arms are pivotally mounted to respective sides of the frame and are pivotable relative to the frame to adjust at least one of a height and tilt of the frame relative to a support surface. The cargo carrier is readily adapted to position the frame at a lower position for road applications and a raised position for uneven terrain applications. The cargo carrier may include a deck that is movably mounted to the frame and is longitudinally movable along the frame.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tag axle attachment for an off-road agricultural vehicle. The tag axle attachment allows agricultural vehicles to meet roadway weight restrictions imposed by the federal and state governments while also allowing the vehicle to perform optimally in the field. The tag axle is assembled such that it can be hydraulically lowered into a deployed position when the agricultural vehicle is on the roadway and hydraulically raised into a stowed position when the agricultural vehicle is in the field. The tag axle assembly is mounted to the chassis rails of an agricultural vehicle and positioned to fit between the chassis rails when stowed and minimizes the load per axle of the vehicle when deployed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile vehicle or wheelchair having the ability to provide stabilized transport to at least one individual on a variety of surfaces, slopes and/or terrains. In one aspect, the invention provides adjustment features allowing the mobile vehicle or wheelchair to accommodate individuals of various sizes and shapes. For example, the invention comprises a seat and an adjustable footrest which can be lengthened or shortened to accommodate different size individuals, including children. In one embodiment the distance between the footrest and the seat can be increased or decreased to accommodate different leg lengths of different individuals. The mobile unit or wheelchair of the invention may travel across smooth and very rough surfaces, slopes of varying or different angles and various outdoor terrains (including grassy, rocky, sandy, muddy and/or hilly terrains).

Abstract: The present invention is a drop-down extra axle and wheel set for a utility truck. The extra axle and wheels are pivotally connected to an extra frame set that overlies and/or extends along the original frame for the truck, from the back end of the truck frame to near its midpoint just behind the cab of the truck. The extra frame set is a generally horizontal, rectangular piece that lays over the top of, and/or extends along, from the back end of to just behind the cab of, the original truck frame. The extra frame set has a trailing, extra, axle support assembly near its back end. The extra axle support assembly depends down from the extra frame, and supports an extra axle and wheel set at its bottom. A set of pivoting connecting rods extend forwardly from the bottom of the extra axle support assembly to pivot brackets which also depend down from the extra frame several feet forward of the extra axle support assembly.

Abstract: A motorcycle conversion assembly for a motorcycle comprising first and second side members and first and second cross members to thereby define a rigid frame. The motorcycle conversion assembly further comprises first and second frame plates operably coupled to the frame and first and second axle plates operably coupled and rotatably adjustable relative to the first and second frame plates. The motorcycle conversion assembly further comprises first and second torsion adjustment assemblies, which are used to adjust the torsion acting on wheel assemblies when the motorcycle conversion assembly is operably connected to a motorcycle.

Abstract: The fork-lift truck comprises a body (11) with one or more directional rear wheels and a mast (12) with a slide (13) sliding and hearing front forks for gripping and supporting the load. According to the invention, the truck comprises an intermediate frame (14), bearing the front wheels (21; 22) and oscillating with respect to the body (11) around a transversal axis (X-X) parallel to the axis (Y-Y) of the front wheels, as well as operating-cylinder means (30) interposed between said frame and said body. Said mast (12) is dismountably fastened to said intermediate frame (14), so as to be made to oscillate integrally with the frame itself around said transversal axis (X-X) by means of said operating-cylinder means (30) to swing forwards and rearwards, with both idle (21) and driving (22) front wheels, whereas it can be easily disassembled and assembled with respect to the intermediate frame (14).

Abstract: A trailer-locking pin locating device comprising an elongated body having a first end, a second end, a crossbar located proximal the first end of the elongated body with the crossbar slidably supported by elongated body and positioned at an angle to the elongated body, a securing member connecting the elongated body to a portion of a semi-trailer, a signaling member comprising a rod having a first highly visible end and a second end, a resiliently flexible member connecting the second end of the rod to the elongated body with the highly visible end of the rod extending beyond the second end of the elongated body in a normal condition, a rod holder for supporting the signaling member in a loaded condition, and a trigger mechanism located on the elongated body with trigger mechanism displacing the signaling member from the loaded condition to the normal condition when triggered.

Abstract: A trolley is provided and includes at least one driven wheel and non-driven wheels. The at least one drive wheel may be moved to a position clear of the ground or to a position in which it contacts the ground with the adjacent non-driven wheels being raised off the ground. Movement between these two positions is effected by pivoting a sub-frame to which the driven wheel and the non-driven wheels are connected. During this movement, the region of the trolley above the driven wheel is first lowered and then raised slightly such that the end elevation of the support for a patient remains the same.

Abstract: A self-propelled high-clearance vehicle includes a front half-chassis and a rear half-chassis placed one behind the other and assembled together by a pivot connection, the front and rear half-chassis respectively including firstly a front wheel set and a rear wheel set disposed in line one behind the other along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and secondly a first stabilizer wheel set on the left and a second stabilizer wheel set on the right located on either side of the longitudinal axis of the high-clearance vehicle; a driver's cab mounted on one and/or the other of the half-chassis; and an engine unit for driving the vehicle, mounted on one and/or the other of the half-chassis.

Abstract: A forklift truck (10) comprising a truck body, a fork mechanism at one end of the body, and at least one wheel (18) at an opposite end of the body, said at least one wheel (18) being mounted on the body for translational movement relative to the body between a working position and a storage position.

Abstract: A trailer assembly includes a trailer frame that supports a load to be carried. One or more axles have laterally-spaced wheels and are affixed to the trailer frame. A flip axle assembly is provided including one or more axles having laterally-spaced wheels. The flip axle assembly is hingeably mounted to the trailer frame, so as to be rotated from engagement with a road surface and onto the trailer frame. A drive system is provided that rotates the flip axle assembly between the trailer frame and engagement with the road surface.

Abstract: A liftable independent suspension system which may also be steerable. In a described embodiment, a liftable suspension system for use on a vehicle includes wheel spindles positioned to extend outwardly at each respective lateral side of the vehicle. The spindles are displaceable independent of each other. An actuator is operable to raise at least one of the spindles, so that a tire rotatably connected to the spindle is liftable out of engagement with a road surface when the actuator raises the spindle.

Abstract: One embodiment of a battery-powered motorized vehicle for a user includes a riding platform, a steering wheel, a second-end wheel, a seat base, a battery-powered motor, a carrying platform, a swivel wheel, a hinge, and an attachment device. The riding platform includes a first end and a second end. The steering wheel is in proximity to the first end of the riding platform. The second-end wheel is close to the second end of the riding platform. The seat base can be on top of the riding platform, with the seat base including a seat back. The battery-powered motor is configured to drive the second-end wheel. The carrying platform includes a first end and a second end. The swivel wheel is configured to connect to the bottom of the carrying platform. The hinge is configured to connect the first end of the carrying platform to a back surface of the seat base. The attachment device is configured to secure an article to the carrying platform.

Abstract: The disclosure is generally directed toward vehicle support systems. In one embodiment of the invention, first and second support assemblies can be pivotally coupled to a base. A control mechanism can couple the first and second support assemblies together and be configured to control pivotal movement of the support assemblies between spread and stowed positions. In another embodiment, first and second support assemblies can be pivotally coupled to a base and to first and second wheel assemblies. First and second steering mechanisms can be coupled to the first and second wheel assemblies and the first and second support assemblies. A control system can be operatively coupled to the first and second steering mechanisms and can be configured to command selected angular positions of the first and second wheel assemblies relative to the base by compensating for the support assemblies being in various positions.

Abstract: A variable wheel base vehicle includes a vehicle body having front end rear ends supporting body members one of which is capable of displacement relative to the other. Drive motors mounted to the vehicle body are linked to the body members. A carriage assembly including drive wheels provide support for the vehicle body. An extension assembly responsive to the drive motor is connected to at least one of the body members. Upon actuation of the drive motor, the extension assembly enables one body member to displace relative to the other body member to enable extension and retraction of the vehicle wheel base. Each body member includes at least one wheel of the carriage assembly and, as a result of displacement of one body member relative to the other body member, the displaced body member provides increased counterbalance in the vehicle.