Trailing Vehicle Patents (Class 280/204)
  • Patent number: 7669868
    Abstract: An attachment (4, 30, 40) for connecting a first bicycle (1) to at least one second bicycle (2), the bicycles (1, 2) being connected in the direction of motion, and the attachment (4, 30, 40) being rotatably connected to at least one bicycle (1, 2) and extending in a substantially fixed length transversally to the direction of motion, between its respective mounting points (8, 12, 34, 42, 44, 46) on the first bicycle (1) and the second bicycle (2), respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Njål Underhaug
  • Publication number: 20100013182
    Abstract: The tree stand wheel attachment has a rigid plate adapted for attachment to a tree stand. A plurality of wheel attachment struts is disposed on the plate. The struts are adapted for fitting forked wheel assemblies thereto. A laterally opposing pair of the struts includes a first pair of axle couplings, the first pair of axle couplings accommodating an axle and wheel assembly. A second pair of axle couplings is disposed directly on the plate to provide an alternate location for the axle and wheel assembly. A plurality of holes in the plate allows bolts to pass through the holes to secure attachment of the tree stand wheel attachment base to the tree stand via rigid compression straps. Rigid handles are attached to the tree stand to facilitate manipulation by a user. The tree stand wheel attachment may be operated in wheelbarrow fashion to carry equipment and game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Patrick J. Kergosien, Rick Kergosien
  • Publication number: 20100013187
    Abstract: A bicycle utility bracket to accommodate an auxiliary child seat and a towed bicycle that can be mounted on either rigid or suspension type bicycle frames. To accommodate a towed bicycle, the bicycle utility bracket device is positioned between a tow bicycle, such as an adult bicycle, and a towed bicycle, such as a child's bicycle, enabling the towed bicycle to function as a one wheeled trailer behind the leading tow bicycle. This or a variation of this same device can also accommodate an auxiliary child seat. The device can include pivoting structure provisions which can articulate with a suspension style bicycle frame as it articulates. This device can also provide a cushioned ride for an occupant in the child seat and a rider on the towed bike when used with a suspension type bicycle. It also includes provisions to quickly and conveniently attach or remove a towed bicycle which allows each bicycle to be operated independently as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Lonnie Rex Oxley
  • Publication number: 20090256329
    Abstract: A trailing or tow cycle having a tubular frame member, at least two wheels in parallel alignment, a seat member, an independent propulsion system and a journaled connection to a front cycle to provide a stable cycling system for individuals with special needs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: IJDS, LLC
    Inventor: Charles D. Sather
  • Patent number: 7552933
    Abstract: A cargo trailer is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the cargo trailer includes an elongated trailer frame having a longitudinal axis, at least one wheel carried by the trailer frame and a pair of cargo container mount members carried by the trailer frame and positionally adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the trailer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Greg A. Beckman
  • Patent number: 7549661
    Abstract: A collapsible patient supporting carrier configured as either a backboard or a stretcher for being pulled or towed behind a person, animal or vehicle, such as a bicycle, motorcycle, snow mobile or jet ski. The carrier comprises a plurality of support sections interconnected by connecting mechanisms that are configured to selectively place the carrier in a collapsed condition having a support surface for carrying medical supplies or an extended condition for transporting an injured person. Each support section is made up of a frame and one or more support members, such as a rigid plate or a somewhat flexible material, attached to the frame. The forward end of the carrier has a tow connector member to connect to a tow member for towing. Transport members, such as wheels, skis or a floatation member, are operatively connected near the second end of the carrier to facilitate movement over a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventors: Mark A. Jackson, Marc H. Segal
  • Patent number: 7547029
    Abstract: A child transport vehicle comprising: a vehicle frame; displacement means depending from the frame; a vehicle attachment connector mounted on the vehicle frame and including a vehicle attachment connection site, the connector and the connection site may be configured to facilitate convertibility and usefulness of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: 634182 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Graham Alexander Lemee, Barry Dean Wylant, Antony William Stephen Gellion
  • Publication number: 20090102155
    Abstract: A motorcycle hitch assembly is disclosed for attachment to a hitch support on a motorcycle for towing a trailer. The hitch assembly comprises a base and a pivotal trailer ball carried by the base for being coupled with the trailer coupling. The trailer ball includes a ball element and a ball shank extending from the ball element having a free end. A pivot support connects the base and the ball shaft so that the trailer ball and base pivot relative to each other generally in a vertical plane so that the trailer ball remains generally vertical as the motorcycle and base lean during turning. A clearance space defined between the free end of the shank and a bottom of the base allow the trailer ball to pivot freely in a vertical plane. Binding between the trailer coupler and the trailer ball element is reduced during turning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Troy Shockley, Daniel M. Shockley, James D. Shockley
  • Publication number: 20090079158
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise a single-wheeled recumbent bicycle trailer which may be attached to a bicycle, for transport of a passenger or passengers, wherein the passengers may contribute to propulsion of the combined cycle. The embodiments include a recumbent seat position and other accommodations for the safety and comfort of passenger(s) and ease of use. Such accommodations may include single or multi-passenger configuration, passenger pedals, hands-free operation for passengers, supportive seats with backrests, extendable leg rests, and safety restraints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen M. Rodgers
  • Patent number: 7503574
    Abstract: A bicycle caddie is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the bicycle caddie includes a portable enclosure having an enclosure opening, a hitch bar provided on the enclosure and a fold-out table provided on the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Todd E. Reid
  • Publication number: 20080303239
    Abstract: An attachment (4, 30, 40) for connecting a first bicycle (1) to at least one second bicycle (2), the bicycles (1, 2) being connected in the direction of motion, and the attachment (4, 30, 40) being rotatably connected to at least one bicycle (1, 2) and extending in a substantially fixed length transversally to the direction of motion, between its respective mounting points (8, 12, 34, 42, 44, 46) on the first bicycle (1) and the second bicycle (2), respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Njål Underhaug
  • Publication number: 20080290627
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to a trailer for towing light weight items such as Motorcycles, All Terrain Vehicles, Jet Skis, garden tractors, mowers, golf carts or other miscellaneous loads. The Transporter embodied in this invention takes advantage of a fixed attachment to the rear of a towing vehicle that has a hinged interface to the trailer which allows vertical motion between the trailer and the towing vehicle but eliminates the sideways motions or yaw. The Transporter also has one or more castor type wheels which allow the trailer to be backed as an extension of the towing vehicle without danger of jackknifing. The castor wheels are easily removed allowing the side of the Transporter to rest on the ground, creating a ramp to drive the vehicle to be transported onto the Transporter. The side of the Transporter can then be lifted with a typical jack and the castor wheel assembly or assemblies slipped into place and fastened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Larry D. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7445222
    Abstract: A multi-purpose tow bar for a trailer and a trailer having a multi-purpose tow bar. In a towing position the tow bar couples the trailer to a moving vehicle such as a bicycle. In a stabilizing position the tow bar supports a stabilizing wheel extending forwardly of the trailer frame, converting the trailer into a self-supporting vehicle such as a stroller or jogger. The tow bar is reversible, comprising first and second end portions which in the preferred embodiment respectively extend from one another at an angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: PI Manufacturing
    Inventor: Robert Bell
  • Patent number: 7407175
    Abstract: A transporter for transporting a first person and one or more riders over a surface. The transporter includes a first support platform for supporting the first person, the first support platform having left and right sides and defining a fore-aft vertical plane and a lateral plane. At least one ground-contacting element is coupled to the first support platform such that the first support platform is capable of tilting in the fore-aft plane about a tilt axis. The at least one ground-contacting element is driven by a motorized drive arrangement so as to cause locomotion of the transporter. A controller commands the motorized drive arrangement. The controller is configured so that at least one of fore and aft sustained motion of the transporter is based at least on fore-aft tilting of the first support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean Kamen, J. Douglas Field, John David Heinzmann
  • Patent number: 7370874
    Abstract: A light-weight mechanical frame an accessory for harnessing together a multiple of bicycles, unicycles, tricycles or other human-powered vehicles and toys, consisting of a center-of-frame 360° horizontal pivot with four or more unequal length arms radiating horizontally outward therefrom FIG. 1. At each arm, member, outer extremity extend lineally downward legs. Although the legs can descend at any angle, at their extreme lower ends are verticle axels, or pintles which are 360° pivoting connections for the cycles. Cycles thus mounted to a frame are harnessed and interconnected into symbiotic action capable of executing intricate riding patterns. Lone cycle riding becomes a team effort, all for one and one for all. The frame and cycles cannot start, turn or stop without coordinated teamwork—and leadership.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Charles W Ross
  • Publication number: 20080067776
    Abstract: A child transport vehicle including: a frame, displacement means connectable to the frame, and a transport attachment storage system including one or more engagement devices operable and positioned to store an unused transport attachment in an inoperable position on the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: THE 634182 ALBERTA LTD.
    Inventor: Daniel William Britton
  • Patent number: 7341265
    Abstract: A frame structure for foldable baby trailer is disclosed to include a bottom frame formed of two side bars and a front bar and a rear bar, two vertical side frames each having two bottom frame bars respectively pivoted to the side bars and an arched top frame bar pivoted to the bottom frame bars, a transverse top bar detachably connected to the arched top frame bars of the two vertical side frames, a trailer bar pivoted to the front side of said side bar of the bottom frame and selectively locked between an extended position and a received position, and a bumper detachably connected between the side bars of the bottom frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Cheh-Kang Liu
  • Publication number: 20080023234
    Abstract: A two wheeled trailer is attached to a human powered vehicle such as a bicycle or a scooter for carrying load such as children. The trailer is powered by two electric motors and at least one battery. The control of the motor is through a force/pressure meter inserted to the attachment arm between the two wheel vehicle and the trailer. The attachment arm, on the vehicle side is mounted near the rear axle of the vehicle. A coupler that allows free rotation attaches the trailer to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Linghsiao Jerry Wang
  • Publication number: 20070290476
    Abstract: A trailer includes a carrying unit, at least one rod, at least one shackle and at least one elastic element. The rod is connected to the carrying unit. The rod includes a recess for receiving a hook tip connected to a bicycle. The shackle is movable on the rod between a locking position and a releasing position. In the locking position, the shackle shelters a portion of the recess. In the releasing position, the shackle fully opens the recess. The elastic element is mounted on the rod for keeping the shackle in the locking position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Publication number: 20070284842
    Abstract: A collapsible bicycle trailer provides a trailer for pulling children with a bicycle which is telescopically collapsible, thus decreasing its footprint and allowing for more compact shipment and storage. The collapsible bicycle trailer also has side rails that fold over so as to lay flat against the chassis and a tow bar that folds inwardly to lie along the chassis. The collapsible bicycle trailer allows for compact and economical shipment and storage and allows for easy and quick assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventor: Ryan O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 7207586
    Abstract: A bicycle trailer hitch assembly including first and second complementary hitch bracket members adapted and arranged for attachment to opposites sides of the bicycle frame rear wheel drop out. Each bracket member includes a main body portion con figured on one side for abutting relation with the bicycle rear wheel drop out and on the other side for receiving the trailer tongue tube to provide center pulling of the trailer. The bicycle quick release skewer which holds the rear wheel clamped to the drop out member likewise secures both brackets to the drop out member. Each of the brackets has a fastener arrangement for enabling securing the bracket to the trailer drawbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventors: Richard C. Everett, Oscar E. Smith
  • Patent number: 7172206
    Abstract: A folding carrier assembly converts to a bicycle trailer, a three-wheeled jogging stroller and a four wheeled casting stroller. The carrier assembly has a lower main frame. An arched rear or back frame member is pivotally connected to an aft portion of the lower main frame. The carrier assembly further has a single longitudinal arched member with a first end and a second end. A center support pivotally connects the arched member first end to a central fore area of the lower main frame. A user interface in the form of a release mechanism removably couples the arched member second end to a central area of the arched rear frame member. The carrier has two wheel assemblies on opposite lateral sides of the lower main frame. Wheel guards are disposed external and lateral to the wheel assembly. Supports on the fore portion of the lower main frame enable removable coupling to a jogging wheel assembly or a pair of caster wheels. Alternatively, a trailer tongue may be connected to one of the supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Jeff Staszak
  • Patent number: 7131657
    Abstract: This is a hitch for a connection between a bicycle and a trailer. The hitch includes a connector which is secured to the axle of the rear wheel of the bicycle. A joint extends between the connector and a rotatable tube. The rotatable tube is connected to the tongue of the trailer so as to form the hitch having three axes of pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: ZZ Bike, LLC
    Inventor: Brian G. Witt
  • Patent number: 7131666
    Abstract: A trailer for all terrain vehicles and/or snowmobiles for transporting injured persons from remote locations. Trailer has a frame of tubing, a main axle, spring and shock suspension, flotation type tires, IV pole with multiple mounting locations, carrier area for injured personnel transport, and accessory tube for attaching miscellaneous accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Empire Welding & Fabricating, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Jenney
  • Patent number: 7121575
    Abstract: A motorcycle trailer with an aerodynamic storage compartment and a two-wheel independent suspension. Swing arm suspensions for the wheels include swing arms pivotally mounted to the trailer above the wheel axle, wherein the swing arms are supported by wheel suspension shock absorbers. A suspension spring supported hitch design enables the motorcycle to rapidly move up and down independently of the trailer pitch velocity to reduce affecting the motorcycle. The aerodynamic storage compartment, the wheel suspension, and the suspension spring supported hitch help maintain a smooth ride for the motorcycle pulling the trailer and reduce the aerodynamic drag and associated fuel consumption and rear tire wear of the motorcycle, and the motorcycle aft frame fatigue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas E. Finch
  • Patent number: 7052026
    Abstract: In order to improve the safety of a bicycle trailer with a foldable passenger compartment and a foldable seat arranged therein, a frame is being proposed at the backside of which a bracket element is provided that projects out towards the front and acts at the height of the shoulder area of the passenger compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: 634182 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventor: Scott Sutherland
  • Patent number: 7029018
    Abstract: An apparatus for towing up to two bicycles with another bicycle when the first bicycle is also towing a baby jogging cart or, alternately, a bicycle trailer or trail-a-bike. Particularly useful for exercising a child (or two children) and allowing her to ride a bike until tired, and then towing the child's bike while she rests in the jogging cart, the apparatus comprises a bracket assembly which is removably mounted on the rear wheel support structure of the towing bicycle. The bracket assembly comprises a hitch pin which is removably attached by a flexible connector to a towing arm. The latter is connected to the front of the jogging cart and its undercarriage. Prior to towing the child's or children's bicycle(s), one turns its front wheel approximately 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Anthony Leon
  • Patent number: 7011320
    Abstract: Apparatus 10 discloses a motorcycle 12 carriage 14 used for passenger transport. The motorcycle carriage 14 is comprised of an open carriage mounted to a frame having wheels thereunder with the frame extending to a coupling member mountable to a motorcycle receiver. In addition, the present invention 10 provides for an additional element in the form of a pivotably fastened extend able and retractable canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Ramon Gomez
  • Patent number: 7000933
    Abstract: A method for attaching a carrier, such as a trailer, to a dynamically balanced transporter. The carrier is attached to the transporter with a pivot. The pivot axis of the carrier is coincident with the axis of rotation of the wheels of the transporter. This method of attachment minimizes the impact of the trailer on the ability of the transporter to maintain dynamic balance and control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: R. William Arling, J. Douglas Field, John David Heinzmann, Jeffrey W. Hill, Michael Slate
  • Patent number: 6983947
    Abstract: A bicycle towing device which is positioned between a tow bicycle, such as an adult bicycle, and a towed bicycle, such as a child's bicycle, and enables the towed bicycle to function as a one wheeled bicycle trailed behind the tow bicycle. The bicycle towing device in accordance with the present invention enables the towing of an intact and ridable towed bicycle behind the tow bicycle by lifting the front wheel of the towed bicycle off the ground and, if desired, the towed bicycle can be pedaled while it is being towed by the tow bicycle. When not in use, the bicycle towing device in accordance with the present invention is capable of being collapsed and stored on the tow bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventors: Scott Guy Asbury, Edward Scott Nelson
  • Patent number: 6976690
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed that attaches to a bicycle seat stem for allowing connection of a trailering device for pulling by the bicycle. The apparatus has an elongated body with an aperture on one end for receiving a bicycle seat stem and a socket on the opposite end for attaching a trailer or other device. A rack can be combined with the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Steve R. Freeman
  • Patent number: 6969079
    Abstract: A transporter for transporting a first person and one or more riders over a surface. The transporter includes a first support platform for supporting the first person, the first support platform having left and right sides and defining a fore-aft vertical plane and a lateral plane. At least one ground-contacting element is coupled to the first support platform such that the first support platform is capable of tilting in the fore-aft plane about a tilt axis. The at least one ground-contacting element is driven by a motorized drive arrangement so as to cause locomotion of the transporter. A controller commands the motorized drive arrangement. The controller is configured so that at least one of fore and aft sustained motion of the transporter is based at least on fore-aft tilting of the first support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean L. Kamen, J. Douglas Field, John David Heinzmann
  • Patent number: 6959938
    Abstract: A folding collapsible baby trailer is disclosed to include a bottom frame, two upright side frame, a transverse top bar, and a trailer bar, the bottom frame being formed of two side bars, a front bar and a rear bar, the front bar and rear bar of the bottom frame being substantially -shaped bars each having an elongated body disposed on the middle below the elevation of the side bars of the bottom frame and two angled end portions respectively extended from two ends of the elongated body and respectively pivoted to distal ends of the first and second upright side frames so that a flat horizontal space is defined above the elongated bodies of the front and rear bars of the bottom frame and below the elevation of the side bars of the bottom frame for receiving the transverse top bar and the upright side frames when the folding collapsible baby trailer collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Ssu-Liu Liu
  • Patent number: 6948729
    Abstract: A method and a device for slot parking of a mobile vehicle (1), the slot parking (15) includes positioning (19,22), locking (23,25), unlocking (26,27) and realigning (28,29) phases, the method using elements to evaluate available parking space relative to immediate surroundings. The method consists in: retrieving quantitative input values from sensors, which are transformed or not into gradual qualitative input values; determining on the basis of qualitative rules operating instructions which supply gradual qualitative output data and quantitative output data, which are transformed into quantitative output data to control the vehicle actuators. The invention is useful for parking any type of powered vehicles whereof the wheel can be locked on a common axle, and can be used on public roads, private parking lots or production sites of companies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Intellitech (Intelligent Technologies)
    Inventors: Zyed Zalila, Guillaume Gueydan
  • Patent number: 6938910
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tow carriage, especially for towing motorcars with the aid of a motor-cycle (2) or some other small vehicle. The carriage (1) comprises at least two wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) which supported are steerable by means of a steering device (22, 23) and via articulated pulling rods (7-10) can be coupled to preferably, the rear frame portion (11) of motor-cycle. On said pulling rods (7-10) there is, at each respective joint (16, 17), mounted an angle information transmitter (18, 19) which, when the rods (7, 9 and 8, 10) turn relatively each other in response to the motor-cycle (2) turning, actuate the steering device (22, 23) steering the wheels or, alternatively, said steering device (22, 23) being actuated by direction sensor mounted on the motor-cycle in order to detect a acceleration and turning/banking, the wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) always assuming a correct steering angle as determined by the route of the motor-cycle (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventors: Mattias Liljeberg, Michael Liljeberg
  • Patent number: 6929274
    Abstract: A bicycle trailer hitch for securing a trailer to a bicycle, the trailer including a hitch arm and the bicycle having a rear wheel including an axle with an axis of rotation and a frame, the bicycle trailer hitch comprising: a hitch ball including a base end connectable to the trailer hitch arm, an opposite end formed as a ball end and a intermediate portion extending therebetween; and a bicycle-mounted hitch portion mountable on the bicycle and including a socket formed to removably retain the ball end of the hitch ball, the socket including an open end, sized to permit the ball end of the hitch ball to pass therethrough and a retainer end formed to retain the ball end therein, the open end being positioned at the forward end of the socket and the retainer end positioned at the rear of the socket such that the ball end is retained in the retainer end when the hitch arm of the trailer is extending out from the hitch behind the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: 634182 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Imad Assaf
  • Patent number: 6921099
    Abstract: Apparatus for releasably coupling a vehicle accessory to a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a housing, an accessory coupler for coupling a vehicle accessory to the housing, and a hitch pin. The housing comprises an upper wall, a lower wall, and opposed side walls extending between the upper and lower walls, which walls together define a sleeve having an open rearward end. The sleeve has a height between its upper and lower walls and a width between its side walls, the width being substantially greater than the height. The upper and lower walls each have an associated hole centrally positioned widthwise of the sleeve, the holes being aligned on a common axis. The housing is adapted for attachment in an operative position to an upper rearward part of the vehicle with the open end of the sleeve depending rearwardly. In cases where the vehicle is a two-wheeled motorcycle or scooter, the housing preferably is attached to the vehicle in a location above the rear wheel of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Detlef Uwe Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 6896275
    Abstract: A folding collapsible frame structure for baby trailer is disclosed to include a bottom frame unit having a transverse front bar curved downwards without hindering movement of a young child in and out of the baby trailer, two upright side frames, respectively pivoted to the bottom frame unit at two sides, a transverse top bar, male and female coupling members respectively provided at the upright side frames and the ends of the transverse top bar for enabling the transverse top bar to be detachably connected between the upright side frames, a trailer bar pivoted to a bottom U-lug at the bottom frame unit and selectively locked between the extended position and the received position by a spring-supported locking member, which is coupled to the trailer bar by a slip joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Ssu-Liu Liu
  • Patent number: 6893028
    Abstract: The Dude Tandem has been developed to assist a companion of a person in a motorized wheelchair or scooter to travel with them at the rear of their vehicle on a seat. It will relieve the companion of any discomfort or fatigue from walking and trying to keep up. The Dude Tandem is a new device, which has been welcomed by the public as a much needed convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventors: Charles Marshall Smith, John Charles Smith
  • Patent number: 6851693
    Abstract: This invention refers to a trailer, designed to transport at least one child, which can be attached to a stroller and which is equipped with a chassis with at least one wheel, a frame and an attachment assembly for securing the trailer to the stroller, and which is designed so that the trailer is connected to the frame of the stroller, is equipped with a seat, and is fitted with at least one handle, at least one foot rest and a coupling device consisting of an attachment assembly and a first and a second joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Lamprecht AG
    Inventor: Christrian Haeggberg
  • Publication number: 20040173988
    Abstract: A bicycle trailer hitch for securing a trailer to a bicycle, the trailer including a hitch arm and the bicycle having a rear wheel including an axle with an axis of rotation and a frame, the bicycle trailer hitch comprising: a hitch ball including a base end connectable to the trailer hitch arm, an opposite end formed as a ball end and a intermediate portion extending therebetween; and a bicycle-mounted hitch portion mountable on the bicycle and including a socket formed to removably retain the ball end of the hitch ball, the socket including an open end, sized to permit the ball end of the hitch ball to pass therethrough and a retainer end formed to retain the ball end therein, the open end being positioned at the forward end of the socket and the retainer end positioned at the rear of the socket such that the ball end is retained in the retainer end when the hitch arm of the trailer is extending out from the hitch behind the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: ALBERTA LTD.
    Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Imad Assaf
  • Publication number: 20040155428
    Abstract: An Apparatus for towing up to two bicycles with another bicycle when the first bicycle is also towing a baby jogging cart or, alternately, a bicycle trailer of trail-a-bike. Particularly useful for exercising a child (or two children) and allowing her to ride a bike until tired, and then towing the child bike while she rest in the jogging cart, the apparatus comprises a bracket assembly which is removable mounted on the rear wheel support structure of the towing bicycle. The bracket assembly comprises a hitch pin which is removable attached by a flexible connector to the to the towing arm. The latter is connected to the front of the jogging cart and its undercarriage. Prior to towing the child's or children's bicycle(s) one turns its front wheel approximately 90 degrees. There are provided two locations for mounting the bicycles: the first one between the rear axle and the back of the jogging cart's seat and the other is a wheel carrier behind the rear axle of the jogging cart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Anthony Leon
  • Publication number: 20040145147
    Abstract: A bicycle towing device which is positioned between a tow bicycle, such as an adult bicycle, and a towed bicycle, such as a child's bicycle, and enables the towed bicycle to function as a one wheeled bicycle trailer behind the tow bicycle. The bicycle towing device in accordance with the present invention enables the towing of an intact and ridable towed bicycle behind the tow bicycle by lifting the front wheel of the towed bicycle off the ground and, if desired, the towed bicycle can be pedaled while it is being towed by the tow bicycle. When not in use, the bicycle towing device in accordance with the present invention is capable of being collapsed and stored on the tow bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Guy Asbury, Edward Scott Nelson
  • Patent number: 6766769
    Abstract: A pet transporter for a bicycle includes a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall and a peripheral wall. At least one door is positioned in the peripheral wall. A wheel assembly includes a pair of axles each having a pair of wheels attached thereto. A coupler assembly releasably couples the wheel assembly to the bottom wall of the housing. An elongated member has a first end a second end. A pivot member releasably couples the first end to a front wall of the housing such that the first end if pivotally coupled to the housing. A securing member is attached to the second end of the elongated member for releasably coupling the second end to a bicycle chair mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas P. Doyle, Michelle J. Charles
  • Patent number: 6764087
    Abstract: A cargo carrier suspension for installation on a cargo carrier having a seat and wheels, skis or rollers on which the seat rides, the cargo carrier suspension comprising: a leaf spring connectable on a cargo carrier between the seat and the wheels, skis or rollers, and a clamping device for engagement on the leaf spring and adjustable to select the degree of flexibility of the leaf spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: 634182 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventors: Imad Assaf, Daniel William Britton
  • Publication number: 20040130117
    Abstract: A lightweight bicycle transport case that has components which join to a central frame structure and then join together to form a complete bicycle case. The preferred embodiment and an additional embodiment of the central frame structure can be easily transported while riding a bicycle. The major components of the bicycle case consist of panel assemblies 34, a top cover 76, a front bracket 54, a rear bracket 56, and caster assemblies 60. The panel assemblies 34 each consist of four panels joined by hinges. The panel assemblies can be reconfigured from their open bicycle case position to their closed compact position which is easy to transport. The top cover 76 joins the opened panel assemblies 34 together into a complete bicycle case. The front bracket 54 and the rear bracket 56 provide an adjustable mounting interface between the central frame structure and the bicycle. Caster assemblies 60 provide the rolling mechanisms that allow for the bicycle case to be easily manually transported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Joshua Matthew Lipton
  • Publication number: 20040130118
    Abstract: A body receptacle for a wheeled frame allows for the transport of babies in a bicycle trailer. The body receptacle has a flexible mat that is brought into the intended transport form with the help of tensioning devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Applicant: 634182 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventors: Daniel W. Britton, Andreas Gehlen
  • Patent number: 6749212
    Abstract: A bicycle trailer hitch or accessory mount uses a trailer tongue or accessory receiving flange on a body with a pin that is rotatably and removably carried in a integrally mounted bicycle frame socket, the body and socket each having a corresponding bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron Christopher Mock, Jeffrey Small
  • Patent number: 6725955
    Abstract: A two wheeled trailer is used to propel a two wheeled vehicle such as a bicycle or a scooter. The trailer is powered by an electric motor and at least one battery. The control of the motor is through a potentiometer attached to the handlebars of the vehicle and in electrical communication with a controller. The trailer is attached to the vehicle by an attachment arm that is mounted near the rear axle of the vehicle. A coupler that allows three axes of rotation attaches the trailer to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: John L. Bidwell
  • Patent number: 6708995
    Abstract: A utility cart which includes means for attachment to a common bicycle or which can be drawn by hand. Includes a main body compartment formed from a bottom panel, two side panels and a front and a back panel. Two wheels are attached to an axle which is attached to the bottom panel of the main body compartment via a selection of axle supports. Includes front and rear exterior equipment retaining modules in the form of cylindrical units having bottom stops. Any number of equipment retaining modules are envisioned and preferred embodiment shown and described herein includes four in the front and four in the rear. Means for attachment to a typical prior art bicycle is included. The means for attachment permits rotation along three planes thereby providing the smoothest possible transport of the cart and items contained therein. Removable legs are provided which can be attached if the cart is to be stationary, or can be removed when the utility cart is to be in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Richard Norris