Trailing Vehicle Patents (Class 280/204)
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Patent number: 6705628Abstract: A conveniently transportable, foldable infant stroller for safely and smoothly carrying an infant at walking speed and at a relatively higher speed than the normal walking speed of approximately 3-4 miles per hour, and convertible to a trailer for safely and smoothly carrying an infant pulled behind a bicycle. The stroller has a collapsible child enclosure that folds onto the seat portion. A folding trailer hitch assembly is pivotally attached to the frame of the stroller. A front wheel is removable from the stroller to convert the stroller to a trailer. The rear wheels are removable for storage.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2001Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Inventor: Paul Kahmann
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Patent number: 6688622Abstract: An apparatus for towing a bicycle 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 with a child 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 the towing arm. The latter is connected to the front of the jogging cart and its undercarriage. Prior to towing the child's bike, one turns its front wheel approximately 90 degrees and places it between the axle of the jogging cart and the back of the cart's seat. Straps hold the wheel of the towed bicycle and its handle bar to the axle and to jogging cart handle, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: Michael Anthony Leon
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Publication number: 20040004340Abstract: A passenger carrier frame of the invention includes a lower frame member, a folding frame member, a back frame member and a frame folding control. These frame members are pivotally connected adjacent their ends to form a triangular arrangement in side view. The pivotal connections permit the frame to be folded and the frame folding control acts at a selected one of the pivotal connections to drive and lock pivotal rotation at that pivotal connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2003Publication date: January 8, 2004Applicant: ALBERTA LTD.Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Imad Assaf
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Patent number: 6663126Abstract: 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 connector end connectable to the trailer hitch arm, an opposite end formed as a ball and a intermediate portion extending therebetween; and a bicycle-mounted hitch portion including a plate having an aperture extending therethrough, the plate being mountable on the axle of the rear wheel of the bicycle with the axle extending through and rotatable within the aperture and a socket connected to the plate and formed to removably retain the ball of the hitch ball.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: 634182 Alberta Ltd.Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Imad Assaf
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Patent number: 6634701Abstract: A trailer including an inner frame that is made of metal, an outer shell that is made of a non-metal and that at least partially surrounds the inner frame, and at least one wheel rotatably secured to the inner frame. In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is made of a plastic. The inner frame includes a lower frame portion with which the at least one wheel is rotatably secured, and an upper frame portion that supports at least a portion of the weight of the outer shell. Preferably, the upper frame portion includes a middle support member that extends upwardly from the lower frame portion, and a first bar assembly that is hingedly connected to the middle support member. In another embodiment, a second bar assembly is hingedly connected to the middle support member.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2003Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: U-Haul International, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Votruba, Patrick W. Breslin, Michael H. Dilgard, David L. Simpson, Thomas F. Bone
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Publication number: 20030193156Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2002Publication date: October 16, 2003Inventor: Richard Norris
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Publication number: 20030178806Abstract: A steering lock, and a method of use, for connecting child's bicycle (2) behind adult bicycle (4), with the front wheel (6) of child's bicycle (2) being elevated so that the adult rider retains steering control. The steering lock comprises receiver (20) or pivot receiver (30) attached to the head tube (13) of child's bicycle (2), a coupler (22) attached to a bicycle tow bar (24) on adult bicycle (4), and a steering lock pin (10). As coupler (22) is secured against receiver member (20) or pivot receiver (30) with quick-release safety pin (25), steering lock pin (10) is forced through aligned holes in head tube (13), steering fork tube (15), and handlebar stem tube (17) on child's bicycle (2) to lock one to the other during tandem travel. Thus, child's bicycle (2) can be expediently converted from independent operation to a tandem configuration multiple times during the same ride.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2002Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Edward Scott Nelson
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Patent number: 6623021Abstract: A steering lock, and a method of use, for connecting child's bicycle (2) behind adult bicycle (4), with the front wheel (6) of child's bicycle (2) being elevated so that the adult rider retains steering control. The steering lock comprises receiver (20) or pivot receiver (30) attached to the head tube (13) of child's bicycle (2), a coupler (22) attached to a bicycle tow bar (24) on adult bicycle (4), and a steering lock pin (10). As coupler (22) is secured against receiver member (20) or pivot receiver (30) with quick-release safety pin (25), steering lock pin (10) is forced through aligned holes in head tube (13), steering fork tube (15), and handlebar stem tube (17) on child's bicycle (2) to lock one to the other during tandem travel. Thus, child's bicycle (2) can be expediently converted from independent operation to a tandem configuration multiple times during the same ride.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2002Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Inventor: Edward Scott Nelson
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Patent number: 6612389Abstract: This lightweight, compact, two-wheel conversion utility is specifically designed to serve as a dual-purpose device for use with a motorcycle. First, the structural design is such that a removable rail tongue hitch is fitted to the proposed invention allowing the conversion utility to be used as a carrier trailer for the motorcycle until arriving at the desired destination. There, the rail tongue hitch is detached from the frame, the motorcycle is backed between the two wheels of the utility, and is quickly and easily mounted to the rear axle and frame, thus converting the carrier trailer to a stabilizer for the motorcycle giving it a three wheel appearance. This makes it capable of increasing load capacity and less likely to overturn. The wheels are located on the outside of the conversion utility's frame and are laterally spaced apart on opposite sides of the rear wheel of the motorcycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Inventor: David Anthony Bell
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Patent number: 6612597Abstract: A tandem adapter frame that attaches to the back of a single-rider bicycle, transforming the bicycle into a tandem bicycle. The rear wheel of the single-rider bicycle is removed from the bicycle and installed on the back end of the adapter frame. The adapter frame is attached to the single-rider bicycle at the seat post and the rear dropouts, resulting in a rigid 3-point connection. This transforms the single-rider bicycle into a rigid frame, two wheel, tandem bicycle with a rider in front and a rider in back. Both riders have pedals. An adapter axle assembly with sprockets on the lower front of the adapter frame serves two functions. It easily attaches between the rear dropouts of the single-rider bicycle using a standard axle and quick-release, and it transmits drive power to the rear crank without modifying the drive chain of the single-rider bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2002Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Inventors: Orlando C. Baker, Francis H. Schaefer, IV
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Publication number: 20030155737Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventors: Aaron Christopher Mock, Jeffrey Small
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Patent number: 6607208Abstract: A bicycle capable of towing a skateboard rider. A hollow tow pole defining an attachment end and an extended end is attached at the attachment end to a bicycle frame of a bicycle. The first end of a stretchable tow rope is extended inside the hollow tow pole and is attached at or near the attachment end of the hollow tow pole. The second end of the stretchable tow rope is attached to a handle. The handle is positioned at or near the extended end of the hollow tow pole when the stretchable tow rope is in a relaxed or substantially relaxed state and the handle is extended at least two feet beyond the extended end when the stretchable tow rope is in a stretched state. In a preferred embodiment the hollow tow pole is collapsible. In a preferred embodiment, the hollow tow pole is pivotally attached to the bicycle frame. In a preferred embodiment, a stop bar is attached to the top of the hollow tow pole.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2000Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Inventor: Chris Dartland
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Patent number: 6575485Abstract: A shock absorbing suspension system for a lightweight, bicycle pulled trailer, fitted to the frame of a light weight trailer. The trailer suspension system includes a pair of shock absorbers each mounted to cushion the trailer and its contents, which can be a passenger. The suspension system mounts to a trailer frame that has a shock base and an arm base. The shock base includes a shock base pivot and the arm base includes an arm base pivot. A wheel arm attaches to the arm base of the trailer frame. The wheel arm includes a hub end and a pivot end, and the pivot end hingably connects to the arm base pivot. A wheel hub is received into the wheel arm proximate the hub end of the wheel arm. An arm shock bearing is positioned on the wheel arm. A shock, for dampening the hinging of the wheel arm about the arm base pivot, is mounted between the trailer frame and the wheel arm. The shock includes a base bearing and an arm bearing.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Inventor: Greg R. Durrin
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Patent number: 6561533Abstract: An apparatus for hitching two bicycles together including a first hitch which connects the apparatus to one of the bicycles and a second hitch which connects the apparatus to the second bicycle. The second hitch includes a stem which is slid through and secured to the head tube of the second bicycle after the front fork and wheel have been removed from the second bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: David M. Snobl
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Patent number: 6554307Abstract: An improved bicycle dropout frame member for simultaneously mounting a plurality of accessories such as panniers, baskets, trailer hitch and trailer, luggage carrier, wheel fender, etc. to a bicycle frame is disclosed. The improved bicycle dropout may include one or more mounting studs for releasably receiving accessory support legs. The central body may also include a bore for receiving a towing hitch apparatus to enable a rider to tow a trailer behind the bicycle incorporating the improved bicycle dropout frame member of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1999Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Transbike Systems, Inc.Inventor: Lynn Marie Ockenden
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Publication number: 20030062705Abstract: 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 connector end connectable to the trailer hitch arm, an opposite end formed as a ball and a intermediate portion extending therebetween; and a bicycle-mounted hitch portion including a plate having an aperture extending therethrough, the plate being mountable on the axle of the rear wheel of the bicycle with the axle extending through and rotatable within the aperture and a socket connected to the plate and formed to removably retain the ball of the hitch ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2001Publication date: April 3, 2003Applicant: ALBERTA LTD.Inventors: Daniel William Britton, Imad Assaf
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Publication number: 20030011170Abstract: A hitch assembly for attaching a trailer to a bicycle includes a hitch unit mounted on a wheelstay assembly above the rear axle of a bicycle. The wheelstay assembly is pivotally connected at its lower ends to a skewer extending through the rear axle hub and a strut member is pivotally connected to the seat post of the bicycle and to the hitch unit. The hitch unit is rotatable about a substantially vertical first pivot axis and includes a mounting for attachment by a tongue of a trailer, such as a trailer cycle. The tongue is attached to the hitch unit so that it can swing about a substantially vertical first axis and pivot about a substantially horizontal second axis. When the hitch assembly is mounted on a suspension bicycle, it is able to move up and down, substantially vertically, as the rear wheel moves up and down relative to the frame and seat of the bicycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2001Publication date: January 16, 2003Applicant: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventor: Daniel M. Humes
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Publication number: 20020195796Abstract: A coupling system for coupling a trailer to a bicycle, where the first coupling part is mounted near a trailing axle of the bicycle and a second coupling part is mounted to a connecting rod, which in turn is mounted to the trailer. The first coupling part is provided with a spherical hinge part and the second coupling part with a catch lock, which partly embraces the spherical hinge part. The advantage is that the trailer will not overturn when the bicycle overturns.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2001Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventor: Kees De Vogel
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Patent number: 6491316Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1999Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Inventor: Steve R. Freeman
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Patent number: 6481735Abstract: An apparatus for carrying a load behind a bicycle. The apparatus includes a carriage adapted to carry a load, and at least one wheel rotatably connected to the carriage. A hitch assembly is coupled to the carriage and includes at least one latch mechanism removably connectable to a bicycle to couple the carriage to the bicycle. The latch mechanism is adapted to removably connect to a skewer assembly receivable in the hub of a rear wheel of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventor: Lyle R. Hilk
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Publication number: 20020163158Abstract: A shock absorbing suspension system for a lightweight, bicycle pulled trailer, fitted to the frame of a light weight trailer. The trailer suspension system includes a pair of shock absorbers each mounted to cushion the trailer and its contents, which can be a passenger. The suspension system mounts to a trailer frame that has a shock base and an arm base. The shock base includes a shock base pivot and the arm base includes an arm base pivot. A wheel arm attaches to the arm base of the trailer frame. The wheel arm includes a hub end and a pivot end, and the pivot end hingably connects to the arm base pivot. A wheel hub is received into the wheel arm proximate the hub end of the wheel arm. An arm shock bearing is positioned on the wheel arm. A shock, for dampening the hinging of the wheel arm about the arm base pivot, is mounted between the trailer frame and the wheel arm. The shock includes a base bearing and an arm bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2001Publication date: November 7, 2002Inventor: Greg Durrin
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Publication number: 20020135155Abstract: An apparatus for towing a bicycle 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 with a child 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 the towing arm. The latter is connected to the front of the jogging cart and its undercarriage. Prior to towing the child's bike, one turns its front wheel approximately 90 degrees and places it between the axle of the jogging cart and the back of the cart's seat. Straps hold the wheel of the towed bicycle and its handle bar to the axle and to jogging cart handle, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2002Publication date: September 26, 2002Inventor: Michael Anthony Leon
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Patent number: 6454289Abstract: A trailer hitch cart for a motorcycle comprises a two-wheel cart having a U-shaped frame, with a lateral frame member, a first longitudinal frame member extending forward from one end of the lateral frame member, and a second longitudinal frame member extending forward from the opposite end of the lateral frame member. Wheel mounting assemblies are provided at the forward ends of the respective longitudinal frame member on which the wheels on each side of the cart are mounted. The wheel mounting assemblies include rotation resisting shock absorbers connected by a crank member to the axles on which the wheels of the cart are mounted. As the wheels move up and down over the bumps in the road surface, the wheels on their axles rotate the crank members which applies rotational pressure to the shaft of the rotational type shock absorber.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Raymond Mullins
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Patent number: 6443472Abstract: A towing bracket for attachment to the rear frame of a bicycle, to be used for towing a trailer behind the bicycle. The towing bracket has a hanging member that attaches to the hub nut of the rear wheel of the bicycle, and may have a disk with an attached tab that mates with a slot in the rear frame, with the disk having a number of holes that mate with raised nubs in the hanging member, to prevent rotation of the hanging member about the nut. A collar on the hanging member attaches to a trailer linkage, which in turn attaches to a trailer.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: InSTEP, LLCInventor: Paul Kahmann
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Patent number: 6435535Abstract: A trailer for a dynamically balanced transporter that allows leaning of the transporter such as for control of the combination of transporter and trailer. The trailer has a platform and an arm with two ends, one of which ends is coupled to the platform and the other of which is pivotally coupled about a horizontal axis to the transporter. The trailer has a ground-contacting member that may be a wheel, or a ski or a skid. A locking mechanism may lock the pivot in response to a fault condition. The platform of the trailer may support a rider in a seated or standing position and may have a characteristic transverse linear dimension comparable to the shoulder width of the rider.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: J. Douglas Field, John David Heinzmann
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Patent number: 6431570Abstract: A bicycle trailer assembly 10 is provided and is adapted for use in an off-road environment. As shown, bicycle trailer assembly 10 includes a front yoke 18, which is pivotally coupled to the frame 14 and rear axle 16 of bicycle 12 by use of a pair of substantially identical ball-type joint assemblies 20. Assembly 10 further includes a cargo support or carrying frame 22 which is pivotally coupled to front yoke assembly 18; a rear yoke assembly 24 which is pivotally coupled to frame 22 and which rotatably supports a trailer wheel 28; and an elastomeric member, shock absorber or damper 26 which is operatively disposed between frame 22 and rear yoke 24. As shown in FIG. 6, the trailer assembly 10 further includes storage compartments or panniers 120 which are selectively and removably attached to support frame 22.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Inventors: Sean Lennon, Bob Sherman
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Patent number: 6409194Abstract: A trailer for land vehicles including bicycles has a rain drop or similar shape and two in-line seats for passengers. The seats are convertible to act alternatively as a support for cargo. The trailer includes a convex, transparent dome at the front side, and a convex, tapering tail at the back side of the trailer. The cargo area is enclosed by a rigid floor and flaccid fabric side walls. Amenities such as cup holders and pockets may be sewn into the side walls along with a reflective strip. Wheels are provided with a slight lean towards the trailer, making the distance between wheel tops smaller than between wheel bottoms. This tilt stabilizes the trailer, which already has a low center of gravity, while roll bars and multi-point seat belts help protect passengers in the event of a roll-over or other unexpected event. An optional cover for the cargo area provides protection to the cargo, whether animate or inanimate, during adverse weather.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2000Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Inventor: Stanley G. Voas
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Patent number: 6409188Abstract: A trailer hitch mounted carrying apparatus for golf bag pull carts, golf bags, or golf bags mounted on pull carts. A generally cylindrical carrier is mounted to a trailer hitch connection. The cylindrical carrier is rigid and with a slot cut in it. A folded golf bag pull cart may be mounted within the carrier with the wheels and handle outside of the carrier, either with or without a golf bag mounted on the pull cart. Alternatively, a golf bag may be mounted within the carrier. The carrier is equipped with a lockable cover to secure the contents, whether a golf bag filled with clubs or a golf bag and pull cart within the carrier. The carrier may be mounted to either a female trailer hitch on the rear of a vehicle or a bar-type trailer hitch on the rear of a vehicle. The carrier may be equipped with added wheels on the carrier so that the carrier may be utilized for wheeled movement, including towing behind a bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Inventor: Ronald G. Hesmer
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Publication number: 20020074764Abstract: A bicycle trailer has a bed portion supported by a frame assembly and a pair of wheels for transporting the bed portion over ground. The tongue member extends forward from the frame assembly. A hitch assembly is located on a distal end of the tongue member for coupling the trailer to a bike. The hitch assembly may include a ratchet device that permits tightening of a clamp to the bike preventing untightening of the clamp. Front and back hub members allow the trailer to be vertically collapsed to substantially reduce the side-to-side dimension of the trailer for storage or transport.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2001Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventors: Scott R. Allen, Joseph J. Settelmayer, James R. Penny, Duncan G. Robins, Steven J. Cole
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Publication number: 20020070526Abstract: A bicycle capable of towing a skateboard rider. A hollow tow pole defining an attachment end and an extended end is attached at the attachment end to a bicycle frame of a bicycle. The first end of a stretchable tow rope is extended inside the hollow tow pole and is attached at or near the attachment end of the hollow tow pole. The second end of the stretchable tow rope is attached to a handle. The handle is positioned at or near the extended end of the hollow tow pole when the stretchable tow rope is in a relaxed or substantially relaxed state and the handle is extended at least two feet beyond the extended end when the stretchable tow rope is in a stretched state. In a preferred embodiment the hollow tow pole is collapsible. In a preferred embodiment, the hollow tow pole is pivotally attached to the bicycle frame. In a preferred embodiment, a stop bar is attached to the top of the hollow tow pole.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventor: Chris Dartland
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Patent number: 6349955Abstract: The invention concerns a single-wheel trailer for all-terrain touring bike. The trailer is fixed on the saddle rod via hitch linkage (3) comprising a fixing part (9a,9b) on the saddle extended by a plate (11) from which projects a vertical shaft (13) whereon is articulated a fork joint (15) interlocked with a rod (16) of the trailer body.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2000Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Assignee: Centre d'InnovationInventors: Andre Cottard, Guillaume Cottard, Romain Blanquet, Christophe Mortier
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Patent number: 6341791Abstract: A wheelchair and bicycle combination assembly for pushing a wheelchair while riding a bike. The wheelchair and bicycle combination assembly includes a bicycle frame. A seat assembly slidably mounts to the bicycle frame. A gear assembly comprises at least a first gear and a second gear. The first gear is rotatably coupled to a front portion of the frame. The second gear is rotatably coupled to a back portion of the frame. A bike chain extends around and is in communication with teeth on the first and second gears. A crank axle extends through the first gear. The crank axle has a pair of ends. Each of a pair of pedals is rotatably coupled to one of the ends of the crank axle. A bike wheel is securely attached to the second gear. A wheelchair includes a seat portion. A back rest is securely coupled to and extends upwardly from a back edge of the seat portion. A pair of front wheels and a pair of rear wheels are rotatably coupled to the seat portion. An axle extends between the back wheels.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: January 29, 2002Inventor: Sammie L. Cannon, Sr.
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Publication number: 20010038190Abstract: A trailer assembly which is connectable to a bicycle, which bicycle has a seat mounted on a seat post, the trailer assembly comprising a frame having an upper portion and a lower portion with the upper portion being connected to the bicycle proximate the seat post, the connection permitting movement in both longitudinal and horizontal planes. The trailer includes an axle, a single wheel and a fork connected to the axle on either side of the wheel and baggage carrying means which include a frame and a connection between the frame and the fork, with the lower portion and the baggage carrying frame being connected together. The arrangement provides a trailer which may be suitable for many purposes including carrying baggage, child seats, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2001Publication date: November 8, 2001Inventor: Alyn Provencher
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Patent number: 6312001Abstract: A motive vehicle comprises a frame, a front wheel, two rear wheels, a seat, a handle, a headset, and a pedal device. A front sprocket is coupled to the pedal device and a rear sprocket is connected to a differential. The motive vehicle is powered by human pedaling. The differential communicates with the rear wheels to allow the vehicle to turn on a zero turn radius. The wheels are attached to the frame with an attachment apparatus that allows for easy detachability. The seat is also detachable and adjustable. Brake cams are attached to the frame, and engage the rear wheels when the bike is pedaled backwards. An alternative embodiment comprises a multiple operator motive vehicle, wherein a rear vehicle with two wheels is coupled to a front vehicle having three wheels. Further, another two-wheeled follower unit may be coupled to the first rear vehicle for a greater number of riders. Additional attachments may also be made.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2000Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Inventor: Robert W. Boyer
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Patent number: 6312003Abstract: The complex trailer can be coupled to a vehicle having a drawing rack and mainly comprises a first trailer and a second trailer, in which the first trailer includes a deck, a bogie wheel, and a landing; the second trailer includes a wagon bed, and a trailing wheel. The complex trailer also has three coupling devices for respectively coupling the drawing rack and the first trailer, and the first trailer and the second trailer. Moreover, the trailing wheels can take the place of the landing wheels and the wagon bed can be combined with and thereby carried by the first trailer in case the first trailer and the second trailer are combined together so as to save space and to provide stable travel.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1999Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Inventor: Yun-Chun Liu
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Patent number: 6305702Abstract: A quick-release attachment device having a receiver assembly mountable in a concealed position under the rear fender of a motorcycle, the device being useful for quickly connecting and disconnecting load-supporting apparatus such as, for example, a trailer hitch, carrier platform, golf club carrier, or the like. The concealed receiver assembly desirably embodies two laterally spaced, longitudinal support members attachable to the motorcycle frame in a position that is hidden by the rear fender, a transverse support member interconnecting the longitudinal support members, and a downwardly inclined receiver member depending from the transverse support member to receive an upwardly inclined, projecting portion of a load-supporting apparatus that is insertable into the receiver member.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Inventor: John T. Alford, II
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Patent number: 6305703Abstract: An unusually light bicycle trailer which may be readily collapsed for shipping, transportation, and storage. The trailer employs a hitch which not only is unusually quickly attached or unattached from a bicycle, but additionally is so flexible that the bicycle can be laid down while remaining attached to a trailer standing in an upright position.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Inventors: Walter Ray Quick, Joan F. Quick
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Patent number: 6290246Abstract: A quick-mounting arrangement for connecting a first bicycle to a second bicycle. The arrangement includes a pivot holder which is integrally formed with a rear fork of the first bicycle. The arrangement includes a quick-release mechanism which is adapted to secure a front fork of the second bicycle to the pivot holder to form a tandem upon the removal of a front wheel of the second bicycle. The pivot holder includes two parallel lugs. Each of the lugs includes a pivot hole adapted to receive the quick-release mechanism to enable the quick-release mechanism to secure the front fork of the second bicycle to the pivot holder.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Inventor: Bor-Ching Lin
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Patent number: 6286847Abstract: A coupling device for coupling a leading bicycle to a trailing bicycle which includes an elongated assembly having a first connecting device located at one end of the elongated assembly for connecting to the shaft of a handle bar of the trailing bicycle, a second connecting device located at an opposite end for connection to a leading bicycle about a seat post thereof, and an interconnecting portion extending between the first connecting device and second connecting device, the interconnecting portion having a rigid segment and a flexible segment, the rigid segment having a telescopic arrangement for length adjustment, the flexible segment permitting movement in all planes including a torsional or rotational movement while being substantially inextensible in the longitudinal axis. The arrangement permits both bicycles to be ridden at the same time in a tandem type arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1999Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Inventor: Henri Perrin
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Patent number: 6273444Abstract: A wheelchair cart configured for rollable transportation while carrying medical gas or other equipment is provided having a linkage assembly operable for linking the cart with a wheelchair while allowing the wheelchair/cart assembly to pass over uneven surfaces. The cart allows a single person to connect the cart to a wheelchair and transport the two simultaneously. The cart is configured such that equipment that should be transported with the patient and is often physically connected to the patient (e.g. ventilators, IV's, and monitors) is stored and transported on the cart. Risks associated with disconnecting the patient from vital medical equipment are minimized by eliminating the typical separate transportation of an equipment cart and a wheelchair by more than one person, which may result in a stretching or breaking of the attachment lines between the patient and the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Mallinckrodt Inc.Inventor: John S. Power
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Patent number: 6270100Abstract: A tow bar for attaching two bicycles in tandem arrangement consisting of a hollow rod, tube, or pipe having an attaching strap traversing the length of the interior of the rod or pipe, with the strap being secured to frame members of each bicycle via a friction clamp at each bicycle without the need for tools. Further, the tow bar consists of an assembly of four or more segments that have removeable couplings by which each such segment is attached to an adjacent segment, thereby facilitating ease of assemble and disassembly of the tow bar. Such segments, when disassembled, can be easily stored in a conventional bicycle pouch that can be attached to a frame member of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2000Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Inventor: Thomas M. Wunderlich
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Publication number: 20010002745Abstract: An improved device for height and/or track width adjustment on vehicles for transport of children and/or trailers which can be attached to two-wheel conveyances, with an optionally retrofittable adapter means (27) for height and/or track width adjustment is characterized by the following featuresType: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2000Publication date: June 7, 2001Inventor: Herbert Weber
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Patent number: 6234503Abstract: An improved bicycle dropout frame member for simultaneously mounting a plurality of accessories such as panniers, baskets, trailer hitch and trailer, luggage carrier, wheel fender, etc. to a bicycle frame is disclosed. The improved bicycle dropout may include a central body having slots for releasably receiving accessory support legs. The central body may also include a slot for receiving a towing hitch apparatus to enable a rider to tow a trailer behind the bicycle incorporating the improved bicycle dropout frame member of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1998Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Inventor: Lynn Marie Ockenden
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Patent number: 6227556Abstract: A system for simultaneously mounting a plurality of accessories such as panniers, baskets, trailer hitch and trailer, luggage carrier, wheel fender, etc. to a bicycle frame includes an upper mounting block rigidly attachable to the frame below the bicycle seat, and two lower stirrup members rigidly attachable to the frame adjacent the wheel axle on either side of the wheel. The upper mounting block has a socket for holding a tow bar and slots for mounting a luggage carrier, both of which have legs which are lockably inserted into receiving slots in the stirrup members. A key lock locks the mounting block to the bicycle frame and the accessories to the mounting block. Accessories may be locked to the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1999Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Inventor: Lynn Marie Ockenden
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Patent number: 6196572Abstract: A convertible trailer and stroller having, a pair of frame blocks mount to a frame member of a jogging stroller, each proximate the two rear wheels of the jogging stroller. The frame blocks are each attached to a wheel block at a wheel pivot that interconnect the frame blocks to their respective wheel blocks. A pair of wheels having hub axle ends are received into a wheel bearing within each of the wheel blocks, and the wheel blocks are rotatable about the respective block pivots to selectably raise or lower each wheel relative to the block pivots. In the lowered wheel, or stroller configuration, a high ground clearance for all terrain operation is provided, while in the raised wheel or trailer configuration, a low and stable center of gravity is provided. The convertible trailer and stroller can also include an upper bar that attaches to the wheel blocks.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1999Date of Patent: March 6, 2001Inventor: Greg R. Durrin
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Patent number: 6193252Abstract: A trailing rod assembly is provided to couple front ends of two lower beams of a baby carrier to a bicycle chain stay. The trailing rod assembly includes a substantially S-shape rod, a front coupler mounted to a front end of the rod, a rear coupler mounted to a rear end of the rod, a wheel seat mounted to a mediate portion of the rod, and a beam-fixing seat mounted between the wheel seat and the rear coupler. The front coupler includes a main plate, a movable plate, a fixing knob, and a flexible tube, wherein the chain stay is securely held between the main plate and the movable plate. The wheel seat includes an L-shape slot for retaining an axle of a front wheel of the baby carrier. The rear coupler includes a lower plate, an upper plate, and two fixing knobs, wherein the rear end of the rod is soldered to a surface of a mediate groove of the lower plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1999Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Inventor: Wan-Hsin Lin
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Patent number: 6186528Abstract: A wheelchair and trailer system comprising a trailer which has a planar support in a generally rectangular configuration. The trailer has a front edge, a rear edge and two side edges. Also provided is a forwardly extending rod with an aperture therethrough for positioning over the hole of the wheelchair. It also has an associated pin to selective effect the coupling between the trailer and the wheelchair. Two rear wheels are provided for rotation about a common horizontal axis coupled to the trailer adjacent to the rear edge. A front wheel is provided for rotation about a horizontal axis coupled to the trailer adjacent to the front edge. The front wheel is secured to the forwardly extending rod to allow rotation of the front wheel about a vertical axis for steering purposes.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1998Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Inventors: David W. Walker, Sr., Janice Walker
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Patent number: 6182990Abstract: A stable lightweight cargo trailer for a bicycle with a demountable bicycle type wheel having a collapsible frame assembly, the trailer including an upper elongate frame member defining an upper limit of a cargo compartment and a lower frame member having a portion defining a lower limit of the cargo compartment, the upper frame member and the lower frame portion being pivotally connected by intermediate end and side members such that the upper frame member is foldable from an extended position to a collapsed position allowing the upper frame member to collapse to overly said lower frame member into a compact configuration.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventor: Richard C. Everett
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Patent number: 6164671Abstract: A portable cart, for use in camping, hunting and other outdoors activities carries canoes, small boats, game, injured parties or hauled cargo by hand. The portable cart can be converted to a canoe or boat cart which can be folded down and transported within the canoe or boat, or to a game cart for transporting game over long, rough terrain, or to a cargo hauling gear cart, all of which can broken down into a carrying position, by hand or by back. The portable cart can be carried by hand or as a backpack over rough terrain. Its width can be varied to accommodate watercraft of varying widths. The cart has optional removable clamps for clamping a conventional transportable carrier, such as a stretcher or stokes-type rescue carrier bed, thereto. Another optional bicycle pull clamp includes an anti-tipping attachment resisting centrifugal force urging said cart to tip over during a directional turn of the cart-hauling bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: North Coast Outfitters, Ltd.Inventor: Charles W. Darling, III
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Patent number: 6155368Abstract: An auxiliary wheel conversion assembly for a motorcycle comprises a quick connect and disconnect structure, including a generally U-shaped frame having side frame members on opposite sides of a receiving pocket to receive the rear drive wheel of the motorcycle when connected thereto, a cross-bar across the rear between the two side frame members, an auxiliary wheel mounted along and to the outside of each side frame member, such wheels being of the same size as the rear drive wheel and substantially in axial alignment therewith when the conversion assembly is connected to the motorcycle.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1999Date of Patent: December 5, 2000Assignee: Motorcycle Tour Conversion, Inc.Inventor: Raymond Mullins