Single End Suspension Of Transported Vehicle Patents (Class 280/402)
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Publication number: 20130009384Abstract: An apparatus for recovering large disabled off-highway vehicles. The apparatus utilizes a trailing axle structure configured to hook up and tow off-highway disabled vehicles. The apparatus includes a trailing axle in conjunction with a trailing structure that is raised and lowered with hydraulic cylinders in relation to the trailing axle so that the trailing structure can hook and unhook from disabled off-highway vehicles as well as hook and unhook from off-highway lowboy trailers either mid section on the trailing structure or at the rear of the trailing structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2012Publication date: January 10, 2013Inventor: LeRoy G. Hagenbuch
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Patent number: 8348589Abstract: A Universal Folding Boom Trailer for transporting multiple vehicles provides a safe and legal manner for towing. The trailer includes a winch for loading and unloading the towed vehicles and can act alone as a crane if desired. Further, this trailer arrangement backs up like a conventional trailer. The Universal Folding Boom Trailer provides a means for a driver to haul multiple vehicles in both directions. The driver is able to attach the trailer to a personal fifth wheel and tow any type of unit: a fifth wheel trailer, a ball hitch trailer, or a gooseneck, among others—instead of dead-heading.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Wastow Enterprises LLCInventor: Doyle E. Watkins
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Patent number: 8336900Abstract: A tail wheel transporter with a single-beam chassis in a tricycle carriage and a towing arm extending from the single beam for towing and steering. The single beam is offset on the rear two-wheel axle to pivotably support a lifting arm, or lever, that is side mounted on the chassis. The short foot of the “L” supports one or more adjustable studs for initially engaging the underside of a tail wheel from the side. The lifting arm is manually operated to lift the tail wheel off the ground. In the lifted position, the lifting arm is latched to the towing arm so that constant manual force to maintain lift is not required. The tail wheel is received between the front and rear axles and exerts force below the height of at least some of the axles, so no manual force is required to maintain balance during operation.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Inventor: Daniel S. Perry
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Publication number: 20120313347Abstract: A front tow extended saddle is disclosed. The saddle allows a first towing truck to mount a second truck, facing forward, behind the first truck, in order to tow the second truck to a distant location. The saddle allows the towed truck to face forward during transport, thus allowing for the normal loads and stresses of movement on the towed truck. This configuration is preferable to movement with the towed truck facing-rearward, in which the typical aerodynamic surfaces of a large truck act as a drag during transport, imposing high wind loads and unusual stresses. The front tow extended saddle is also designed to minimize the required vertical rise on the towed truck, which also avoids additional stresses during loading and unloading onto the towing truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2012Publication date: December 13, 2012Applicant: ATC TRANSPORTATION LLCInventor: Donald W. SCHUETTENBERG
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Patent number: 8282742Abstract: An industrial vacuum system which is contained in a portable container having a bottom and an open end and includes an extension unit having a first end operatively connected to the portable container and a second end that is selectively extendable away from the container, a collection unit rotatively coupled to first ends of the extension unit, a transportation unit coupling the extension unit to the container, the transportation unit having one end rotatively coupled to the end of the extension unit the transportation unit including a plurality of wheel units, and a trolley guidance unit having a rail attached to the bottom of the container and engaging the wheels of the wheel unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2009Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Vector TechnologiesInventors: Stephen B Schoenberger, Robert M Reavis
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Patent number: 8267419Abstract: An extended forward tow, single rail saddlemount or tow bar is disclosed. The tow bar allows a first towing truck to mount a second truck, facing forward, behind the first truck, in order to tow the second truck. The tow bar allows the towed truck to face forward during transport, thus allowing for normal loads and stresses of movement on the towed truck, rather than the much higher high wind loads and unusual stresses imposed by a rear-ward facing tow. The saddlemount is also designed to minimize the required vertical rise on the towed truck, which also avoids additional stresses during loading and unloading onto the towing truck. Lower stress is achieved by using a pivot pin nearer the towed truck rather than the usual pivot pin or king pin on the towing truck.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2010Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: ATC Leasing Company LLCInventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Publication number: 20120223506Abstract: An apparatus for towing a motorcycle has a support platform with torque arms joined by a cross bar. The front wheel of the motorcycle is secured to the support platform and the motorcycle frame is secured to the cross bar. The support platform, torque arms, and cross bar prevent the motorcycle from lying to either side or turning about its steering neck as a towing vehicle turns. Instead, the support platform rotates about a pivot post held by upper and lower pivot sleeves. The lower pivot sleeve is secured to a tongue that attaches to a trailer hitch. The pivot post may slide up and down while supported by a jack, raising and lowering the support platform.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventor: James Momaly
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Patent number: 8251394Abstract: A system including a low rider saddle mount (302) for safe and legal transportation of multiple vehicles (136, 137) is provided. The system includes a low rider saddle mount (302) having a first horizontal member (304) selectively coupled to one of a towing vehicle (132) and a second vehicle (136), and a second horizontal member (306) selectively coupled to one of the second vehicle (136) and a third vehicle (137). The second horizontal member (306) is vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member (304). The multiple vehicles (136, 137) are towed in a forward direction. The system may further include a universal folding boom trailer (130). A method for towing multiple vehicles (136, 137) is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2009Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Wastow Enterprises, LLCInventor: Doyle E. Watkins
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Patent number: 8210007Abstract: A method of preventing trailer theft includes the extending of a first end of a rod through a pair of wheels of a trailer. A stop is attached to a second end of the rod to prevent the second end from being pulled through the wheels. The stop has an outer surface has indicia thereon indicating the wheels cannot be rotated. A securing member is extended through the rod adjacent to the first end to prevent the first end from being removed from the wheels.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2010Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Inventor: Frederick J. Laracy
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Publication number: 20120153596Abstract: A trailer which is sized to be towed behind a motorcycle. The trailer includes a cargo bay for storing luggage, spare parts, tools or other cargo. The trailer is preferably towed behind a motorcycle in a group of motorcycles. In the unfortunate event that one of the motorcycles breaks down or a rider is unable to continue operating his or her motorcycle, the cargo bay can be converted to a towing configuration for towing the disabled motorcycle. This allows the group of motorcycles to continue riding, and the disabled motorcycle can be towed to a repair location at a more convenient time for the entire group of riders.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventor: James B. Edmondson
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Publication number: 20120146312Abstract: A truck towing system is described. The truck towing system provides for a first truck to tow a second truck in a back to front relationship, i.e., the front portion of the second truck (the towed truck) is connected or attached to a rear portion of the first truck (the towing truck). The truck towing system includes an upper member to removably connect with a first truck. A middle member joins the upper member and a lower member in a fixed engagement. The lower member supports a front portion of a second truck. A beam member is removably engaged to the lower member, and the beam member extends and retracts from an interior of the lower member. The beam member connects to a rear portion of the second truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2010Publication date: June 14, 2012Inventors: L. Thomas Duvall, Dean West, Jeff Brawley
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Patent number: 8191916Abstract: An improved manner of attaching, restraining, and securing a vehicle onto a trailer through a versatile hitch configuration. Such a configuration permits utilization of at least one hitch coupler assembly for releasable attachment/connection to a selected vehicle with a complementary component for connection therewith. Additionally, the coupler assembly is present on a trailer through a temporary or permanent base connector configuration that includes a removable crossbar through which the coupler assembly is threaded to allow for movement around said crossbar as well as along the length of said crossbar simultaneously. The crossbar may also be adjusted height wise within the base connector through placement and securing within graduated openings within the connector itself. Further designs utilizing the base movable hitch coupler concept, as well as entire trailers and methods of transporting vehicles with such a device, are also encompassed within this invention.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2010Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Inventors: Lorne Christopher Shive, Eric Bradley Gore
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Patent number: 8123244Abstract: A low profile saddle mount for use in the transportation of vehicles including a saddle body configuration capable of withstanding increased load capacity over conventional saddle mounts is disclosed. The saddle mount generally includes a pair of laterally spaced support plates and a substantially tubular cross member extending therebetween. Each of the support plates is at least partially disposed inside the cross member at opposing ends thereof and secured therein using at least one dampening or filler plate. The configuration of the support plates in combination with one or more filler plate provides limited yield/deflection of the saddle body during operation and provides a load dissipation function, thereby permitting the support plates to withstand an increased load capacity.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2010Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: ATC Leasing Company LLCInventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Publication number: 20120045307Abstract: A Universal Folding Boom Trailer 30 for transporting multiple vehicles provides a safe and legal manner for towing. The trailer 30 includes a winch 44 for loading and unloading the towed vehicles 32, 34, 36 and can act alone as a crane 42 if desired. Further, this trailer arrangement backs up like a conventional trailer. The Universal Folding Boom Trailer 30 provides a means for a driver to haul multiple vehicles in both directions. The driver is able to attach the trailer 30 to a personal fifth wheel (36) and tow any type of unit: a fifth wheel trailer, a ball hitch trailer, or a gooseneck, among others—instead of dead-heading.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Inventor: Doyle E. Watkins
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Publication number: 20120007335Abstract: A tail wheel transporter with a single-beam chassis in a tricycle carriage and a towing arm extending from the single beam for towing and steering. The single beam is offset on the rear two-wheel axle to pivotably support a lifting arm, or lever, that is side mounted on the chassis. The short foot of the “L” supports one or more adjustable studs for initially engaging the underside of a tail wheel from the side. The lifting arm is manually operated to lift the tail wheel off the ground. In the lifted position, the lifting arm is latched to the towing arm so that constant manual force to maintain lift is not required. The tail wheel is received between the front and rear axles and exerts force below the height of at least some of the axles, so no manual force is required to maintain balance during operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventor: Daniel S. Perry
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Patent number: 8075013Abstract: Described are embodiments directed to an apparatus that is adapted to be mounted on a vehicle with a fifth wheel. The apparatus allows a towing hitch to be attached to the vehicle which allows the vehicle to tow other vehicles. The apparatus includes an elongated beam with a forward portion, middle portion, and rearward portion and a kingpin connected to the middle portion of the beam and adapted to engage a fifth wheel. A mounting pin with a first end and a second end is connected to the rearward portion of the beam and is substantially perpendicular to the elongated beam. The apparatus further includes strut braces connected to either end of the mounting pin and that extend at an angle away from the mounting pin. The strut braces are also connected to leveling assemblies which are adapted to connect to a frame of the vehicle and are adapted to change the vertical position of the rearward portion of the beam.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Steven Ford, Aaron Roe
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Patent number: 8075012Abstract: A towing device for towing a motorcycle comprising a base having a first end that slides horizontally into a receiver hitch of the vehicle; a platform extending outwardly from a second end of the base; an arc-shaped cradle for cradling a front wheel of the motorcycle; the cradle is divided into a front portion attached atop the platform and a ramp pivotally attached to the front portion of the cradle via a hinge, the ramp'can pivot to an up position and a down position, wherein the down position allows the front wheel of the motorcycle to be rolled into the front portion of the cradle, the ramp can be secured in the up position via a securing means; and a side support component extending upwardly from the platform, the side support component functions to support the front wheel of the motorcycle when in the cradle.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Jose A. Perez, Rosa B. Garcia
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Publication number: 20110291383Abstract: The present relates to a position adjustable coupler and to a hitch comprising such a coupler. The position adjustable coupler comprises a connector and a securing mechanism. The securing mechanism is adapted for fixedly securing the connector to a frame. The securing mechanism comprises a position adjustment mechanism for allowing movements of the connector within the securing mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2010Publication date: December 1, 2011Applicant: RADTECH INNOVATIONInventors: Denis GOULET, Louis LAMONTAGNE, Serge FRASER
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Patent number: 8047758Abstract: A Universal Folding Boom Trailer (30) for transporting multiple vehicles provides a safe and legal manner for towing. The trailer (30) includes a winch (44) for loading and unloading the towed vehicles (32, 34, 36) and can act alone as a crane (42) if desired. Further, this trailer arrangement backs up like a conventional trailer. The Universal Folding Boom Trailer (30) provides a means for a driver to haul multiple vehicles in both directions. The driver is able to attach the trailer (30) to a personal fifth wheel (36) and tow any type of unit: a fifth wheel trailer, a ball hitch trailer, or a gooseneck, among others—instead of dead-heading.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2007Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Wastow Enterprises, LLCInventor: Doyle E. Watkins
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Publication number: 20110254247Abstract: A front tow extended saddle is disclosed. The saddle allows a first towing truck to mount a second truck, facing forward, behind the first truck, in order to tow the second truck to a distant location. The saddle allows the towed truck to face forward during transport, thus allowing for the normal loads and stresses of movement on the towed truck. This configuration is preferable to movement with the towed truck facing-rearward, in which the typical aerodynamic surfaces of a large truck act as a drag during transport, imposing high wind loads and unusual stresses. The front tow extended saddle is also designed to minimize the required vertical rise on the towed truck, which also avoids additional stresses during loading and unloading onto the towing truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Patent number: 8025306Abstract: The invention provide a restraint in the form of an attachment for connection to a free end of an angled arm body of a self loading, style tow truck wheel lift with the attachment being positioned adjacent to a lower, outer side wall of a wheel suspected of being unstable. A damaged ball joint or axle can allow an unstable wheel to pivot outwardly at its lower side wall, and in some cases, to collapse. The wheel keeper attachment restrains the wheel from such pivoting thereby allowing a successful lifting and towing of the vehicle front end.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2009Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Inventors: Robert S. Kurzka, John Pemberton
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Patent number: 8016313Abstract: A tow rack comprises a tongue releasably couplable to a towing vehicle and a beam assembly having a cradle for securing therein a tire of a towed vehicle. The beam assembly is couplable to the tongue and horizontally pivotable relative to the tongue. The beam assembly also comprises an anti-pivot mechanism to selectively prevent horizontal pivoting of the beam assembly relative to the tongue.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2009Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Inventors: Jerome J. Gilels, William H. Lee
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Patent number: 7997606Abstract: A trailer hitch adapter that elevates the height of a trailer hitch to lower the rear edge of a trailer, thus allowing a safer entry by a motorcycle into the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventor: Edward E. Sandelius
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Publication number: 20110181016Abstract: An extended forward tow, single rail saddlemount or tow bar is disclosed. The tow bar allows a first towing truck to mount a second truck, facing forward, behind the first truck, in order to tow the second truck. The tow bar allows the towed truck to face forward during transport, thus allowing for normal loads and stresses of movement on the towed truck, rather than the much higher high wind loads and unusual stresses imposed by a rear-ward facing tow. The saddlemount is also designed to minimize the required vertical rise on the towed truck, which also avoids additional stresses during loading and unloading onto the towing truck. Lower stress is achieved by using a pivot pin nearer the towed truck rather than the usual pivot pin or king pin on the towing truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Patent number: 7980809Abstract: Methods of making and using a vehicle transport apparatus are provided. An exemplary method of making the vehicle transport apparatus includes at least the steps of providing a beam with a kingpin attached on each a proximal and distal end, linking a single and only axle in vertical and horizontal sliding support of the beam, wherein the beam adjusts vertically relative to the axle, and the axle adjusts horizontally relative to the beam, and wherein the beam is unsupported by the single and only axle during at least one operating mode of the beam, attaching a guide post to the axle, securing a vertical slide member to the beam and in sliding contact with the guide post, and interposing a vertical position control apparatus between the vertical slide member and the axle, the vertical position control apparatus controlling the vertical position of the beam relative to the axle.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventor: Tommy L. Edmonson
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Patent number: 7909112Abstract: A compact mobile fire attack vehicle detachably mounted to an emergency vehicle. The compact mobile fire attack vehicle is intended to be mountable to the rear end of a fire truck. In response to an emergency call, the mobile fire attack vehicle can be quickly disengaged and deployed to the fire. Likewise, after the emergency has been mitigated, the mobile fire attack vehicle can be quickly and conveniently be re-mounted to the fire truck.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Inventor: Gordon Michael Decker
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Publication number: 20110057415Abstract: The invention provide a restraint in the form of an attachment for connection to a free end of an angled arm body of a self loading, style tow truck wheel lift with the attachment being positioned adjacent to a lower, outer side wall of a wheel suspected of being unstable. A damaged ball joint or axel can allow an unstable wheel to pivot outwardly at its lower side wall, and in some cases, to collapse. The wheel keeper attachment restrains the wheel from such pivoting thereby allowing a successful lifting and towing of the vehicle front end.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2009Publication date: March 10, 2011Inventors: Robert S. Kurzka, John Pemberton
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Publication number: 20110044793Abstract: An apparatus, system and method allows for the towing of a vehicle. Specifically, the apparatus cradles an exposed wheel hub of a vehicle having had a tire removed. The wheel hub sits within the cradle or well, while the apparatus is disposed on a tow truck or a tow dolly. The tow truck or tow dolly safely moves the vehicle without damaging the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2009Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventor: Warren Underwood
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Publication number: 20100259030Abstract: A low profile saddle mount for use in the transportation of vehicles including a saddle body configuration capable of withstanding increased load capacity over conventional saddle mounts is disclosed. The saddle mount generally includes a pair of laterally spaced support plates and a substantially tubular cross member extending therebetween. Each of the support plates is at least partially disposed inside the cross member at opposing ends thereof and secured therein using at least one dampening or filler plate. The configuration of the support plates in combination with one or more filler plate provides limited yield/deflection of the saddle body during operation and provides a load dissipation function, thereby permitting the support plates to withstand an increased load capacity.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Publication number: 20100253042Abstract: A tractor dolly assembly is disclosed for use with a semi tractor or other vehicle to be towed in either a forward or reverse direction. The tractor dolly assembly is configured to be coupled to the rear frame of a semi tractor or other vehicle and lift the rear wheels off the ground for towing. In a forward tow direction, a conventional tow truck with a hydraulically operated boom for lifting the front of the semi tractor off the ground. In a reverse direction, virtually any truck with a pintle or other means for connection to a tow bar can be used for towing the disabled vehicle. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the tractor dolly assembly is provided with self steering wheels which allow the disabled vehicle to be towed in a reverse tow direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: LUNDIN RECOVERY EQUIPMENT LLCInventor: Richard E. Lundin
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Patent number: 7789411Abstract: An extended forward tow, single rail saddlemount or tow bar is disclosed. The tow bar allows a first towing truck to mount a second truck, facing forward, behind the first truck, in order to tow the second truck. The tow bar allows the towed truck to face forward during transport, thus allowing for normal loads and stresses of movement on the towed truck, rather than the much higher high wind loads and unusual stresses imposed by a rear-ward facing tow. The saddlemount is also designed to minimize the required vertical rise on the towed truck, which also avoids additional stresses during loading and unloading onto the towing truck. Lower stress is achieved by using a pivot pin nearer the towed truck rather than the usual pivot pin or king pin on the towing truck.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: ATC Leasing Company, LLCInventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Publication number: 20100207355Abstract: A lifting device for a tow car is disclosed. The lifting device includes a guide bracket fixed to a tow car, a lifting bracket slidably connected to the guide bracket, a lifting driving cylinder to move the lifting bracket up and down, a folding bracket pivotally connected to the lifting bracket, a rotating bracket inserted into the folding bracket, an extendable bracket inserted into the rotating bracket so as to move in an axial direction, an extension driving cylinder to move the extendable bracket forward and backward, a connecting unit connected to the extendable bracket and a car to be towed, and a winch unit connected to a car to be towed so as to draw the car to be towed, or connected to any one of the folding bracket, the rotating bracket, the extendable bracket and the connecting unit so as to integrally lift up them.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2008Publication date: August 19, 2010Inventor: Jong Mun Wang
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Publication number: 20100178145Abstract: A cargo container includes a body comprising or including a flat bottom or a bottom substantially flat at regions corresponding to the distances at which vehicle tires are spaced on an axle of a typical vehicle to be towed, whereon a plurality of surfaces which extend out of the body bottom or flat regions are disposed to engage and be retained by the tow truck wheel lift assembly draw bar and the extension (when deployed) and permit the cargo container to be lifted, moved or otherwise retained by the tow truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventor: AURELIO VIGIL
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Patent number: 7744112Abstract: A low profile saddle mount for use in the transportation of vehicles including a saddle body configuration capable of withstanding increased load capacity over conventional saddle mounts is disclosed. The saddle mount generally includes a pair of laterally spaced support plates and a substantially tubular cross member extending therebetween. Each of the support plates is at least partially disposed inside the cross member at opposing ends thereof and secured therein using at least one dampening or filler plate. The configuration of the support plates in combination with one or more filler plate provides limited yield/deflection of the saddle body during operation and provides a load dissipation function, thereby permitting the support plates to withstand an increased load capacity.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: ATC Leasing Company, LLCInventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Patent number: 7740265Abstract: A tractor dolly assembly is disclosed for use with a semi tractor or other vehicle to be towed in either a forward or reverse direction. The tractor dolly assembly is configured to be coupled to the rear frame of a semi tractor or other vehicle and lift the rear wheels off the ground for towing. In a forward tow direction, a conventional tow truck with a hydraulically operated boom for lifting the front of the semi tractor off the ground. In a reverse direction, virtually any truck with a pintle or other means for connection to a tow bar can be used for towing the disabled vehicle. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the tractor dolly assembly is provided with self steering wheels which allow the disabled vehicle to be towed in a reverse tow direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2008Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Lundin Recovery Equipment LLCInventor: Richard E. Lundin
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Publication number: 20100109284Abstract: A watercraft trailer has a watercraft receiving portion and a lower frame adapted to support a watercraft in the watercraft receiving portion. The lower frame has at least one a longitudinally extending member, a front portion, and a rear portion, a rearmost part of the rear portion being a rear end. The trailer also has a hitch coupler connected to the front portion of the lower frame, a first wheel, having a rotation axis, and a second wheel operatively connected to the lower frame. The trailer has a longitudinally extending intake protector connected to the rear portion of the lower frame. At least a portion of the intake protector is disposed between the rotation axis and the rear end of the lower frame, such that when the watercraft is received in the watercraft receiving portion, the intake protector is disposed below at least a portion of the watercraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.Inventors: Hugo BRISSON, Christian LABBE
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Publication number: 20100109601Abstract: A portable solar power collection and storage system integrated into a body affixed to a towable trailer vehicle, which in a preferred configuration may require no complicated setup steps or even no setup steps at all, and may be not wind vulnerable due to integrated body construction with substantially contained rather than extended solar panel(s). The system may further include water pumping and treatment equipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2009Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventors: Eugene M. Coyle, James A. Starr, Jeff A. Lipton, Matthew J. Quirk, David C. Johnson
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Patent number: 7704034Abstract: An apparatus for towing a bike, tricycle or the like having front and rear wheels including a pivoting tongue, a base and an extensible support member for receiving a front of the bike yet permitting one or more rear wheels to remain in contact with the ground. An opposing pair of arms are each carried by a pair of support arms for connection to the base of the apparatus. The support arms are pivotably connected to the base to rotate toward the support member for storing the apparatus and from the support member to secure tie arms for retaining the bike in connection with the apparatus and stabilizing the bike under tow.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Inventor: Richard I. Quigley, III
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Patent number: 7694861Abstract: A towing device. An illustrative embodiment of the towing device includes a hitch bar, a wheel cradle having a generally curved wheel cradle bottom carried by the hitch bar and a pair of spaced-apart wheel cradle sides extending from the wheel cradle bottom and at least one securing strap carried by the wheel cradle.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2007Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Inventor: Frank T. Neely
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Publication number: 20100072727Abstract: A tow rack comprises a tongue releasably couplable to a towing vehicle and a beam assembly having a cradle for securing therein a tire of a towed vehicle. The beam assembly is couplable to the tongue and horizontally pivotable relative to the tongue. The beam assembly also comprises an anti-pivot mechanism to selectively prevent horizontal pivoting of the beam assembly relative to the tongue.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventors: Jerome J. Gilels, William H. Lee
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Patent number: 7661692Abstract: A dolly and method of use allow a disabled tractor to be efficiently and safely towed to a distant location. The dolly includes a ramp whereby the tractor can be easily rolled onto the dolly and secured thereto by tie-down chains. The method of use includes the steps of towing the dolly by wrecker to the disabled tractor, disengaging the dolly from the wrecker and connecting the wrecker to the tractor. The tractor is then urged by the wrecker up the ramp of the dolly where it is then secured. Electrical and pneumatic lines are connected from the wrecker to the dolly to operate brake lights, warning lights and the brake system of the dolly as conventional with trailers so the tractor can be safely towed to a distant location.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2006Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventor: Dwight L. Sink
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Publication number: 20100013187Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Lonnie Rex Oxley
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Patent number: 7637524Abstract: A method for transporting vehicles is disclosed. The method uses inner or outer securing plates, or both, in cooperation with frame rails of a towing vehicle to secure a towing device to the towing vehicle. Towing vehicles typically include a frame that is made from strong robust channels on both sides of the towing vehicle. The securing plates generally have a right-angle bend in order to butt up against a web or a flange of the channels. This prevents inner or outer movement of the securing plates and allows users to secure a towing saddle and its load without using extended U-bolts around the channels.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2007Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: ATC Leasing Co., LLCInventor: Donald Schuettenberg
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Patent number: 7618228Abstract: Lift adaptors for the hook-up and towing of heavy vehicles such as buses, coaches and trucks in a damage-free fashion, avoiding the need for pre-picking. The lift adaptors may be mounted to receivers slidable over the underlift crossbar of heavy-duty, underlift-type tow vehicles. An engagement end of the lift adaptors may be secured to the underside portion of a vehicle to be towed, using an eye bracket, apertures or another attachment mechanism. A movable boom may be used to locate the crossbar in a proper position beneath the towed vehicle, enabling engagement to the lift adaptors. The lift adaptors are preferably designed for quick decoupling in the field so that they may be replaced with forks or other hook-up or towing attachment mechanisms.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Miller Industries Towing Equipment IncInventor: C. Thomas Luciano
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Patent number: 7611159Abstract: A method for transporting vehicles is disclosed. The method uses inner or outer securing plates, or both, in cooperation with frame rails of a towing vehicle to secure a towing device to the towing vehicle. Towing vehicles typically include a frame that is made from strong robust channels on both sides of the towing vehicle. The securing plates generally have a right-angle bend in order to butt up against a web or a flange of the channels. This prevents inner or outer movement of the securing plates and allows users to secure a towing saddle and its load without using extended U-bolts around the channels.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2006Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Assignee: ATC Leasing Company, LLCInventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
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Publication number: 20090267319Abstract: A device to facilitate the pulling of a child's cycle (8) (especially when fitted with stabiliser wheels (9) comprises a substantially horizontal wheeled platform (1) preferably a substantially triangular three-wheeled platform incorporating a slot (5) or other means for holding the front wheel (10) of the child's cycle in a substantially vertical orientation and raised a short distance above the ground, with a rigid or flexible handle (11) for pulling said device while walking or means for securing such a handle thereto. This device enables a child's bicycle or tricycle to be safely and conveniently be towed by an adult even with a child sitting on the cycle while the adult can also hold a child and/or push a perambulator. The device is compact and portable and may readily be carried by hand, back-pack or shoulder strap when not in use, such as when the child is cycling freely.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2007Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventor: Elaine Margaret Munro Armstrong
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Patent number: 7600772Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (12) for covering the track joint between the rotary plate (7) and the bellows of the connection (1) between two hinge-linked vehicle sections (3a, 3b), said bellows comprising two side walls (2a) that are joined together through a bellows roof (2c) at least, said track joint cover (12) having, like the bellows of said connection (1), singular corrugations or pleats (13), neighboring corrugations or pleats (13) being joined together by clamping ledges (16) in the region of their one apex at least, and the clamping ledges (16) being fastened at their one end at least to the side wall (2a) of the bellows (2) so as to be vertically movable.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Hubner GmbHInventors: Robert Koch, Knud Mosaner
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Patent number: 7584980Abstract: A convertible tow dolly supported upon a towing vehicle when in an elevated and non-use position. The dolly includes an elongated tubular support having a first end pivotally secured to a first bracket fixedly engaged to a hitch associated with a towing vehicle. A wheeled and crosswise extending portion exhibits a secondary bracket which is pivotally secured a second end of the elongated tubular support and which is locked into position to prevent up and down articulation relative to the brackets and for supporting a towed vehicle upon the crosswise extending portion in a use position. The elongated support is unlocked at the brackets, such as by removal of first and second clevis pins, to permit folding about the first and second pivotal connections and in a direction towards the towing vehicle, concurrent with elevating the wheeled and crosswise extending portion to a subsequently locked and non-use position.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2006Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Inventor: Michael Thompson
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Patent number: 7562882Abstract: Provided is a nestable (stackable) shopping cart including a pushing device, an undercarriage having casters and carrying a basket having longitudinal and transverse bars, wherein the rear side of the basket provides an opening closeable by a flap pivotable upwards about a horizontal axis into the basket interior. The flap bears against and rests on stop parts when it closes the opening, each stop part arranged on a lower rear transverse bar defining a lower edge of the opening of the basket. Each stop part preferably is a single part having bottom and top portions separated from each other by a connecting piece. Each stop provides a stop and locking region for the flap, the stop and locking region arranged on the right or left side of the top portion, depending on the arrangement of the stop part on the lower rear transverse bar.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2008Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Wanzl Metallwarenfabrik GmbHInventor: Ayhan Acikgoez
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Patent number: 7552936Abstract: A motorcycle carrier attaches to a conventional trailer ball and supports a motorcycle front wheel for towing the motorcycle. The carrier resides approximately horizontally and provides a cradle for the motorcycle front wheel holding the front wheel, and motorcycle, in a vertical attitude. The carrier includes a downward facing mouth to place over the trailer ball. The mouth includes an aligning surface for cooperation with a flattened top surface found on known trailer balls. Retainers reside against surfaces of the trailer ball opposite the aligning surface to hold the ball in alignment with the alignment surface and thereby hold the position of the carrier on the trailer ball. Tie down straps may be used to further hold the motorcycle in a vertical attitude.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2007Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Inventor: Clifford E. Berry