With Draft Means At Front And Rear Of Same Vehicle (e.g., Vehicle Train) Patents (Class 280/408)
  • Patent number: 12024249
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a transport wagon consisting of a base frame, wherein the base frame comprises a rotatable bogie assembly on its front side for attachment to a powered tow or push truck and comprises one or more front steering wheels placed on the front side of the base frame and one or more rear steering wheels placed on the rear side of the base frame, wherein the one or more front steering wheels and the one or more rear steering wheels are coupled in such a way to the rotatable bogie assembly, that in operation the one or more front steering wheels rotate along with the rotatable bogie assembly and that the one or more rear steering wheels rotate in opposite direction with respect to the rotatable bogie assembly, wherein the base frame comprises at least one longitudinal beam to which a front cross beam, a rear cross beam and at least one intermediate cross beam are arranged with intermediate spaces, wherein at least one intermediate space is arranged for receiving goods, wherein an inter
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2024
    Assignee: Artiq B.V.
    Inventor: Arjen Roth
  • Patent number: 11235803
    Abstract: A couplable automotive road vehicle includes two front wheels, a chassis having a front part and a rear part, an articulated connection device, and front and rear couplings. A wheel cylinder is defined as the cylindrical geometric shape surrounding the two front wheels when the wheels are not turned. The front part of the chassis includes a chassis beam disposed behind the front wheels, outside the wheel cylinder. The front coupling includes a yaw rigid coupling module mounted on the chassis beam between the two front wheels. The vehicle includes, for each front wheel, a suspension arm mounted on the chassis beam and extending around the wheel cylinder, above same, and a tie rod for controlling the steering device, located above the wheel cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: COMMISSARIAT A L'ÉNERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
    Inventors: Valery Cervantes, Xavier Emmanuel Leblanc
  • Patent number: 11235632
    Abstract: The invention relates to an axle assembly of a heavy goods vehicle, comprising a pivot bearing steering rotational axis (X), a wheel support comprising at least one wheel that is mounted thereon so as to be rotatable about a wheel rotational axis (Z), the wheel rotational axis (Z) being arranged behind the steering rotational axis (X), in the travel direction (V), in every deflection state of the axle assembly, during straight travel, and a unit that is adjustable about the steering rotational axis (X) when the wheel support is rotated, the adjustable unit being adjustable between two operating states, specifically a forwards travel operating state in which it damps the rotational movement of the wheel support about the steering rotational axis (X), and a reverse travel operating state in which it introduces a steering force, which steers the axle assembly, into the axle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: GOLDHOFER AG
    Inventors: Georg Maier, Martin Völk, Simon Steinmayer, Horst Häfele
  • Patent number: 11214439
    Abstract: A tugger cart includes a tugger frame having a first side member, a second side member, and a clasping member. A plurality of wheels are coupled to a bottom of the tugger frame. Each of the first side member and the second side member include a plurality of roller wheels rotatably coupled to an inner side and rotatable about a horizontal axis. The plurality of roller wheels align along an angled plane that declines from a rear of the tugger frame to a front of the tugger frame. The clasping member includes at least one fixed arm, at least one telescoping arm, an actuator, and a grab arm extendable and retractable from the at least one telescoping arm. The actuator converts the telescoping arm between an extended position and a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: J-Tec Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Wayne Knepp, Christopher Jacob Camp, Wayne Andrew Knepp, Nicholas Michael Kaiser
  • Patent number: 10577150
    Abstract: Examples provides one or more rolling pallet trays capable of interlocking together to form a modular rolling platform. A rolling pallet tray includes a rectangular base member with a top surface, a bottom surface, and a set of four sides. The top surface may have a lip extending upward along at least a portion of the circumference of the top surface. A set of rollers are pivotally mounted to the bottom surface. A floor-lock brake may be activated to stop movement of at least one roller to lock the rolling pallet tray in place. A set of linking mechanisms is attached to one or more of the sides for linking the individual rolling pallet tray to one or more other rolling pallet trays in a variety of different configurations. The linked rolling pallet trays in the modular rolling pallet tray pivot together as a single unit for greater stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: WALMART APOLLO, LLC
    Inventor: Andrew B. Millhouse
  • Patent number: 10246130
    Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is a trackless tugger train having at least one transportation module and at least two axle modules. Each transportation module is arranged between two axle modules, wherein each axle module has a wheel axle and a steering device for steering the wheel axle, wherein the steering devices of the axle module are embodied in each case in such a way that each steering device steers the axle module which is assigned to it, independently of a steering device of another axle module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignees: Helmut-Schmidt-Universität / Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg, Hamburg Innovation GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Bruns, Stephan Ulrich, Konstantin Krivenkov
  • Patent number: 10093334
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for joining at least one daughter cart to a mother cart utilize a coupling system having first and second coupling rails attached to one of the mother and daughter cart frames, and a third coupling rail attached to the other of the mother and daughter cart frames. The coupling rails all extend in a parallel manner to one another in a direction generally perpendicular to a primary transport direction and parallel the underlying surface, when engaged for conveying the daughter cart with the mother cart. The third coupling rail is retained in a channel between the first and second coupling rails, in such a manner that the daughter cart is coupled to and moves with the mother cart as the mother cart is moved in the primary transport direction while the third coupling rail is positioned in the channel between the first and second coupling rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Inventors: Edmund W. Brown, Ryan Brown
  • Patent number: 9988062
    Abstract: A connectable dolly having a platform with an upper surface, a peripheral edge and a bottom surface, a plurality of caster wheels extends from the bottom surface and are attached thereto, and a connector element is mounted to the platform proximal the peripheral edge and is moveable from a stored position to a deployed position, the connector element having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end having an engaging member dimensioned for removably connecting the connectable dolly to a second dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: ORBIS Corporation
    Inventors: Edward L. Stahl, Eric P. May
  • Patent number: 9889895
    Abstract: An apparatus and method support a crane boom during its transportation. A crane dolly includes a trailer with a frame and a tower mounted on the frame. The tower is movable independent of the frame. A boom rest is attached to the tower and is configured to receive a portion of a crane boom. The boom rest may pivot with respect to the tower about at least a pivot point while the crane boom is transported with the crane dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventors: Constantin Haag, Andrija Selak, Ulises Vivanco Echevarria
  • Patent number: 9646415
    Abstract: A user interface includes a display for displaying of a plurality of sensor data sets representative of signals associated with a plurality of sensors configured for sensing of a subsurface. At least some of the sensors are configured for subsurface sensing in a manner differing from other sensors of the plurality of sensors. Each of the sensor data sets comprises sensor data samples each associated with geographic position data. The sensor data sets are shown overlaid within a volume depicted on the display. The graphical representations of the sensor data sets are individually viewable within the volume and displayed in geographical alignment relative to one another within the volume in accordance with the geographic position data of the sensor data samples of each of the sensor data sets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Underground Imaging Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David Hanson, Keith Jerome Sjostrom, Ross Peter Jones, Peter John Kelly
  • Patent number: 9463675
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved dolly which is not only effective in terms of return logistics but also simple in design and easy to use. The novel dolly includes a chassis, which has an upper side with a load carrying surface, and an opposing underside. The dolly also includes a tow bar, which is arranged slidably to the underside of the chassis via a pivoting mechanism, which is configured to pivot the tow bar about a horizontal axis. The chassis of the dolly includes a corresponding hitch, which allows pivoting action about a vertical axis between the tow bar and the hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: K. Hartwall Oy Ab
    Inventors: Eero Korhonen, Jack Gronholm, Petri Piirainen, Juha Makela
  • Patent number: 9457704
    Abstract: A loading and transport device for all terrain vehicles. The loading and transport device loads two ATVs into a pickup bed by the use of a folding track that folds into an A frame shape by use of a jack. The ATVs are attached to the frame, and are transported in a generally vertical position. Loading involves unfolding the ATV racks, one of which reaches the ground. A winch is used to pull ATVs from the ground onto the ATV racks, and to lower them to the ground again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Inventor: Charles Leroy Williams
  • Patent number: 9187123
    Abstract: A dual lane, multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes a forward module mounted on a plurality of axles and a rearward module mounted on a plurality of axles. The forward module is mechanically connected to the rearward module for providing a dual lane transport body. The forward module and the rearward module of the transport body each have a single central spine wherein the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module are each attached to the corresponding single central spine. The axles of both the forward module and the rearward module have an axle spacing of at least six feet. A hydraulic suspension is provided for dynamically stabilizing the axles for reducing axle yaw. An axle steering system having a plurality of steering rods controls the position of the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Faymonville Distribution AG
    Inventors: Earl R. Sutton, James R. McGhie
  • Patent number: 9114830
    Abstract: The invention relates to a steering axle (1) for a vehicle, wherein steering levers (31, 32) are articulated to both sides of an axle body (2) and each of the steering levers (31, 32) is operatively connected to a track arm (41, 42), and a tie rod (5) is hingedly connected at both ends at attack points (61, 62) to the track arms (41, 42). It is proposed to provide the track arms (41, 42) with an adjustment device (71, 72) for changing the position of the attack points (61, 62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventors: Josef Scharmüller, Josef Scharmüller, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150101873
    Abstract: A multi-unit mobile robot comprising a plurality of separate carriages or units linked together by linkages. Each unit comprises hinged first and second segments which facilitates pitch relative motion between the segments, and accordingly the units. By controlling actuators to the hinges, one can cause the robot to coil around and compress against the exterior, or compress against the interior, of an object to be traversed. The linkage between mobile units facilitates at least one of lateral pivot or yaw relative motion between units, and optionally roll. Each hinged platform is carried by a pair of Mecanum wheels, which facilitate movement of the unit in any direction. Preferably, alternating units are of differing widths, and the wheels on the units are sufficiently large that they capable of overlapping, thereby enabling the robot to navigate very sharp edges or corners in the surface of an object being traversed by the robot, with the wheels always maintaining contact with the surface being traversed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Keith L. Schlee, Bruce A. Schlee
  • Patent number: 9004205
    Abstract: A multi-vehicle arrangement for heavy haulage includes at least a first tractor unit mechanically connected with a second tractor unit, wherein each tractor unit forms a separately drivable tractor unit including a driver cab), a digital communication device, steering wheels, a braking system, and a power train comprising a power source, a friction clutch, and an automatic transmission, where the friction clutch is arranged to be disengaged or engaged for drive torque transmission from the power source to the automatic transmission, a digital communication link is provided between the tractor units by the digital communication devices, and a control system of the first tractor unit is arranged to control at least a clutch load of the friction clutch of each of the first and second tractor units for the purpose of reducing the risk of over-heating of any of the friction clutches during engagement or disengagement of the friction clutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Jan Öberg, Niklas Öberg
  • Publication number: 20150001830
    Abstract: A portal trailer for a tugger train, consisting of a front, rear and middle trailer section, between which respectively a receiving area for a dolly to be carried along is provided, wherein the front is connected with the middle and the middle with the rear trailer section each via a portal-shaped arch and the middle trailer section has a pair of rollers or wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: JUNGHEINRICH AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Klaus-Peter BADURA, Arne KRASSE, Jörg ZIEMANN
  • Publication number: 20140265241
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved dolly which is not only effective in terms of return logistics but also simple in design and easy to use. The novel dolly includes a chassis, which has an upper side with a load carrying surface, and an opposing underside. The dolly also includes a tow bar, which is arranged slidably to the underside of the chassis via a pivoting mechanism, which is configured to pivot the tow bar about a horizontal axis. The chassis of the dolly includes a corresponding hitch, which allows pivoting action about a vertical axis between the tow bar and the hitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: K. Hartwall Oy Ab
    Inventors: Eero KORHONEN, Jack GRONHOLM, Petri PIIRAINEN, Juha MAKELA
  • Patent number: 8632293
    Abstract: A cart for storage of items, such as air passenger luggage, and transport thereof between, e.g., airport sorting apparatus and aircrafts, comprises a chassis and a storage section. The storage section comprises one or more shelves, each of which is inclined with respect to the chassis, to allow items to be moved under the action of gravity between a loading end and an unloading end of the cart. A releasable closure structure is provided at the lower end of the shelf. The closure structure may form a continuation of the shelf when in its non-closing position. The cart is suited for automatic or manual loading and unloading of items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: BBHS A/S
    Inventor: Lars Thøgersen
  • Publication number: 20130341105
    Abstract: A vehicle or machine is suitable for operation on uneven or inclined surfaces, the vehicle or machine being a forest work unit and including at least three frame parts and two rotational planes, each of which rotational planes is arranged to be formed, in each particular case, on an interface between two successive frame parts of the vehicle or machine. The rotational planes are, in each particular case, planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle or machine in the neutral position. The frame parts are thus arranged to be mutually rotatable in relation to said rotational plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: PONSSE OYJ
    Inventor: Pentti Hukkanen
  • Publication number: 20130241177
    Abstract: Coupling arrangement for a dolly, and a dolly equipped with such an arrangement, includes a female connecting part and a male connecting part. The male connecting part includes a draw bar and a connecting peg and the female part comprises an at least partially closed recess having an area limited by at least partially closed wall having a height and including at least a concave guiding part and a ceiling positioned to form the at least a partially closed recess with the wall. A hole is provided in the ceiling at the tip of the concave part of the wall dimensioned to receive the connecting peg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: K. HARTWALL OY AB
    Inventors: Markku Tiilikainen, Jack Grönholm
  • Patent number: 8469384
    Abstract: The articulated connection which is disconnectable and formed of a hitching device (6) with a drawbar component (7) for rapid coupling and uncoupling (5). The articulated connection is carried at the front of the following road module (2) and fixed in terms of orientation with respect to a central longitudinal axis (12) of the leading road module (1), independent of the steering axle of the following road module or of its steering assembly, and it has a rear end (9) of the piece pivot-mounted (14) on the chassis of the following road module (2) and a front end has a complementary coupling and uncoupling mechanism, together with roll and pitch travel mechanism and angular end stop mechanism. This device is applicable to the urban transport of passengers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Lohr Industrie
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Andre
  • Patent number: 8459684
    Abstract: Two fifth wheels of different throat diameters are mounted facing each other 180 degrees apart on a turntable member that can be rotated on an underlying support member. The underlying support member may be a permanent part on a towing or tractor vehicle, or a detachable part such as a fifth wheel support body. This enables a single towing vehicle to tow semitrailers having kingpins of different sizes without changing the kingpins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8424897
    Abstract: A dual lane, multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes a forward module mounted on a plurality of axles and a rearward module mounted on a plurality of axles. The forward module is mechanically connected to the rearward module for providing a dual lane transport body. The forward module and the rearward module of the transport body each have a single central spine wherein the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module are each attached to the corresponding single central spine. The axles of both the forward module and the rearward module have an axle spacing of at least six feet. A hydraulic suspension is provided for dynamically stabilizing the axles for reducing axle yaw. An axle steering system having a plurality of steering rods controls the position of the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Alpha One Transporter Inc.
    Inventors: Earl R. Sutton, James R. McGhie
  • Patent number: 8382143
    Abstract: The road vehicle comprises a communicating door (8, 9) in each of the front (3) and rear (4) transverse faces, a part at the front and a part at the rear of the split able connection that can combine with that of another identical or same-type vehicle respectively in front (5) and behind (6) so as to constitute a disconnect able articulated connection for aligning the vehicles and obtaining a short distance between the vehicles, a projection at the front or at the rear at the inter-vehicular passenger access, a course set point for the vehicle (6) behind using a system for directional control of the vehicle behind. The road vehicle is applicable to urban public transport vehicles which can form a road train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Lohr Industrie
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Andre
  • Patent number: 8251394
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Wastow Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Doyle E. Watkins
  • Patent number: 8202036
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Tommy L. Edmonson
  • Publication number: 20110266772
    Abstract: The articulated connection is characterized in that it is: disconnectable and formed of a hitching device (6) with a drawbar component (7) and means of rapid coupling and uncoupling (5), carried at the front by the following module (2), fixed in terms of orientation with respect to the central longitudinal axis (12) of the leading module (1), independent of the steering axle of the following module or oif its steering assembly, and in that it has: a rear end (9) of the piece pivot-mounted (14) on the chassis of the following module (2) and a front end exhibiting complementary coupling and uncoupling means, together with roll and pitch travel means and angular end stop means. Application to the urban transport of passengers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: LOHR INDUSTRIE
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Andre
  • Patent number: 7997607
    Abstract: A recreational trailer assembly that includes first and second trailer members and a trailer tongue that are all detachably and removably connected to one another. Specifically the first and second trailer members and trailer tongue are detachably removed from one another allowing for multi-functional uses of each and to provide assistance in transportation and storage of the entire recreational trailer assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Innovations Unlimited, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Mark A. Voves
  • Patent number: 7980809
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Tommy L. Edmonson
  • Patent number: 7901117
    Abstract: A safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Concaten Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Publication number: 20100320726
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Doyle E. Watkins
  • Patent number: 7806646
    Abstract: A delivery rack system for transporting a dolly. The delivery rack system includes a frame disposed on a plurality of wheels. The frame includes a side rail and first and second transverse rails disposed proximate the side rail. The side rail, the first transverse rail, and second transverse rail cooperate to define a compartment adapted to receive the dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Anthony Riordan, Robert Liggins, Cliff Graham, Michael Colberg
  • Patent number: 7731207
    Abstract: A mobile transport platform for the handling of aeronautical parts with a frame has an array of telescopic actuators vertically arranged in rows and columns, each telescopic actuator is coupled by one end to the frame, and has a coupled head (2c) at its opposite end; a control system connected to each telescopic actuator for individually controlling the actuation of each telescopic actuator so that the telescopic actuator can adapt a position between that of maximum extension in which the head and at least part of the shaft of the telescopic actuator project from the plane of the load surface, and that of maximum retraction in which at least the shaft of the telescopic actuator does not project from the plane of the load surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Operations, S.L.
    Inventor: José Manuel Santos Gómez
  • Patent number: 7628418
    Abstract: A dolly trailer adapted to transport heavy elongated cylindrical objects such as towers used to support energy generating windmills. The dolly trailer comprises a first side rail member and a second side rail member with a plurality of curved support members therebetween adapted to receive the cylindrical load. The curvature of the support members is such that at least a portion of the curved support members extends below the plane created by top surface of the dolly trailer's first and second side rail members so that in use at least a portion of the cylindrical load is carried below this plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Holmes & Holmes, Ltd.
    Inventors: Cecil E. Holmes, James R. Holmes
  • Publication number: 20090290324
    Abstract: A safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: IWAPI INC.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Patent number: 7597332
    Abstract: A first and second stroller portions are described to form a modular stroller. The first and second stroller portions may be reversibly coupled together in a tandem relationship with a coupling device to operate in a double stroller configuration. Alternatively, the first and second stroller portions may be uncoupled from one another and used in an independent mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Hatch Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Julie Tabor Thompson
  • Patent number: 7571916
    Abstract: A trailer having a frame assembly with front and rear axle beams rotationally coupled to the frame assembly. At least one member interconnects the front and rear axle beams to synchronize movement of the axle beams allowing the front and rear wheels to track one another. In one embodiment a first member connects the right front axle beam with the left rear axle beam and a second member connects the left front axle beam with the right rear axle beam causing the rear axle beam to rotate in the opposite direction of the front axle beam when the front axle beam turns. The push-pull operation of the members cause the rear wheels to track the front wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Gerald Duane Skiles
  • Patent number: 7572022
    Abstract: A safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: IWAPI, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Publication number: 20090166998
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: IWAPI INC.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Patent number: 7487987
    Abstract: This invention is a user-propelled riding toy. A platform on which a user stands is supported by at least two wheels; and a geartrain mounts to the wheels. The geartrain is adapted to receive a downward force from the pedals, and translate a portion of the downward force into a rotational force on the wheels. The geartrain also provides an upward return force acting on the pedal. The platform is propelled forward direction by the rotational force on the wheels. When one pedal is pressed down, the other pedal will be raised simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Ningbo Landsurf Sports Equipment Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Hui Yan
  • Patent number: 7484748
    Abstract: A steering connection assembly for a vehicle train having at least one implement towed behind a tow vehicle in a direction of travel is provided. The steering connection assembly includes an elongated tow bar interconnecting a first implement towed behind a second implement. A rearward end of the tow bar is includes an elongated opening to receive a steering rod member therethrough. A steering arm interconnects the steering rod member to a caster-type wheel assembly located at a forward of a first towed implement. With a first angle of rotation of the tow bar relative the longitudinal axis of the first implement, the vertical steering rod member slides along the opening of the tow bar such that the steering arm member and attached wheel assembly rotate a second angle of rotation less than the first angle of rotation of the tow bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Terry A. Friggstad
  • Patent number: 7481439
    Abstract: A first and second stroller portions are described to form a modular stroller. The first and second stroller portions may be reversibly coupled together in a tandem relationship with a means for coupling to operate in a double stroller configuration. Alternatively, the first and second stroller portions may be uncoupled from one another and used in an independent mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Hatch Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Julie Tabor Thompson
  • Publication number: 20080258430
    Abstract: A hitch connection for connecting a lead or “A” trailer to a “B” trailer is disclosed. The hitch connection comprises a female sub-assembly which fits inside the chassis of the “A” trailer at the rear of that trailer. A male sub-assembly which includes a turnplate supported on a chassis includes a tapered prong which locates in the female assembly and is held inside with locking pins. The prong includes a transverse pivot which extends parallel to the axle to allow the prong to pivot relative to the chassis The “B” trailer may be readily separated from the “A” trailer by removal of the locking pins to allow removal of the prong from the female sub-assembly thus allowing unfettered access to the rear of the “A” trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Mathews
  • Publication number: 20080231017
    Abstract: A recreational trailer assembly that includes first and second trailer members and a trailer tongue that are all detachably and removably connected to one another. Specifically the first and second trailer members and trailer tongue are detachably removed from one another allowing for multi-functional uses of each and to provide assistance in transportation and storage of the entire recreational trailer assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Mark A. Voves
  • Patent number: 7400108
    Abstract: Techniques are described for control of a robot system, wherein the robot system includes a plurality of individual wheeled robot modules interconnected by at least one compliant member. The technique includes developing a kinematic control model of the robot system from a combination of the kinematic characteristics of the individual wheeled robot modules and the stiffness properties of the compliant member. Development of the kinematic control model for a reconfigurable robot system is enhanced by the scalable nature of the technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Mark A. Minor, Corey Schwensen
  • Patent number: 7374197
    Abstract: A cart for transporting objects is provided. The cart includes a base structure supported on a plurality of wheels. An elongated tongue is telescopically mounted to an underside of the base structure and is movable between an extended position, wherein the tongue extends in front of the cart, and a retracted position, wherein the tongue is disposed under the cart. A hitch apparatus is mounted to the base structure at the posterior end thereof. The hitch apparatus includes a hitch for receiving a tongue of another cart and a locking assembly for locking the tongue to the hitch. The locking assembly includes a pin movable between locking and release positions. A tongue actuator is connected to the tongue and is operable, upon manipulation by an operator, to move the tongue from the retracted position to the extended position, while a hitch actuator is connected to the pin of the locking assembly and is operable, upon manipulation by an operator, to move the pin from the locking position to the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Joel Leverett
  • Patent number: 7350799
    Abstract: A coupling device for a handling trolley comprises a drawbar (22) arranged at the front of the trolley and designed to co-operate with the hook (24) provided at the back of a tractor, in particular a trolley preceding a line of trolleys. The drawbar (22) comprises a longitudinal slot (36) wherein the hook (24) is designed to slide such that the hook can slide in the longitudinal slot between a position spaced apart wherein the trolley (10) is at a maximum distance from the tractor while it is being towed and a closer position wherein the trolley is at a minimum distance from the tractor to reduce the space requirement when it is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Valeo Thermique Moteur
    Inventors: Jean Labadie, Jean-Pierre Cribier
  • Patent number: 7159888
    Abstract: A modular transport vehicle includes a plurality of dollies which are removably connected to a central spine. Because the components of the present invention may be disconnected, the transport vehicle may be readily disassembled and moved from location to location using conventional transportation means. The modularity also allows the width of the transport vehicle to be adjusted using different widths of connectors to accommodate road conditions and/or governmental regulations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: American Heavy Moving & Rigging, Inc.
    Inventors: Earl Sutton, James R. McGhie
  • Patent number: 7137641
    Abstract: A trailer train apparatus is disclosed that is comprised of a plurality of trailers connected end-to-end. At least some of the trailers are wheeled trailers with steerable wheels. The train includes opposing end trailers that each have tongues that enable the train to be towed from either end. Links join the steerable axle supports (or wheel supports) of some chassis with other chassis so that when an end chassis is steered with its tongue, the other chassis are also steered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: William Thomas Lipsey, III