Convertible Patents (Class 280/415.1)
  • Patent number: 11731472
    Abstract: A quick hitch attachment device for coupling the attachment element of a truck bed type system to a quick hitch. The attachment device includes a mounting member tube, a ball hitch assembly and two or more coupling members adapted to mount a mounting member to the quick hitch. The ball hitch assembly includes a stem configured to be slidably received in the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: HIGH BALL HITCH, LLC
    Inventor: Richard G. Steele, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11690316
    Abstract: An agricultural mowing device that includes a tongue configured for connecting to an agricultural vehicle, a trail frame, first and second trail-frame wheels, first and second lift actuators for lifting the trail frame, a trail-frame actuating mechanism operably connected in between the tongue and the trail frame and configured for rotating the trail frame, and a transport system. The transport system includes a transport frame, first and second transport wheels, and a transport actuating mechanism rotatably connecting the transport frame to the tongue. The transport actuating mechanism includes a transport actuator operably connected in between the tongue and the transport frame and configured for rotating the transport frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Fay, II
  • Patent number: 11642923
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly includes a shank, coupleable to a receiver carried by a towing vehicle. A ball attachment bracket is attachable to the shank. A ball assembly is receivable within the ball attachment bracket, the ball assembly capable of mating with a trailer coupler carried by a trailer to be towed. A distribution block is attachable to one or both the ball attachment bracket or the shank. The distribution block has arm socket attachments to allow coupling of a pair of arm sockets to the distribution block, each of the arm sockets capable of receiving one of a pair of spring arms attachable to the trailer to be towed. The distribution block is removable from each of the ball attachment bracket and the shank while the ball attachment bracket remains operably coupled to the shank for use as a standard ball hitch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Inventor: Shawn Bodily
  • Patent number: 11440599
    Abstract: A fifth wheel hitch assembly for mounting to a towing vehicle and receiving a kingpin of a trailer incorporating a comfort assembly is provided. The fifth wheel hitch assembly may comprise a kingpin receiving assembly attached to a mounting rail via a comfort assembly. The comfort assembly may include one or more pivot bushing assemblies, as well as vertically adjustable, anti-rattle attachment systems. These attachment systems may include a cam assembly and/or a T-pin assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Mark Scruggs, Curt Nowack, Derek Jolly, Gregoire Mercier
  • Patent number: 11440361
    Abstract: A tie down apparatus for securing an item is shown and described herein. The tie down apparatus may include first and second body members, where the first body member is configured to be located and rotated about a first axis within a first receiving member and the second body member is configured to be located and rotated about a second axis within a second receiving member. The tie down apparatus may also include first and second locking members each extending through the first and second body members, respectively, where rotating the first and second body members about the respective first and second axes engages the first and second locking members and generally prevents removal of the first and second body members from the first and second receiving member, and a safety chain holding member selectively engaged with either of the first and second body members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventor: Richard McCoy
  • Patent number: 11325434
    Abstract: A ball mount apparatus, for hitching a trailer to a vehicle, which can include up to three or more hitch balls of different size connected to a ball block which can be locked, unlocked, and rotated manually, without the use of tools, for positioning a selected ball for use. The ball block can also be rotated by hand between a rearwardly extending towing position and a forwardly extending stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Inventor: Bradley Lee Pennington
  • Patent number: 11247623
    Abstract: Provided herewith is a customizable bumper system for a vehicle and a related method of customizing. The customizable bumper system includes a central weldment that bolts onto a frame of the vehicle. The central weldment includes a height adjustable hitch receiver attachment structure in the form of an array of parallel holes for attaching a hitch receiver at a selected hitch height position along the central weldment. The central weldment also includes a pair of height adjustable extension attachment structures in the form of arrays of parallel holes for selectively attaching a respective pair of lateral bumper extension members upon which one or more selected light components are optionally installed. These lateral bumper extension members are also attached at a selected extension height position. Additional component attachment structures enable one aftermarket components to be optionally installed upon the central weldment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: DEIST INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Schumacher
  • Patent number: 11241922
    Abstract: An apparatus fitted onto the forks of a forklift assembly for moving trailers, wherein the apparatus includes a right and a left rectangular tubular sections that are large enough to accommodate a fork. The sections are joined with a spanning beam having a center mounted trailer ball. The spanning beam is welded to the right and the left sections. A clamping element is mounted on a top wall of each section proximate to the rear of each section. Leveling elements are frontally affixed partially occluding an upper front opening of each section, such that tips of a fork are wedged under the leveling element and projecting beyond the front opening. Tightening the clamping elements secures attachment to the forks preventing the apparatus from sliding or rocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Inventor: John Altman
  • Patent number: 11220186
    Abstract: An assist apparatus for an electric vehicle which is powered by rechargeable batteries. To assist in the range of the electric vehicle, a platform is secured or towed by the vehicle. On the platform is a hydrocarbon internal combustion engine/motor that generates electricity. The hydrocarbon engine/motor is activated, either manually, via a handheld switch, or automatically by sensors in the electric vehicle, to charge the rechargeable batteries within the electric vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Inventor: Mark Ellery Ogram
  • Patent number: 11072273
    Abstract: There is provided an ATV accessory that is easily coupled to an ATV for carrying or transporting humans and animals in rough terrain or in snowy terrain. The present ATV accessory also provides for a kit to change the mechanism of moving forward through various terrain from wheels or tires of different sizes to ski-like members to allow for transport through snow or icy trails or rough terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Inventor: Dennis Robert Kliegle
  • Patent number: 11059336
    Abstract: A movable assembly is formed of a reciprocable sub-assembly and a pivotable sub-assembly. The reciprocable sub-assembly has a tubular housing. The tubular housing is reciprocable within a receiver. The reciprocable sub-assembly has a block reciprocable within the housing. The pivotable sub-assembly has a trailer hitch ball and a pivot sleeve. A neck fixedly couples the trailer hitch ball and the pivot sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Inventor: Charles L. Perry
  • Patent number: 10843513
    Abstract: A tie down apparatus for securing an item is shown and described herein. The tie down apparatus may include first and second body members, where the first body member is configured to be located and rotated about a first axis within a first receiving member and the second body member is configured to be located and rotated about a second axis within a second receiving member. The tie down apparatus may also include first and second locking members each extending through the first and second body members, respectively, where rotating the first and second body members about the respective first and second axes engages the first and second locking members and generally prevents removal of the first and second body members from the first and second receiving member, and a safety chain holding member selectively engaged with either of the first and second body members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventor: Richard McCoy
  • Patent number: 10787049
    Abstract: A fifth wheel assembly for a pick-up truck having a frame disposed below the truck bed that supports a plurality of receptacles that define oblong openings. The fifth wheel assembly includes a fifth wheel hitch, and a plurality of bushings including a boss portion having a cylindrical protrusion on an upper surface and an oblong protrusion on a lower surface. The locations of the bushings are sells-adjusting to facilitate orienting the oblong protrusions to be inserted into the oblong openings. Jam nuts are assembled to the cylindrical protrusion of each of the bosses that are tightened to fix the position of the bosses. T-pins have an oblong head oriented in alignment with the oblong protrusions when inserted into the oblong openings in an unlocked position. The T-pins are pivoted to a locked position after being inserted through the oblong openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Cliff Standifer
  • Patent number: 10766322
    Abstract: The mounting system may be utilized for towing vehicles wherein the mounting system may selectively accommodate either a fifth wheel hitch or a gooseneck hitch. The mounting system may include a structural frame member including at least one rail capable of being connected to a vehicle frame, wherein the rail includes at least one socket. The socket may be engaged with a receiving member, wherein the receiving member may be engaged with a leg of a fifth wheel hitch. A mid rail may be connected to the rails and may include a hitch ball socket that is capable of engagement with a hitch. Also provided is an underbed hitch mounting system having at least one socket and receiving member exposed above a bed of a vehicle. The system includes trim and ring brackets configured to cover the exposed socket and receiving members along the bed of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. McGory, Piyush Pradeepkumar Khater, Joel Thomas Runyan
  • Patent number: 10252756
    Abstract: A gooseneck hitch attachable to a cross member secured to a frame below a load bed of a vehicle, the cross member having a width is shown and described. The gooseneck hitch may include a beam selectively attachable to the cross member below the load bed and a rail monolithically formed with the beam and extending from the beam. The gooseneck hitch may also include a receptacle monolithically formed with the rail, where the receptacle is capable of selectively securing a hitch ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Jacob William Mitchell
  • Patent number: 10150516
    Abstract: A reinforcement panel for the floor of a pick-up truck bed. The reinforcement panel is assembled between the floor of the pick-up truck and a fifth wheel cross member. The reinforcement panel includes transversely extending reinforcing or stiffening ribs. The stiffening ribs resist deflection in the area of the gooseneck ball receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Joseph Courtright, Joshua Hemphill, James Adam Drozdowski, John Comiez, Vincent Chimento
  • Patent number: 9995524
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include methods, apparatuses, and systems for cooling. Embodiments include a cooling system comprising a mobile container, conveyor system, and sensor feedback system. Container includes at least a first, second, and third section. First section holds at least one pallet containing produce. Second section includes a cooling mechanism to cool the produce within the at least one pallet to an optimal temperature. Third section includes the cooling mechanism to maintain the cooled produce in the at least one pallet at the optimal temperature. Conveyor system may be used to convey the at least one pallet across the cooling system. Sensor feedback system is configured to continuously measure and track at least the weight of the at least one pallet and temperature of the produce within the at least one pallet as the at least one pallet is conveyed across the cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Fresh Chill Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Birge Sigety, Katharine Colyer Sigety, William John Dewitt
  • Patent number: 9987891
    Abstract: A safety chain engaging device for a towing vehicle having a gooseneck hitch attached with a rail of the towing vehicle is shown and described. The safety chain engaging device may include a first bracket configured to be secured with the rail of the towing vehicle, and a second bracket attached with the first bracket, the second bracket including a plate member spaced from the first bracket. The safety chain engaging device may also include at least one safety chain engaging member secured with the plate member, where the safety chain engaging member is configured to be laterally spaced from the rail upon securement of the first bracket with the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: HORIZON GLOBAL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: Lynn H. Mida, Gail R. Matheus
  • Patent number: 9545873
    Abstract: A reinforcement panel for the floor of a pick-up truck bed. The reinforcement panel is assembled between the floor of the pick-up truck and a fifth wheel cross member. The reinforcement panel includes transversely extending reinforcing or stiffening ribs. The stiffening ribs resist deflection in the area of the gooseneck ball receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Joseph Courtright, Joshua Hemphill, James Adam Drozdowski, John Comiez, Vincent Chimento
  • Patent number: 9248713
    Abstract: A safety chain engaging device for a towing vehicle having a gooseneck hitch attached with a rail of the towing vehicle is shown and described. The safety chain engaging device may include a first bracket configured to be secured with the rail of the towing vehicle, and a second bracket attached with the first bracket, the second bracket including a plate member spaced from the first bracket. The safety chain engaging device may also include at least one safety chain engaging member secured with the plate member, where the safety chain engaging member is configured to be laterally spaced from the rail upon securement of the first bracket with the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Lynn H. Mida, Gail R. Matheus
  • Patent number: 9096179
    Abstract: A cargo carrier assembly attachable to a vehicle cargo hitch is provided that deploys therefrom and supports cargo items from the rear of the vehicle during transport. The assembly comprises a T-shaped member slidably engaged to a trailer hitch receiver. The T-shaped member comprises a crossbar with a first and second support member end. The support member ends comprises a bar member support sleeve below a slat member support sleeve, wherein a pair of bar members or slat members can be extended from the sleeves and secured under different cargo items. The extended slats engage tubular sleeve members affixed to the base of cargo items, while the bar members are adapted to support larger cargo items or a cargo tray thereon. Magnetic pins engage the slats to maintain their deployed position, while threaded hand fasteners secure the bar members when deployed. A hinged cover plate shrouds the assembly during non-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Inventor: Franz Reiseder
  • Patent number: 8992155
    Abstract: A transport hitch apparatus which is attached to a standard semi-truck tractor via the truck's frame and fifth-wheel, and which is capable of lifting and towing agricultural implements using an array of different hitch connections. The transport hitch is customizable, and is capable of conforming to several semi-truck tractor frame types and implement hitch types. In the practice of an aspect of the present invention, an agricultural implement is attached to the transport apparatus via a two-point or drawbar hitch. The transport apparatus includes a self-contained electrically powered hydraulic lift system capable of lifting large agricultural implements for transport. The transport apparatus is mounted to a tandem axle semi-truck tractor fifth wheel and frame. The transport apparatus is designed to quickly attached to any standard semi-truck tractor. The hydraulic lift system allows implements of any shape or size to be raised or lowered to an ideal towing height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Bestway, Inc.
    Inventors: Don Patrick Meenen, David C. Benson, Michael A. Brainard
  • Publication number: 20150061259
    Abstract: A trailer is presented. First and second axles are provided, each of the first and second axles being configured to couple to at least two wheels. A chassis is connected to the first and second axles, and a hitch is connected to the chassis. A lift system engaging structure is connected to the chassis of the trailer. The lift system engaging structure is configured to releasably engage a lifting component of a lift system. The lift system is configured to raise the lifting component to position the trailer in a stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew John Fox, Patrick M. Shafer, Allen Benson Sheldon
  • Patent number: 8950774
    Abstract: A frame locking bar is supported pivotably with respect to a rear body. The frame locking bar is constructed to be able to lock an articulated structure by fixing a front body and the rear body to each other to thereby prevent swing thereof. A fixing mechanism is constructed to be able to position this frame locking bar at a prescribed pivoted position in a cantilevered state. At the positioned prescribed pivoted position, when viewed from above, a foot mount is located outside a side surface of a driver's compartment. Thus, a wheel loader capable of locking an articulated mechanism and allowing easy and highly safe services at a high position is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuo Ushikubo, Nobumasa Takamatsu, Yasuhiro Yamane
  • Patent number: 8925952
    Abstract: An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Cody James Leech, Kristopher William Schwennsen, Scott Morrison
  • Patent number: 8905423
    Abstract: Provided is an all-terrain trailer for hauling large objects over uneven landscapes. The trailer is capable of carrying items within its volume in both its deployed and stowed state. Deployed, the trailer is a basket shaped body with a pair of wheels removably secured via a removable axle. The trailer is attached to the lead vehicle using a removable trailer hitch linkage that is secured to the basket body via fasteners. In a stowed state, the tires and axle are stored within a storage area in a lower portion of the basket body. In one embodiment, a false bottom is placed over the storage area, creating a flat trailer bed that objects can be laid upon. The basket body is removably secured to the hood of a lead vehicle, thereby providing a carrying basket while the vehicle is in transit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Hart
  • Patent number: 8864164
    Abstract: Provided is a tugger attachment apparatus configured for use with a pallet transport. The pallet transport has a front drive portion and a rear load portion having a pair of forks. The tugger attachment includes a body, a fork coupling member at a bottom side of the body that is configured to secure the body to the forks, and a hitch supported by the body. A linkage can be provided that opens and closes the hitch in response to raising and lowering of the forks of the pallet transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Seegrid Corporation
    Inventor: Mitchell Weiss
  • Patent number: 8833788
    Abstract: A trailer system or trailer includes a trailer body having one or more wheel axle assemblies underlying the trailer body at a rear portion. In the trailer system embodiment, included is a detachable trailer neck that has at least one swivel wheel assembly located at a rear portion of the neck. The swivel wheel assemblies can be lifted or lowered using hydraulic or air cylinders. The neck or tongue has a transversely oriented pivot joint with an adjustable tongue weight assembly using springs and an air or hydraulically operated cylinder to adjust tongue weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Scott Chaddock
  • Publication number: 20140217701
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a convertible platform system may include a platform, a first platform attachment, and a second platform attachment. The platform may include a first side at least two wheels, a loading system, and a coupling system. The first platform attachment may include a first surface which couples, during use, to the first side of the platform. The first platform attachment may include a first function. The second platform attachment may include a second surface which couples, during use, to the first side of the platform. The second platform attachment may include a second function. The loading system may couple to a first end of at least one of the platform attachments and convey the platform attachment from a first unloaded position to a second loaded position. The coupling system may couple during use either the first platform attachment or the second platform attachment to the first side of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Chad Aaron Raemsch
  • Publication number: 20140217700
    Abstract: A frame locking bar is supported pivotably with respect to a rear body. The frame locking bar is constructed to be able to lock an articulated structure by fixing a front body and the rear body to each other to thereby prevent swing thereof. A fixing mechanism is constructed to be able to position this frame locking bar at a prescribed pivoted position in a cantilevered state. At the positioned prescribed pivoted position, when viewed from above, a foot mount is located outside a side surface of a driver's compartment. Thus, a wheel loader capable of locking an articulated mechanism and allowing easy and highly safe services at a high position is obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Nobuo Ushikubo, Nobumasa Takamatsu, Yasuhiro Yamane
  • Patent number: 8684412
    Abstract: A Collapsible Trailer. The trailer is lightweight, but durable, and includes a set of detachable deck segments that can be assembled into a deck. The trailer further includes a suspension assembly that attaches to the deck once the deck is assembled or, alternatively, is permanently attached to one deck segment. Intra-deck segment support is provided by slidable rods that are extendable to bridge between a pair of adjacent segments. Each deck segment has a male edge to be inserted into a female edge to create an exceedingly strong, interlocking hinge-like structure. The deck and trailer can be assembled without the need for any tools. The deck segments, when disassembled, are stackable into a condensed deck stack. A foldable suspension facilitates the stackable storage and transportation of the trailer. The trailer is convertible into a cargo platform that can be attached directly to a conventional trailer hitch receiver on a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Karl M. Steins
  • Patent number: 8662520
    Abstract: An improved hitch adapter allows an individual to attach a vehicle with a hook to a trailer with a ball coupler. The improved hitch adapter comprises an adapter ring mechanically coupled to a front plate. The front plate is mechanically coupled to a first parallel surface. The first parallel surface further comprises an adapter ball inset. The first parallel surface is mechanically coupled to a left plate and a right plate. The adapter ball inset is mechanically coupled to a height-adjustable ball. The right plate and the left plate are mechanically coupled to a size variable clamp. This enables a user to mechanically couple the hook to ball coupler regardless of size of the ball coupler enabling full articulation in a vertical direction and a rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Cornelius Powers
  • Patent number: 8636296
    Abstract: In one example, mobile industrial equipment for coupling to a truck for on highway transportation is provided. The mobile industrial equipment includes a frame to connect to the truck, a plurality of wheels connected to the frame, and a track assembly connected to the frame. In another example a method for using mobile equipment is provided. The method includes transporting mobile industrial equipment over the highway with a plurality of wheels connected to a frame of the mobile industrial equipment. The frame of the mobile industrial equipment is separated from the truck. The mobile industrial equipment is moved while separated from the truck using a track connected to the frame of the mobile industrial equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Crusher Rental & Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve L. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8622429
    Abstract: A high-performance, light-duty, utility trailer that is pulled by a tow vehicle utilizing a two point coupling to the tow vehicle and a swiveling axle assembly. This novel design includes a tilting hitch assembly attached to the trailer frame and swiveling casters attached to the rear corners of the trailer frame, creating a three point “landing gear” for easy installation onto the tow vehicle and providing good un-hitched mobility allowing the trailer owner to easily move the trailer out-of-the-way when stored between each use. A wheel swiveling assembly that can be configured to provide steering geometry capable of being customized to accommodate driving habits and road conditions. A two point hitch assembly that allows the removal of adaptors when not in use for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ned Anthony Ardagna
  • Patent number: 8613462
    Abstract: A collapsible hitched trailer comprised of a bed member having a center bed section, and two pivotable bed sections pivotally attached to opposite sides of the center bed section. A protracting wheel axle member attached to an underside of the center bed section. Two wheels, one attached to each opposite end of the wheel axle member, and a draw bar member attached to one of the two pivotable bed sections, wherein the hitched trailer can be folded into a smaller shape and stored in a smaller area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: Rene Bernard
  • Publication number: 20130280025
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein relates to a vehicle recovery assembly (10) comprising a movable beam (20) carrying a recovery bar (50), wherein the bar (50) carries at least one spade (61, 62) to enable recovery of a vehicle. The recovery assembly (10) is capable of rescuing incapacitated or upturned vehicles, winching the incapacitated vehicle to partially recover it, followed by towing the partially recovered vehicle until it is fully recovered. The compact size of the vehicle recovery assembly enables it to be attached to small recovery vehicles, thus facilitating vehicle recovery in confined spaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: EKA Limited
    Inventor: Alan John Puddephatt
  • Patent number: 8550485
    Abstract: An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Cody James Leech, Kristopher William Schwennsen, Scott Morrison
  • Patent number: 8511705
    Abstract: An automatic wheel adjustment mechanism mounted between two front wheels and a front wheel stem of a foldable motorized vehicle, comprising: (a) a front wheel supporting shaft having a bearing housing positioned on the top center portion of the front wheel supporting shaft, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion positioned on the front wheel supporting shaft, (b) a connecting member having a ring on one end and a connecting shaft on other end, wherein the connecting shaft extends upwards to form a connecting portion, and (c) a plurality of bearings, wherein outer races of the bearings is fixed at the center portion of the front wheel supporting shaft, the ring of the connecting member is connected to the lower end of the front wheel stem, the connecting shaft of the connecting member passes through and fixedly connected to the inner races of the plurality of the bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: Chichun Wu, Zhao Zhang
  • Patent number: 8448972
    Abstract: A towing device for towing an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) behind a vehicle featuring two parallel support bars for cradling rear wheels of the ATV; a first wheel connected to the first ends of the support bars via a first wheel axle connector and a second wheel connected to the second ends of the support bars via second wheel axle connector; eye rings disposed on the support bars adapted to receive ends of straps, the straps being for securing rear wheels of the ATV; an undercarriage bracket pivotally attached to the first support bar for supporting and securing the rear axle of the ATV; and a curved towing arm having a ball hitch tongue for connecting the towing arm to a hitch of the vehicle and two connecting brackets for engaging and securing a front axle of the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: David P. Belcher, Paul Belcher
  • Publication number: 20130127136
    Abstract: A collapsible cart-trailer includes a folding mechanism that folds the cart-trailer into a small form factor, at least two wheels, modular, and removable and compartmentalized storage. The collapsible cart-trailer is operable in a cart mode and a trailer mode. In the trailer mode, the cart-trailer may be coupled to a movable object by a collapsible, length adjustable tow bar. In the cart mode, the cart-trailer includes a collapsible handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: Commonwheel Ventures, LLC
    Inventor: Commonwheel Ventures, LLC
  • Patent number: 8444166
    Abstract: The apparatuses and methods disclosed herein may be pushed by hand or pulled by a motor vehicle. Thus, implementations of the transport device disclosed herein may have functions akin to a wheelbarrow or a dumping trailer yet may provide easier and/or more efficient transportation and dumping functions over prior art wheelbarrows and dumping trailers. Implementation of the transport device disclosed herein also may be easier to push over an elevation or up a hill. Furthermore, in some implementations, the transport device disclosed herein includes four wheels and therefore can function like a cart. Still further, in some implementations, the transport device disclosed herein can have the functions of a wagon. In some implementations, the transport device includes a work bench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Charles Dwight Jarvis
  • Patent number: 8382138
    Abstract: A hitch device for converting a conventional wheelbarrow into a towable trailer. The wheelbarrow includes a tub, handles and at least one wheel. The hitch device includes an elongated tow bar, first and second engagement members, and a vehicle coupling assembly. Each of the engagement members has a handle capture, a cross bar, and a base. The handle capture is configured to slidably receive one of the wheelbarrow handles, and is connected to the cross bar. The base also projects from the cross bar. The first engagement member is separate from the tow bar, whereas the second engagement member is affixed to the tow bar. The handle captures are received over the wheelbarrow handles, respectively, and the bases fastened to one another to connect the first engagement member with the tow bar such that the hitch device is mounted to the wheelbarrow handles in a wedge-like fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: David W. Carroll, Robert Cahlander
  • Patent number: 8376386
    Abstract: A towed vehicle having two towing modes has a first set of wheels positioned on a first axis defining an operative position supporting a frame. A second set of wheels is positioned on a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. The second set of wheels has a lowered operative position and a raised inoperative position. When the second set of wheels is in the lowered operative position, they lift the first set of wheels off the ground to an inoperative position. A first towing connection is provided for connecting the frame to a tow vehicle when the first set of wheels are in the operative position. A second towing connection is provided, perpendicular to the first towing connection, for connecting the frame to the tow vehicle when the second set of wheels are in the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Renn Mill Center Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Hilsabeck, Peter Verhoog
  • Publication number: 20130038038
    Abstract: A collapsible hitched trailer comprised of a bed member having a center bed section, and two pivotable bed sections pivotally attached to opposite sides of the center bed section. A protracting wheel axle member attached to an underside of the center bed section. Two wheels, one attached to each opposite end of the wheel axle member, and a draw bar member attached to one of the two pivotable bed sections, wherein the hitched trailer can be folded into a smaller shape and stored in a smaller area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Rene Bernard
  • Patent number: 8366133
    Abstract: There is provided a tow hitch that includes a shank, an elongated shank having a first end and a second end and a rectangular cross-section having four side surfaces adapted to slideably fit within a receiver located on a towing vehicle. A shank shaft extends outwardly from the second end of the shank a sufficient length to accommodate the tubular shank sleeve. The shank shaft is somewhat smaller that the shank and is sized to accommodate a shank sleeve. The shank shaft may be circular so that the shank sleeve can be rotated around the longitudinal axis of the shank shaft. When in place over the shank shaft the first end shank sleeve abuts the second end of the shank. Tow balls are secured to respective side walls of the shank sleeve. The shank sleeve is retained on the shank shaft by an end cap having a space to receive the outer end of the shank shaft and is held in place by a pin through the top and bottom of the end cap and through the end of the shank shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Terry Brinkley
  • Publication number: 20130015636
    Abstract: The present invention is a foldable trailer that drops close to the ground and shortens in length when folded such that it can be parked below the vehicle that towed it. In this way, the trailer and vehicle can both be parked in the same, single space. During towing, the trailer is locked into its opened towing position and the weight of the device being towed helps to maintain the opened position. The trailer can be folded into its closed parking position while still hitched to the vehicle by which it was towed to facilitate moving it into its parking space before being unhitched. Once unhitched, the trailer will be parallel to and close to the ground such that the vehicle can then park above it. By sharing the same place, parking fees are reduced and preparation time (time spent in parking arrangements) is shortened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel Robert Shepard, Britta Shepard
  • Patent number: 8317254
    Abstract: A trailer that has doors and openings to hold and transport items, and can convert to a flatbed trailer with a trunk door, a flatbed front, and flatbed sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Linda Scott-Greavu
  • Patent number: 8286983
    Abstract: A trailer chassis is described which includes a gooseneck structure at the forward end thereof to which a two-point beam hitch assembly may be secured or a front axle tongue hitch assembly may be secured. The trailer may also function as a fifth wheel hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: James A. Hellbusch
  • Publication number: 20120187657
    Abstract: A hitch device for converting a conventional wheelbarrow into a towable trailer. The wheelbarrow includes a tub, handles and at least one wheel. The hitch device includes an elongated tow bar, first and second engagement members, and a vehicle coupling assembly. Each of the engagement members has a handle capture, a cross bar, and a base. The handle capture is configured to slidably receive one of the wheelbarrow handles, and is connected to the cross bar. The base also projects from the cross bar. The first engagement member is separate from the tow bar, whereas the second engagement member is affixed to the tow bar. The handle captures are received over the wheelbarrow handles, respectively, and the bases fastened to one another to connect the first engagement member with the tow bar such that the hitch device is mounted to the wheelbarrow handles in a wedge-like fashion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventors: David W. Carroll, Robert Cahlander
  • Publication number: 20120187658
    Abstract: A vehicle trailer hitch platform system is disclosed. In one embodiment, said vehicle trailer hitch platform system comprises a platform assembly. Said platform assembly comprises a platform, a undercarriage, a hitch connector, and one or more leg assemblies. Said platform is capable of receiving a load. Said undercarriage is capable of supporting said platform assembly. Said hitch connector capable of attaching to a trailer hitch of a vehicle. Said one or more leg assemblies are capable of supporting platform assembly. Said platform assembly comprises a first side, a second side, a front, a back, a top and a bottom. Said undercarriage comprises said hitch connector. Said leg assemblies selectively attach to platform assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: WHEELER FOGGER, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Wheeler, Terry Wheeler