Convertible Patents (Class 280/415.1)
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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: 20120001403Abstract: A trailer has a base and a hitch for connecting the trailer to vehicles. The trailer also has standard wheels at a standard wheel axle left end and a standard wheel axle right end, and can include a castor wheel positioned underneath the base. The standard wheels and the castor wheel provide three support points for the trailer, so the trailer can rest on only the standard wheels and castor wheel. The trailer can be used similar to a cart by moving the trailer on the standard wheels and the castor wheel. The trailer can also include handles, which can allow a user to lift one end and use the trailer similar to a wheelbarrow.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventor: John Wydner
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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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Publication number: 20110266773Abstract: A multi-use transporter towed behind a motor vehicle and by design of the load compensating movable platform, removable multi-use tow bar and various components thereon, it is capable of transporting one or more ladders, kayaks, canoes, bicycles, utility box etc. The transporter's base consists of one or more axles, high speed hubs and wheels, fenders and running lights. The transporter is also equipped with an approved hitch and safety chains or cables.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2010Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventor: Wayne Arthur Swanson
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Publication number: 20110254248Abstract: A towing apparatus, the apparatus includes two or more parallel wheel assemblies, one or more load-bearing platform, operationally coupled one or more of the wheel assemblies, and an expansion mechanism for changing a transverse distance between the two parallel wheel assemblies to reversibly configure the towing apparatus alternately between a closed state and an open state.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventor: Avraham Elkayam
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Publication number: 20110198825Abstract: A mobile transport has a frame on which two wheels are mounted. A basket type container is permanently affixed to a portion of the frame, which also includes a foot rest section for child passengers. A receptacle post is provided which can support either a bicycle type seat for transporting a child or a container which doubles the carrying capacity of the transport. The frame of the transport also includes a frame extension, removeably attached to the frame, with a towing hitch for connection to a bicycle. Upon removal of the frame extension, the transport can be used as a manual cart, with the upper end of the frame providing the handle for pushing or pulling the cart.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2010Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventor: Daryl I. James
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Patent number: 7992889Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle that is converted from a stroller for carrying a passenger and cycle operated by a rider to a combined unit. More specifically, the invention relates to a stroller and a bicycle combined, physically and operationally, such that the operator of the cycle portion of the stroller-cycle can control operation of the stroller portion while the stroller-cycle is in motion.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
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Patent number: 7976054Abstract: A hitch ball assembly attenuates the lateral forces experienced by a trailer while being towed by a tractor. A ball assembly has a flange with a neck extending upwardly therefrom and a hitch ball seated atop the neck. A wedge, having a pair of linear points, extends downwardly from the flange as does a threaded shank that passes through the wedge, the points being located on either side of the shank. The ball assembly is attached to a draw bar attached mount arm such that the shank passes through a bore in the mount arm with the points of the wedge seated within slots on an upper surface of the mount arm. A resilient bushing is received on the shank and abuts a lower surface of the mount arm, while a plate abuts the bushing, each held thereat by a locking nut threadably attached to an end of the shank.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Growth Innovation, LLCInventor: Jeffrey Sterling Phipps
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Publication number: 20110148073Abstract: A device relocates an underlift/vertical arm assembly from the end of a sub-frame to the boom of a wrecker, and hence whole space of the end of sub-frame is used to design rear outriggers that will certainly exhibit an excellent performance. An advantage of a large space for this specific application is to design a wider span of rear outriggers, as completely extended, to match that of the front outriggers, and in the mean time, the tip of a rear outrigger has a sufficient strength to maintain a good stability. The increased length of overlapping part in each section of the three stage outriggers assists to achieve this goal. As the three stage outriggers are fully extended, the tip of each right/left side is additionally reinforced by a diagonal folding bar which bridges between an outer vertical barrel and the end of primary inner sleeve. Consequently, a combination of wider spans and higher stiffnesses at the tip of the rear outrigger provides the wrecker with a superior stability.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: David How-Hwa Hwang
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Publication number: 20110073026Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for applying an agricultural material through a standing crop. The apparatus is capable of adjusting the height and width of the frame of the apparatus. A trailer is disclosed that is capable of adjusting trailer width to transport the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Inventors: Charles H. MARTIN, Dominic MARTIN
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Patent number: 7914030Abstract: A braking and steering assembly in a vehicle having a pushing section and a riding section. The assembly includes an upper connection post containing braking and steering components for the riding section. The upper connection post has an upper end and a lower threaded end. The assembly further includes a lower connection post containing braking and steering components for the pushing section. The lower connection post has an aperture for threadedly receiving the lower threaded end of the upper connection post. The assembly also includes a rotatable front knob fixed to the upper end of the upper connection post. Rotatably tightening the front knob connects the lower end of the upper connection post with the upper end of the lower connection post. Braking and steering in the riding section controls braking and steering in the pushing section.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2010Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Soma Cycle, Inc.Inventors: Michael Ehrenreich, Joel Hoag, Brian Rhee
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Patent number: 7878524Abstract: A gooseneck trailer hitch assembly convertible to a lifting boom is disclosed. The gooseneck assembly is convertible between a tow configuration and a boom configuration. The gooseneck trailer hitch assembly comprises a base mount configured to mount on a trailer, a stanchion structure extending upwardly from the base mount, and a boom structure mounted on the stanchion structure above the base mount. The boom structure is movable between a tow configuration in which the boom structure functions as a gooseneck for a hitch and a boom configuration in which the boom structure functions as a lifting boom. A trailer system includes a trailer and a gooseneck trailer hitch assembly convertible between a tow configuration and a boom configuration mounted on the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2009Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventor: Craig Robert Hemmingsen
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Publication number: 20100327558Abstract: A dual chassis with multi-directional transmission includes a front chassis and a rear chassis that can be united to function as a traditional unitary chassis or can be separated to become two independently, but connected, chassis that can traverse uneven terrain during ground movement. The multi-directional transmission serves to increase the distance between the two chassis and enable them to travel at differing vertical and horizontal angles with respect to the surface of the earth. As part of the multi-directional transmission, a central multi-directional mechanism connects a medial portion of said front chassis to a medial portion of said rear chassis to selectively allow for the independent horizontal and vertical movement of said front and rear chassis when traversing uneven terrain.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventor: Francisco Javier Lares
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Patent number: 7857342Abstract: The present invention is a hitch assembly for coupling a powered cart mover to a cart, wherein the cart has one of three different types of hitching elements. The hitch assembly comprises a mount and a foot. The mount secures the assembly to the mover and includes a vertically adjustable portion biased in an upward position via a biasing element. The foot is pivotally coupled to the vertically adjustable portion and includes first, second and third attachment features. Each attachment feature is configured to receive one of the three different types of hitching elements.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Dane Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Paul D. Holtan, James W. Wiff
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Patent number: 7815211Abstract: A hitch storage device for securing a hitch to a vehicle that minimizes risk of accidental painful contact between the hitch and the operator of the vehicle. The hitch storage device includes a connecting member, a male hitch member, a hitch-support bracket, and a male protrusion member. The hitch storage device incorporates an integral passive securing mechanism whereby a hitch is secured without having to use an active hitch-securing device such as a bolt to secure the hitch shaft to the hitch storage device of the present invention. In a further embodiment, the male hitch member and hitch-support bracket are integrated to provide an L-shaped bracket with an integral sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2007Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventor: Bryan Witchey
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Publication number: 20100244404Abstract: A transportable well service platform and method are provided. The transportable well service platform can have a main platform and a work platform. The work platform can be movable substantially vertically relative to the main platform. The well site platform can be transported to a well site and positioned at the well site relative to a well head so completion work can be performed on the well. The work platform can be moved vertically relative to the main platform to a desired height relative to the well head to perform the completion work.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: COLTER ENERGY SERVICES INC.Inventor: CLAY ALBERT BRADLEY
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Publication number: 20100244405Abstract: The invention provides a light transport vehicle useful for transporting children and cargo. The transport vehicle may be used as a bicycle trailer, a stroller, a jogger, a sled or other configuration and may be convertible therebetween. The transport vehicle comprising: a folding mechanism allowing the transport vehicle to easily folds into compact size, a hitch for connecting to a bicycle, an adjustable suspension system for a smoother ride for the occupants and cargo, and an attachment receiver to accept conversion attachments.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2008Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventor: Imad Assaf
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Patent number: 7793968Abstract: An integrated support structure apparatus is provided for attaching either a fifth wheel trailer hitch or a gooseneck trailer hitch to a truck bed. The integrated support structure comprises an H-shaped body that is attached to at least one truck frame rail below the truck bed. A gooseneck ball receiver is attached to a central portion of the body and aligned with a gooseneck opening in the truck bed. A plurality of mounting pads are formed integrally as part of a plurality of end inserts that are assembled to the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Sean Withers
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Publication number: 20100172727Abstract: 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: June 5, 2007Publication date: July 8, 2010Inventor: Doyle E. Watkins
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Patent number: 7717453Abstract: A motorcycle trailer has a wheeled frame which may be hitched to and unhitched from a towing motorcycle. The frame has a towbar which is movable from a projected position in which it may be hitched to the motorcycle to a retracted position in which it underlies the frame. The frame or the towbar has a handle which may be grasped by a person to enable the frame and the container conjointly to be towed by a person in a manner similar to that of a wheeled suitcase. When unhitched from the motorcycle, the frame and container may be maintained in either an upright or horizontal position.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2006Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Inventor: Richard L. Myers
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Patent number: 7708299Abstract: A frameless modular trailer for towing behind a motor vehicle is provided. The trailer is made of slidably coupled extrusions for easy assembly. The front and side panels include a protrusion on the top surface. This protrusion allows for the stacking of additional panels for vary the height of the trailer. Additionally, one of a variety of top panels may be stacked on the front and side panels to multiple configurations for securing objects within the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2007Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Smart Transport SolutionsInventors: Bernard Duval, Scott Boyd, Joel Nehring, Mark Adams
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Publication number: 20100071918Abstract: A box-shaped beach-cleaning trailer is configured to be loaded with, and collectively carry beach-cleaning equipment and a litter collection station. The beach-cleaning equipment are towed by a vehicle to collect litter on the sands. The litter collected by the beach-cleaning equipment is collected in the litter collection station. The trailer includes a pair of rail members disposed on upper edges of the respective opposite side wall portions such that the rail members face each other with an opening therebetween. A sieve unit is detachably mounted on the rail members, and is configured to move a back-and-forth direction along the rail members. The sieve unit is moved in a back-and-forth direction manually; or by using a driving mechanism including a drive wheel, a driven wheel, and a connecting rod arranged between the sieve unit and the driven wheel, for separating colleted litter of various sizes from sand.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kosuke Asao, Jun Nakajima, Tatsuo Masuda
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Patent number: 7665756Abstract: Dollies and methods of using dollies can include a platform configured to hold items for transport, a support frame adjacent the platform, an actuation mechanism coupled to the support frame, and a moveable gate coupled to the support frame and configured to be moved from a closed position to an open position in response to the triggering of the actuation mechanism by force applied by a user. The moveable gate can comprise a rotatable shaft disposed at an end of the moveable gate and extending within an opening, wherein the moveable gate is configured to move with the rotatable shaft as the shaft rotates within the opening, and at least one counterweight coupled to the moveable gate and positioned to assist in the movement of the gate to the open position in response to the triggering of the actuation mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Brandon Lee Buie
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Patent number: 7621493Abstract: A support for mounting a bicycle rack on a frame, particularly an A-frame of a trailer tongue, has a cross-piece having a length to span spaced-apart frame elements of the frame. The cross-piece forms angles with the frame elements. Mounting brackets are secured to the cross-piece at an angle congruent to the angle formed between the cross-piece and the frame elements and are used to mount the support on the frame elements. A mounting means, for example a receiver tube, is secured to the cross-piece for mounting the bicycle rack to the cross-piece. The support is particularly useful for fender-less trailers having an A-frame tongue since the support can be mounted on the A-frame tongue between the trailer and the towing vehicle. Thus, bicycles can be conveniently carried between the trailer and the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2005Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Inventors: Laurier J. Vermette, Ronald J. Shpak, Deborah J. Shpak, Linda M. Vermette
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Publication number: 20090280000Abstract: A trailer combination and trailer components are designed to provide dual functionality in terms of hauling a very high tonnage piece of heavy equipment and the ability to continue to haul more typical pieces of heavy equipment. To accomplish this task, a trailer auxiliary is provided that is adapted to connect to a typical low boy trailer. The trailer auxiliary is equipped with mechanisms to provide a bed assembly that is designed to link to the low boy trailer so that the bed assembly and bed of the trailer auxiliary receive the high tonnage piece of equipment. The trailer auxiliary can be equipped with ramps to interface with the trailer and auxiliary to facilitate the loading of the heavy equipment. The trailer combination also includes a hauling vehicle for each of the low boy trailer and auxiliary, with a spacing bar assembly mounted to one of the vehicles to link the vehicles together when hauling the trailer and the auxiliary.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2009Publication date: November 12, 2009Inventor: Francis V. Smith
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Publication number: 20090267320Abstract: A container transportation system that includes a dolly system that can be mounted underneath the container and then used, optionally in cooperation with a boom or lift, to navigate a container to a desired location. The dolly includes a motor mounted in a swivel bracket that facilitates movement of the dolly for storage. The dolly includes a locking mechanism to clamp in on a load. The dolly can be navigated through the use of a wireless remote control unit that is either held by an operator or by a device that is integrated into the electronics of a road tractor and/or dolly system. The system may include a mounting system for mounting the dolly to a road tractor and a boom for lifting the dolly from a deployed state to a loaded state.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2008Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventor: Herbert J. Phillips
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Patent number: 7591497Abstract: A utility trailer for transporting and processing lumber, pipe and other materials. The utility trailer includes a trailer frame for carrying the materials and a workstation is pivotally mounted on the trailer frame for processing the materials. The workstation is pivotal between a folded configuration adjacent to the trailer frame for storage and/or transport and a deployed, functional configuration extending from the trailer frame. One or more lockers or cabinets may be provided, with both interior and exterior access. A removable gate may also close the rear end of the utility trailer and a pair of ramps are stored in ramp housings on both sides of the utility trailer for deployment at the rear of the utility trailer.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Inventor: Bradley W. Johns
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Publication number: 20090224509Abstract: A tow bar assembly for converting a two-wheeled wheelbarrow into a garden or industrial type trailer includes a bar of metal box tubing with horizontal holes at the wheelbarrow end and vertical holes at the tractor end. The wheelbarrow end is slid onto the axle of the wheelbarrow, keeping the bar between the tub of the wheelbarrow and its toe plate. Grommets positioned on the axle on either side of the bar center the tow bar assembly on the axle. A threaded post is inserted into the holes in the tractor end of the bar and locked into place by nuts. In use, the handles of the wheelbarrow are raised and the post inserted into the aperture of the tractor's draw bar from the underside of the aperture. The cantilevered weight of the wheelbarrow will keep the wheelbarrow from becoming disengaged from the garden tractor or towing vehicle. The legs of the wheelbarrow are kept off the ground and the trailer-barrow is now ready for use.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2009Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventor: Thomas Marion RAGUSA
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Patent number: 7566067Abstract: The present invention is a trailer hitch that fits in a standard 2? receiver, which allows for the selection of three different sized balls or a tow hook in an almost instantaneous manner and consists of two main components. The first is a hitch insert that fits in the standard 2? receiver hitch and is secured in the conventional manner with a hitch pin. The insert protrudes from the receiver in a generally “L”-shaped manner. The second component is a square hitch plate with a support extending from the bottom, which is secured in the lower portion of the hitch insert. The support is drilled at regular intervals to allow hitch plate to be adjusted in height to match the height of the trailer. A series of three various sized tow balls is located in each of three corners of the hitch plate, with a tow hook located in the fourth.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: July 28, 2009Inventor: Robert C. Alexander
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Patent number: 7540521Abstract: A tow bar assembly for converting a two-wheeled wheelbarrow into a garden or industrial type trailer includes a bar of metal box tubing with horizontal holes at the wheelbarrow end and vertical holes at the tractor end. The wheelbarrow end is slid onto the axle of the wheelbarrow, keeping the bar between the tub of the wheelbarrow and its toe plate. Grommets positioned on the axle on either side of the bar center the tow bar assembly on the axle. A threaded post is inserted into the holes in the tractor end of the bar and locked into place by nuts. In use, the handles of the wheelbarrow are raised and the post inserted into the aperture of the tractor's draw bar from the underside of the aperture. The cantilevered weight of the wheelbarrow will keep the wheelbarrow from becoming disengaged from the garden tractor or towing vehicle. The legs of the wheelbarrow are kept off the ground and the trailer-barrow is now ready for use.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Inventor: Thomas Marion Ragusa
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Patent number: 7540528Abstract: A folding trailer may include a front deck and a rear deck that may be folded together into a compact configuration. The trailer may include a folding mechanism having a support base on opposing sides of the trailer. The support base may include one or more casters for supporting the trailer in a folded configuration and allowing the trailer to be easily moved. The folding mechanism may include a linkage structure which moves the support base into position when the trailer is folded and facilitate folding of the front and rear decks together.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2006Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Pals Manufacturing LLCInventor: Paul Spainhower
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Publication number: 20090085325Abstract: A portable stand for a work tool is provided. The portable stand includes a rigid member with a longitudinal axis and a connector configured to be releasably mounted to a vehicle. A first post extends from the rigid member and a frame is rotatably connected with the first post and fixable with respect to the first post in a plurality of discrete positions. A mounting bracket is lockingly engageable with the frame and configured to fixedly support a work tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2008Publication date: April 2, 2009Inventors: Robert E. McCracken, Scott Bettencourt, Wade F. Burch, William C. Buck, Thomas Parel, Andrew Valentine, James A. Keith, JR.
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Publication number: 20090001756Abstract: A travel trailer is provided. The travel trailer may include first and second bed platforms. The platforms are capable of being positioned in a travel configuration for use during transport of the travel trailer. A camping pod is included that has tent fabric. The camping pod is capable of being positioned in a travel configuration in which the camping pod is located above the first bed platform and the second bed platform when the platforms are positioned in the travel configuration. Also, the first bed platform and second bed platform are capable of being positioned in a camping configuration for use when the tent fabric is positioned to form a tent.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2007Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventors: Thomas M. Dempsey, Gregory K. Mundt, Thomas W. Reeder
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Patent number: 7441792Abstract: A trailer includes a convertible handle having a handle portion, the handle portion pivotally attached to a tongue portion, the handle portion having a first gripping portion end and a second clevis end and an intermediate pivot, the handle portion being pivotably shiftable about the pivot between a first disposition presenting the gripping portion end proximate an end of the tongue portion and a second disposition presenting the clevis end proximate the end of the tongue portion. A method of operating a trailer is further included.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Tricam Industries, Inc.Inventor: Dennis Simpson
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Publication number: 20080238034Abstract: A tow bar assembly for converting a two-wheeled wheelbarrow into a garden or industrial type trailer includes a bar of metal box tubing with horizontal holes at the wheelbarrow end and vertical holes at the tractor end. The wheelbarrow end is slid onto the axle of the wheelbarrow, keeping the bar between the tub of the wheelbarrow and its toe plate. Grommets positioned on the axle on either side of the bar center the tow bar assembly on the axle. A threaded post is inserted into the holes in the tractor end of the bar and locked into place by nuts. In use, the handles of the wheelbarrow are raised and the post inserted into the aperture of the tractor's draw bar from the underside of the aperture. The cantilevered weight of the wheelbarrow will keep the wheelbarrow from becoming disengaged from the garden tractor or towing vehicle. The legs of the wheelbarrow are kept off the ground and the trailer-barrow is now ready for use.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Thomas Marion Ragusa
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Publication number: 20080073871Abstract: A folding transport cart includes a frame assembly having front and rear sections, and a hinge connecting the front and rear sections together for movement between a compact folded position for storage and an unfolded position for use. The hinge provides a transverse pivot axis between the front and rear sections above a floor of the cart. A pair of support wheels are attached on right and left sides of the frame assembly. A hitch tongue includes a vertical offset and is selectively attachable to the frame assembly to provide both low and high hitch towing positions. The hitch tongue can be reversed and attached in a stowed position for compact storage. A handle member is removably attached to the front end of the hitch tongue to facilitate manual towing. The handle member is removably nested within the hitch tongue or the rear section of the frame assembly for storage.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Inventor: Max Winkel
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Patent number: 7347440Abstract: A trailer hitch is provided having multiple hitch balls extending from a rotatable plate, which allows a hitch ball of the desired diameter to be selected, locked in place and coupled to a trailer. The rotating plate and multiple hitch balls are part of the ball mount component of the trailer hitch and are supported by a shaft, extending outward from the portion of the trailer hitch attached to a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Inventor: Glenn Russell Shannon
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Patent number: 7322594Abstract: A draw coupling arrangement (1) for a vehicle including a coupling jaw (2) and a coupler (4) which can be lifted by a lifting device (5). The coupler is intended for coupling together with a towing eye on a towed vehicle, and where the coupling means (4) consists of a coupling bolt with two towing sections (6a, 6b), where the towing sections (6a, 6b) have different diameters.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Benny Liljeblad, Hans Regnell, Jens Gustafsson
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Publication number: 20070290480Abstract: An attachment (10) is provided for use with a trailer hitch (H). The attachment comprises a sleeve (12) inserted in the hitch and secured to the hitch. On the outer end of the sleeve is plate (18) to which is affixed a vise (22). The vise is used to clamp objects in place so they can be worked upon. The plate, which can be round, oval, square, rectangular, provides a work surface to assist the person using the attachment work on the clamped object.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2007Publication date: December 20, 2007Inventor: Charles Wolter
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Publication number: 20070252357Abstract: A utility trailer that is converted from an ATV loading ramp. The loading ramp frame is adjusted to form a V-shaped trailer body. An axle and wheels are attached to the V-shaped body along with an elongate handle. The handle also functions as a hitch for connecting the wheeled V-shaped body to the ATV. A system of metal pins, bolts and brackets serve to connect the various parts of the converted device. The various parts of the device, excluding the loading ramp, can be made available in the form of a kit.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2007Publication date: November 1, 2007Inventor: Randall D. Hoskins
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Patent number: 7275754Abstract: Support structure (1) for a hitch ball (61) and a depressor (62), wherein a fastening mechanism (2) is provided for securement to a carrier (81) by means of quick-action coupling.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Josef Scharmüller
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Patent number: 7234191Abstract: A shoe cleaning apparatus for use with a vehicle includes a brush assembly having at least one brush unit thereon. A mounting arm includes a first end extending from the brush assembly and a second end selectively coupled to a hitch receiver of the vehicle in an installed position. The mounting arm further includes a hinge for moving the brush assembly between an operating position and a storage position. The mounting arm includes an upper portion coupled to the hitch receiver and a lower portion laterally offset from the upper portion toward a ground surface. The lower portion is coupled to the brush assembly. The hinge is disposed on the lower portion of the mounting arm. A stepped portion extends perpendicularly between the upper portion and the lower portion. The brush assembly rotates from a substantially parallel relationship with the ground surface in the operating position to an upright position substantially perpendicular to the ground surface in the storage position.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Inventor: John P Finley
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Patent number: 7222873Abstract: A tow hook hitch assembly attaches to one or both of the front tow hooks provided on a four wheel drive vehicle for mounting a tow ball, winch, or other accessory to the front end of the vehicle. The tow hook hitch includes an upper member extending above the tow hook, a lower member extending below the tow hook, a shaped insert secured to the upper member or lower member for extending within the tow hook, and a clamp bolt for securing the aforementioned components together.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Inventor: E. Walter Rodgers
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Patent number: 7210697Abstract: A convertible handle having a tongue portion and a handle portion. The handle portion has a clevis proximate a first end thereof and a gripping region proximate a second end thereof. The handle portion is pivotable with respect to the tongue portion for manually towing a towed vehicle that is attached to the tongue portion using the gripping region or attaching the clevis to a towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2004Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Tricam International, Inc.Inventor: Dennis Simpson
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Patent number: 7188857Abstract: The present invention relates to a transformable utility/ATV trailer (1) that can easily be adapted to mount to a large number of different types of vehicles and trailer hitches. Moreover, the trailer (3) can rapidly be converted from a short box/bed trailer (3) to a flat bed trailer (3). The tow structure (2) comprises a frame (4) for mounting to a trailer (3) or similar implement and a draw bar (5) having a first end with a first hitch coupler (6) and a second end with a second hitch coupler (12). The draw bar (5) is mounted pivotally to the frame (4) for movement between a first position in which the first end of the draw bar (5) extends forward of the frame (4), and a second position in which the second end of the draw bar (5) extends forward of the frame (4).Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Inventors: Robert Andre Richard, Andre Marc Richard
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Patent number: 7165779Abstract: The present invention features a combination utility/camper tow trailer capable of being converted between a first utility functioning configuration or position, a second utility functioning configuration or position, and a sleep functioning configuration or position via first and second configurable panel members. In the first utility functioning position, the combination utility/camper tow trailer is capable of supporting and carrying a load atop the panel members, while simultaneously providing storage in the trailer bed below. In the second utility functioning configuration, the trailer is configured to increase the volume of the interior storage portion of the trailer bed by positioning first and second configurable panel members in an upward extending manner.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2002Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Inventors: John T. Badger, Robert J. T. Badger, William A. Badger
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Patent number: 7159893Abstract: The present invention features a combination utility/camper trailer capable of being converted between a first utility functioning configuration or position, a second utility functioning configuration or position, and a sleep functioning configuration or position via means for repositioning, which allows first and second configurable panel members to be relocated or repositioned between these positions. In the first utility functioning position, the combination utility/camper trailer is capable of supporting and carrying a load atop the panel members, while simultaneously providing storage in the trailer bed below. In the second utility functioning configuration, the trailer is configured to increase the volume of the interior storage portion of the trailer bed by positioning first and second configurable panel members in an upward extending manner.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Jumping Jack, Inc.Inventors: William A. Badger, Robert J. T. Badger, John T. Badger
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Patent number: 7114664Abstract: A texture sprayer is provided with a hopper feeding an air operated double diaphragm pump. The sprayer is provided with a removable power pack which includes a gas engine, an air pump, an air unloading regulator, an air cooler, an air QD and a mounting base with handles. The power pack may be removed from the sprayer cart and located outside so that the sprayer can be used quietly and safely indoors.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2005Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Gundersen, James C. Schroeder, David J. Thompson
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Patent number: 7100933Abstract: A fifth wheel mounting frame can be used to convert a conventional vehicle having a fifth wheel, such as the semi-tractor, into a tow truck. The fifth wheel mounting frame advantageously mounts to the tow vehicle's fifth wheel assembly to provide stability and other advantages. Additionally, various coupling members having selectably adjustable lengths and having various coupling mechanisms are used for variable placement of the coupling mechanisms and coupling members to the frame of the fifth wheel vehicle to accommodate such things as obstructions found on the vehicle frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2003Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Zacklift International, Inc.Inventors: Stanley E. Zackovich, David B. Stine
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Patent number: 6948732Abstract: The present invention is directed to a convertible cargo rack that can be configured in one of two positions. In the first configuration, the cargo rack is suspended behind a vehicle, and in the second configuration, the cargo rack is pulled behind the vehicle in a trailer-like fashion. In the first configuration, the cargo rack has at least two tubular receivers on its underside that correspond to at least two tubular receivers attached to the rear of the vehicle. Support bars are inserted into the receivers to suspend the cargo rack behind the vehicle. In the second configuration, the cargo rack is rotated 90 degrees and wheels are attached to the sides of the cargo rack. A trailer bar then pivotably attaches the cargo receiver to the vehicle's center tubular receiver so that the cargo rack can be pulled behind the vehicle in a trailer-like fashion. The tubular receivers that are secured to the vehicle are attached using a bracket that can accommodate vehicle support frames of various sizes and shapes.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Inventor: Joseph Amacker