Fluid Patents (Class 280/421)
  • Patent number: 7401801
    Abstract: A remotely releasable brake hose coupler for pressure fluid operated brake systems, such as on a motor truck and semi-trailer unit, and a retrieval mechanism for retrieving flexible hoses connected to the coupler. Pressure air from the truck tractor brake system is conducted through a valve to an actuator for effecting movement of a coupler member to release engagement with a corresponding coupler fitting mounted on a trailer. One or more air brake hoses connected to respective remotely releasable couplers are connected to tensioning mechanisms and to a movable boom mounted on the truck tractor for extending the hoses during a remote release operation and then retracting the hoses and couplers to a stored position when the remotely releasable couplers are disconnected from the trailer fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Kalmar Industires USA, LLC
    Inventors: Merlin B. Halverson, Harold E. King, Gregory J. Lehman
  • Publication number: 20080136138
    Abstract: A remotely releasable brake hose coupler for pressure fluid operated brake systems, such as on a motor truck and semi-trailer unit, and a retrieval mechanism for retrieving flexible hoses connected to the coupler. Pressure air from the truck tractor brake system is conducted through a valve to an actuator for effecting movement of a coupler member to release engagement with a corresponding coupler fitting mounted on a trailer. One or more air brake hoses connected to respective remotely releasable couplers are connected to tensioning mechanisms and to a movable boom mounted on the truck tractor for extending the hoses during a remote release operation and then retracting the hoses and couplers to a stored position when the remotely releasable couplers are disconnected from the trailer fittings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: KALMAR INDUSTRIES USA, LLC
    Inventors: Merlin B. Halverson, Harold E. King, Gregory J. Lehman
  • Patent number: 7306252
    Abstract: A pull-type crop harvesting machine has disk cutter carried on a frame mounted on ground wheels with a hitch arm extending from the frame over the header to a hitch connector of a tractor. The hitch arm is mounted for pivotal movement about a generally upright axis such that in a first position the tractor tows the frame in echelon to one side and in a second position the tractor tows the frame in echelon. The disks are hydraulically driven by a pump at the front end of the hitch arm and a motor at the frame with the hydraulic circuit including a sump tank defined by a hollow interior of the hitch arm and a cooling radiator defined by a tubular frame member which is preferably located at the disk drive as a support therefore as it is cooled by the air flow from the disks and contact with the crop and carries a low volume of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: MacDon Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Neil Gordon Barnett
  • Patent number: 7264064
    Abstract: A hydraulic pump drive is mounted to the tongue of an agricultural implement. Connecting components between the pump and the drawbar extender of the towing tractor aim the pump input shaft toward the tractor. A short telescoping PTO assembly connects the pump shaft to the tractor PTO shaft using conventional PTO components operating in a nominal equal angle configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Phillip J. Ehrhart, Wayne D. Thaxton
  • Patent number: 7213847
    Abstract: A diverter for vehicle exhaust fumes inhibits or prevents the accumulation of exhaust fumes in a trailer towed by a vehicle. The diverter includes a flexible component (67) which is able to accommodate misalignment between the vehicle and trailer during transport. A coupling (64, 65) is used to removably attach the diverter to a vehicle exhaust (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventor: Tomasz Umiastowski
  • Patent number: 7185907
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly includes a controller mounted within a vehicle cab and electrically coupled to a power supply source of the vehicle. A trailer hitch tongue section is attachable to the vehicle and provided with an elongated chamber. The tongue section has opposed end portions defining a socket and an opening. An adaptable ram includes displaceable support arms engaged within the chamber. The support arms are upwardly spaced from a ground surface. The assembly further includes a trailer for receiving and supporting a boat. The trailer is provided with wheels and a front end portion attached to the ram. An auxiliary anchor beam vertically traverses one of the support arms and is provided with end portions situated above and below one support arm. A mechanism is included for telescopically adapting the support arms such that a spatial distance between the vehicle and the boat can be biased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Glanford W. Young
  • Patent number: 7055618
    Abstract: A hydraulic pump drive is mounted to the tongue of an agricultural implement. Connecting components between the pump and the drawbar extender of the towing tractor aim the pump input shaft toward the tractor. A short telescoping PTO assembly connects the pump shaft to the tractor PTO shaft using conventional PTO components operating in a nominal equal angle configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Phillip J. Ehrhart, Wayne D. Thaxton
  • Patent number: 7021334
    Abstract: The invention provides a fluid coupling for coupling a fluid source with a fluid supply line. The fluid coupling comprises a gladhand mounted to a body via a swivel connection. The gladhand is movable between a stored and protected position, wherein an outlet of the gladhand rests against a rubber cup to prevent fluid flow therefrom, and a use position, wherein the gladhand is removed from the rubber cup and can be connected to a fluid supply line. Additionally, the fluid coupling comprises a valve assembly preferably disposed in the body. The valve is operable between open and closed positions to effectively turn the fluid coupling on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: BLD Products, Ltd.
    Inventor: Christopher R. Helmer
  • Patent number: 6834900
    Abstract: An assembly comprises a flexible member that extends through an aperture defined by a divider component. A distal portion of the flexible member extends away from the assembly at an angle. A first flexible-member-routing bracket is mounted to the divider component and has one or more guide structures that function to facilitate a gradual transition of the flexible member from the direction it extends in as it passes through the aperture defined by the divider component to the direction its distal portion extends in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher F. Wright
  • Patent number: 6709001
    Abstract: A coupling system for a vehicle such as an articulated lorry and method of use thereof is provided. The articulated lorry includes at least a tractor unit and a trailer unit. The tractor unit has first coupling means provided on a fifth wheel which engages with second coupling means typically in the form of a kingpin on the trailer unit. The fifth wheel coupling means and the kingpin have one or more pneumatic and/or electrical supply lines provided therein which engage upon mechanical engagement of the fifth wheel coupling means and kingpin, thereby allowing pneumatic and/or electrical supply between said tractor unit and said trailer unit and/or vice versa. One of the fifth wheel coupling means or kingpin is provided with one or more annular protrusions on a coupling surface and the other is provided with complementary annular channels on a coupling surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: One Contact Srl
    Inventors: David William Morgan, Nigel Edward Robinson
  • Patent number: 6672608
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fifth wheel for the coupling of the tractor of an articulated truck with a truck trailer. The inventive fifth wheel comprises a wheel plate, a kingpin (20) with an inner bore and with an outer coupling or engaging surface (30) as well as with connections for linking electric and pneumatic supply lines between the tractor of an articulated truck and the truck trailer. The supply lines of the tractor of an articulated truck lead to a male connector (100) of a supply unit (10) and the supply lines from a female connector (200) in the interior of the kingpin (20) to the designated places on the truck trailer. The parts of the male connector (11-15) and the female connector (21-25) that pertain to the supply lines and that are interlinkable are configured as respective rotation-symmetrical bushes that are fit into each other in pairs. All bushes (11-15, 21-25) are aligned coaxially with respect to one another and with respect to the axis of the kingpin (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hamburger Patent Schmiede GmbH
    Inventor: Heinz RĂ¼diger Metternich
  • Patent number: 6622646
    Abstract: A case drain coupler mounting plate is mounted to the frame of the seeding machine. The case drain hydraulic coupler is secured to the case drain coupler mounting plate when it is not coupled to a tractor. The mounting plate is provided with a keyhole-shaped mounting aperture having an enlarged upper opening and a narrow channel projecting downwardly from the enlarged opening. The case drain hydraulic coupler is provided with a circumferential groove that engages the narrow channel in the keyhole shaped slot. A backing plate is mounted to the mounting plate at a fixed distance from the mounting plate. The backing plate engages the case drain hydraulic coupler and overcomes the biasing force to open the check valve. With the check valve open the case drain line provides a drain path for hydraulic fluid from the case drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Robert Edwin Bennett, Bradley John Meyer, William Douglas Graham
  • Publication number: 20020190497
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fifth wheel for the coupling of the tractor of an articulated truck with a truck trailer. The inventive fifth wheel comprises a wheel plate, a kingpin (20) with an inner bore and with an outer coupling or engaging surface (30) as well as with connections for linking electric and pneumatic supply lines between the tractor of an articulated truck and the truck trailer. The supply lines of the tractor of an articulated truck lead to a male connector (100) of a supply unit (10) and the supply lines from a female connector (200) in the interior of the kingpin (20) to the designated places on the truck trailer. The parts of the male connector (11-15) and the female connector (21-25) that pertain to the supply lines and that are interlinkable are configured as respective rotation-symmetrical bushes that are fit into each other in pairs. All bushes (11-15, 21-25) are aligned coaxially with respect to one another and with respect to the axis of the kingpin (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Heinz Rudiger Metternich
  • Publication number: 20020130488
    Abstract: A control system for a container chassis latching assembly of a trailer provides for initial pressurization of the latching assembly via the trailer supply line. Once a trailer reservoir is sufficiently charged, pressure is maintained for the latch assembly by the trailer reservoir. A preferred control valve interconnects the supply line with a supply port of the valve to provide the desired pressure at a delivery port. A control port of the valve is connected with the trailer reservoir and shuts off this flow once the trailer reservoir has reached a predetermined pressure. Thereafter, the latch assembly is maintained via air supplied from the trailer reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Applicant: Honeywell Commercial Vehicle Systems Company
    Inventor: Charles E. Eberling
  • Patent number: 6068063
    Abstract: A connection circuit for connecting a first and an active hydraulic circuit. The first circuit is a fan or motor on an air cart which uses a fixed amount of volume. The active circuit is for applying a down pressure on a pulled, ground--working implement. The connection circuit also has a valve for switching the flow to the active circuit from the first circuit to the tractor hydraulics. In an alternative embodiment, there is an orifice and check valve or pressure relief valve for preventing the active circuit from withdrawing an excess amount of hydraulic flow from the first circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Flexi-Coil Ltd.
    Inventors: Dean J. Mayerle, David R. Hundeby
  • Patent number: 5957475
    Abstract: A hitch apparatus for connection between a tractor and a trailing implement such as a mower includes a hitch arm at one end of the apparatus extending forwardly and pivotal so as to extend either inwardly or outwardly thus offsetting the apparatus across the rear of the tractor. The apparatus includes the drawbar hitch at the rear spaced across from the hitch arm for attachment to the mower so that the mower is offset to one side of the tractor. Two gear boxes and a drive shaft provide connection from the PTO of the tractor to the drive input of the mower. The offset hitch apparatus allows the mower to run in a ditch while the tractor remains on level ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventors: Donald C. Pearen, Lloyd S. Pearen
  • Patent number: 5676266
    Abstract: A rail car having dual air hose connections at each end at upper and lower positions. The dual air hose connection provides universal connectability between adjacent cars having a single connection hose having ends at either an upper or lower position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Johnstown America Corporation
    Inventor: William E. Kurtz
  • Patent number: 5480042
    Abstract: A retainer is provided for retaining a catch mounted to a first portion of a split ramp car in its unlocked position as a second portion of a ramp car exits a locking area in which it is previously locked. An arm portion of the retainer extends into the locking area and controls the operation of the retainer in response to the movement of the ramp and the locking area. A fluid coupler, automatically couples a first and second portions of a main reservoir pipe and a first and second portions of a brake pipe connected to each first and second portion of the ramp car respectively, when the ramp is in its raised and travel position. Valves in each of the main reservoir passages close the main reservoir passage when the first and second housings are separated and opens the main reservoir passages when the first and second housings are joined. An electrical coupler is also automatically coupled as the two portions of the ramp car are joined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Knorr Brake Holding Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas H. Engle
  • Patent number: 5240271
    Abstract: An integrated gladhand and quick-release valve for tractor-trailer highway vehicles is mounted on the tractor, as opposed to the trailer, so the operator of a particular tractor will uniformly have quick-release capability for any trailer drawn by the truck. The integrated gladhand and quick-release valve provides an inlet port for fluid communication from the tractor brake system and an outlet port for fluid communication to the trailer brake system. The intermediate passageway that provides fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports contains a valve element. The valve element may be apertured to allow limited, continuous fluid communication between the tractor and trailer brake lines. During the quick-release mode, the tractor side is substantially isolated and the trailer side is vented through an exhaust port. The present invention provides a uniform and safe braking system for tractor-trailer highway vehicles where the tractor operator does not own or maintain the trailers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Midland Brake, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Hart, Leon R. Acre
  • Patent number: 5143392
    Abstract: A heated box assembly including a case and a case support is mounted on a tractor chassis behind the cab. Within that case are electrical cable connections, heating elements, insulation, an electrical cable connection for a trailer mounted on a reel, and two air hoses mounted on reels for connection to the air brake system of a trailer. An alcohol injector used in combination with heating of the box avoids freezing of the hose. The heated box keeps the hose from freezing while the hose is in the box. When the air brakes are applied, the alcohol is injected into the hose and keeps the hose from freezing while in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Assignee: Donna L. Jones
    Inventor: David M. Collins
  • Patent number: 5082217
    Abstract: A sheet metal plate with two keyhole-shaped slots supported on a post connected to a beam on an implement hitch for supporting hydraulic hoses. An enlarged end of the slot receives the conventional hose end coupler, and the narrow portion of the slot captures the groove in the coupler. The length of the slot is selected to hold the desired number of couplers. Pairs of upright slots are provided so that hose pairs may be kept together. The hose couplers are easy to slide into and out of the storage device, which is conveniently located in an easily accessible spot on the implement hitch. The device prevents hose tip contamination and facilitates orderly storage and identification of hose pairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Paul D. Parker, Fred C. Livesay, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5060964
    Abstract: An improved fifth wheel incorporates a junction fitting for pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical control lines which mates the truck to the tractor simultaneously with the connection performed by the fifth wheel. The deck plate is pivoted about a vertical axis to maintain the connection and facilitate turning of the rig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Henry L. Vick
  • Patent number: 5044653
    Abstract: An automatic tractor-trailer exhaust coupling apparatus has a valve for diverting exhaust gases through a connecting conduit to a tractor coupling device. The tractor coupling device delivers the gases, irrespective of angular relationship between tractor and trailer, to a trailer coupling device which in turn passes the gases to the trailer heat transfer means. The tractor and trailer coupling devices automatically connect on engagement of the trailer fifth wheel with the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Inventor: James A. Savanella
  • Patent number: 5042840
    Abstract: The present invention includes a system for storing and transporting a liquid in which a series of tank cars each have a hollow tank body with an inlet and an outlet supported on a frame with a plurality of wheels on the frame. In one embodiment, these cars are connected together with a sealable male fitting and female fitting which interengage to allow fluid flow between the cars. Using this valve arrangement, a series of cars hooked together may be filled from a single fill point or station. A method of storing and transporting a liquid involving these storage cars is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Diversey Corporation
    Inventors: Theodore R. Rieple, David J. Rumics, Jack D. Moore, Waldon A. Strangberg
  • Patent number: 4991862
    Abstract: The apparatus disclosed comprises a universal tow and coupling bar for connecting automatically to an aircraft landing nose gear and towing the aircraft during ground transport. The aircraft engaging end of the tow bar has directional adjustment and is hydraulically controlled in three coordinates. The end of the tow bar opposite to the aircraft engaging end is semi permanently connected to the aircraft towing vehicle. The aircraft engaging end of the tow bar contains an automatic hydraulically controlled locking assembly arranged to engage and lock with a mating locking assembly permanently fixed to the aircraft nose wheel structure. In addition to the aforementioned features of the universal tow bar are means for controlling the length of the tow bar, interupting the aircraft's hydraulic steering system, and connecting to the aircraft's telephone system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignee: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Inventors: Keh C. Tsao, Mark R. Heckenkamp
  • Patent number: 4966242
    Abstract: There is disclosed an all-terrain vehicle having a front and a rear body frame connected by an articulated joint for allowing relative lateral oscillation of the frames about an oscillation axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the front body frame and located above both frames. The joint simultaneously allows for relative pivoting movement of the frames about a pivot axis which is perpendicular to the oscillation axis. The vehicle is driven by four pressure-fluid operated motor assemblies of which the motor output shafts are coaxial two-by-two and are mounted to extend laterally outwardly of the frames and on which shafts are operatively mounted endless track assemblies for winter use, particularly, or pneumatic tires. The motors are fed in pressure-fluid by piping connected to pumps actuated by an engine mounted on the front body frame. At least that part of the piping that traverses the body frames, at the articulated joint, is flexible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: Les Entreprises Bernard Baillargeon Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard Baillargeon
  • Patent number: 4854392
    Abstract: A hose positioning and tensioning assembly for a vehicle having a transverse scraper blade supported on the forward end of the vehicle for relative movement. A plurality of hydraulic fluid lines extend from the lower forward end of the vehicle to the rear of the blade in an arch. The hose positioning and tensioning assembly holds the fluid line arch in an upright position and maintains a tension on the arch during any movement of the blade relative to the vehicle. Further, the hose positioning and tensioning assembly permits the blade to be moved without interfering with or twisting the hydraulic fluid lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: J. I. Case Company
    Inventor: Claude M. Frisbee
  • Patent number: 4836740
    Abstract: An attaching structure for securing a detachable hydraulically operated attachment to a vehicle. There is a source of hydraulic pressure on the vehicle. Hydraulic fluid from the source is circulated through valves and conduits to and from hydraulic devices which are carried by and operate the attachment. The valve which controls the hydraulic fluid to the attachment is mounted on the attachment, and remains with the attachment when the attachment is detached from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1989
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventor: Oryn B. Wagner
  • Patent number: 4819897
    Abstract: Supporting of cables, hoses, or other tubular articles so as not to chafe against one another or against an external support. Such articles are supported spaced apart from one another so as to be free to swivel relative to one another in separate planes. A pair of saddle members are pivoted together and are provided with means to enable flexible tubular articles to be tied to the respective members in such swivelling relationship to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Inventor: Robert J. Gooding
  • Patent number: 4775286
    Abstract: An improved swingable tractor-backhoe interconnection for a tractor-mounted backhoe having a pair of vertically-spaced articulation means along the axis forming an axially-aligned void space therebetween, a preferably free-floating center yoke in the void space with two vertical rows of openings securing hydraulic hoses in two adjacent rows, and a pair of side yokes on the tractor, one for each row of hoses, positioned on opposite sides of the center plane and spaced from the axis and center plane such that the two rows of hoses are divergent between the center and side yokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: J. I. Case Company
    Inventors: Roy A. Gillette, Robert L. Houkom, Curtis R. Lyons
  • Patent number: 4763743
    Abstract: A hitch device for connecting an implement to a tractor is provided. A male plug is operatively connected to the three point hitch, power take-off and hydraulic system of the tractor. A female shell is operatively connected to the tongue, drive train and hydraulic system of the implement. The male plug and female shell can be connected and disconnected while the operator remains seated on the tractor. The mating engagement of the male plug within the female shell automatically connects the drive train of the implement to the power take-off of the tractor and automatically connects the hydraulic system of the implement to the hydraulic system of the tractor. Releasable locking clips are provided to lock the male plug within the female shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1988
    Assignee: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Ridgway
  • Patent number: 4738641
    Abstract: A trailer electrical connector plug storage and protective device includes a sectioned tubular retainer housing containing a spring urged resilient concaval disk. The disk is disposed downward, under the action of the retainer housing spring, biasing the disc against a male electrical plug connector that is seated in the tubular retainer housing. A pivotably fastened protective cover is mounted on the tubular retainer housing such that the male electrical plug is covered and thereby protected from the elements of rain, moisture, or dirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1988
    Inventor: William F. Eversole, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4738463
    Abstract: An arrangement and assembly for making power connections during the hitching of an implement to a vehicle. The assembly includes mating halves of power connections located on hitch elements of the implement and vehicle respectively. Power connection halves are arranged so that the relative movement necessary between hitch elements of the implement and vehicle to accomplish their connection are also sufficient to cause coupling of the power connection. Alignment of the power connection halves is accomplished by a set of pins which engages a set of holes. The connector halves are resiliently mounted for axial movement in a direction parallel to the axis of the pins. Relative axial movement allows the power connections to be completed and the resilient mounting allows for a degree of axial misalignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1988
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Bernard B. Poore, Ronald E. Rohren
  • Patent number: 4733919
    Abstract: An integrated pressure exhaust valve and pneumatic coupling is used on a truck trailer for bringing air brake pressure from a tractor to the truck trailer. A gladhand coupling moiety is used for quick connection with an identical coupling moiety on the air pressure hose from the tractor. A check valve mechanism is incorporated in the body of the trailer coupling moiety for permitting air flow to the brakes when pressure from the tractor is greater than pressure in the trailer brake lines, and for permitting air flow from the brake lines to the atmosphere when pressure from the tractor is decreased. The integrated pressure exhaust valve and pneumatic coupling moiety can be mounted on the front of the trailer where it is found that pressure exhaust valve placement is most effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1988
    Assignee: HWP Group, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Jacobs, Karl Dabritz
  • Patent number: 4719752
    Abstract: An exhaust pipe system for an articulated motor vehicle comprising at least a first part and a second part, the first and second parts being pivotable relative to one another, the exhaust pipe system comprising a first rigid portion securable to the first part of the vehicle; a second rigid portion securable to the second part of the vehicle; and an intermediate flexible portion connected at its ends to the rigid portions, the flexible portion comprising a coupling comprising two parts which are releasably secured together by fastening means to provide a substantially gas-tight seal between the two parts of the coupling, the fastening means being such that, when the two parts of the coupling are subjected to a force, relative to one another, above a predetermined level, the fastening means is released allowing the two parts of the coupling to separate from one another without damaging any of the exhaust pipe system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Andrew W. Hall
  • Patent number: 4658854
    Abstract: A guarding and clamping device wherein a plurality of control lines are held in position by resilient blocks on a support member of a work machine. The control lines are also protected and maintained in an ordered arrangement by cover guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Delaney C. Hopkins, James W. Thais
  • Patent number: 4629020
    Abstract: A steerable device for moving trailer type vehicles, for example in working and parking areas. The device includes an engine for driving at least one of the wheels, means for connecting the device to that part of a trailer type vehicle normally connected to the fifth wheel connection of a tractor unit, and tiller steering for turning a steerable wheel or wheels. The device also includes an air compressor driven by the engine and a flexible connection provided with a quick-release adaptor for coupling the air compressor to the braking system of a trailer type vehicle for releasing its brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1986
    Assignee: Craven Tasker (Sheffield) Limited
    Inventor: Brian Thurman
  • Patent number: 4572302
    Abstract: A clamp assembly is provided for holding one or more flexible fluid lines or hoses of a material handling device wherein fluid hoses extend between the body of the device and an implement movably mounted thereon. The arrangement includes a clamp assembly fitted to the one or more flexible fluid hoses, and further includes a flexible linkage preferably comprising a flexible cable which extends between and is connected to the body of the device and its movable implement. The clamp assembly is configured such that it receives the flexible cable therethrough, and is freely movable along the cable. By this arrangement, desired support and restraint of fluid hoses are provided while avoiding undesired tangling or kinking of the hoses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1986
    Assignee: J. I. Case Company
    Inventor: Claude M. Frisbee
  • Patent number: 4550928
    Abstract: This is concerned with a front air swingaway which is a device for connecting the air supply between a tractor-trailer combination where the air source is on the tractor. The swingaway is constructed to be mounted on the front of the trailer and projects forwardly when in use but is automatically folded back against the front of the trailer when not in use, meaning when it is not connected to a gladhand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1985
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventor: Arthur A. Berg
  • Patent number: 4500242
    Abstract: An apparatus for handling bales having a frame, an axle secured to the frame, and a pair of wheels rotatably attached to the axle for supporting the frame. A pair of arcuate shaped baskets is mounted on the frame for holding the bales. A pair of hydraulic cylinders are secured to the frame for receiving power take off from a tractor to pivot the baskets along the longitudinal axis thereof for dumping the bales onto the ground. The method includes the steps of loading the bales into the baskets and pivoting the baskets to dump the bales.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1985
    Inventor: Douglas L. Beikman
  • Patent number: 4477099
    Abstract: An air transfer system joins the plenum of a first vehicle section to the plenum of a second vehicle section in an articulated coach vehicle with minimal deflection or intrusion into the passenger space. A generally V-shaped collection manifold in the rear vehicle section carries air from a plenum to an outlet near the end and top center of the rear section. A similar manifold in the front section carries air from an inlet near the end and top center of the front section to the other plenum. A bellows of a relatively stiff rectangular cross-section joins the outlet and inlet to complete the connection, and deflects as the vehicle sections rotate without passenger space intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Robert R. Luyckx
  • Patent number: 4475751
    Abstract: A coupler comprising a female coupling member and a male coupling member adapted to be fitted therein for coupling air conduits of two systems, i.e., an air pressure supply system and a control system thereof, wherein the coupling members have openings of a first and a second air conduit, respectively, at respective central portions of the mating faces and annular grooves concentric with and outer than the respective openings; third and fourth air conduits open at the respective grooves; the openings of the first and the second air conduit are connected with each other; an o-ring is disposed at the connecting portion between sidewalls of the respective openings; the annular grooves of the respective coupling members are engaged with each other; a second o-ring is disposed at the engaging portion of outer walls of the respective grooves; and the engaging portion of the inner walls of the grooves are air-tightly sealed by the first o-ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1984
    Assignee: Clarion Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyoshin Nishimura
  • Patent number: 4421194
    Abstract: A tubing assembly provided between two movable bodies such as front and rear body portions of a three-wheeled motor vehicle. The front body is laterally swingable relative to the rear body and these bodies are relatively movable along longitudinal and vertical directions thereof. The tubing assembly includes a first flexible tubular member extending substantially vertically and having one end connected to a first rigid tubular member of said front body portion, a second flexible tubular member extending substantially horizontally and having one end connected to a second rigid tubular member of said rear body portion, and a generally L-shaped intermediate rigid tubular member connected between said first and second flexible tubular members. The tubing assembly is positioned outwardly offset from a rotational center of said movable bodies and at the same longitudinal side of said vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1983
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuyoshi Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 4368899
    Abstract: An automatic hitch mechanism that permits a tractor driver to connect and disconnect an implement without leaving the cab of the tractor. The hitch includes a tractor drawbar equipped with a power-driven slide member, hook member, and power coupling assembly all interconnected for coordinated movement so that during a hitching operation the hook member first swings into operative engagement with the latch ring of an implement and then, in a continuous sequence of automatic steps, the hook member is locked in its operative position, the power coupling assemblies of the tractor and implement are joined together, the jack supporting the implement tongue is retracted, and one of the coupling assemblies is de-stabilized so that thereafter the tractor and implement may execute turns and traverse uneven terrain without damaging or disengaging the coupling assemblies. Automatic unhitching of the tractor and implement involves a reversal in the direction and order of such steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1983
    Assignee: Kansas State University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Edward A. Smalley, Mark J. Boguski, Todd A. Casey, Dwight D. Chipperfield
  • Patent number: 4366965
    Abstract: A keeper (10) is adapted for installation on a rear panel of a truck cab for holding a pair of gladhands (18,20) and an electric plug (22). The keeper is a one-piece unitary structure of molded plastic. It comprises a pair of gladhand receptacle members (32,33) and a plug receptacle member (34). The receptacle members are mounted on a panel of the cab by mounting brackets (24,26). The gladhand receptacle members (32,33) each defines a gladhand receptacle slot which receives a gladhand by insertion and rotation in a plane perpendicular to the mounting panel. The receptacle member (34) for the plug comprises a vertically disposed socket (50) between the pair of gladhand receptacle members (32,33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1983
    Inventor: Murray G. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 4296777
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multiple coupling for lubricating systems, preferably progressive lubricating systems of motor vehicles, especially tractor trailer units. The multiple coupling a plug box and a plug, with the help of which several lubrication pipes may be interconnected. In order that the plug box-plug-combination may be used for variable number of lubrication pipes, a special valve arrangement has been provided with the help of which the desired number of passages of lubrication pipes is opened or closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1981
    Assignee: Lincoln-Helios GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Rodemer
  • Patent number: 4260173
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a liquid fifth wheel assembly for use with tractor and trailer combinations wherein the trailer includes a tank body for the storage and transportation of fluids, and the tractor includes a pumping station adapted to deliver the fluid stored in the tank. The fifth wheel assembly which is secured to the under side of the trailer has a central opening therein through which passes an enclosed dual concentric suction and discharge pipe structure interconnecting the tank and the pump station; the pipe structure including a swivel joint for permitting angular displacement of a portion of the enclosed pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1981
    Assignee: Garsite Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Herman Kornahrens
  • Patent number: 4253256
    Abstract: An improved reciprocatory self-loading dual-ended earth excavation vehicle pivotally connected to two or more unmanned self-leveling and self-maneuvering telescopic conveyor vehicles, the latter in turn are pivotally connected to a multi-function dual-ended distribution vehicle capable of conveying, spreading, wetting, impacting and grading the earth fill. The above-mentioned articulated vehicles provide the means to excavate, convey and discharge a virtually continuous flow of earth while traveling in a forward or rearward direction. The excavation and telescopic conveyor vehicles are readily adaptable to surface mining of various minerals including coal and oil shale by simply exchanging the above-mentioned distribution vehicle for a pivotally connected boom conveyer vehicle which provides the means for discharging the ore at a mill site or for the loading of long haul ore carriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1981
    Inventor: Jack M. Feliz
  • Patent number: 4234012
    Abstract: A backhoe swing frame is connected to a support frame by means of a vertical pivot assembly. A hose support bracket is mounted on the swing frame and supports a plurality of hoses extending across the vertical pivot assembly from the support frame for conveying hydraulic fluid to and from a plurality of hydraulic actuators of the backhoe. The hose support bracket comprises a base plate to which the lower end of an upright plate is fixed, the upright plate being inclined away from the pivot assembly. A plurality of vertically oriented tabs are fixed to opposite ends of the upright plate and are each provided with a horizontally opening notch, the tabs being dimensioned and located such that the notches are spaced vertically and fore-and-aft from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1980
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Jesse L. Schupback
  • Patent number: 4208163
    Abstract: A coupling between a tool attachment adapted to be supported on a carrier and a tool mount fitting the tool attachment and adapted to support a tool, the tool mount carrying a fixed latch member and the tool attachment carrying a movable latch member which, when the tool attachment and the tool mount are in engagement, is movable into and out of locking engagement with the fixed latch member; a device for moving the latch member between locking and unlocking positions to thereby couple and decouple, respectively, the tool attachment and the tool mount; a hydraulic control circuit for supplying power to a tool supported on the tool mount, the circuit including a pair of two-part hose couplings, one part of each coupling being stationary on the tool mount and the other part carried on and movable relative to the tool attachment; and a device for moving the movable hose coupling parts relative to the tool attachment, in response to locking and unlocking movement of the movable latch member, in a manner such that
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1980
    Assignee: Renholmens Mekaniska Verkstad AB
    Inventor: Bo H. Holmqvist