Detachable Or Shiftable Gooseneck Type Patents (Class 280/441.2)
  • Patent number: 11014416
    Abstract: An autonomous dock system for a vehicle, comprises a control system with instructions comprising steps for receiving a request to implement an autonomous dock routine. A vehicle speed and clutch position are calculated. A clutch position controller is commanded to maintain the calculated clutch position. An actual torque amount is iteratively detected as transferred across the clutch. A vehicle speed-control mechanism is commanded to maintain the calculated vehicle speed, and the actual vehicle speed is iteratively detected. When comparing the commanded vehicle speed to the detected actual vehicle speed indicates that the detected actual vehicle speed is below a speed threshold, and when the actual torque amount transferred across the clutch exceeds a torque threshold, the control system commands an increase in vehicle speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Conor H Dodd, Nathan H Cox, Matthew T Boillat, Jon A Steeby, Sujay Sirur, Rajeev Verma, Vishal V. Mahulkar, Vasilios Tsourapas, Kevin Snow
  • Patent number: 10926593
    Abstract: A front tow extended saddle configured for mounting a vehicle to a towing vehicle and a method of towing a vehicle using the front tow extended saddle are provided. The front tow extended saddle includes front, middle, and rear portions, with the front and rear portions extending along different planes. A protective cover extends along the front tow extended saddle and is supported above the wheels of the towing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: ATC Transportation LLC
    Inventor: Donald W. Schuettenberg
  • Patent number: 10780924
    Abstract: A bogie for a lowboy trailer includes a rear suspension support assembly configured to carry a suspension system of the lowboy trailer thereunder and a front transition assembly coupled to a front end of the rear suspension support assembly and configured to couple the rear suspension support assembly to a lower deck of the lowboy trailer. At least a portion of the rear suspension support assembly has a closed cross section when viewed along a longitudinal axis of the rear suspension support assembly. At least a portion of the front transition assembly has a closed cross section when viewed along a longitudinal axis of the front transition assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Fontaine Commercial Trailer, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Smith, Gregory C. Benson
  • Patent number: 10723188
    Abstract: A trailer coupler system can include one or more skid plates made from extruded aluminum, one or more support tubes attached to the skid plates, a plurality of struts having a first end attached to the one or more skid plates, a ball housing attached to a second end of at least two of the plurality of struts, a first towball positioned within the ball housing, an adapter sleeve attached to the ball housing, a support plate extending from a support tube or skid plate to the adapter sleeve, an adapter having a kingpin coupler for coupling to a kingpin of a trailer, and a towball coupler for directly coupling with the first towball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Andersen Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: John I. Andersen, Ryan B. Andersen
  • Patent number: 10633174
    Abstract: A mobile oilfield material transfer unit includes a chassis having a gooseneck and support base, the support base including a first portion and second portion, and the chassis further comprising a rear axle suspension system coupled with at least two wheels for movably supporting the chassis. The mobile oilfield material transfer unit further includes an erecting mast assembly having a mast movably connected with the chassis proximate to the second portion, and an actuator system coupled with the mast and with the chassis for moving the mast between a horizontal position and a vertical position. At least two vertical conveyor assemblies may be coupled with the erecting mast and moveable between the horizontal position and the vertical position, and at least two horizontal conveyor systems may be coupled with the support frame and engageable with the at least two vertical conveyor assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Hau Nguyen-Phuc Pham, William Troy Huey
  • Patent number: 10271472
    Abstract: A trailer for transporting agricultural equipment over the road. The trailer includes a frame that supports a wheel travel path that is traversed by the tires of agricultural equipment hauled by the trailer roll as the equipment is loaded on and unloaded off the trailer. The wheel travel path includes a) an inclined rear section located at or near the back of the trailer, b) an over-wheel section located generally in front of the inclined rear section and positioned generally over one or more trailer wheels, c) a dropped landing section located generally in front of the over-wheel section, and d) an elevated landing section located generally in front of the dropped landing section. The over-wheel section is elevated relative to the dropped landing section and the elevated landing section is elevated relative to said over-wheel section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Inventor: Donald Potter
  • Patent number: 10127459
    Abstract: A trailer type identification system is provided herein. The system includes an imaging device for capturing images of a trailer connected to a vehicle, and a controller for analyzing the captured. The controller identifies vehicle and trailer contours, predicts a trailer type based on detection of a connection between the identified vehicle and trailer contours, and validates the prediction if the identified trailer contour exhibits motion during a vehicle turn event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Zheng Hu, Nathaniel Abram Rolfes, Erick Michael Lavoie
  • Patent number: 9440624
    Abstract: An easy-to-install, low cost hydraulic lift system and method for installation on a trailer with a removable gooseneck. The device reduces the number of steps required to manually connect and disconnect a trailer from an RGN thereby saving time and labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Milton R. Lewis
  • Patent number: 9272591
    Abstract: Trailer with a detachable gooseneck having a deck supported toward the rear by ground engaging wheels, mating surfaces on the gooseneck and the deck which abut against each other when the gooseneck is attached to the deck, coupling pins extending along spaced apart, parallel axes from the gooseneck and the deck on opposite sides of the abutting surfaces, a coupling link movable along the pin on the gooseneck between a first position in which the link engages the pin on the deck and a second position in which the link is disengaged from the pin on the deck, and an actuator for moving the coupling link between the first and second positions. A latch hook is rotatively mounted on the deck to the rear of the abutting surfaces for engagement with a laterally extending latch bar which depends from the gooseneck, and a pneumatic actuator is operatively connected to the latch hook for moving the latch hook into and out of engagement with the latch bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: Harley Murray, Inc.
    Inventors: David Lee Trowbridge, Douglas Glen Murray
  • Patent number: 9260142
    Abstract: A container transport system includes a gooseneck assembly for towing by a medium duty truck and a dolly for supporting the weight of an intermodal freight container. The gooseneck assembly includes a pair of platforms each configured to support a corner casting of the transported intermodal freight container and having a post matingly received through a bottom orifice of the supported corner casting. A hoist assembly is provided to lift an end of the intermodal freight container for placing the container on the dolly or removing the container from the dolly. A pair of barrel slide bolt assemblies is provided for securing the intermodal freight container in place atop the platforms. In order to facilitate placement of the dolly beneath the freight container, the dolly also includes a gin pole assembly, which is stowable in a recess so as to not interfere with placement of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventor: Ralph M. Marcantonio
  • Publication number: 20150054256
    Abstract: A modular trailer system is described, wherein a gooseneck, deck, and dolly are attachable to each other in a variety of ways. One configuration allows the gooseneck and dolly to be attached to either end of the deck. Another configuration allows the gooseneck and dolly to be attached directly to each other. This permits the method of transporting a deck to a site, and then returning the gooseneck and dolly to another location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin Paul Graham
  • Patent number: 8919803
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a new steering control mechanism attached to a truck frame extension which permits trucks towing goose neck trailers to have more maneuverability while towing the trailer. Specifically, a steering control plate rests between two metal stops located on a tie rod connecting the two wheels of the truck frame extension. When the operator of the truck signals a turn the steering control plate is lifted off of the tie rod to a level above the metal stops which permits the tie rod to move in connection with the movement of the towing truck. After the truck completes the turn the steering control plate returns to rest on the tie rod between the two metal blocks locking the tie rod in place. This arrangement permits the trailer to faithfully follow the truck in straight line traffic. The invention disclosed herein permits the goose neck trailer to make sharper turns without putting stress on the tires and frame of the truck or trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph P. Jamieson
  • Patent number: 8910965
    Abstract: A hitch system comprises a housing, a hitch plate, and an actuator system. The housing is secured to a hitch post, and the housing defines a housing opening and a housing chamber. The hitch plate is rotatably attached to the housing, and the hitch plate defines a first ball opening. The actuator system displaces the hitch plate relative to the housing such that the hitch system operates in an unhitched configuration in which the first ball opening is aligned with the housing opening and a hitched configuration in which the first ball opening is not aligned with the housing opening. A ball portion is inserted into the housing chamber and removed from the housing chamber when the hitch system is in the unhitched configuration. The ball portion is substantially secured within the housing chamber when the hitch system is in the hitched configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: John Wasem LaPrade
  • Publication number: 20140361513
    Abstract: Trailer with a detachable gooseneck having a deck supported toward the rear by ground engaging wheels, mating surfaces on the gooseneck and the deck which abut against each other when the gooseneck is attached to the deck, coupling pins extending along spaced apart, parallel axes from the gooseneck and the deck on opposite sides of the abutting surfaces, a coupling link movable along the pin on the gooseneck between a first position in which the link engages the pin on the deck and a second position in which the link is disengaged from the pin on the deck, and an actuator for moving the coupling link between the first and second positions. A latch hook is rotatively mounted on the deck to the rear of the abutting surfaces for engagement with a laterally extending latch bar which depends from the gooseneck, and a pneumatic actuator is operatively connected to the latch hook for moving the latch hook into and out of engagement with the latch bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: David Lee Trowbridge, Douglas Glen Murray
  • Patent number: 8851521
    Abstract: A travel trailer configured to be coupled to and towed by a vehicle is provided. The travel trailer has a compartment that is attached to a chassis which includes a front end and a rear end. A plurality of wheels are attached to the chassis adjacent the rear end, and a hitch assembly is attached to the chassis adjacent the front end. The compartment at the front end of the chassis forms first and second corners. A recess, directed inwardly toward the interior of the compartment, is located at each corner of the compartment. Cavities formed by each recess may receive a portion of the vehicle while the vehicle is engaged in a turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC
    Inventors: John M. Rhymer, Scott J. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 8783705
    Abstract: A gooseneck coupler may be used on a towing vehicle to help tow certain types of towed vehicles, such as trailers. The gooseneck coupler may include a first tube, a base member attached to the first tube, and a locking member pivotally attached to the base member—the locking member being capable of engaging a hitch ball. The gooseneck coupler may also include a locking mechanism attached to the locking member, where the locking mechanism is capable of securing the locking member in engagement with the hitch ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Drake, Kevin Rabska
  • Patent number: 8783706
    Abstract: A gooseneck coupler may be used on a towing vehicle to help tow certain types of towed vehicles, such as trailers. The gooseneck coupler may include a first member, a second member pivotally attached to the first member, where the second member is capable of pivoting relative to the first member from a first position to a second position. The gooseneck coupler may also include an opening in the first member, the opening sized to receive a hitch ball, and a clinch mechanism located within the opening where the hitch ball is wedged between the clinch mechanism and the second member when the second member is in the second position relative to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Drake, Kevin Rabska
  • Patent number: 8752854
    Abstract: Trailer with a detachable gooseneck having a deck supported toward the rear by ground engaging wheels, mating surfaces on the gooseneck and the deck which abut against each other when the gooseneck is attached to the deck, coupling pins extending along spaced apart, parallel axes from the gooseneck and the deck on opposite sides of the abutting surfaces, a coupling link movable along the pin on the gooseneck between a first position in which the link engages the pin on the deck and a second position in which the link is disengaged from the pin on the deck, and an actuator for moving the coupling link between the first and second positions. A latch hook is rotatively mounted on the deck to the rear of the abutting surfaces for engagement with a laterally extending latch bar which depends from the gooseneck, and a pneumatic actuator is operatively connected to the latch hook for moving the latch hook into and out of engagement with the latch bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Harley Murray, Inc.
    Inventors: David Lee Trowbridge, Douglas Glen Murray
  • Patent number: 8544888
    Abstract: A drop deck trailer frame includes a front section having a first upper surface, a rear section having a second upper surface lower than the first upper surface, and an improved connection between the front and rear sections which tends to reduce cracking which commonly occurs in drop deck trailer frames due to the stresses in the region of the connection. The connection preferably includes a semicircular weld. In addition, heat treated bent flanges are typically used to provide additional strength. Fasteners such as bolts are also typically used to connect various flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Maiorana, Denis Gosselin
  • Patent number: 8505974
    Abstract: A travel trailer configured to be coupled to and towed by a vehicle is provided. The travel trailer has a compartment that is attached to a chassis which includes a front end and a rear end. A plurality of wheels are attached to the chassis adjacent the rear end, and a hitch assembly is attached to the chassis adjacent the front end. The compartment at the front end of the chassis forms first and second corners. A recess, directed inwardly toward the interior of the compartment, is located at each corner of the compartment. Cavities formed by each recess may receive a portion of the vehicle while the vehicle is engaged in a turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC
    Inventors: John M. Rhymer, Douglas M. Lantz, Scott J. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 8465040
    Abstract: A trailer assembly including a load deck and a detachable gooseneck. The load deck includes a rotatable shaft and latch wedge and the detachable gooseneck includes a hook. The attachment of the gooseneck to the load deck will result in the rotation of the shaft and latch wedge and engage the latch wedge and hook preventing detachment of the gooseneck and load deck. Misalignment of the gooseneck and load deck may be compensated for by a chamfer of the hook and a v-shaped groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventors: Todd Skalbeck, Gary Knudsen
  • Patent number: 8459685
    Abstract: A removable gooseneck hitch assembly transitions between an afterward position for hitching to a low bed trailer deck and a forward position by a pivoting arm that moves the forward end of the gooseneck an arcuate path. The invention minimizes the opportunity for debris to interfere with the sliding track assemblies known in the prior art. The assembly provides three degrees of freedom for the gooseneck in low bed mode and restricts the degrees of freedom in vehicle towing mode. A locking member for securing a low bed trailer hitch is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Aspen Custom Trailers
    Inventors: Ron Wood, Graham Street
  • Patent number: 8419065
    Abstract: A drop deck trailer frame includes a front section having a first upper surface, a rear section having a second upper surface lower than the first upper surface, and an improved connection between the front and rear sections which tends to reduce cracking which commonly occurs in drop deck trailer frames due to the stresses in the region of the connection. The connection preferably includes a semicircular weld. In addition, heat treated bent flanges are typically used to provide additional strength. Fasteners such as bolts are also typically used to connect various flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Maiorana, Denis Gosselin
  • Patent number: 8419038
    Abstract: A fifth wheel trailer hitch with locking mechanism that includes a pin that extends axially from a pivotal mounting of a platform of a trailer tow bar. The pin is preferably cylindrical and is grooved circumferentially adjacent to its bottom end for fitting into an a key way forward end lip formed in a mounting plate that is attached to a truck bed for prohibiting the pin from lifting from the key way. The pin includes a plug that, by turning a cam rod journaled through the pin, will extend or retract axially from a pin center opening to fit into a plug hole formed in the mounting plate in the center of the key way forward end, preventing, when extended, the pin from sliding therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventors: Darrel J. Burns, Brigitte Paula Strecker Burns
  • Patent number: 8398109
    Abstract: A heavy duty wheeled trailer for use in towing the trailer behind a vehicle. The trailer includes an adjustable height tow connection point to adjust and connect to different types of tow vehicles while maintaining the front deck substantially parallel to the trailer main deck. The trailer further includes a modular support frame allowing the trailer to be easily scaled in length and performance capabilities through removal or addition of modular frame cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Altair Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Amrine, Jr., David Coates
  • Patent number: 8317215
    Abstract: A cargo carrier trailer for movably supporting cargo includes a frame configured to support cargo at the cargo carrier trailer and at least two wheels at each side of the frame. Each of the wheels is rotatably mounted to a respective support arm. The support arms are pivotally mounted to a carriage assembly that is repositionable fore and aft along the frame of the cargo carrier. The support arms are pivotable relative to the carriage assembly and frame to adjust the height and tilt of the frame relative to a support surface. The cargo carrier trailer is readily adapted to position the frame at a lower position for road applications and a raised position for uneven terrain applications. The cargo carrier trailer is adapted to couple to a tow vehicle via a fifth wheel hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Absolute Electronic Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip J. Quenzi, Richard W. Jenney
  • Patent number: 8286986
    Abstract: A gooseneck coupler for engaging a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle is described. The coupler includes an outer tube having apertures that is moveable relative to an inner tube secured to a base plate. A locking plate is pivotally secured to the base plate, wherein the locking plate and base plate both include alignable locking pin apertures. A locking assembly includes a handle and a locking pin that is insertable into the locking pin apertures. A support bracket is secured to the inner tube. The support bracket includes a stop portion and a spacer portion that aligns the locking pin into the locking pin apertures. The coupler also includes set screws locatable through the apertures, wherein the set screws are tightened onto the inner tube to prevent movement of the outer tube. The set screws function as a visual indicator that the outer tube has been over extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Cequent Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Drake, Michael Murphy
  • Patent number: 8272661
    Abstract: A gooseneck hitch assembly is provided for attaching to a towing vehicle. The hitch assembly generally includes a hitch ball head assembly and retaining assembly for receiving and securing the hitch ball head assembly. The retaining assembly includes a channel coupled to a locking collar. Once the hitch ball head assembly is inserted into the channel, the collar is released and resilient members guide the collar to its offset resting position to lock the hitch ball head assembly in place. Alternatively, the collar is released and resilient members guide a lever into a circumscribed groove of the hitch ball head assembly, thereby locking the hitch ball head assembly in place. The hitch ball head is removable and may be selectively received by the retaining assembly in both towing and inverted positions. Optionally, the hitch assembly may be protected or covered by a housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Nick Erickson
  • Patent number: 8256799
    Abstract: A drop deck trailer frame includes a front section having a first upper surface, a rear section having a second upper surface lower than the first upper surface, and an improved connection between the front and rear sections which tends to reduce cracking which commonly occurs in drop deck trailer frames due to the stresses in the region of the connection. The connection preferably includes a semicircular weld. In addition, heat treated bent flanges are typically used to provide additional strength. Fasteners such as bolts are also typically used to connect various flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Maiorana, Denis Gosselin
  • Patent number: 8210557
    Abstract: A convertible trailer that may be reconfigured for use with different towing hitch arrangements. The trailer includes a first deck, a second deck, and an adjustable neck configured to support the second deck substantially level with the first deck in a pintle configuration and to support the second deck above the first deck in a fifth wheel configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: John Felix Schneider
  • Patent number: 8186704
    Abstract: Taught herein is a trailer having a gooseneck that can be engaged with the fifth wheel of a road tractor, rear truck unit, and a detachable cargo deck connecting the gooseneck with the truck unit. The cargo deck may be detached from the gooseneck and rested on the ground to allow heavy equipment to be loaded onto the cargo deck. The cargo deck can be reattached to the gooseneck, and elevated and locked into any one of three positions, each substantially parallel with the road, by an elevating means in the gooseneck and the truck unit. Thus the trailer of the present invention can be configured to accommodate cargo have a wide range of weight and size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony Cesternino
  • Publication number: 20120126509
    Abstract: A gooseneck hitch assembly is provided for attaching to a towing vehicle. The hitch assembly generally includes a hitch ball head assembly and retaining assembly for receiving and securing the hitch ball head assembly. The retaining assembly includes a channel coupled to a locking collar. Once the hitch ball head assembly is inserted into the channel, the collar is released and resilient members guide the collar to its offset resting position to lock the hitch ball head assembly in place. Alternatively, the collar is released and resilient members guide a lever into a circumscribed groove of the hitch ball head assembly, thereby locking the hitch ball head assembly in place. The hitch ball head is removable and may be selectively received by the retaining assembly in both towing and inverted positions. Optionally, the hitch assembly may be protected or covered by a housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: SCHULING HITCH CO.
    Inventor: Nick Erickson
  • Patent number: 8162352
    Abstract: A travel trailer configured to be coupled to and towed by a vehicle is provided. The travel trailer has a compartment that is attached to a chassis which includes a front end and a rear end. A plurality of wheels are attached to the chassis adjacent the rear end, and a hitch assembly is attached to the chassis adjacent the front end. The compartment at the front end of the chassis forms first and second corners. A recess, directed inwardly toward the interior of the compartment, is located at each corner of the compartment. Cavities formed by each recess may receive a portion of the vehicle while the vehicle is engaged in a turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC
    Inventors: John M. Rhymer, Douglas M. Lantz, Scott J. Tuttle
  • Publication number: 20120056407
    Abstract: Gooseneck trailer having a horizontally extending deck with a plurality of longitudinally extending frame members including outer side rails which extend along opposite sides of the deck, lower gooseneck beams rigidly connected the outer deck rails by couplings that can be selectively engaged and disengaged, elongated upper gooseneck beams pivotally connected to the lower beams, with one end of each of the upper beams being pivotally connected to a pulling vehicle, operating cylinders connected between the upper and lower beams for raising and lowering the lower beams and the trailer deck when the upper beams are connected to the pulling vehicle, and latches for locking the upper and lower beams in different positions relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: David Lee Trowbridge, Douglas Glen Murray
  • Publication number: 20120056406
    Abstract: Trailer with a detachable gooseneck having a deck supported toward the rear by ground engaging wheels, mating surfaces on the gooseneck and the deck which abut against each other when the gooseneck is attached to the deck, coupling pins extending along spaced apart, parallel axes from the gooseneck and the deck on opposite sides of the abutting surfaces, a coupling link movable along the pin on the gooseneck between a first position in which the link engages the pin on the deck and a second position in which the link is disengaged from the pin on the deck, and an actuator for moving the coupling link between the first and second positions. A latch hook is rotatively mounted on the deck to the rear of the abutting surfaces for engagement with a laterally extending latch bar which depends from the gooseneck, and a pneumatic actuator is operatively connected to the latch hook for moving the latch hook into and out of engagement with the latch bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: David Lee Trowbridge, Douglas Glen Murray
  • Patent number: 8096583
    Abstract: A drop deck trailer frame includes a front section having a first upper surface, a rear section having a second upper surface lower than the first upper surface, and an improved connection between the front and rear sections which tends to reduce cracking which commonly occurs in drop deck trailer frames due to the stresses in the region of the connection. The connection preferably includes a semicircular weld. In addition, heat treated bent flanges are typically used to provide additional strength. Fasteners such as bolts are also typically used to connect various flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Mac Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Maiorana, Denis Gosselin
  • Publication number: 20110278821
    Abstract: A removable gooseneck hitch assembly transitions between an afterward position for hitching to a low bed trailer deck and a forward position by a pivoting arm that moves the forward end of the gooseneck an arcuate path. The invention minimizes the opportunity for debris to interfere with the sliding track assemblies known in the prior art. The assembly provides three degrees of freedom for the gooseneck in low bed mode and restricts the degrees of freedom in vehicle towing mode. A locking member for securing a low bed trailer hitch is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Ron Wood, Graham Street
  • Patent number: 7954839
    Abstract: An attachment having an interchangeable means for converting a traditionally manufactured tow behind, A frame or straight tongue trailer into a functioning single arm goose neck style trailer. This hitch systems forward end can be temporarily attached to, and towed by a variety of independent self propelled utility vehicles, that are equipped with a 5th wheel coupling device. The rearward end of this hitch system temporarily attaches to the most forward end of a trailer frame hitch tongue, with the use of a quick change coupler device, and is secured within the coupler by using a temporary fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Richard L. Quiring
  • Patent number: 7926832
    Abstract: A new and improved trailer coupler for connecting a trailer to a ball hitch mounted on a towing vehicle comprising a housing having a recessed socket, a retractable latching plate, a locking mechanism, an access port, a visual indicator, an alarm system for indicating coupling and decoupling, and a mechanical means to assist an operator to remotely attach and remove safety chains generally used in conjunction with trailers without need for the operator to climb into the truck bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Barry Hall
  • Patent number: 7901117
    Abstract: A safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Concaten Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Patent number: 7878525
    Abstract: A precision, light weight, high strength hitch for coupling a trailer or other vehicle to a towing vehicle. The hitch includes a mounting ball attached to a portion of the trailer or other vehicle and a ball socket attached to the towing vehicle. The mounting ball and the ball socket have compatible surfaces that permit seating of the two components regardless of the axial, transverse or longitudinal angular or rotational orientation of the two vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: John I. Andersen
  • Patent number: 7878545
    Abstract: A travel trailer configured to be coupled to and towed by a vehicle is provided. The travel trailer has a compartment that is attached to a chassis which includes a front end and a rear end. A plurality of wheels are attached to the chassis adjacent the rear end, and a hitch assembly is attached to the chassis adjacent the front end. The compartment at the front end of the chassis forms first and second corners. A recess, directed inwardly toward the interior of the compartment, is located at each corner of the compartment. Cavities formed by each recess may receive a portion of the vehicle while the vehicle is engaged in a turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC
    Inventors: John Mitchell Rhymer, Douglas M. Lantz, Scott J. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 7857343
    Abstract: A simple mechanical height adjustment device adjusts the ground clearance of a trailer. The trailer, having the height adjustment device can selectably and reversibly increase its ground clearance. The trailer, having an adjustable ground clearance, can minimize its load height when operating on improved roads in order to meet local and state height regulation, but can increase its ground clearance on uneven roads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: RRI Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Tommie Carroll Gipson
  • Patent number: 7832767
    Abstract: A drop deck trailer frame includes a front section having a first upper surface, a rear section having a second upper surface lower than the first upper surface, and an improved connection between the front and rear sections which tends to reduce cracking which commonly occurs in drop deck trailer frames due to the stresses in the region of the connection. The connection preferably includes a semicircular weld. In addition, heat treated bent flanges are typically used to provide additional strength. Fasteners such as bolts are also typically used to connect various flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: MAC Trailer Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Maiorana, Denis Gosselin
  • Patent number: 7810831
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a trailer hitch isolation assembly that attaches to the tongue of a fifth wheel trailer and that provides a moveable connection between a tow vehicle and the trailer. The hitch assembly includes a floating hitch attachment member such as a king pin, which is adapted to be attached to a tow vehicle. The hitch isolation assembly allows the hitch attachment member to move at least vertically relative to the tow vehicle to which the hitch assembly is connected. One or more air springs connect the floating hitch attachment to the frame of the trailer. These air springs permit relative movement between the attachment support member and the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventors: Jeff Wilkens, Andrew Donald Browen
  • Patent number: 7775541
    Abstract: A wheeled vehicle including a platform portion having a mounting bracket for coupling a fifth wheel hitch to the vehicle. A pair of elongate frame members are located beneath the platform portion, and each having a lengthwise axis oriented substantially parallel to a forward direction of travel of the vehicle. A brace frame beneath the platform that is coupled between the pair of elongate frame members. The mounting bracket is secured to the brace frame and includes a stabilizer including a pair of elongate support arms joined by a cross-member. An anchor arrangement fixes the bracket relative the platform with long axes of the pair of arms transverse to the forward direction of travel. The mounting bracket has a lower portion in abutting engagement with the platform portion of the vehicle and an upper portion configured for receiving fixed coupled engagement of a fifth wheel hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: GRLC, LLC
    Inventors: Don Frederick Linger, Donald Herbert Kahrs
  • Publication number: 20100194074
    Abstract: An accessory towing apparatus that connects a towing vehicle to a gooseneck-type trailer. The accessory towing apparatus includes a chassis framework assembly mounted on an axle having two ground engaging wheels. The chassis assembly includes three linkage arms, which are attached to and extend from the framework. The ends of the three linkage arms are designed to engage and couple with three brackets attached to the main frame of the towing vehicle. When the respective coupling mechanism of the three linkage arms are each engaged, they are substantially parallel to one another and pivot about a substantially common axis. An automatic alignment and attachment system may also be included to greatly simplify the attachment process of the gooseneck-type trailer to the towing vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph P. Jamieson
  • Patent number: 7762529
    Abstract: An universal tool for unlatching a locking pin on a gooseneck ball hitch comprises an arm supported on a support leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Raymond C. Scott
  • Publication number: 20100140899
    Abstract: The present application describes a gooseneck coupler assembly that may include a gooseneck trailer pivot, an extension arm, and a pivot retention mechanism having a ball socket. The ball socket may engage with a hitch ball located on a towing vehicle. The gooseneck trailer pivot may be mounted on a towed vehicle or trailer and be capable of pivoting about a vertical axis relative to the trailer. During engagement, the ball socket and the extension arm may provide tilt capability but thereby prevent any rotational movement relative to the hitch ball. However, the gooseneck coupler assembly may still be able to tilt fore-and-aft or side-to-side relative to the hitch ball. Therefore, the only pivotal movement relative to a vertical axis would be permitted at the gooseneck trailer pivot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Paul Caruso, David Tallieu
  • Patent number: 7703792
    Abstract: A hitch coupling assembly attaching a trailer to a towing vehicle. The towing vehicle including a hitch plate that has an upper surface and an open end for receiving a king pin. The coupling assembly has an arm with opposite ends. A skid plate is attached to one end of the arm and the skid plate has a perimeter defined by sides. The king pin extends from a surface of the skid plate. A journal pin is attached to the opposite end of the arm and is rotatable relative to the arm. The journal pin is optionally lockable or the arm relative to the hitch is optionally lockable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: MOR/ryde International, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Heitzmann, Jonathan D. Kauffman