Drawbar Pivoting Patents (Class 280/444)
  • Patent number: 11952035
    Abstract: A controlled steering system includes a sliding carriage attached to the steering at least one steering rod. As the carriage slides from one side of the horizontal pivot pint of the towbar, the direction off steering with respect to the towbar reverses. Also, the distance of the sliding carriage from the horizontal pivot point controls the degree of steering. By controlling the movement of the sliding carriage in response to measurements of towbar angle, the backing process can be partially or completely automated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Inventor: Geoffrey S Beech
  • Patent number: 11377136
    Abstract: A steering device includes an electric actuator that applies a steering force to one end side of a steering shaft. The other end side of the steering shaft is provided with a displacement detection part for detecting the movement amount of the steering shaft. Either a detection target or a displacement detection sensor is provided on the steering shaft and the other is provided in a housing so as to output a signal according to a relative position change amount of the detection target with respect to the displacement detection sensor in the direction of the first axis. A first restriction mechanism restricts the relative movement of the detection target and the displacement detection sensor in a radial direction regarding the first axis to limit the change in the relative position in the radial direction of the detection target and the displacement detection sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: HITACHI ASTEMO, LTD.
    Inventors: Kohtaro Shiino, Tadaharu Yokota
  • Patent number: 11135911
    Abstract: A heavy haul vehicle has a chassis capable of supporting a load to be transported by the vehicle. A first group of one or more first drive axles and a second group of one or more second drive axles are coupled to the chassis. The vehicle also has a first engine and a second engine. The first engine drives each axle in the first group of drive axles. The second engine drives each axle in the second group drive axles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: REXX INNOVATION PTY LTD
    Inventors: Scott McFarlane, William Keys, Bradley Smith, Graeme Brentson
  • Patent number: 10646993
    Abstract: A robot may include (1) a body having a pivot member, (2) a mobility subsystem, coupled to the body of the robot, that provides omnidirectional displacement of the robot along a plane, (3) a robotic arm, coupled to the body of the robot, for manipulating an object, and (4) a linking extension. The linking extension may include (1) a proximal end that is rotatably coupled to the pivot member of the body of the robot, and (2) a distal end that is dimensioned to rotatably couple to a coupling member of an assistant robot such that the linking extension links the robot and the assistant robot. The robot may also include a control subsystem, communicatively coupled to the mobility subsystem, that coordinates displacement of the robot by the mobility subsystem with displacement of the assistant robot. Various other apparatuses, systems, and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: Facebook, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott C. Wiley
  • Patent number: 10551832
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method is disclosed for transporting an autonomous agricultural vehicle and an operator-driven agricultural vehicle from a first agricultural work site to a second agricultural work site. Each of the vehicles may have respective front ends and rear ends, and each of the respective rear ends may include a respective hitch. The method may include arranging the autonomous agricultural vehicle and the operator-driven agricultural vehicle such that the rear end of the autonomous agricultural vehicle faces the rear end of the operator-driven agricultural vehicle. The method may include coupling the hitch of the autonomous agricultural vehicle with the hitch of the operator-driven agricultural vehicle. The method may include towing the autonomous agricultural vehicle behind the operator-driven agricultural vehicle with the rear end of the autonomous agricultural vehicle facing a forward travel direction of the operator-driven agricultural vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Michael Berggren, Brett Gutknecht
  • Patent number: 10370030
    Abstract: A vehicle has a trailer backup steering input apparatus, a trailer backup assist control module coupled to the a trailer backup steering input apparatus, and an electric power assist steering system coupled to the trailer backup assist control module and. The trailer backup steering input apparatus is configured for outputting a trailer path curvature signal approximating a desired curvature for a path of travel of a trailer towably coupled to the vehicle. The trailer backup assist control module is configured for determining vehicle steering information as a function of the trailer path curvature signal. The electric power assist steering system is configured for controlling steering of steered wheels of the vehicle as a function of the vehicle steering information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignees: Ford Global Technologies, LLC, The Regents of the University of Michigan Office Tech. Transfer, University of Michigan
    Inventors: Douglas Scott Rhode, David Dean Smit, Erick Michael Lavoie, Martin Fitzpatrick Frey, Thomas Edward Pilutti, Taehyun Shim, Matt Y. Rupp, Roger Arnold Trombley
  • Patent number: 10000145
    Abstract: The application discloses integrated air suspension and platform lifting systems that utilize an existing air supply for lifting one or more platforms installed in a trailer or hauling vehicle. An apparatus for lifting a rear gate or platform of a trailer or a hauling vehicle is disclosed that includes an actuating mechanism operable to pivot the platform between a lowered position (e.g., where the end of the platform is in contact with the ground) and a range of raised positions (e.g., where the platform is raised to meet an elevated platform such as a loading dock). The lifting mechanisms for raising and lowering the platform(s) may utilize a pressurized gas supply from a compressor. In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism may be supplied with pressurized air from a compressor of a brake system of a tractor. In some embodiments a separate locking mechanism is provided to hold the platform in place after the lifting system has moved it into a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Inventors: Mark Woods, Matthew Woods
  • Patent number: 9914478
    Abstract: A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: MONTAG INVESTMENTS, LLC
    Inventor: Roger A. Montag
  • Patent number: 9849927
    Abstract: A modular heavy goods vehicle (10) comprises a left vehicle module (12) and a differently designed right vehicle module (14), each of which includes a longitudinal frame part (20, 24) and at least two wheel subassemblies (22, 26), and two transverse frame modules (16, 18) which extend in the direction of the width (B) of the vehicle and the free ends of which are releasably connected to the longitudinal frame parts (20, 24), the length of the transverse frame modules being adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: GOLDHOFER AG
    Inventor: Horst Haefele
  • Patent number: 9545866
    Abstract: The application discloses integrated air suspension and platform lifting systems that utilize an existing air supply for lifting one or more platforms installed in a trailer or hauling vehicle. An apparatus for lifting a rear gate or platform of a trailer or a hauling vehicle is disclosed that includes an actuating mechanism operable to pivot the platform between a lowered position (e.g., where the end of the platform is in contact with the ground) and a range of raised positions (e.g., where the platform is raised to meet an elevated platform such as a loading dock). The lifting mechanisms for raising and lowering the platform(s) may utilize a pressurized gas supply from a compressor. In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism may be supplied with pressurized air from a compressor of a brake system of a tractor. In some embodiments a separate locking mechanism is provided to hold the platform in place after the lifting system has moved it into a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventors: Mark Woods, Sr., Matthew Woods
  • Patent number: 9533706
    Abstract: An axle suspension has an axle support mounted in a swivel so as to rotate about an axis of rotation and a steering lever that is connected with the axle support in torque-proof manner and can be pivoted about the axis of rotation. The axle support accommodates at least one wheel axle and is mounted so as to be displaceable relative to the axis of rotation, in the wheel axle direction, on an adjustment path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: J.G.B.D. Consult Sprl
    Inventor: Alain Faymonville
  • Patent number: 9022409
    Abstract: A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Roger A. Montag
  • Patent number: 9016709
    Abstract: A trailer for use behind a motorcycle has an elongate frame which is suitable for carrying elongate cargo items thereon. To accommodate the elongate configuration of the frame, the frame is foldable for collapsing in length for storage, and the frame includes a steerable wheel to better track the motorcycle. The steerable wheel is located at the rear of the frame and is laterally centered relative to a steering axis of the wheel. Articulation of a hitching arm of the trailer relative to the frame of the trailer serves as an input to guide steering of the single wheel of the trailer relative to the frame of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Clayton Wilford Russell McMunn
  • Patent number: 9004519
    Abstract: A switchable mechanism for steering a trailer when towing and backing is disclosed. A turntable having a rotatable upper portion is attached to a front of a trailer, with a slide mounted to the turntable with a center of the slide mounted generally over an axis of rotation of the turntable. A carriage is mounted to the slide, the carriage being movable between a first position and a second position. At least one steering controller is coupled between the carriage and steerable wheels of the trailer. A towbar is coupled to the turntable, with sideways displacement of the towbar steering the steerable wheels in both forward and backward directions. The towbar is connectable to any conventional hitch, meaning that no modifications are needed to the tow vehicle, and any tow vehicle with a conventional hitch can tow a trailer of the instant invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Geoffrey S. Beech
  • Patent number: 8955865
    Abstract: A hitch apparatus for connecting a self-propelled trailing vehicle to a self-propelled leading vehicle and for measuring their relative positions is described. The hitch apparatus includes: a first hitch assembly for connecting a rear end of the leading vehicle to a front end of the trailing vehicle; a first angle sensor operatively connected to a pivot shaft and capable of measuring a horizontal angle between a centerline of a swivel base extending through a pivot shaft and a longitudinal centerline of the leading vehicle; a second hitch assembly for mounting on the front end of the trailing vehicle, the second hitch assembly including a connecting device mounted on the front end of the trailing vehicle and connectable to the swivel base of the leading vehicle; and a distance sensor for measuring a variable distance between a preselected point at the front end of said trailing vehicle and the swivel base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Prairie Machine & Parts Mfg. (1978) Ltd.
    Inventors: Adam Fortin, Ashley Debnam, Sterling Parson
  • Patent number: 8931797
    Abstract: An elongated trailer has a frame with longitudinally extending frame members connected by front and rear cross frame members, and a pair of wheels are pivotally connected to opposite ends of each of the front and rear cross frame members. A steering system includes a front steering crank member connected to a tow bar and supported by the front cross frame member for pivotal movement on a vertical axis, and a rear steering crank member is supported by the rear cross frame member for pivotal movement on a vertical axis. A set of tie rods pivotally connect the front and rear crank members to the corresponding front and rear wheels. An elongated link member or rod connects the front and rear crank members and extends longitudinally of the frame substantially above the bottom surfaces of the frame members to protect the steering system from projecting objects on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: J. & M. Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua P. Gaerke, James E. Wood, Andrew A. Gartin
  • Patent number: 8870210
    Abstract: A steering system for a towed farm implement or wagon, such as a header transport, is provided that allows the tongue of the header transport to pivot approximately 90 degrees to the right or the left (i.e., 180 degrees in total) and translates the movement of the tongue to all of the wheels of the header transport. Front steering linkages are coupled to the tongue, and are configured to oscillate front wheels in response to rotation of the tongue. Rear steering linkages are coupled to the front steering linkages by front-to-rear linkages, and the rear steering linkages are configured to oscillate rear wheels in response to rotation of the tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Unverferth Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Smith
  • Patent number: 8688331
    Abstract: In an example embodiment, a system for providing a height change command for an implement, comprises a height control module configured to interact with a computer, and configured to receive topographical data, provide a virtual field map based on said topographical data, provide a forward view polygon for an implement based on said virtual field map, and provide a height change command for said implement based on said forward view polygon and an implement control unit configured to receive said height change command and control movement of said implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: John Peterson, Quentin Guhr
  • Patent number: 8424897
    Abstract: A dual lane, multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes a forward module mounted on a plurality of axles and a rearward module mounted on a plurality of axles. The forward module is mechanically connected to the rearward module for providing a dual lane transport body. The forward module and the rearward module of the transport body each have a single central spine wherein the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module are each attached to the corresponding single central spine. The axles of both the forward module and the rearward module have an axle spacing of at least six feet. A hydraulic suspension is provided for dynamically stabilizing the axles for reducing axle yaw. An axle steering system having a plurality of steering rods controls the position of the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Alpha One Transporter Inc.
    Inventors: Earl R. Sutton, James R. McGhie
  • Patent number: 8286984
    Abstract: An articulated harvester is composed of a forward bogey having an operator's cab, an engine, a grain harvesting assembly, a grain transfer assembly, but being devoid of an on-board grain bin. A rearward bogey is attached by a joint to the forward bogey and has a powered wheel assembly, an on-board grain bin for receiving grain from the forward bogey grain transfer assembly, and a grain off-loading assembly. The improvement includes the rearward bogey having a powered wheel assembly of a powered stiff axle wheel assembly pivotable for steering the articulated harvester when the joint has articulated by a defined number of degrees. The joint may be connected to the rearward bogey powered stiff axle wheel assembly by a beam that has a second joint disposed ahead of the stiff axle and actuatable to crab the articulated harvester for grain unloading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Ben N. Dillon
  • Publication number: 20120217723
    Abstract: A steering system for a towed farm implement or wagon, such as a header transport, is provided that allows the tongue of the header transport to pivot approximately 90 degrees to the right or the left (i.e., 180 degrees in total) and translates the movement of the tongue to all of the wheels of the header transport. Front steering linkages are coupled to the tongue, and are configured to oscillate front wheels in response to rotation of the tongue. Rear steering linkages are coupled to the front steering linkages by front-to-rear linkages, and the rear steering linkages are configured to oscillate rear wheels in response to rotation of the tongue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: UNVERFERTH MANUFACTURING COMPANY INC.
    Inventor: David R. SMITH
  • Patent number: 8042826
    Abstract: A trailer hitch carriage assembly for reducing downward force on a tow vehicle and facilitating hitching of a trailer includes an axle having pivotable distal end portions and a tow bar pivotally coupled to a central portion of the axle. The tow bar has a proximal end and a distal end. A tie rod assembly is coupled to the distal end of the tow bar and has a pair of distal end portions. Each distal end portion of the tie rod assembly is pivotally coupled to a respective one of the distal end portions of the axle. A pair of hubs is included, each hub being rotationally coupled to a respective one of the distal end portions of the axle and wheels are coupled to the hubs. A trailer hitch receiver is coupled to the proximal end of the tow bar and a ball hitch is coupled to the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventor: Donald L. Ramsdell
  • Patent number: 8020880
    Abstract: A children's vehicle includes a body and a cross member attached to the body. A tongue assembly features a leading portion, a central portion and a trailing portion, with the central portion pivotably connected to the cross member. A handle is pivotally attached to the leading portion of the tongue assembly. A tie rod is pivotally attached to the trailing portion of the tongue assembly. A pair of axle spindles are pivotally attached one each to opposite ends of the cross member. A pair of wheels are rotatably mounted one each on the pair of axle spindles. A pair of generally S-shaped torque arms are connected one each to the axle spindles and pivotally connected one each to opposite ends of the tie rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Radio Flyer, Inc.
    Inventor: Shenwei Zhu
  • Publication number: 20110079985
    Abstract: A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: Roger A. Montag
  • Patent number: 7874570
    Abstract: A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Roger A. Montag
  • Patent number: 7874571
    Abstract: A trailer having a frame extending along a longitudinal axis and having a front end and a rear end, a steering linkage coupled to the frame, a pair of front wheel assemblies coupled to the front end of the frame, and a pair of rear wheel assemblies coupled to the rear end of the frame. Each wheel assembly includes a wheel carrier having a pivot member pivotally coupled to the frame along a steering axis, the wheel carrier being coupled to the steering linkage so that actuation of the steering linkage pivots the wheel carrier about the steering axis, and a wheel rotatably coupled to the wheel carrier along a wheel axis. The wheel axis is oriented approximately perpendicular to the steering axis, and the wheel axis is offset from the steering axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: 1708828 Ontario Ltd.
    Inventors: Oscar Frey, Ryan Frey
  • Publication number: 20100264625
    Abstract: A children's vehicle includes a body and a cross member attached to the body. A tongue assembly features a leading portion, a central portion and a trailing portion, with the central portion pivotably connected to the cross member. A handle is pivotally attached to the leading portion of the tongue assembly. A tie rod is pivotally attached to the trailing portion of the tongue assembly. A pair of axle spindles are pivotally attached one each to opposite ends of the cross member. A pair of wheels are rotatably mounted one each on the pair of axle spindles. A pair of generally S-shaped torque arms are connected one each to the axle spindles and pivotally connected one each to opposite ends of the tie rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: SHENWEI ZHU
  • Patent number: 7810832
    Abstract: A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: Roger A. Montag
  • Patent number: 7686320
    Abstract: A steering system for a tractor and trailer includes first and second sender cylinders which are turned 180° with respect to each other, and first and second receiver cylinders which are turned 180° with respect to each other. First and second front link members connect the first and second sender cylinders to a front equalizer arm, and first and second rear link members connect the first and second receiver cylinders to a rear equalizer arm. The pistons of the cylinders travel in straight paths experiencing no side loads, and each piston travels the same distance as the tractor turns with respect to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventors: James R. McGhie, Robb I. McGhie
  • Publication number: 20100025964
    Abstract: A trailer and hitch system for a mobile robot. The trailer includes a front Ackerman steering linkage, a releasable locking mechanism for releasably positioning the Ackerman steering linkage in a turned position to arrest the trailer, a tow bar extending upwardly from the Ackerman steering linkage and terminating in a lunette ring, and spaced skid members extending downwardly and rearwardly. The mobile robot includes a hitch assembly for the lunette ring. The hitch assembly has a frame including a slot for the lunette ring and a guide portion for guiding the lunette ring into the slot, a latch pivotable with respect to the frame and biased to close the slot, and a decoupling mechanism configured to move the latch to release the lunette ring from the slot. A robot arm is maneuverable to engage the decoupling mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Allan T. Fisk, Michael L. Robert, Michael T. Johnson, Charles Edwin Dean
  • Patent number: 7614636
    Abstract: A lock assembly for selectively latching the pivoting tongue of a steerable trailed vehicle includes an actuator assembly on the vehicle connected by a cable to latch bolt for spring biasing in discrete positions into aligned apertures for enabling and preventing tongue pivoting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Williams Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M. Williams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7540522
    Abstract: A steering connection assembly that interconnects an implement train comprising first and second detachable implements towed by a draw bar of a tow vehicle is provided. The first implement is pivotally attached at the draw bar so as to rotate about a first vertical axis, and the second implement is pivotally attached to the first implement. The steering connection assembly includes a drive linkage pivotally connected at a draw bar so as to rotate about a second vertical axis. A steering linkage interconnects a rearward end of the drive linkage to a wheel assembly in support of the frame of the second towed implement. In response to a turn of the tow vehicle, a hitch coupling member generates a turn signal communicated via the drive linkage so as to cause the steering linkage to steer the wheel assembly of the second implement in a direction opposite a turn direction of the tow vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Terrance A. Friggstad
  • Patent number: 7530521
    Abstract: A hose reel system for winding a liquid manure hose. The hose reel includes a spool pivoted in alignment with the wheels and axles of the system to allow for even winding of the hose on a spool. The spool is provided with curved domes on either, end and a protective bar to prevent the hose from winding beyond the ends of the spool. Pivoting the spool in alignment with the axle allows for a more even winding and unwinding of the hose, thereby reducing torsion, kinks and other damage to the hose during the rolling and unrolling processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Puck Custom Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Benny D. Puck
  • Publication number: 20090058042
    Abstract: A drawbar assembly includes a drawbar and a hammer strap that is fixed to the drawbar forward of a drawbar hanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: CNH America, LLC.
    Inventors: David L. Tveito, John T. Rasset, Russell V. Stoltman, Bob J. Overmann
  • Patent number: 7493977
    Abstract: A motorized chariot comprises a drive unit, a driver carrier unit and a tongue pivotally connecting the drive unit with the driver carrier unit. A tie-rod extends between the drive unit and the carrier unit with the tie-rod being moveable between the carrier unit and the frame such that movement of the tie-rod causes pivoting between the drive unit and the driver carrier unit to enable steering of the motorized chariot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: Terry Ewert
  • Patent number: 7484748
    Abstract: A steering connection assembly for a vehicle train having at least one implement towed behind a tow vehicle in a direction of travel is provided. The steering connection assembly includes an elongated tow bar interconnecting a first implement towed behind a second implement. A rearward end of the tow bar is includes an elongated opening to receive a steering rod member therethrough. A steering arm interconnects the steering rod member to a caster-type wheel assembly located at a forward of a first towed implement. With a first angle of rotation of the tow bar relative the longitudinal axis of the first implement, the vertical steering rod member slides along the opening of the tow bar such that the steering arm member and attached wheel assembly rotate a second angle of rotation less than the first angle of rotation of the tow bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Terry A. Friggstad
  • Patent number: 7478823
    Abstract: A drawbar clevis assembly includes a drawbar with a greater offset between the upper inboard member and the lower outboard member. The clevis assembly also includes a strap which is mounted to the drawbar and which has an opening in a mid portion. The strap is slid over the drawbar so that the opening receives a portion of the drawbar and so that the inner portion of the strap is attached to an underside of the inboard portion of the drawbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Joseph Luther Doubet, Bryan Kirk Buerkle
  • Patent number: 7478822
    Abstract: A steering gear pinion bearing assembly adapted to support a pinion in a rack and pinion steering apparatus comprises a pinion support member including a first end, a second end and a stepped body portion; and a bearing assembly carried by the pinion support member, the bearing assembly including at least a plurality of bearings and an outer race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Dennis F. Harer
  • Patent number: 7461854
    Abstract: A steering connection assembly is provided that interconnects a towed implement with a tow vehicle. The steering connection assembly includes a tongue member having a forward end pivotally connected at the tow vehicle so as to rotate about a first vertical axis, and a rearward end fixed relative to the frame of the agricultural implement. A drive linkage has a forward end pivotally connected at the tow vehicle so as to rotate about a second vertical axis. A steering linkage interconnects the rearward end of the drive linkage to a series of caster wheel assemblies in support of the frame of the implement. In response to a turn of the tow vehicle, the drive linkage communicates a turn signal via rotation about the second vertical axis so as to cause the steering linkage to steer the caster wheel assembly in the turn direction of the tow vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Terrance A. Friggstad
  • Patent number: 7458597
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multiple use adjustable trailer for use in transportation, storage and housing, comprising: a substantially Y-shaped tongue (18) which pivots on a frame (2) into a perpendicular position where the lower portions of the side arms of the tongue (18) function as support legs for the frame (2), enabling the frame (2) to store and display materials or house equipment in the trailer bed. The tongue (18) is further secured vertically by hitch pins (8) in brackets (28) on the frame (2) that can be locked in place as a deterrent to theft. Two flip-down legs (30) pivotably mounted on the side of the frame (2) are used as temporary support legs before the lower portions of the side arms of the tongue (18) are fully engaged. The flip-down legs (30) are engaged when a hitch pin (8) is released from a hitch means on each side of the frame (2), enabling each flip-down leg (30) to freely pivot downward to contact the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth L. MacDougall
  • Publication number: 20070284850
    Abstract: A running gear for a wagon comprises a cantilever extending away from one end of the wagon, a socket coupled to the cantilever proximate a distal end of the cantilever, a kingpin that rotatably engages the socket about a steering axis of rotation, at least one steering axle coupled to the kingpin for rotatably retaining at least one steering wheel to allow each steering wheel to swivel about the steering axis of rotation and a draw bar coupled to each steering axle to tow and steer the wagon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventors: Dale E. Husted, Robert G. Lauson
  • Patent number: 7147241
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a steering device for facilitating the steering of an implement towed by a work vehicle. The towed implement, for example, a farm implement such as a seeding device, comprises a main frame having front and rear ends and at least one steerable surface engaging wheel attached to the frame. The steering device comprising a sensor means mounted on the main frame of the towed implement for sensing a misalignment of the towed implement and the work vehicle and producing a signal corresponding to the misalignment. The steering device further comprises a steering means associated with the steerable wheel for receiving the signal produced by the sensor means and for effecting movement of the steerable wheel in response to the signal until the towed implement and the work vehicle are once again realigned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: One Pass Implements Inc.
    Inventors: Pat Beaujot, Penny Howells, Bruce Wilton, Brian Dean, Brian Kent
  • Patent number: 7011326
    Abstract: An automotive steering system with a torque sensor is disclosed. The steering system comprises a shaft linked to a set of road wheels; a sensor connected to the shaft for sensing torque applied to the shaft and operative to provide as output a signal indicative of said torque; a controller in signal communication with the sensor and operative thereby to accept as input from the sensor the signal indicative of the torque applied to the shaft; and a motor coupled to the shaft and in signal communication with the controller and operative thereby to accept as input from the controller a command to apply torque to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thaddeus Schroeder, Michel Farid Sultan, Andrzej Marian Pawlak
  • Patent number: 6938910
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tow carriage, especially for towing motorcars with the aid of a motor-cycle (2) or some other small vehicle. The carriage (1) comprises at least two wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) which supported are steerable by means of a steering device (22, 23) and via articulated pulling rods (7-10) can be coupled to preferably, the rear frame portion (11) of motor-cycle. On said pulling rods (7-10) there is, at each respective joint (16, 17), mounted an angle information transmitter (18, 19) which, when the rods (7, 9 and 8, 10) turn relatively each other in response to the motor-cycle (2) turning, actuate the steering device (22, 23) steering the wheels or, alternatively, said steering device (22, 23) being actuated by direction sensor mounted on the motor-cycle in order to detect a acceleration and turning/banking, the wheels (3, 4 and 5, 6) always assuming a correct steering angle as determined by the route of the motor-cycle (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventors: Mattias Liljeberg, Michael Liljeberg
  • Patent number: 6926299
    Abstract: An electric steering apparatus includes a brushless motor 3 which applies torque to a steering system through a speed reduction mechanism 4, and a resolver 7 which detects a rotation angle of the output shaft 31 of the brushless motor 3. The resolver 7 is arranged between the brushless motor 3 and the speed reduction mechanism 4 in a manner separately from the body 32 of the brushless motor 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsuhiko Yoneda, Yasuo Shimizu, Takashi Kuribayashi, Takashi Miyoshi
  • Patent number: 6796572
    Abstract: A method and device for steering a heavy load transport vehicle includes a variable length strut which cooperates with a power steering valve. The length of the variable length strut changes as a function of tow bar rotation. This length variation is mechanically coupled to the power steering valve, which in turn controls an automatic steering system. The present invention permits mechanical steering of the transport vehicle even in the event of failure of the automatic steering system, and does so without placing mechanical stress upon the power steering valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: American Heavy Moving & Rigging Inc.
    Inventor: James R. McGhie
  • Patent number: 6578862
    Abstract: An automotive steering rack-stroke adjusting device with which a driver can conveniently control the length of a steering rack-stroke as needed for changing a minimum turning radius, the device including: a rotational body rotatively arranged at both ends of a power cylinder of a steering system; a stop plate fixed at a rack for inserting or overlapping to the center of the rotational body according to the rotational state of the rotational body when the rack is pulled to the power cylinder to the maximum extent; and an actuator for rotating the rotational body forwards or backwards under the control of a control unit which is manipulated by a driver with an operational switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Soo-Bo Park, Un-Koo Lee
  • Publication number: 20030067140
    Abstract: A controlled articulation trailer with synchronized steering and a traveling top link three point tool bar hitch is disclosed. The controlled articulation trailer comprises a box-frame carriage having two separate but laterally aligned, wheeled axles near the back of the carriage. The aligned axles are mechanically angularly controlled by, or ‘synchronized to’, the movements of the draft vehicle. A tongue attaches to the draft vehicle via a hitch plate bolted to the draw bar of the draft vehicle. The tongue receiver fits onto a ball hitch and an adjustable stabilizer arm is bolted to the hitch plate and extends at an angle back to a tongue attachment. The tongue connects through the front of the carriage to a pivot point located on a bridge across the front-middle of the carriage and extends beyond this pivot point to connect, through doubly-pivoting tie-rods, to the wheels, thus controlling the articulation such that the trailer's wheels turn in synchronization to turns made by the draft vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Gene Gunderson
  • Patent number: 6443079
    Abstract: An agricultural machine has a movable rack (10) having at least one main wheel (16, 18), a hitch (12) which is arranged on the rack (10), a reservoir container (14) which is carried by the rack (10) and/or the hitch (12), and an agricultural implement (20) which is attached to the rack (10) at the rear in the direction of travel and has a plurality of rear support wheels (28). The machine is developed to the effect that the at least one main wheel (16, 18) is positively steered as a function of the pulling direction of a traction force which is exerted on the hitch (12). Such a machine is particularly compact and maneuverable even when the reservoir container is large.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Horsch Maschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Horsch
  • Patent number: 6325403
    Abstract: A dolly for transporting a helicopter across the ground is herein disclosed. The dolly comprises a pair of steerable wheel assemblies that are affixed to the respective ends of an axle. The axle has coupled thereto a pair of clamping assemblies that secure the skids of a helicopter to the dolly. A tow bar is coupled to the axle and also to a linkage that is connected between the steering mechanisms of the two steerable wheel assemblies for steering the dolly. To move the helicopter, the dolly is inserted beneath the forward ends of the helicopter's skids and coupled thereto. The helicopter is then supported upon the dolly and upon the rear ends of the helicopter's skids which may also be provided with wheels. The dolly is adjustable to compensate for helicopters having skids spaced at various distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Inventor: Wayne A. Brutger