Abstract: A bicycle trailer pivot assembly can comprise first and second yoke arms with respective first and second end portions and a pivot coupling the first end portion of each yoke arm to a bicycle trailer frame. The first end portions the yoke arms comprise respective first and second hinge portions that interfit and that receive a hinge pin that couples the first end portions together and to the bicycle trailer frame for pivoting about an upright axis. The first and second hinge portion comprise respective stops positioned to engage one another to limit the maximum distance to which the second end portions of the first and second yoke arms can be spread apart. The first and second hinge portions can comprise respective stops that limit both the maximum and minimum spread apart positions of the second end portions of the yoke arms.

Abstract: A method for coating a turbomachine part with a self-lubricating includes: providing a rotor or thrust disc of the turbomachine; applying, by a thermal spraying process, a self-lubricating coating having of a mixture of 50 to 90 wt % of alumina (Al2O3) with titanium oxide (TiO2) to a surface of the rotor and/or a surface; and finishing the coated surface of the rotor and/or thrust disc.

Abstract: A front bumper for a utility vehicle (“UTV”) may couple to the front of the UTV. The front bumper may include a cargo platform for providing additional cargo space to the UTV and for segregating items stored on the front bumper from items stored in the passenger area and/or a cargo bed on the back of the UTV. The front bumper may include a tool exchange system designed to store and hold various tools and equipment on the UTV, such as fishing poles, guns and chainsaws. An attachment rod may be used to couple the tool exchange system to the front bumper.

Abstract: A recreational collapsing/expanding tow bar for towing a vehicle. The tow bar contains a collapsing/expanding middle part and a pair of attachment ends. The attachment ends include a sleeve, fastener, and bar end. The fastener includes a first end, a second end, a ball, and a shaft. The fastener is secured within the sleeve and retained with the bar end. The fastener can be used in a fixed rigid position or a rotational position. The collapsing/expanding middle part is rigid and adjustable to various distances between the towing and towed vehicle, wherein the device is compact in size and easily stored. Additional towing connectors are disclosed to engage a snowmobile and motorcycle for being towed.

Abstract: Provided is a trailer platform having an adjustable ball position. The platform has a first end portion sized to removably mount within a trailer hitch receiver and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. A movable ball mount having a ball hole sized to mount a trailer ball is on the movable ball mount and the movable ball mount is movably mounted on the second end portion of the platform so that the movable ball mount can be moved between a retracted position and an extended position on the platform to adjust a distance between the first end of the platform the ball hole, with the extended position providing a greater distance between the ball hole and the first end portion than the distance between the ball hole and the first end portion in the retracted position. Also provided is a method of using the movable ball mount to provide slack to disconnect a trailer coupler from the trailer ball.

Abstract: A tow hitch assembly having a body for mounting the tow hitch assembly relative to an associated vehicle includes a first member rotatably mounted relative to the body and a second member slideably mounted relative to the first member, with the second member including a tow hitch. The tow hitch assembly includes a stowed position at which the first member is in a first rotational position relative to the body and the second member is in a first longitudinal position relative to the first member. Further, the tow hitch assembly includes a deployed position at which the first member is in a second rotational position relative to the body and the second member is in a second longitudinal position relative to the first member.

Abstract: A tensioning unit for pull elements such as cables includes a tensioning element and a spring element, wherein the tensioning element and the spring element are arranged in a row, a length of the tensioning element is shortened in such a manner that the tensioning element has a pretension, the pretension is designed to increase the length of the tensioning element, and wherein the direction of the length enlargement of the tensioning element is directed away from the spring element.

Abstract: A hitch comprising: a) a first member having a first top surface, an opposing first bottom surface, a first side, an opposing second side, a first end, a distal second end, and at least one channel proximate the first end and extending from the first side through to the second side. A second channel proximate the second end and extending from first top surface to the bottom surface; and b) a second member next to the second end and having a predetermined thickness, the second member having a third end, a fourth end, and a third channel next to the fourth end. The third channel extends through the predetermined thickness. A portion of the second member is rigidly affixed to a portion of the first member, so that the second bottom surface and the first top surface are at an acute angle Ø.

Abstract: An optional device of the present disclosure is attachable and detachable with respect to an image forming apparatus via a connection member fitted to a side face of a main body of the optional device. The connection member includes a shaft, a connector, and a lock member. The shaft is supported by the main body to be slidable in an axial direction. The connector is fixed to the shaft and coupled to the image forming apparatus. The lock member is capable or restricting movement of the shaft in the axial direction. A position of the connector is adjusted by releasing the restriction placed on the shaft by the lock member and then sliding the shaft in the axial direction.

Abstract: A front bumper for a utility vehicle (“UTV”) may couple to the front of the UTV. The front bumper may include a cargo platform for providing additional cargo space to the UTV and for segregating items stored on the front bumper from items stored in the passenger area and/or a cargo bed on the back of the UTV. The front bumper may include a tool exchange system designed to store and hold various tools and equipment on the UTV, such as fishing poles, guns and chainsaws. An attachment rod may be used to couple the tool exchange system to the front bumper.

Abstract: A top link for a tractor front counterweight support linkage. The link is a fixed length elongate body having at a first end a pivoting connection with a chassis of the tractor and at a second end a slot to slidably receive an attachment bolt connectable to a tractor front counterweight. The link further includes a mechanism to selectively permit or prevent sliding movement of an attachment bolt received in the slot.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an extension apparatus and method for attaching to a trailer tongue having a trailer hitch defining a first plane. The apparatus comprises a suspension bar defining a second plane and has a proximal end and a distal end, a ball adapted to be removably received in the trailer hitch and positioned between the suspension bar proximal and distal ends and a block positioned on the suspension bar distal end. A first extension portion defines a third plane and has a proximal end and a distal end, the first extension portion proximal end defines an opening adapted to removably receive the block, and the first extension distal end having a trailer hitch adapted to removably engage a ball on a vehicle. A permanent receiver mount is adapted to removably engage at least one of the trailer tongue and the suspension bar.

Abstract: The collapsible triangular watercraft tow device provides for towing an object or device behind a tow watercraft. The triangular shape provides best portability combined with superior towing characteristics and basic, inexpensive construction and sale. The pivot hinge and adjustable length of the device further accommodate various tow watercraft and towed objects and watercraft.

Abstract: The inventive technology relates to methods and apparatus for an improved self-contained extendable trailer mount that may be independently used, and/or retrofitted to existing vehicle mount/hitch systems.

Abstract: A vehicle front structure includes a bumper beam formed as a hollow body having open ends, and elongation members received within the open ends and extending laterally outward.

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.

Abstract: A spreader bar includes a frame having a leading end and a trailing end. A pivot member is pivotally mounted to the trailing end of the frame and adapted to be removably connected to a spreader bogie. Spread links adapted to be removably connected to a trailer are pivotally and removably attached to the leading end of the frame. The length of the spreader bar may be changed by substituting spread links having different lengths.

Abstract: The inventive technology relates to methods and apparatus for an improved self-contained extendable trailer mount that may be independently used, and/or retrofitted to existing vehicle mount/hitch systems.

Abstract: An improved aircraft towing apparatus, which is attachable to a small vehicle such as a golf or utility vehicle. The apparatus has a swiveling hitch bar pivotally mounted to a vehicle and a tow bar sleeve pivotally mounted to the center of the hitch bar, with the tow bar sleeve positioned underneath of the hitch bar. The device further comprises an extendable tow bar which is positioned within the tow bar sleeve. The tow bar is slidably insertable into the tow bar sleeve. The tow bar, when not in use, may be slid back through the tow bar sleeve such that the majority of the length of the tow bar is secured out of the way underneath the chassis of the utility vehicle.

Abstract: An assembly and method allow military vehicles to be towed. In an embodiment, a towing assembly for towing a vehicle with a towing vehicle includes a lunette. The lunette attaches the towing assembly to the towing vehicle. The towing assembly also includes tow bars. The tow bars are attached to the lunette. At least one of the tow bars is laterally moveable. The towing assembly also includes tow legs. Each tow leg is slidably engaged with an interior of a tow bar. The tow leg is attachable to the vehicle.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an extension apparatus and method for attaching to a trailer tongue having a trailer hitch defining a first plane. The apparatus comprises a suspension bar defining a second plane and has a proximal end and a distal end, a ball adapted to be removably received in the trailer hitch and positioned between the suspension bar proximal and distal ends and a block positioned on the suspension bar distal end. A first extension portion defines a third plane and has a proximal end and a distal end, the first extension portion proximal end defines an opening adapted to removably receive the block, and the first extension distal end having a trailer hitch adapted to removably engage a ball on a vehicle. A permanent receiver mount is adapted to removably engage at least one of the trailer tongue and the suspension bar.

Abstract: A trailer converter dolly includes a frame bearing a fifth wheel supported by a suspension mechanism, an axle assembly, and a wheel assembly. A drawbar housing secured to the front of the frame moveably receives a drawbar which is configured to move toward and away from a leading truck or trailer, thus adjusting the distance between the towed trailer attached to the trailer converter dolly and a leading truck or trailer. A speed sensor determines the speed of the trailer converter dolly and provides one or more signals relating to the speed of the trailer converter dolly. An automatic adjusting mechanism associated with the moveable drawbar moves the drawbar in response to the one or more speed signals provided by the speed sensor.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to differing embodiments of safety trailers, which have first and second platforms and a safety wall positioned therebetween. The platforms and safety wall define an area protected from vehicular incursions.

Abstract: A Collapsible Trailer. The trailer is lightweight, but durable, and includes a set of detachable deck segments that can be assembled into a deck. The trailer further includes a suspension assembly that attaches to the deck once the deck is assembled or, alternatively, is permanently attached to one deck segment. Intra-deck segment support is provided by slidable rods that are extendable to bridge between a pair of adjacent segments. Each deck segment has a male edge to be inserted into a female edge to create an exceedingly strong, interlocking hinge-like structure. The deck and trailer can be assembled without the need for any tools. The deck segments, when disassembled, are stackable into a condensed deck stack. A foldable suspension facilitates the stackable storage and transportation of the trailer. The trailer is convertible into a cargo platform that can be attached directly to a conventional trailer hitch receiver on a vehicle.

Abstract: Generally, a hitch having a retractably extendable member reciprocally driven by a rotatable member having a first end configured for coupling to a hitchable object.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved all terrain vehicle (ATV) trailer hitch system, comprising a first and second pivotal joint connected by an elongated driveshaft for navigating uneven terrain and maneuvering through tight turns without joint binding or trailer tipping. The driveshaft comprises a length adjustable member having a first end connecting to a lead vehicle via a first pivotal joint that statically supports the joint and allows pitching of the driveshaft. The driveshaft second end attaches by way of a second pivotal and rotatable joint to a trailer attachment assembly. The trailer attachment assembly provides connection to the trailer and for receiving an elongated drive screw member that establishes a rotational joint. The second pivotal joint therefore provides yaw and roll capability for the trailer. The system provides a multiple joint connection separated by an elongated driveshaft between a vehicle and a trailer for reduced binding and off-road maneuvering.

Abstract: A collapsible cart-trailer includes a folding mechanism that folds the cart-trailer into a small form factor, at least two wheels, modular, and removable and compartmentalized storage. The collapsible cart-trailer is operable in a cart mode and a trailer mode. In the trailer mode, the cart-trailer may be coupled to a movable object by a collapsible, length adjustable tow bar. In the cart mode, the cart-trailer includes a collapsible handle.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring load between: a) a towing vehicle having front and rear wheels which comprises a tow assembly including a tow bar; and b) a towed device which includes a drawbar; wherein the tow bar and drawbar attach to one another, the apparatus including a shock absorber; and a load transfer mechanism configured for adjustably transferring at least a portion of the load of the towed implement to the front of the vehicle in a region leading the front wheel axle via the shock absorber.

Abstract: The inventive technology, in embodiments, may be described as an extended trailer hitch receiver tube support apparatus that uses triangulation of key structural components to provide a hitch of comparatively higher strength. Tensionable receiver tube supporters may be used to achieve a triangular lattice support; a vertical member established above a cross member may provide a forward attachment site for the tensionable receiver tube supporters, thereby allowing the transfer of forces from the extended receiver tube to the vertical member, and then back to the vehicle frame (or frame attached component) via tensionable vertical member supporters.

Abstract: Provided is a tugger attachment apparatus configured for use with a pallet transport. The pallet transport has a front drive portion and a rear load portion having a pair of forks. The tugger attachment includes a body, a fork coupling member at a bottom side of the body that is configured to secure the body to the forks, and a hitch supported by the body. A linkage can be provided that opens and closes the hitch in response to raising and lowering of the forks of the pallet transport.

Abstract: A locking and release mechanism device for use with collapsible telescoping members, such as a tow bar that can be collapsed for ease of storage when not in use, and provide for attachment, locking and detachment regardless of load, e.g. to towed and towing vehicle devices regardless of vehicle static load relative to each other. Exemplary In embodiments of the invention include a locking mechanism using roller release members which are lever actuated, the roller release member according to the present invention cooperate with the telescopic members and related elements such that to release the locking mechanism members, a minimum lever force is required.

Abstract: A Collapsible Trailer is disclosed. Also disclosed is a trailer that is lightweight, but durable, and includes a set of detachable deck segments that can be assembled into a deck. The trailer further includes a suspension assembly that attaches to the deck once the deck is assembled or, alternatively, is permanently attached to one deck segment. The horizontal intra-deck segment support is provided by slidable rods that are extendable to bridge the intersection between a pair of adjacent segments. Each deck segment has a male edge and a female edge; the male edge can be inserted into the female edge to create an interlocking hinge-like structure to provide longitudinal stability along the special plane of the assembled deck. Furthermore, the deck and trailer can be assembled without the need for any tools or additional equipment. In all cases, the deck segments, when disassembled, stackable into a condensed deck stack.

Abstract: Improvements in a trailer hitching and tracking steering system are disclosed include a new style RV or wagon style RV that includes an extendable, variable position tow bar that accommodates misalignment of a tow vehicle. The tow bar can be rotated for storage within the RV wagon. Further improvements include a wheel steering mechanism to improve tracking of a towed vehicle using a bi-directional caster front suspension for steering a wagon style RV in both a forward and reverse direction. The caster of the front wheels is automatically re-directed depending upon the direction of travel of the RV. The suspension system includes a steerable rear suspension that minimizes the amount the back wheels will cut the corner when turning. The improvements also include the use of visible light beams to guide a tow vehicle backing up to an RV to be correctly positioned for hitching without assistance.

Abstract: A tow bar having telescoping tow bar legs connected to a head member which is structured to be releasably securable to a towing hitch member of a towing vehicle; aft leg connector mechanisms structured to releasably connect the tow bar legs to a towed vehicle; and a latching mechanism, including latching portions structured to releasably retain the tow bar legs in a stored configuration, and locking portions structured to releasable lock the tow bar legs in a deployed configuration.

Abstract: A tow bar suspension system includes a tow bar pivotally connected to a trailer frame, first and second mounts coupling the suspension bar to the tow bar, an elongate connector, and a coupling link. The connector couples the coupling link and the suspension bar, while the coupling link couples the connection bracket and the trailer frame. The suspension bar is angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tow bar such that the weight of the tow bar is applied as a torsion force on the suspension bar, which resists this force to suspend the tow bar off a ground surface. The coupling link is adjustable in length to modify the pitch of the tow bar with respect to the ground surface.

Abstract: A hitch apparatus includes a housing and a tow bar movably disposed within the housing. The housing includes spaced-apart first and second sections. At least one of the sections includes an elongated slot. The tow bar includes a guide member that extends outwardly from the tow bar at the proximal end thereof and that is operably engaged with the slot. The housing may include a pair of tow bar guide doors pivotally secured between the first and second sections that limit the extent which the tow bar pivots and that guide the tow bar as it is retracted. The housing may include a pair of guide posts extending between the first and second sections and the tow bar may include a pair of guide wings that contact the guide posts to limit the extent to which the tow bar can pivot and guide the tow bar as it is retracted.

Abstract: Disclosed is a trailer hitch system that is configured to rotate to a stowing position and an operating position. When in the operational position, a coupler arm of the trailer is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupler arm contributes to the length of the trailer. When in the stowing position, the coupler arm of the trailer is bent at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupling arm does not contribute to the overall length of the trailer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a trailer hitch system that is configured to rotate to a stowing position and an operating position. When in the operational position, a coupler arm of the trailer is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupler arm contributes to the length of the trailer. When in the stowing position, the coupler arm of the trailer is bent at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupler arm does not contribute to the overall length of the trailer.

Abstract: A tow bar including a pintle hitch, telescoping tow bar legs pivotally connected to a head member, a lunette ring fixedly or pivotally connected to the head member, leg connector mechanisms releasably connecting the tow bar legs to a vehicle to be towed, and a latching mechanism including latching portions structured to releasably retain the tow bar legs in a stored configuration and locking portions with cammed release mechanisms wherein the locking portions are structured to releasable lock the tow bar legs in a deployed configuration.

Abstract: A portable draft bar assembly including an end bracket configured to be mounted to a plurality of bucket attachment types of various machinery, and a main bar having a first end configured to be selectively coupled to the end bracket and a second end configured to receive and retain one of a plurality of hitch assembly types. An anchor bracket is configured to be selectively coupled to the main bar at one of a plurality of positions, and an end clamp is slideably coupled to the main bar between second end and the anchor bracket and includes an angled channel.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to differing embodiments of safety trailers, which have first and second platforms and a safety wall positioned therebetween. The platforms and safety wall define an area protected from vehicular incursions.

Abstract: A collapsible cart-trailer includes a folding mechanism that folds the cart-trailer into a small form factor, at least two wheels, modular, and removable and compartmentalized storage. The collapsible cart-trailer is operable in a cart mode and a trailer mode. In the trailer mode, the cart-trailer may be coupled to a movable object by a collapsible, length adjustable tow bar. In the cart mode, the cart-trailer includes a collapsible handle.

Abstract: An extendable trailer comprising wheels carrying a fixed frame, and a fixed support tube carrying a plurality of bearings that support an extendable support tube passing through said fixed support tube. A portion of a trailer hitch supported on the extendable support tube and a fixed pipe carried inside the extendable support tube protecting wires for trailer lights and accessories. The trailer has a first extended position where the tongue is extended and the length of the trailer is the greatest and a second position where the tongue is collapsed back into the trailer.

Abstract: Provided is a hitch for towing a trailer behind a vehicle licensed to navigate public roadways. The hitch includes a base member to be coupled adjacent to a tail section of the vehicle, and a first support member portion coupled transversely to the elongated shank and extending outwardly in a direction generally away from the base member. A first arm is telescopically adjustable relative to the support member and supports a first connector provided adjacent to a distal end thereof. The first gimbal connector is cooperable with a first trailer connector to establish a linkage with first trailer connector. A second support member portion is coupled to the base member and extends outwardly in a direction generally away from the base member. A second connector is supported adjacent to a distal end of the second support member and is also cooperable with a second trailer connector to establish a linkage with the second trailer connector.

Abstract: Disclosed is a trailer hitch system that is configured to rotate to a stowing position and an operating position. When in the operational position, a coupler arm of the trailer is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupler arm contributes to the length of the trailer. When in the stowing position, the coupler arm of the trailer is bent at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the trailer so that the coupling arm does not contribute to the overall length of the trailer.

Abstract: A vehicle extender for selective connection with a base vehicle. The extender includes a frame and two wheels on an axle which may be driveable. There are inter-engageable air, electrical and brake connectors on the frame to provide electrical and brake systems to the vehicle extender from the base vehicle, and there is a quick-connection assembly for connecting the vehicle extender to the base vehicle. There can be a combination of a base vehicle and a vehicle extender, with provision for quick connect/disconnect. The base vehicle has a chassis, a body including a cargo bed, engine, tires, an electrical system, an air system and a brake system.

Abstract: An adjustable trailer for receiving a container, comprising a main member adapted to be attached at a free end thereof to a vehicle, at least one adjustable unit extending transversally of and being connected to the longitudinal main member. A length of the adjustable unit is adapted to be varied. An attachment mechanism is provided for locking the adjustable unit in a selected position. The trailer defines an area for receiving the container, with the width of this area being adapted to be adjusted via the adjustable unit so as to accommodate the container. The container is adapted to be mounted to the trailer.

Abstract: A collapsible patient supporting carrier configured as either a backboard or a stretcher for being pulled or towed behind a person, animal or vehicle, such as a bicycle, motorcycle, snow mobile or jet ski. The carrier comprises a plurality of support sections interconnected by connecting mechanisms that are configured to selectively place the carrier in a collapsed condition having a support surface for carrying medical supplies or an extended condition for transporting an injured person. Each support section is made up of a frame and one or more support members, such as a rigid plate or a somewhat flexible material, attached to the frame. The forward end of the carrier has a tow connector member to connect to a tow member for towing. Transport members, such as wheels, skis or a floatation member, are operatively connected near the second end of the carrier to facilitate movement over a surface.

Abstract: A locking device of extendable and retractable container semi-trailers comprises four link bars, two lock pin assemblies, a crossmember, a falling tube and a pull assembly. Two ends of the pull assembly are connected with two link bars and one lock pin assembly respectively. Said pull assembly comprises an automatic locking and releasing device fixed rotatablely between a bottom plate and a top plate of said crossmember. The pull assembly is rotated round the automatic locking and releasing device to a locking place, and the automatic locking and releasing device locks said pull assembly. The falling tube acts on the automatic locking and releasing device, and the pull assembly is released.

Abstract: A trailer and system for use with a vehicle that allows for storing the trailer in the vehicle during non-use. The foldable trailer and a receiving arrangement mountable to the vehicle, allows eased storage of the unused trailer and requires minimized storage space. The folding of the trailer also facilitates use of the trailer in various configurations for various needs.