Trailer Type Patents (Class 280/789)
  • Patent number: 11964700
    Abstract: Provided is a lightweight aluminum alloy carriage, which relates to the field of lightweight logistics equipment manufacturing application. The lightweight aluminum alloy carriage comprises a bottom plate assembly, and the bottom plate assembly comprises a front end part and a rear end part which are arranged front and back on an axis; the front end part comprises a transversely arranged aluminum alloy profile bottom plate, and the extrusion direction of the transversely arranged aluminum alloy profile bottom plate is perpendicular to the axis of the bottom plate assembly; and the rear end part comprises aluminum alloy square tube cross beams and a longitudinally arranged aluminum alloy profile bottom plate, and the aluminum alloy square tube cross beams are perpendicular to the axis of the bottom plate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: Fujian Minlu Lightweight Automobile Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaizheng Xiao, Xiang Li, Donggui Zhang, Yongda Fan
  • Patent number: 11904943
    Abstract: An embodiment chassis frame includes a plurality of partitions extending downwardly from an upper frame and having lower portions and a reinforcing member detachably connected to the lower portions of adjacent ones of the partitions. An embodiment chassis frame includes a plurality of partitions extending downwardly from an upper frame and having lower portions and a reinforcing member detachably connected to the lower portions of adjacent ones of the partitions, the reinforcing member including a first end portion and a second end portion opposing the first end portion, the first end portion and the second end portion detachably connected to the lower portions of the corresponding partitions, respectively, and a second reinforcing bracket at least partially surrounding an exterior surface of the second end portion, the second reinforcing bracket detachably connected to the lower portion of the corresponding partition through a second bolt and a second nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation
    Inventor: Han Jong Lee
  • Patent number: 11873035
    Abstract: A trailer moveable by a cab includes: a first section including a cavity and a second section at least partially positioned within the cavity, where the second section is longitudinally movable relative to the first section, such that a length of the trailer is variable. The second section includes a cart including at least one wheel configured to roll along a floor of the cavity and a height-variable member co-acting with the at least one wheel. The second section is configured to move longitudinally relative to the first section by the cart rolling along the floor of the cavity. A towing system and a method for adjusting a length of a trailer moveable by a cab are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Master Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Lutz, Steve Keitel, Michael McManigal
  • Patent number: 11858405
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle may include a chassis, an axle assembly, a floor, and a vehicle body enclosing living quarters. A fluid storage vessel may be supported in the chassis. The chassis may include a first and a second longitudinal chassis member each having an upper and lower edge, and an inner and outer face. Cross members have a first and second ends connected to the first and second chassis member, respectively. The cross members have an upper and lower edges extending between the ends. The cross members have an end height at the ends and a midsection height that is greater than the end height. A transport area extends longitudinally between two cross members, transversely between inner faces of the longitudinal chassis members, and vertically between upper and lower edges of the cross members. The fluid storage vessel is disposed in the transport area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: THOR TECH, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Snyder, Jonathan Gust
  • Patent number: 11780517
    Abstract: A utility trailer includes a deck frame, siderails extending along each side of the deck frame, a front rail extending along a front of the deck frame, and a rear gate/ramp across a rear of the deck frame. Each siderail rotates between an upright position extending away from the respective side the deck frame and a stowed position aligned with and over the deck frame. The front rail rotates between an upright position extending away from the deck frame and a stowed position aligned with the deck frame and over the folded siderails. The rear gate/ramp rotates between an upright position and a lowered position having one end resting on a surface below the utility trailer, and also rotates between the upright position and a stowed position aligned with the deck frame and over the folded siderails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Norstar Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Abram Loewen Harms, Jesko Jeff Schmitt Fehr, Vanessa Alejandra Perez Navarro
  • Patent number: 11776521
    Abstract: A sound absorbing structure includes a vehicle structure having a surface and at least one acoustic scatterer coupled to the surface. The at least one acoustic scatterer has a resonant frequency. The at least one acoustic scatterer has an opening and at least one channel. The at least one channel has a channel open end and a channel terminal end, the channel open end being in fluid communication with the opening. The sound absorbing structure may be configured to absorb sound waves at a certain frequency generated by a noise source. The certain frequency may be substantially similar to the resonant frequency of the at least one acoustic scatterer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignees: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Xiaoshi Su, Debasish Banerjee, Kai Aizawa, Steven R. Sorenson
  • Patent number: 11772438
    Abstract: A plug for insertion into a through hole of a king pin coupler plate of a trailer includes a body defining two opposite axial directions and having a cylindrical, circular and continuous outer surface defining a perimeter. A plurality of pliable ears extend from the outer surface. The ears are each individually aligned in the axial directions. The ears each have a width that is less than ten percent of a distance around the perimeter of the outer surface of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Inventor: Caleb Averill
  • Patent number: 11772705
    Abstract: A side sill assembly for an eco-friendly vehicle protects a high voltage battery mounted therein from shock upon side collision. The side sill assembly includes: a center member 11 fastened to a side surface of a center floor panel 23 for a vehicle, a front outer member 12 fastened to a front end of the center member 11, and a rear outer member 14 fastened to the rear end of the center member 11, in which each of the center member 11, the front outer member 12, and the rear outer member 14 has a cylindrical cross section and at least one partition wall for partitioning the inside thereof horizontally and vertically to absorb collision energy upon side collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Pil-Won Kang, Kyung-Bin Kim, Min-Uke Han
  • Patent number: 11702163
    Abstract: A transport system can employ a transport assembly with a main support member attached to a mounting connection, a tow connection, a suspension, and a horizontal articulation mechanism. The horizontal articulation mechanism may be configured to raise the suspension of a ground surface along a first direction and move the main support member in a second direction with the first direction being orthogonal to the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Ironman FFB, LLC
    Inventors: Tommy Edmonson, Phil Carson Coldiron
  • Patent number: 11685208
    Abstract: A dual-axle vehicle corner assembly which may include a sub-frame, a first arm connected to the sub-frame and rotatable with respect to the sub-frame about a first arm axis, the first arm having a first axle axis about which a first wheel rotates when connected to the first arm, a second arm connected to the sub-frame and rotatable with respect to the sub-frame about a second arm axis, the second arm having a second axle axis about which a second wheel rotates when connected to the second arm, and a suspension system comprising a piston assembly interconnecting the first arm and the second arm, the piston assembly is to controllably increase and decrease a length of the piston assembly to control a distance between the first axle axis and the second axle axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: REE AUTOMOTIVE LTD
    Inventors: Ahishay Sardes, Ran Dekel, Zohar Goldenstein, Ran Meir, Ido Gury
  • Patent number: 11518293
    Abstract: A composite boat trailer for use in saltwater. The beams, bolts, hangers, fenders, guide poles, suspension, and bunks of the trailer are formed from a composite material that cannot rust or corrode. The trailer employs a manufacturing technique that reinforces all beams to distribute forces anticipated during the movement of a boat on the trailer at highway speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: Steve French Enterprises, LTD, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen M. French
  • Patent number: 10960943
    Abstract: An upper coupler for a semi-trailer has a generally planar bottom plate. A kingpin attaches thereto to couple with a fifth wheel of a tractor. A reinforcement member extends across a width of the bottom plate to reduce bending of the bottom plate as it rests on the fifth wheel of the tractor. Along the reinforcement member's length, the reinforcement member has varying second moments of area taken in cross sections perpendicular to the reinforcement member's length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: GREAT DANE LLC
    Inventor: John M. Jones
  • Patent number: 10549789
    Abstract: A cargo vehicle configured to support cargo includes a frame assembly with at least one rail member defining a portion of an outer perimeter of the trailer. The cargo vehicle also includes a composite member adjacent to the frame assembly and a mounting member removably coupled to the at least one rail member and permanently coupled to the composite member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventor: Travis Smith McCloud
  • Patent number: 10427581
    Abstract: An improved trailer for loading and unloading a heat exchanger tube bundle is disclosed. The trailer provides for the transport of tube bundles and includes seal pans which capture debris and other materials falling from the tube bundle during transport. The present invention also provides for the periodic placement of slideable supports under a bundle as it is pushed onto a trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: Austin Industrial Services, LP
    Inventor: Thomas B. Boisture
  • Patent number: 10370032
    Abstract: Provided herein are embodiments of a mount for joining a substructure to a vehicle frame. The mount allows the substructure to float on the frame by permitting vertical movement of the substructure relative to the frame. Further, the mount restricts lateral and fore/aft movement of the substructure on the frame, helping to reduce any further contributions to frame torque. The mount is joined to the frame at a lower end and has a crook-shaped or C-shaped profile that wraps around an alignment tab of the substructure. Further, a rubber pad is provided on the alignment tab, and the mount has a structure, such as one or more stops, bolts, or pins, that extends downwardly around or through the rubber tab. It is the downwardly extending structure allows for the vertical movement of the substructure while also preventing substantial lateral and fore/aft movement of the substructure relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Spartan Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: James Roger Lackore, Jr., Scott D. Williamson
  • Patent number: 10320164
    Abstract: A grounding clip including: a head having an aperture disposed in the head; a first leg connected to a first edge of the head; a second leg connected to a second edge of the head, where the first leg and the second leg are substantially parallel; a first resilient tab connected to the first leg at an end distal from the end connected to the head; and a second resilient tab connected to the second leg at an end distal from the end connected to the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: RXL, INC.
    Inventor: Eddie Garcia
  • Patent number: 10100509
    Abstract: A crane-free system for moving a pre-fabricated enclosure includes a beam system and a system of coordinated self-contained hydraulic jack units, which in conjunction allow a pre-fabricated enclosure to be lifted off a semi-trailer, positioned by rolling on the system of beams above a pre-laid foundation, and lowered to the foundation. Optionally, the sliding beam system may be rotated using rotatable rollers to allow the pre-fabricated enclosure to move in a rotated direction. Optionally, a centering device and hydraulic ram may be used to center the pre-fabricated enclosure on the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: NORTHERN STAR INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Larry Smith, Gary Pennala
  • Patent number: 9919638
    Abstract: A mobile service building including a towable rigid frame, the frame configured to be lowered and raised by a hydraulic lift coupled to wheels and a tongue. A building is attached to the frame, the building having walls, a floor, a ceiling and a door in one of the walls, and includes an opening in the floor of the building. A downwardly facing camera is attached to the building, looking downwardly through the opening in the floor and being configured such that a driver can determine when the opening is positioned over a predetermined location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: David Paul Brand
  • Patent number: 9090293
    Abstract: A cargo bed assembly for a pickup truck includes an aluminum truck bed above a pair of frame rails. A plurality of roll-formed 6000-series aluminum cross-members extend along a width of the truck bed and contact the underside of the truck bed. The cross-members include longitudinal channels. Each cross-member contacts a pair of extruded 6000-series aluminum spacers underneath the cross-member at spaced locations to align with the frame rails. The spacers contact the frame rails and at least partially surround a portion of the outer surface of the cross-members to separate the cross-members from the frame rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Joseph Courtright, Vince Chimento, Joshua Hemphill, Jack Marchlewski, Jeffrey Alan Firzlaff, Lawrence J. Dupuis
  • Publication number: 20150084314
    Abstract: Embodiments include a support member for an extendable trailer with one or more flange members and one or more web members. In an embodiment, the web members include tabs and the flange members define slots. Other embodiments are also included herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Jeffrey Wilcox Ingels, Matthew Martin Schattgen, Shannon Brooke Richardson, Joshua Stephan Doyle
  • Patent number: 8985631
    Abstract: A trailer frame including an axle section having two spaced longitudinal frame members connected by at least one cross member, the longitudinal frame members each having a first end and a second end; a rear section attachable to the axle section; and a dimple assemble joining the axle section to the rear section, the dimple assembly including a dimple pattern formed on each frame member of the axle assembly, the dimple pattern on the axle assembly defining a first dimple axis, and a dimple pattern formed on one end of the rear section and nestable within the dimple pattern formed on the axle section, the dimple pattern on the rear section defining a second dimple axis offset relative to the first dimple axis to create a camber between the axle section and the rear section when the first dimple is nested within the second dimple pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 8960722
    Abstract: A trailer for transporting an agricultural harvesting head includes a pair of saddles for supporting the head. The saddles are adjustably mounted on the trailer frame and are simultaneously moved together by an actuator operated by a remote control. The saddles are connected by telescoping rod sections so that the spacing between the saddles is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Harvest International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Sivinski, Garry D. Friesen, Byron J. Friesen
  • Patent number: 8955853
    Abstract: An apparatus is described capable of use on smooth and rough terrains at both low and high speeds. The trailer apparatus has an auto leveling feature combined with uniform loading support that reduces torsional loading of the cargo. The invention also includes a trailer capable of travel at high speeds, which hydraulically equalizes distribution of the weight of the cargo. The invention further includes an easy lift tow bar, all axle steering, single tire axles, self-leveling and adjustable suspension, combination of air, anti-lock and electronic braking system, and ability to travel at high speed speeds with reduced system sway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Perkins Motor Transport, Inc.
    Inventors: Neil Perkins, John Ehr
  • Patent number: 8936277
    Abstract: A platform trailer includes a neck reinforcement structure located in the neck region. The neck reinforcement structure includes a first beam reinforcement structure located adjacent an inner side of the first beam that is oriented toward the second beam, and a second beam reinforcement structure located adjacent an inner side of the second beam that is oriented toward the first beam. A plurality of internal cross members extend between and interconnect the first and second beam reinforcement structures. A fifth wheel plate is fixedly secured to and that extends between both the first and second beams. A kingpin is connected to the fifth wheel plate and is adapted to be engaged by an associated tractor fifth wheel. The neck reinforcement structure allows for use of aluminum alloy beams with a reduced height in the neck region of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: East Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Howard D. Booher, Russell D. Pittman, Derek Davies
  • Patent number: 8925934
    Abstract: A torsion slide suspension has a pair of polyethylene slides on each side of the suspension that is received in slide channels on a trailer frame. The torsion slide suspension has a rubber spring on top for bearing against the trailer frame and provides suspension to support the wheels of a ground level loading trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Anderson Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8876148
    Abstract: A mobile building transportation device can comprise a frame, a front axle, and a rear axle. The frame can support a mobile building for transport on a public highway and can include left and right longitudinal support members and front and rear transverse support members that bear at least a portion of the weight of the mobile building. The front and rear axles can each be coupled to the frame by suspension components. The front and rear transverse support members can be configured to support the mobile building above the front and/or rear axles to facilitate minimizing a vertical distance between the mobile building and the front and/or rear axles. This can minimize a height of a center of gravity of the mobile building and facilitate unobstructed movement of the front and rear axles through a range of motion of the front and/or rear suspension components. At least one of the longitudinal and transverse support members can be constructed, at least in part, of tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: West States Tire & Axle, Inc.
    Inventor: Heath Sartini
  • Patent number: 8857837
    Abstract: A suspension assembly for securing a wheel to opposed sides of a container carrying frame. A pivoted wheel support arm is secured at a forward pivot end to a pivot pin retained in the frame. A wheel axle assembly is secured at the rear free end of the pivot arm and adapted to connect a wheel thereto and has a shock absorber connecting bracket. A shock absorber connecting member extends above the pivot pin and is pivotally displaceable in facial alignment with a stationary shock absorber connector secured to the frame. A shock absorber is retained captive between the shock absorber connecting member and the stationary shock absorber connector to absorb vertical displacement loads transmitted to the pivotal wheel support arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Max-Atlas
    Inventors: Jo{hacek over (e)}l Gaudet, Steve Asztalos, Eric Lapalme, Christopher Marris, Tibor Varga
  • 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: 8740249
    Abstract: A combine header transport trailer for transporting a combine header. The trailer includes mechanical jacks for raising and lowering the header bar thereon and for moving the header bar inwardly and outwardly with respect to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: DUO Lift Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Hellbusch, Patrick K. Sokol
  • Patent number: 8720938
    Abstract: An air suspension system of a tandem axle assembly for a trailer includes a front axle air spring configured to be coupled to a front axle assembly of the tandem axle assembly and a rear axle air spring configured to be coupled to a rear axle assembly of the tandem axle assembly. The air suspension system further includes an air reservoir in fluid communication with the front axle air spring and the rear axle air spring and a ratio valve in fluid communication with the air reservoir, the front axle air spring, and the rear axle air spring. The ratio valve is positioned between the air reservoir and the front axle air spring. Further, the ratio valve is selectively operable to send a lesser amount of air from the air reservoir to the front axle air spring than to the rear axle air spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 8714594
    Abstract: A combine header transport trailer for transporting a combine header. The trailer includes electrically operated jacks or screw actuators for raising and lowering the header bar thereon and for moving the header bar inwardly and outwardly with respect to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Duo Lift Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Hellbusch, Patrick K. Sokol
  • Patent number: 8684412
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Karl M. Steins
  • Patent number: 8662525
    Abstract: An adjustable width trailer is disclosed which is capable of hauling large machines, farm machinery, or the like. The trailer includes one or more pull-out extender assemblies mounted on the frame of the trailer. Each of the pull-out extender assemblies includes a plurality of horizontally disposed and horizontally spaced-apart support tubes which are secured to the frame of the trailer in a transverse relationship thereto so that the outer ends of the support tubes are positioned outwardly of the frame members of the frame of the trailer. Each of the pull-out extender assemblies includes first and second pull-out sections at one side of the trailer and third and fourth pull-out sections at the other side of the trailer which are individually movable between retraced and extended positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Dakota Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale J. Dierks, Patrick A. Geraets
  • Patent number: 8622429
    Abstract: A high-performance, light-duty, utility trailer that is pulled by a tow vehicle utilizing a two point coupling to the tow vehicle and a swiveling axle assembly. This novel design includes a tilting hitch assembly attached to the trailer frame and swiveling casters attached to the rear corners of the trailer frame, creating a three point “landing gear” for easy installation onto the tow vehicle and providing good un-hitched mobility allowing the trailer owner to easily move the trailer out-of-the-way when stored between each use. A wheel swiveling assembly that can be configured to provide steering geometry capable of being customized to accommodate driving habits and road conditions. A two point hitch assembly that allows the removal of adaptors when not in use for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ned Anthony Ardagna
  • Patent number: 8616812
    Abstract: A trailer apparatus for transporting a harvest header has a main beam on wheels. A bed assembly is pivotally attached to the main beam above the main beam such that when one side of the bed assembly moves up, an opposite side moves down. The bed assembly is supported at a desired tilt angle by adjustable tilt. The bed assembly includes a movable side extension along one side that is movable through a range from an extended position to a retracted position and can be releasably locked in the range. The tilt angle can be adjusted independently of the position of the side extension. A middle portion of the main beam and bed assembly can be laterally offset to form a recess to accommodate lift arms of a self propelled swather when the swather header is loaded on the bed assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Allan Bergen, Edward Bergen
  • Publication number: 20130341898
    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: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Heartland Recreational Vehicles, LLC
    Inventors: John M. Rhymer, Douglas M. Lantz, Scott J. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 8590917
    Abstract: A fifth-wheel trailer having a forward section comprising an adjustable-height floor. The floor being capable of moving up to a raised position to provide sufficient clearance for a towing vehicle to attach to the trailer for towing. The floor also being capable of moving down to a lowered position to provide a trailer with an approximately even floor and a full-height ceiling throughout. The present adjustable-height floor does not interfere with the structural stability of the trailer's main frame including its pin box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Garry W. Lee
  • Publication number: 20130300097
    Abstract: A trailer frame including an axle section having two spaced longitudinal frame members connected by at least one cross member, the longitudinal frame members each having a first end and a second end; a rear section attachable to the axle section; and a dimple assemble joining the axle section to the rear section, the dimple assembly including a dimple pattern formed on each frame member of the axle assembly, the dimple pattern on the axle assembly defining a first dimple axis, and a dimple pattern formed on one end of the rear section and nestable within the dimple pattern formed on the axle section, the dimple pattern on the rear section defining a second dimple axis offset relative to the first dimple axis to create a camber between the axle section and the rear section when the first dimple is nested within the second dimple pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 8562022
    Abstract: Improved trailers (e.g., semi-trailers) are disclosed. The trailers may include a floor having a top surface and a bottom surface, where the top surface is adapted to transport a payload, and an elongated shell connected to the bottom surface of the floor, where the elongated shell defines a portion of a substantially closed torsion-resistant chamber of the trailer. The trailers may have a torsion resistance that is substantially higher than conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. The trailers may weigh substantially less than conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. The trailers may realize a bending resistance that is at least equivalent to the bending resistance of conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Alutrec Inc.
    Inventors: Julien Nadeau, Michel Guillot, Jean-Christian Methot, Russell S. Long
  • Publication number: 20130257029
    Abstract: A trailer frame including an axle section having two spaced longitudinal frame members connected by at least one cross member, the longitudinal frame members each having a first end and a second end; a rear section attachable to the axle section; and a dimple assemble joining the axle section to the rear section, the dimple assembly including a dimple pattern formed on each frame member of the axle assembly, the dimple pattern on the axle assembly defining a first dimple axis, and a dimple pattern formed on one end of the rear section and nestable within the dimple pattern formed on the axle section, the dimple pattern on the rear section defining a second dimple axis offset relative to the first dimple axis to create a camber between the axle section and the rear section when the first dimple is nested within the second dimple pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • 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: 8505656
    Abstract: The present invention features an automobile hauling system for improved maneuverability and hauling capacity for a tractor and trailer combination used to transport automobiles. The system features a cab-over automobile hauling tractor having an extended wheelbase frame with first and second side notches. The tractor features a first steering axle assembly, a second steering axle assembly, and an h-link. A pitman arm first end is located on a steering box and a pitman arm second end is pivotally located on a first drag link. The tractor features a supplemental axle assembly and a drive axle assembly located on the frame bottom. The system features an automobile hauling trailer pivotally located on the frame top side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Jesus Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 8500154
    Abstract: A motor cycle trailer as shown in FIG. 1. wherein the axle item 1 can be easily removed by a locking pin arrangement without the use of tools, this enables collapsing of the trailer for storage purposes to be carried out within an acceptable time scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Douglas Nangle
  • Patent number: 8491010
    Abstract: A trailer frame including an axle section having two spaced longitudinal frame members connected by at least one cross member, the longitudinal frame members each having a first end and a second end; a rear section attachable to the axle section; and a dimple assemble joining the axle section to the rear section, the dimple assembly including a dimple pattern formed on each frame member of the axle assembly, the dimple pattern on the axle assembly defining a first dimple axis, and a dimple pattern formed on one end of the rear section and nestable within the dimple pattern formed on the axle section, the dimple pattern on the rear section defining a second dimple axis offset relative to the first dimple axis to create a camber between the axle section and the rear section when the first dimple is nested within the second dimple pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 8474871
    Abstract: A frame for recreational vehicles having a pair of oppositely spaced longitudinal frame members, having notches completely therethrough. The longitudinal frame members have a foam core in direct contact with a woven fiber fabric on an exterior of the longitudinal frame members with fabric flaps extending therefrom. The frame has a plurality of transverse stringers having a foam core in direct contact with a woven fiber fabric on an exterior of stringers that rest in notches of the longitudinal members. The stringers are complementary to the notches in the longitudinal members and the stringers have fabric flaps that extend along their length on opposite sides. The stringers extend completely through the longitudinal frame members. The flaps on the longitudinal frame members and the stringers are in overlapping contact. A deck having a layer of fabric covers the stringers, the flaps, and the longitudinal frame members and is impregnated with resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Eric Ludwick
  • Patent number: 8465036
    Abstract: A suspension includes first and second arms that connect a rigid axle to a frame structure. The first arm has one end configured for connection to a rigid axle structure and an opposite end adapted for connection to one lateral side of the frame structure. The second arm has one end configured for connection to the rigid axle structure and an opposite end adapted for connection to an opposite lateral side of the frame structure. The suspension includes a first air spring associated with the first arm and a second air spring associated with the second arm. The first and second air springs are configured to be positioned laterally outboard of the frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Michael A. Power, Gregory D. Pavuk
  • Patent number: 8448989
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a trailer comprising a trailer bed which is at least 5 partly made of a composite material and at least one axle which extends in cross direction of the trailer and is connected to the trailer bed for suspending the wheels. The trailer bed comprises an upper and a lower load absorbing surface, wherein the upper load absorbing surface comprises in longitudinal direction a front and a back area and a connection area between them. Between the upper 10 and lower load absorbing surface, at least one reinforcing member is mounted which is resilient and which is provided to function as a support for the upper load absorbing surface in a loaded state of the upper load absorbing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Groep Stevens International
    Inventor: Jan Verhaeghe
  • Publication number: 20130119650
    Abstract: A trailer frame including an axle section having two spaced longitudinal frame members connected by at least one cross member, the longitudinal frame members each having a first end and a second end; a rear section attachable to the axle section; and a dimple assemble joining the axle section to the rear section, the dimple assembly including a dimple pattern formed on each frame member of the axle assembly, the dimple pattern on the axle assembly defining a first dimple axis, and a dimple pattern formed on one end of the rear section and nestable within the dimple pattern formed on the axle section, the dimple pattern on the rear section defining a second dimple axis offset relative to the first dimple axis to create a camber between the axle section and the rear section when the first dimple is nested within the second dimple pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • 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