Patent Grant
10358158
The present invention relates to trailers. More specifically, the invention relates to an enclosed convertible trailer for use in various activities or for use as a utility trailer and a towing structure that may be used with said trailer.
Generally, enclosed trailers are towed by vehicles such as trucks or vans. The trailers have a pair of wheels allowing for towing, however the wheels limit the ability of smaller vehicles, even light weight trucks, to tow an enclosed trailer or uneven, muddy or otherwise rough terrain.
Trailer frameworks also generally include an integral portion extending outwardly on one end that is configured for connection to the towing vehicle. When not in use, the towing end remains extending outwardly from the trailer and when in use, present a tripping or injury hazard to those walking near the trailer or the framework.
An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a light weight convertible trailer framework, where the framework can support an open or an enclosed trailer. The framework is a wheeled framework for a trailer. The wheeled framework is further adapted with a plurality of skis such that the framework and thus the trailer supported thereon can be towed using either the wheels or the skis and the method of towing can be selected given the terrain conditions. The ski mode, when the trailer framework is towed by contact of the skis sliding over the ground can be used without requiring removal of the wheels. The wheels can be used for towing while the skis also remain connected to the framework (but not in contact with the ground surface). The enclosed trailer may be comprised of composite panels forming walls, a base and roof to further add to the light weight nature of the entire trailer.
The framework may be comprised of a plurality of metal tubes, such as aluminum. The tubing provides a framework for supporting a trailer enclosure thereon. At least one pair of wheels are operably attached to the framework, for example, on opposing sides of a distal end (opposite the towing attachment end) of the trailer. The wheels are operably attached to the framework via an axle, however this axle and/or the wheel connections may also be configured to rotate such that rotation of the axle and/or wheel connections raises or lowers the wheels with respect to their connection to the framework. Thus, rotation is converted to vertical movement of the wheels.
A bottom or ground facing surface of at least one section of the framework is adapted with at least one plate configured to contact the ground. The plate(s) may co-extend a portion of the length of the trailer away from the tow-connection end towards the wheels, however the plate(s), hereinafter referred to as a ski(s) are positioned secured to the framework and positioned between (inside) the pair of wheels so as not to inhibit use of the wheels. When the wheels are raised, the skis contact the ground and the trailer may be pulled by the skis. When the wheels are lowered, the skis are raised off of the ground and the trailer may be pulled by the wheels. The skis may be metal or plastic and may be coated with a material to reduce the coefficient of friction between the skis and the ground.
Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a tow-bar that is pivotable between a stowed position and an in-use position, where the tow-bar is also easily removable from connection with the trailer framework and also from connection with the towing vehicle. The tow-bar is pivotably and removably connected at a plurality of spaced apart locations to a trailer framework. A first end of the tow-bar comprises at least two terminal ends of diverging arms where the terminal ends of these arms are configured to pivotably connect to the framework of the trailer. The second, opposing end of the tow bar comprises converging ends of the arms in an apex, where a connector for a tow vehicle is also positioned. This second end is configured for the tow-bar to be also removably attached at the second end via the vehicle connector to a tow vehicle.
The tow-bar further comprises a rigid member or arm extending from the first end to the second end of the tow-bar, where the rigid member may be positioned between the diverging arms. At a terminal end of the rigid member, which is positioned at the first end of the tow-bar, the terminal end of the rigid member can be configured to connection to the trailer framework and this connection may also be pivotable. An opposing first end of the rigid member meets the apex of the tow-bar arms at the second end and can be secured to the apex with a pin or clamp, thus providing stability to the tow-bar when the tow-bar is in the use position. The tow bar may pivot with the tow-bar as being connected to the second end of the tow bar to the stored position, or the rigid member may pivot independently of the tow-bar by only being connected to the framework and not secured to the tow-bar. The use position is a position where the tow-bar is concurrently connected to the tow-vehicle and the framework of the trailer, allowing for the trailer to be towed. The rigid member may then be secured to both the framework and the tow-bar itself for stability. In the stowed position, the tow-bar is connected only to the framework and is pivoted or rotated about the generally horizontal axis of the framework, such that, for example, the tow-bar is rotated upwardly and out of the way as it may be resting vertically against an trailer wall supported by the framework. The tow-bar can also be easily removed from both the framework and the tow vehicle and thus stored when not in use to prevent theft.
The tow-bar may be an aluminum or metal extrusion where components are welded or otherwise secured together and each of the pivotable connections, such as the pivotable attachment points at the first end may comprise pins for preventing or limiting the extent of the pivoting when the tow-bar is in use.
A convertible trailer is described herein and comprises a framework having integrated skis that also accepts tire, wheel, and axle assemblies such that the trailer is configured for dual towing modes, selectable based on changing environmental conditions. The trailer is a convertible trailer that can be towed in a “wheel mode” or “a ski mode” as described herein.
Also described is a tow-bar assembly for coupling the framework of a tow vehicle, wherein the tow-bar assembly is convertible between rigid and pivoting configurations.
The tow-bar assembly includes a tow-bar attached to the trailer framework (and usable with any pre-existing trailer) at two or more points that lie upon the same axis which allow for free rotation of the tow-bar while the tow-bar is in a pivoting configuration. Thus, this forms a trailer which behaves similar in fashion to a sled, which greatly reduces the hitch weight on the tow vehicle. The tow-bar also comprises a rigid member, such that when pinned in one or more attachment points between said tow-bar and trailer frame, the rigid member creates a rigid frame configuration, allowing the tow-bar and hitch to behave similar to a traditional trailer tongue.
The trailer described herein is a lightweight enclosed trailer that is designed for use in connection with activities such as ice fishing, hunting and camping. The trailer may also be used as an enclosed utility trailer for carrying cargo and other items such as motorcycles, ATV's or other equipment.
Referring to
The walls 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34 and/or roof 36 may be comprised of panels such as laminated composite panels. These panels are insulated and are also waterproof which prevents mold formation and rotting of the components. The panels are also lightweight and thus contribute to the overall lightweight nature of the trailer 10.
The use of lightweight materials for the walls and the framework tubing ensures the ability to tow the trailer with a vehicle such as an ATV, UTV, snowmobile, or the like. This is advantageous in that the trailer can be towed out on to ice for ice fishing with a lighter weight vehicle, or can more easily be brought camping. The inside of the trailer may also be equipped with many amenities including beds, stereo, interior lighting, TV, heater, etc. as the frame and wall and floor panels can support such goods. The trailer may also be outfitted with windows and vents by way of adapting the wall or ceiling panels with said windows or vents. The trailer may also be configured with a solid rear wall or a rear ramp door, openable to provide easy access to the interior of the enclosed trailer. The trailer is also available in a variety of lengths as the length of the framework tubing and the sizes of the walls is selectively variable.
While three skis 18, 20, and 22 are illustrated, the trailer 10 may and framework 12 may be adapted with a varying number as skis depending on the configuration of the trailer. The trailer may comprise only 2 skis or may include 4 or more skis. This allows the skis to float up over the surface being travelled for smoother travel. A height of these tubes is greater than a remainder of the trailer frame 12 tubular members to provide ground clearance to the trailer during towing which reduces drag. The metal tubular sleeves used to mount the tire, wheel, and axle assemblies 14 and 16 can be seen in the trailer frame 12 and sleeves may be required for stub axles.
The skis 18, 20, and 22 can be integrated into the aluminum framework but may also be separate components that are bolted or otherwise fixably secured to the trailer structure. The skis may be made out of aluminum, steel, plastic, or any combination of these, or like materials. Towing the trailer by the use of skis is advantageous as it reduces the ground pressure of the trailer allowing it to be pulled more easily through deep snow, wet and heavy snow, or slush.
When skis 18, 20, and 22 are mounted to the trailer or otherwise integrated in to the trailer frame 12, this can be done so without preventing or inhibiting the ability to mount the tire, wheel, and axle assembly 14, 16 to the trailer frame 12. This allows the trailer 10 the ability to have both the ski and tire assemblies mounted to the trailer 10 at the same time. It is not required to change out one system for the other prior to using it. At any place and at any time, the change from wheel mode to ski mode or vice versa could be completed allowing for maximum flexibility based on weather conditions.
Additionally, or alternatively, trailer 10 is configured for removal and/or rotation of the tire, wheel, and axle assembly 14 to allow for towing of the trailer on the integrated skis. To allow usage of either the tire mode or skis mode, the trailer axle assembly can be rotated to adjust the ground clearance of the trailer. At some point during the rotation, the tires raise up off of the ground allowing the trailer 10 to sit on the skis 18, 20, 22 to be towed in ski mode.
It is also possible that a permanently installed solid axle could be utilized instead of the stub tire, wheel, and axle assemblies 14 and 16 illustrated here. Since the solid axle is not easily removable, this assembly would remain always attached and installed on the trailer whether operating in ski or wheel mode.
Axle configurations include removable stub axles (two or more), permanent stub axles (two or more), or permanent full axles (one or more). The changes to the axle assembly type allows for the trailer 10 to have different amounts of ground clearance while in wheel mode and for different operating configurations while in ski mode. The removable stub axles allow for the tire, wheel, and axle assemblies 14, 16 to be simply removed from the trailer 10 to lower the weight of the trailer 10 while in ski mode. The axle assembly may rotate lowering the trailer framework to the ground which would then raise the tire off the ground allowing for the axle to be removed. Alternatively, the perimeter of the trailer 10 can be supported by jacks or another means raising the tires off the ground allowing the axle assembly to be removed. The jacks would then be lowered which would allow the trailer frame 12 to be set on the ground. Permanent stub or full axles allow the tire, wheel, and axle assemblies 14, 16 to rotate up and are fixed in a location where the tires are off the ground to allow for ski mode. Permanent axle designs do not require the removal of the sometimes heavy axle assemblies to operate in ski mode.
A wheel lifting mechanism is provided to raise and lower the wheels, thus allowing for the conversion between the wheeled mode and the ski mode for towing. As illustrated in the figures, an arm can be connected to the axle assembly for rotating the assembly to raise or lower the wheels. Examples of addition or alternative mechanisms for raising or lowering the wheels include, but are not limited to a winch may operably connected to the assembly for rotation for raising or lower wheels; an electric or hydraulic cylinder may be used to raise or lower the wheels. Supporting and lifting and lowering the trailer frame 12 may also be done by using independently mounted jacks or lifting mechanisms that remove pressure placed on the running gear, allowing for the running gear to be uncoupled from the frame and allow for the rotation of the running gear which would lower the frame. The trailer 10 can utilize independently rear mounted jacks that are configured to lift and lower the enclosure and the running gear can be unpinned and allowed to rotate freely which to allow the frame 12 to lower to the ground. The wheel lifting mechanism may also comprise a cable or strap winch.
It is also possible that the skis construction could be completed by utilizing wider frame tubular members which would eliminate the use of the additional plate to create a wider contact area. The skis may also be created by mechanically fastening or adhering additional metal or plastic components to the frame 12 to create the larger contact area. It is also an option to line the bottom of the metal skis with a plastic material such as HDPE or another material having a reduced coefficient of friction to provide a surface which reduces drag and to provide a wear surface which is easily replaced in order to maintain the integrity of the frame 12.
Referring now to the tow-bar 38 noted previously, the tow bar is illustrated in further detail in
In the rigid configuration, the assembly represents a standard tongue as would be found on the front of a road-going trailer frame. The tongue is supported both longitudinally and laterally with respect to the trailer frame 12. The rear attachment of the tow-bar 38 may be one or more points in such a configuration as to provide lateral stiffness. Longitudinal stiffness is provided by engaging a rigid member 120 between two or more points, where the rigid member engages at least one point attached to the trailer frame and at least one other point attached to the tow-bar 38. Thus, the tow-bar 38 may be attached to the frame 12 at two or more points, and for example, three points in total including the rigid member 120 connection as illustrated in the figures.
In
The trailer frame 12 may then have parts secured to or welded to it to provide the mating attachment point for the tow-bar 38. The pivot attachment points 122 and 124 are designed and installed in such a way that they are on the same axis to allow the tow-bar 38 to rotate freely upon the axis created by these points. A rigid member 120 has two or more attachment points. A front rigid member attachment point 126 connects the rigid member to the tow-bar 38. A rear rigid member attachment point 128 connects the rigid member to the trailer frame 12. Additional attachment points could be used to further attach the rigid member 120 to either the trailer frame 12 or the tow-bar 38 or both. The attachment points could use either pins or bolts with nuts for fastening. As illustrated in
In the pivoting configuration, the assembly represents a tow-bar as would be found between a utility sled and a tow vehicle. The tow vehicle could be a car, truck, ATV, UTV, snowmobile, or the like. In this pivoting configuration the tow-bar 38 is also providing lateral stiffness as in the rigid configuration. However, the tow-bar 38 is allowed to pivot up and down with respect to the plane represented by the trailer frame 12, through an axis lateral to the trailer frame 12. This may be accomplished by designing the attachment points between the tow-bar 38 and the trailer frame 12 such that they can pivot along this lateral axis. The front towing point connection to the tow vehicle can be made with any common style of trailer hitch connection. In this pivoting configuration, the trailer frame 12 could be supported over the ground by skis 18, 20, 22, and follow the ground. Thus, the pivoting nature of the tow-bar 38 allows the trailer to behave as a sled and not substantially require “tongue weight” to be carried on the hitch of the tow vehicle.
The tow-bar 38 is configured with an easy means of pivoting up and out of the way when not in service. This may be accomplished by uncoupling the attachment point(s) of the rigid member and pivoting the rigid member into a vertical or substantially upwards stowing position. The tow-bar 38 may also then be pivoted into a vertical or substantially upwards stowing position. The rigid member 120 and tow-bar 38 can pivot independently or together to the stowing position. The rigid member 120 and tow-bar may be retained in such a position through the use of pin(s), a padlock, strap, latch, magnets, or the like. By allowing the rigid member 120 and tow-bar 38 to be stowed in a substantially vertical position or upwards, it keeps the tow-bar 38 and the rigid member 120 out of the snow, ice, water, mud, or other elements present on the ground.
The rigid member 120 could then have a secondary attachment point that would hold it in the upwards position to allow the tow-bar 38 to rotate freely at attachment points 122 and 124. This could be accomplished by using a pin or bolt in a secondary mounting bracket or by using a cable or other similar means to hold the rigid member 120 in its upward position. With the rigid member 120 decoupled from the tow-bar 38, the tow-bar 38 is allowed to rotate on attachment points 122 and 124 which create a single axis of rotation. The figures illustrate the tow-bar 38 rotated upwards so that the top plane of the tow-bar 38 is not at the same orientation as the top plane of the trailer frame 12 but instead intersects it. In the pivoting configuration, the trailer frame 12 will rest on the ground which eliminates nearly all of the hitch weight on the tow vehicle.
The tow-bar 38 may also be configured for “tool-less conversion” between the rigid and pivoting modes. As such, the rigid member attachment point(s) between the frame 12 and tow-bar 38 may be connected through use of tool-less pin insertion. This provides some security against theft and conserves space around the trailer 10. The tool-less removal by way of pins at the pivoting attachment points and rigid member attachment points for securing the components can be easily removed for removal and storage of the tow-bar 38. Alternatively the pivot points could be bolted using traditional fasteners, and still require low effort to remove.
A clamp type attachment could also be used to connect the rigid member at its attachment point(s) such that the attachments can be removed without the use of additional tools but remain secure enough for towing the trailer 10. The rigid member 120 may be retained by a clamp method as an alternative or in combination with a pin or bolted method. In this design, the rigid member 120 would rest on both the trailer frame 12 and the tow-bar 38 and a clamp would come over the tow-bar and then be tightened to create the rigid configuration. Examples of pivotable attachment mechanisms for connecting the tow-bar 38 to the framework 12 and of connecting the rigid member 120 to the framework 12 include but are not limited to bolts, screws, pins, clamps, or a combination thereof such that the tow-bar is removably attachable to the framework and wherein bolts, screws, pins, clamps or a combination thereof can be used to prevent pivoting or limit pivoting of the tow-bar about the pivotable connection when in use.
The rigid member 120 may be positioned laterally or at a different angle in relation to the trailer frame 12 instead of longitudinally. This allows the rigid member 120 to again be retained at the attachment points by the use of pins or bolts or be attached through the use of clamps.
The tow-bar 38 may have an integral transverse cross member located near the trailer frame. The rigid member then locks between the cross member and the trailer frame to complete the rigid configuration. This allows the rigid member to again be retained at the attachment points by the use of pins or bolts or be attached through the use of clamps.
The tow-bar 38 may be constructed in such a fashion that the components used to create the tow-bar 38 may run longitudinally, only with no lateral extension in relation to the trailer frame. This creates more of an inline tow-bar 38.
The tow-bar 38 may be constructed in such a fashion that the components used to form the tow-bar 38 are oriented such that they extend both laterally and longitudinally and utilize what is commonly referred to as an A frame coupler. This would eliminate the requirement of a longitudinally running center component to mount the hitch coupler.
The tow-bar 38, while in the rigid configuration, may be positioned such that the top plane of the tow-bar 38 is not in the same orientation of the top plane of the trailer frame 12 but intersects it.
Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
This application claims priority from U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 15/418,897, filed on Jan. 30, 2017 which claims priority from U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/289,203, filed on Jan. 30, 2016 and claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/289,999, filed on Feb. 2, 2016, the contents of which are herein incorporated in their entities.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20190071111 A1 | Mar 2019 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62289203 | Jan 2016 | US | |
| 62289999 | Feb 2016 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15418897 | Jan 2017 | US |
| Child | 16185361 | US |
