CN101443225A - Trailer - Google Patents

Abstract

A folding trailer may be selectively moved between an extended or use position and a collapsed or storage position. The folding trailer may include an axle that is capable of being moved between a first position in which the axle is generally aligned along an axis and a second position in which the axle is disposed in a folded configuration. The axle is preferably located in generally the same plane in the first and second positions. In addition, the axle preferably moves, in a generally rearward direction when the axle is moved from the first to the second position. The trailer may also include a bed that is capable of being moved between a first position in which first and second portions of the bed are generally aligned with a first plane and a second position in which the first and second portions of the bed are disposed in a folded position and generally aligned with a second plane. The axle and bed are preferably disposed in the first positions when the trailer is in the use position. The axle and bed are preferably disposed in the second positions when the trailer is in the storage position.

Description

Trailer

The cross reference of related application

The name that the application requires on December 11st, 2006 to submit to is called the U.S. application for a patent for invention No.11/609 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 317 preceence and right.

The name that the application requires on December 12nd, 2005 to submit to is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/749 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 775 preceence and right.

The name that the application requires on December 20th, 2005 to submit to is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/752 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 194 preceence and right.

The name that the application requires on March 1st, 2006 to submit to is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/777 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 760 preceence and right.

The name that the application requires on June 1st, 2006 to submit to is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/810 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 088 preceence and right.

The name that the application requires on August 29th, 2006 to submit to is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/840 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 849 preceence and right.

The name that the application requires on August 29th, 2006 to submit to is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/840 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 893 preceence and right.

The full text that is incorporated herein here each application that discloses for your guidance.

Technical field

Present invention relates in general to storage and/or transport systems, and relate to trailer particularly.

Background technology

Traditional trailer is attachable to vehicle to allow vehicle towed trailer.Some known trailers have bigger size, and this can allow trailer to keep large numbers of items or bigger article.Yet these bigger trailers may be difficult to handle and storage.Other known trailer may have less size, and these trailers are with compare than large trailer may easier manipulation and storage.Disadvantageously, less trailer can not keep as many as bigger trailer and/or large-scale article.

Summary of the invention

Thereby, need a kind of trailer, its elimination or alleviated above-mentioned shortcoming and problem.

An aspect is a kind of trailer, and it can be used for storing and/or transporting different objects.This trailer optionally moves between expansion or use location and folding or storage location.Advantageously, this car can move and/or store in folding or storage location effectively.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise flat board, and this flat board can be advantageously provided in one or more positions to allow to use and store this trailer.For example, this flat board can comprise a plurality of panels that are folded together, thereby more compact flat board is provided.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise vehicle frame, and this vehicle frame can move between a plurality of positions to allow to use and store this trailer.For example, this vehicle frame can comprise a plurality of strut members, and these strut members are collapsible into together so that compacter vehicle frame to be provided.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise axletree, and this axletree can move between one or more positions to allow that this trailer is arranged on use and storage location.For example, this axletree is collapsible into together so that compacter design to be provided.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise a pair of wheel, is launching or during the use location, is separating first distance between the described wheel at this trailer, and during in folding or storage location, separating second distance between the described wheel at this trailer.Advantageously, when this trailer during in folding or storage location, a wheel or two wheels in these wheels all still can use, and this helps to move folding trailer.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise a kind of device, and this device helps this trailer to move between expansion or use location and folding or storage location.This device can comprise arm, wheel and handle.This arm can contact or engage a wheel of this trailer, and this handle can be used for handling this arm with the wheel that lifts this trailer away from stayed surface.Then, this device is used between expansion or use location and folding or the storage location and moves this trailer.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise a pair of wheel, and described wheel allows this trailer of traction.This trailer also can comprise the runner wagon wheel assembly, and its size and structure are configured to help this trailer to move between use and storage location.For example, the size of this vehicle wheel component and structure are configured to engage between the second place that surface-supported primary importance and this vehicle wheel component and this stayed surface separate at this vehicle wheel component and move.When this vehicle wheel component engaged this stayed surface, one can separate with this stayed surface in the wheel of this trailer.This can allow this trailer easily to move between expanded position and folding position.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise arm, and the size of this arm and structure are configured to be connected to vehicle.This arm can move between expansion or use location and folding or storage location.This trailer also can comprise the supporting component that can support this arm.In addition, this supporting component can be convenient to make this arm to move between expansion or use location and folding or storage location.For example this supporting component can comprise first load-carrying element and second load-carrying element.This first load-carrying element is pivotably connected to the vehicle frame of this trailer and is pivotally connected to this arm.This second load-carrying element is pivotably connected to the vehicle frame of this trailer and is pivotally connected to this arm.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can move between use and storage location fast and easily.Particularly, this trailer is collapsible into the storage location to form the structure of compacter and easier storage.Preferably, this trailer comprises the multi-piece type axletree, and when this trailer during in the use location, this axletree is with alignment substantially, straight structure setting.When this trailer was folded to the folding position, the core of this axletree preferably moved towards this trailer rear portion, and the core of this axletree is folded together.Because draft arm or tongue (tongue) can be connected to this axletree, this draft arm of the regracting of motion backward of this axletree, this trailer is folded to the folding position simultaneously.Advantageously, this can be convenient to the storage of this trailer, because draft arm can be set to integral body or be located substantially under the flat board or vehicle frame of this trailer.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise a kind of parts, when this trailer from the use location when move the storage location, these parts are folding in Different Plane.For example, this axletree can be folding backward in the plane of level substantially, and the dull and stereotyped and vehicle frame of this trailer can make progress in vertical substantially plane and fold simultaneously.This can form the trailer of intensity and rigidity raising, because different parts are folding in Different Plane.In addition, when this axletree during in the folding position, the folded part of this axletree can be set to close to each other or adjacent.Similarly, when this flat board and vehicle frame during in the folding position, the folded part of this flat board and vehicle frame can be set to close to each other or adjacent.Advantageously, this can allow this trailer with very compact structure storage.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise overlapping and/or interlocking portions.For example, when this trailer during in the use location, the part of this flat board, vehicle frame and/or sidewall can overlapping and/or interlocking.Particularly, this flat board can be become by two or more corrugated steel section constructions, and when this flat board during in the folding position, these parts can overlapping and/or interlocking.This can form the flat board that improves on intensity and the rigid unitary.In addition, this sidewall can be become by two or more section constructions, thereby and at least a portion of these parts can be overlapping and/or interlocking form the sidewall that improves on intensity and the rigid unitary.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise sidewall or baffle plate (barrier), and described baffle plate can be used for a plurality of various objectives.For example, described baffle plate can be connected to this trailer to form sidewall.This baffle plate also can break away to allow to be provided with the article of different size this trailer from this trailer.In addition, this trailer can be used for forming the ramp so that this trailer of loading and unloading.And baffle plate is pivotably connected to this trailer so that this trailer is folded into the storage location.Significantly, one or more baffle plates can be interchangeable, and this can make easier assembling of this trailer and use.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise that actuation member or mechanism are so that move this trailer between use and storage location.This actuation member or mechanism can comprise cable, pulley, crank, jack etc., move between use and storage location to help this trailer.For example, this actuation member or mechanism can help this trailer moved in the storage location and with this trailer and shift onto in the use location.Advantageously, this actuation member or mechanism can provide the controlled motion between use and storage location of this trailer.Significantly, because the motion of this trailer can always be controlled, this trailer can not move nocuously or undesirably, and this can make and more easily use this trailer.In addition, this actuation member or mechanism can help trailer is remained on use or storage location, and prevent that trailer is from using or the storage location whisk.

Be a kind of trailer on the other hand, it can comprise improved suspension.For example, this trailer can comprise the suspension of leaf spring type, and this axletree can be connected to this leaf spring.Being used for that this axletree and/or vehicle wheel component are attached to the carriage (bracket) of this leaf spring or structure can help to prevent that this wheel from undesirably reversing when this trailer of traction.Thereby this wheel can keep desired location and direction, and regardless of the power that is applied on this wheel.

Be a kind of folding trailer on the other hand, it can move between use location and storage location.Should can comprise by folding trailer: vehicle frame, it has front portion, rear portion, right side and left side; Wheel, it is set near this vehicle frame; Axletree, it is connected to this wheel, this axletree can move between the primary importance and the second place, wherein in this primary importance this axletree substantially along axial alignment, this axletree is with folding structure setting in this second place, this axletree is arranged in the identical substantially plane in this primary importance and this second place, when this axletree from this primary importance when this second place moves, this axletree is moving on backward the direction substantially; And flat board, it is connected to this vehicle frame, this flat board comprises first and second portion, this flat board can move between the primary importance and the second place, wherein this primary importance should flat board first and second parts substantially with first planar registration, first and second parts that should flat board in this second place be arranged in the folding position and substantially with second planar registration, this first plane and second plane are with different basically angle settings.When this trailer during in the use location, this axletree preferably is arranged on this primary importance and this flat board is arranged on this primary importance.In addition, when this trailer during in the storage location, this axletree preferably is arranged on this second place and this flat board is arranged on this second place.

Be a kind of folding trailer on the other hand, it can move between use location and storage location.Should can comprise by folding trailer: vehicle frame, it has front portion, rear portion, right side and left side; Wheel, it is set near this vehicle frame; Axletree, it is connected to this wheel, this axletree can move between the primary importance and the second place, wherein in this primary importance this axletree substantially along axial alignment, this axletree is with folding structure setting in this second place, this axletree is arranged in the identical substantially plane in this primary importance and this second place, when this axletree from this primary importance when this second place moves, this axletree is moving on backward the direction substantially; And draft arm, it is connected to this axletree, when this axletree during in primary importance this draft arm be arranged in the expanded position, when this axletree during in the second place this draft arm be arranged in the retracted position, when this axletree from this primary importance when this second place moves, this draft arm is moving on backward the direction substantially.

By the following detailed description of preferred implementation, these and other aspect of the present invention, feature and advantage will become more obvious.

Description of drawings

Accompanying drawing comprises the figure of preferred implementation, with further explanation with illustrate above-mentioned and other aspect, advantage and feature of the present invention.It should be understood that these accompanying drawings only show preferred implementation of the present invention, and be not to be used to limit the scope of the invention.To more specifically and in more detail describe and explain the present invention by using accompanying drawing, wherein:

Fig. 1 is the block diagram of exemplary trailer, shows trailer and is launching or the use location;

Fig. 2 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, and showing does not have dull and stereotyped trailer;

Fig. 3 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 2;

Fig. 4 is the birds-eye view of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 2;

Fig. 5 is the block diagram of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows trailer in folding or storage location;

Fig. 6 is another block diagram of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows trailer in folding or storage location;

Fig. 7 is the upward view of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 6;

Fig. 8 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 7;

Fig. 9 is the block diagram of the exemplary flat board that can be used in combination with the trailer shown in Fig. 1;

Figure 10 is the upward view of the flat board shown in Fig. 9;

Figure 11 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows vehicle frame in the folding position;

Figure 12 is another block diagram of this part of the trailer shown in Figure 11;

Figure 13 is the face upwarding stereogram of this part of the trailer shown in Figure 11;

Figure 14 is another face upwarding stereogram of this part of the trailer shown in Figure 11;

Figure 15 is the schematic top plan view of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows vehicle frame and axletree at expanded position;

Figure 16 is the schematic side view of the trailer shown in Figure 15;

Figure 17 is the schematic top plan view of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows vehicle frame and axletree in exemplary folding position;

Figure 18 is the schematic side view of the trailer shown in Figure 17;

Figure 19 is the schematic top plan view of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows vehicle frame and axletree in exemplary folding position;

Figure 20 is the schematic side view of the trailer shown in Figure 19;

Figure 21 is the schematic top plan view of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1, shows vehicle frame and axletree in another exemplary folding position;

Figure 22 is the schematic side view of the trailer shown in Figure 21;

Figure 23 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1;

Figure 24 is another face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Fig. 1;

Figure 25 is the block diagram of another exemplary trailer, shows trailer and is launching or the use location;

Figure 26 is the block diagram of another exemplary flat board that can be used in combination with this trailer;

Figure 27 is the front elevation of the flat board shown in Figure 26;

Figure 28 is the amplification front elevation of the part of the flat board shown in Figure 27, and it is overlapping that dull and stereotyped example components is shown;

Figure 29 is the front elevation of the flat board shown in Figure 26, dull and stereotyped example components is shown separates;

Figure 30 is the amplification front elevation of this part of the flat board shown in Figure 29;

Figure 31 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 32 is the overlooking an of part, the part exploded drawings of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 33 is the amplification stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 32;

Figure 34 is the amplification stereogram of another part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 35 is the amplification stereogram of another part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 36 is the amplification stereogram of another part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 37 is the top perspective view of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 38 is the birds-eye view of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 39 is the upward view of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25;

Figure 40 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25, shows trailer in exemplary folding or storage location;

Figure 41 is another block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25, shows trailer in exemplary folding or storage location;

Figure 42 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25, shows trailer in exemplary folding or storage location;

Figure 43 is the top perspective view of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25, shows exemplary arm and axletree at expanded position;

Figure 44 is the face upwarding stereogram of arm shown in Figure 43 and axletree;

Figure 45 is the birds-eye view of arm shown in Figure 43 and axletree;

Figure 46 is the top perspective view of arm shown in Figure 43 and axletree, shows this arm and axletree in exemplary folding position;

Figure 47 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 25, shows exemplary arm and axletree;

Figure 48 is this cross-sectional view taken of the trailer shown in Figure 47;

Figure 49 is the amplification decomposition figure of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 43, shows arm and the exemplary of axletree is connected;

Figure 50 can be used for making the block diagram of the exemplary means that trailer moves between expanded position and folding position;

Figure 51 is the block diagram of another exemplary trailer, shows trailer and is launching or the use location;

Figure 52 is the left view of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 53 is the right elevation of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 54 is the part decomposition view of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 55 is the amplification stereogram of the left back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 56 is the amplification stereogram of the left front part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 57 is the amplification stereogram of the right front part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 58 is the amplification stereogram of the right back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 59 is the amplification stereogram of the right back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51, and exemplary biasing member and exemplary pin are shown;

Figure 60 is the amplification stereogram of the right back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51, and the engagement member that is coupled to the pin shown in Figure 59 is shown;

Figure 61 is another amplification stereogram of the right back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 62 is another amplification stereogram of the left back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 63 is another amplification stereogram of the left back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 64 is the amplification plan view of the left back part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 65 is the block diagram at the rear portion of the trailer shown in Figure 51, and exemplary attachment member is shown;

Figure 66 is the block diagram of the exemplary baffle plate shown in Figure 51;

Figure 67 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 51;

Figure 68 is the block diagram of another exemplary trailer, and the exemplary strut member that is connected to draft arm is shown;

Figure 69 is the amplification stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 51, and the exemplary locking component that exemplary breech lock (1atch) is connected to draft arm is shown;

Figure 70 is the amplification front perspective view of this part of the trailer shown in Figure 69;

Figure 71 is another amplification front perspective view of this part of the trailer shown in Figure 69;

Figure 72 is the amplification face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 67;

Figure 73 is the face upwarding stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 51, shows exemplary adjusting part;

Figure 74 is the rear perspective view of the adjusting part shown in Figure 73;

Figure 75 is the decomposition view of the adjusting part shown in Figure 73;

Figure 76 is the amplification decomposition view of the part of the adjusting part shown in Figure 75;

Figure 77 is another amplification decomposition view of the adjusting part shown in Figure 73;

Figure 78 is another amplification decomposition view of the part of the adjusting part shown in Figure 73;

Figure 79 is the right perspective view of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 15, shows exemplary suspension (suspension);

Figure 80 is the amplification stereogram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 79;

Figure 81 is the exploded perspective view of this part of the trailer shown in Figure 80;

Figure 82 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 79, shows exemplary carriage;

Figure 83 is the block diagram of the part of the carriage shown in Figure 82;

Figure 84 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 79, shows exemplary carriage;

Figure 85 is the block diagram of the carriage shown in Figure 84;

Figure 86 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 79, shows exemplary carriage;

Figure 87 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 79, shows exemplary plate;

Figure 88 is the block diagram of the part of the trailer shown in Figure 79, shows exemplary adaptor union;

Figure 89 is the block diagram of the adaptor union shown in Figure 88;

Figure 90 is the block diagram of another exemplary trailer, shows trailer and is launching or the use location; With

Figure 91 is the block diagram of the trailer shown in Figure 90, shows trailer in folding or storage location.

The specific embodiment

Present invention relates in general to trailer.Yet principle of the present invention is not limited to trailer.It should be understood that according to the disclosure file trailer disclosed herein can successfully be used in combination with the storage and/or the transport systems of other type.

In addition, in order to help that trailer is described, for example top, bottom, forward and backward, right and left wording can be used for describing accompanying drawing.These accompanying drawings can but be not to draw in proportion.It should be understood that trailer and various parts also can be arranged on a plurality of desired positions---comprise various angles, inclination or even turn upside down.And the various parts of trailer and trailer can have different size to that indicated in the drawings, shape, structure and layout.Now trailer is described in detail.

As shown in Figure 1,trailer 10 can be used for storage and/or transports various objects.Automobile or other self-propelled vehicle can draw or otherwise move this trailer.Exemplary automobile typically includes but not limited to roadlice, truck and SUV (sport utility vehicle) (SUV).Other exemplary self-propelled vehicle comprises full landform cross-country car (ATV) andlawn tractor.Trailer 10 can be just in accordance with the wish ground easily move and be used for various suitable purposes, for example camp, ground finishing, travelling (for example to the seabeach or other place of recuperating), mobile object etc.

If necessary, by first when vehicle towed,trailer 10 can be used for carrying second vehicle, and second vehicle can be used for drawbar trailer subsequently.For example, second vehicle can comprise full landform cross-country car (ATV), lawn tractor etc., and this second vehicle can be sold and be loaded on the trailer with trailer 10.By selling thetrailer 10 and second vehicle together, these two vehicles may have bigger sales volume in the shop, because when they are sold together, the shop can be sold with discount cost.And, carry second vehicle by using trailer, can be provided for device that second vehicles drive is got home to some customers, otherwise this will be the thing of comparison difficulty for some customers.For example, the customer can buy trailer, and when the customer arrived house, he or she can take off lawn tractor and use lawn tractor to move trailer from trailer.It should be understood that lawn tractor and trailer can buy together, buy separately or buy that this for example depends on the desired use oftrailer 10 with other array configuration.

Shown in Fig. 1-4,trailer 10 can comprisedraft arm 12, and its size and structure are configured to be connected to the vehicle that can spur trailer.For example, this vehicle can comprise bolt hook (hitch), and the size ofarm 12 and structure can be configured to be attached to this bolt hook.Particularly,arm 12 can comprise or be connected to bolt hook coupling device, and the size of this bolt hook coupling device and structure can be configured to be coupled to the bolt hook of automobile.If necessary, the size of this bolt hook coupling device and structure can be configured to be coupled to the bolt hook of various different sizes and/or structure.Thearm 12 that it should be understood that trailer can be connected to other multiple suitable vehicle, adaptor union and/or structure.

As Figure 1-3,trailer 10 can comprise one ormore wheels 14,16.Wheel 14,16 can advantageously helptrailer 10 to be pulled or otherwisemove.Wheel 14,16 can have a plurality of suitable shapes, size, structure andlayout.Trailer 10 also can comprise the wheel of other any suitable number.For example,trailer 10 can have four wheels so that trailer for example transports heavier load.

As shown in Figure 1,trailer 10 can comprise flat board orbase plate 18, and one or more objects that transported by trailer can be placed on it.Trailer also can comprisevehicle frame 20, and this vehicle frame can help to support and/or strengthen dull and stereotyped 18.It should be understood thattrailer 10 does not needflat board 18, when trailer transported one or more object, these objects can for example be placed on thevehicle frame 20.

Trailer 10 also can comprise one or more baffle plates, for example sidewall or end wall, and these baffle plates are preferably around dull and stereotyped 18 periphery or edge setting.In more detail, trailer can comprise front apron, back shield, right baffle-plate and/or right baffle plate; And these baffle plates can be connected to the part ofvehicle frame 20 or form the part of vehicle frame 20.Forward and backward a, left side and the size of right baffle plate can be configured to desirably to help prevent object from dull and stereotyped 18 and/or corresponding forward and backward a, left side and the right half oftrailer 10 break away from.Baffle plate can use one or more fasteners (for example bolt) to be connected to vehicle frame, but baffle plate also can use fastener, adhesion, welding of other type etc. to be connected to vehicle frame.Advantageously, baffle plate can be connected to any appropriate part oftrailer 10, and trailer is with or without baffle plate and all can uses.

In more detail, as shown in Figure 1,trailer 10 can comprisebaffle plate 22,24,26,28.Baffle plate 22,24 can be arranged on dull and stereotyped 18 left side and right side, and as shown in Figure 1,baffle plate 26,28 can be arranged on the rear end of trailer10.Baffle plate 22,24,26,28 preferably has the structure of fence shape substantially, comprises at least one railing of level and/or post that at least one is vertical substantially.Yet baffleplate 22,24,26,28 can have other suitable dimensions, shape, structure etc.For example,baffle plate 22,24,26,28 can be solid wall, railing.Althoughtrailer 10 can have the baffle plate of any suitable number and type, baffle plate not necessarily.

Baffle plate 22,24,26,28 can or move with respect totrailer 10 pivots.For example, backshield 26,28 can pivot, move or take off to allow to pass than long materials (for example bulk veneer sheet or drywall) the lagging dege extension of flat board 18.Similarly,sidewall 22,24 can pivot, move or take off to allow object to pass the sidepiece extension offlat board 18.

Baffle plate 22,24,26,28 also can be used for various objectives and function.For example, as shown in Figure 1,baffle plate 26,28 can be used as the slope, loads and/or unloading to make things convenient for trailer 10.Particularly, an end ofbaffle plate 26,28 is attachable to the rear portion oftrailer 10, and the other end of baffle plate can lean against on the stayed surface.This can allow the object rolling or be transported in thetrailer 10 or fromtrailer 10 to shift out.By after usingbaffle plate 26,28 as the slope, baffle plate is attachable to trailer 10.For example,baffle plate 26 is attachable to the front portion oftrailer 10 to form front apron, and baffleplate 28 is attachable to the rear portion oftrailer 10 to form back shield.Advantageously,baffle plate 22,24,26,28 can help to strengthen and/or strengthen trailer 10.In addition,baffle plate 22,24,26,28 can be connected totrailer 10 interchangeably, and this can be convenient to manufacturing, assembling and the use of trailer.For example, front andrear baffle 26,28 can be interchangeable, andside shield 22,24 can be interchangeable.

Shown in Fig. 1-12, the optionally folding and/or expansion of trailer 10.Particularly,trailer 10 optionally moves between expansion or use location and folding or storage location.Advantageously, when trailer was arranged on the storage location,trailer 10 can more effectively be stored, shown in Fig. 5-8.With discussed in detail, the other parts ofwheel 14,16, dull and stereotyped 18,vehicle frame 20 and/or trailer can comprise one or more parts, and move between a plurality of diverse locations as below so thattrailer 10 use and the storage location between move.

For example, dull and stereotyped 18 can comprise two or more parts, so that dull and stereotyped folding.Particularly, shown in Fig. 1,5-6,9-10, dull and stereotyped 18 can comprise four parts orpanel 30,32,34,36.As shown in Figure 1, whentrailer 10 during in the use location,panel 32,34 can be arranged in the plane of level substantially, and panel on even keel orientation.Yet when trailer during in the storage location, panel can be arranged in the vertical substantially plane and be directed vertically, as shown in Fig. 5-6.Particularly, when trailer was folding,panel 32,34 can move towards vertical substantially direction and away from the direction of level substantially, and when trailer launches, andpanel 32,34 can move and away from vertical substantially direction towards the direction of level substantially.

Panel 30,32,34,36 can be made by blow molded plastic.The blow molded plastic panel can be included in the hollow inside that forms during the blowing process.In addition, the blow molded plastic panel can comprise upper surface or wall and lower surface or wall, and they separate each other, and the blow molded plastic panel can comprise one or more depressions (being called as " tack offs " or " kiss offs "), and this depression size and structure are configured to strengthen the blow molded plastic panel.The blow molded plastic panel can be low weight, solid durable and/or round-the-clock.In addition, the blow molded plastic panel can hinges interconnects by for example using, and this hinges can be formed integrally as a single-piece single structure with this panel during the blowing process.For example,panel 30,32 can be by hinges 38 interconnection, andpanel 34,36 can be by hinges 40 interconnection.

It should be understood, however, thatpanel 30,32,34,36 can be made by other material, for example wood, metal etc., and panel can be by using other molded and manufacture method structure.For example dull and stereotyped 18 can comprisepanel 30,32,34,36, and this panel is made by the metal of for example zincing steel sheet, and this panel is corrugate desirably.Advantageously, wavy metal decking can be formed for the solid and durableflat board 18 of trailer.In addition, whentrailer 10 during in the use location, the part of panel can overlapping and/or interlocking at least.Significantly, this can strengthen the intensity and/or the structural integrity of trailer 10.In addition,panel 30,32,34,36 overlapping and/or interlocking can help to form more solid, as to have more rigidity flat board 18.Panel 30,32,34,36 also can have other suitable shape, size, structure and layout, and this for example depends on the purposes of the expection of dull and stereotyped 18 size and dimension and/ortrailer 10.

Shown in Fig. 2-4,vehicle frame 20 can comprise one or more strut members, for examplemicroscler strut member 42,44,46,48,50,52,54.Strut member 42,44 can extend along the length end wise oftrailer 10, and these strut members preferably extend to the rear from the place ahead oftrailer.Strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can laterally extend along the Width oftrailer 10, and these strut members preferably extend between the left side of trailer and right side.It should be understood thatvehicle frame 20 can comprise the strut member of any suitable number, these strut member end wises, laterally and/or with other proper orientation extend and arrange that this for example depends on the purposes of size, structure or the expection oftrailer 10.

As shown in Figure 4,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can be arranged between thestrut member 42,44 and both are connected with the back.In addition,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 preferably includes a plurality of parts or part, so thattrailer 10 is folding.For example,strut member 46 can comprise fourparts 56,58,60,62.Theseparts 56,58,60,62 are preferably by hinge interconnect, to allowtrailer 10 folding.Similarly,strut member 48 can comprisepart 64,66,68,70;Strut member 50 can comprisepart 72,74,76,78;Strut member 52 can comprise 80,82,84,86;Strut member 54 can comprisepart 88,90,92,94.As shown in Figure 4, end 56,64,72,80,88 can be connected to strutmember 42, and end 62,70,78,86,94 can be connected to strut member 44.It should be understood that strut member can comprise the part or the parts of any suitable number, this for example depends on the structure oftrailer 10 and the purposes of expection.

Shown in Fig. 1,5 and 6, dull and stereotyped 18 can be connected to vehicle frame 20.For example, theend 56,64,72,80,88 of the strut member ofvehicle frame 20 can be connected to dull and stereotyped 18 panel 30.Similarly, themiddle body 58,66,74,82,90 of the strut member ofvehicle frame 20 can be connected to dull and stereotyped 18panel 32, and themiddle body 60,68,76,84,92 of the strut member ofvehicle frame 20 can be connected to dull and stereotyped 18 panel 34.Theend 62,70,78,86,94 of the strut member ofvehicle frame 20 can be connected to dull and stereotyped 18panel 36.

As mentioned above,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can comprise a plurality of parts that pivot or connect mutually movably.For example,middle body 58,66,74,82,90 can be pivotably connected to end 56,64,72,80,88 respectively, and is pivotably connected to anothermiddle body 60,68,76,84,92 respectively.Middle body 60,68,76,84,92 also can be pivotably connected to end 62,70,78,86,94 respectively.In addition,end 56,64,72,80,88 can be connected to strutmember 42, and end 62,70,78,86,94 can be connected to strut member 44.Thereby, thereby each parts can connect at least a portion that formsvehicle frame 20 mutually.

Becausestrut member 46,48,50,52,54 can comprise a plurality of parts that pivot or otherwise connect mutually movably, strut member can move between a plurality of positions.Advantageously, this can helptrailer 10 to move between folding and expanded position.For example, shown in Fig. 2-4 and 15-16, whentrailer 10 during as shown in Figure 1 in the use location,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can be arranged on use location or primary importance.Thereby in the use location, each parts ofstrut member 46,48,50,52,54 or part can align and be arranged in the same plane substantially.In addition,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can and be arranged in the same plane with parallel substantially structure alignment.Whentrailer 10 during in folding or storage location,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can be arranged on folding or the second place, shown in Fig. 5-8,11-14 and 17-20.Becausetrailer 10 folds,strut member 46,48,50,52,54 can move towards the second place and away from primary importance.

In more detail, whenstrut member 46,48,50,52,54 during in the folding position shown in Fig. 5-8,11-14,17-20, the middle body of strut member preferably is set to close to each other or adjacent, and with vertical substantially structure setting.Particularly,middle body 58,60;Part 60,68,part 74,76,part 82,84 andpart 90,92 can be folded together along vertical substantially direction.On the other hand, whenstrut member 46,48,50,52,54 during in the folding position shown in Figure 21-22,middle body 58,60;Part 66,68;Part 74,76;Part 82,84; Can be folded together and can extend forward along the direction of level substantially withpart 90,92.It should be understood thatstrut member 46,48,50,52,54 can have other suitable arrangement or structure in use and storage location.Should also be understood thatvehicle frame 20 can have other suitable arrangement or structure, this for example depends on the size oftrailer 10 and/or the purposes of expection.

Shown in Fig. 2-3 and 15,trailer 10 can comprise axletree 96.Axletree 96 can extend betweenwheel 14,16 and both link up mutually with the back.Forconvenience trailer 10 folds into the storage location, andaxletree 96 preferably includes and can pivot or connecting bridge movably otherwise.Particularly,axletree 96 can comprise four parts 98,100,102,104 that connect mutually.For example, anend 98 can be connected towheel 14, and theother end 104 can be connected to wheel 16.Firstmiddle body 100 can pivot or otherwise be connected to theend 98 and secondmiddle body 102 movably; And secondmiddle body 102 can pivot or otherwise be connected to theend 104 and firstmiddle body 100 movably.

Advantageously, by comprising a plurality of the pivot or interconnecting member movably otherwise,axletree 96 can allowtrailer 10 use and the storage location between move.For example, shown in Fig. 2-4,15-16, whentrailer 10 during in use location as shown in Figure 1,axletree 96 can be arranged on and launch or primary importance, and when trailer during in the folding position shown in Fig. 5-8,11-14,17-22,axletree 96 can be arranged on folding or the second place.Whentrailer 10 folded,axletree 96 can move towards the second place and away from primary importance, and when trailer launched, axletree can move towards primary importance and away from the second place.

In more detail, when axletree 96 during in the folding position shown in Fig. 5-8,11-14 and 17-22, middle body 100,102 is collapsible into together.Especially, the middle body 100,102 ofaxletree 96 can be folding along the direction of level substantially, and these parts can fold back shown in Fig. 5-8,11-14 and 17-18, or folding forward shown in Figure 17-22.Advantageously, the various piece 98,100,102,104 ofaxletree 96 all can remain in the same plane in expansion and storage location substantially.Yet it should be understood thataxletree 96 can fold or be provided with in other suitable direction, plane, position etc.

In addition, when axletree 96 during in the folding position shown in Figure 19-20, middle body 100,102 can be folded together along vertical substantially direction.When folding along vertical substantially direction, it is folding, folding or folding in other suitable direction downwards that middle body 100,102 can make progress shown in Figure 19-20.

Preferably, using or during expanded position, the various piece ofaxletree 96 is alignd substantially when trailer 10.Particularly, ifaxletree 96 comprises four parts 98,100,102,104, these parts are preferably alignd substantially along an axis so.Advantageously, this can help to be formed for the solid and crash-resistant axletree 96 of trailer 10.Yet the various piece ofaxletree 96 does not need in-line alignment, and whentrailer 10 during in the folding position, one or more parts of axletree can be set at angle.For example, middle body 100,102 can slightly recede, so that the middle body of mobile axletree backward.For example, middle body 100,102 can spend between about 5 degree about 1 backward, so thattrailer 10 is folding.On the other hand, middle body 100,102 can for example spend between about 5 degree about 1 forward, moves backward unintentionally to help preventaxletree 96.

Althoughaxletree 96 is depicted as and has four parts that are pivotally connected in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that axletree can have the part of any suitable number.In addition, it should be understood thataxletree 96 can have other suitable shape, size, layout and structure, this for example depends on the particular configuration oftrailer 10 or the desired use of trailer.

As shown in Figure 3-4,arm 12 can be connected to the part ofaxletree 96, for examplemiddle body 100 and/or middle body 102.Advantageously, if middle body 100,102 folds back, andarm 12 is connected to middle body, and arm also can move backward so.Significantly, this can form morecompact trailer 10, and whentrailer 10 during in the folding position, it is easy to storage.Shown in Fig. 4 and 7, in the middle body 100,102 andarm 12 can pivot or interconnection movably by array apparatus down: for example suitable fasteners orpivot pin 106; One or more carriages or adaptor union 108,110; And/or other appropriate device.

Whentrailer 10 is launching or during the use location, carriage or adaptor union 108,110 can help axletree 96 is remained on desired location.For example, carriage 108,110 can remain onaxletree 96 in the structure of alignment substantially.In addition, whentrailer 10 during in the use location, carriage 108,110 can help preventaxletree 96 forward, above and/or under move.Particularly, carriage 108,110 can comprise upper and lower and/or rear portion, and the corresponding upper and lower and/or rear portion of the middle body 100,102 of theircontact axletrees 96 is to remain on axletree in the desired location.Thereby the size of carriage 108,110 and structure can be configured at least a portion ofaxletree 96 be remained on desired location whentrailer 10 during in the use location, and this carriage can allow trailer to move to the folding position quickly and easily.

In addition, whentrailer 10 during in the use location, carriage 108,110 can help the middle body 100,102 ofaxletree 96 is positioned to small angle.For example, as mentioned above, the angle that carriage 108,110 can help the middle body 100,102 withaxletree 96 to be positioned to slightly backward is for example less than about 5 degree or about 10 degree, make whentrailer 10 from the use location when move the folding position, axletree can be mobile backward quickly and easily.Yet the angle that carriage 108,110 can be positioned to the middle body 100,102 ofaxletree 96 slightly forward is for example less than about 5 degree or about 10 degree, to help avoiding axletree to move backward unintentionally.It should be understood that carriage 108,110 can have other appropriate structures, this for example depends on the size and the structure ofaxletree 96 and/ortrailer 10.

As shown in Figure 4,vehicle frame 20 also can comprise one ormore transoms 112, and it can be connected to strutmember 46,48,50,52 and 54.Transom 112 can advantageously help reinforcement, enhancingvehicle frame 20 and/or strutmember 46,48,50,52,54 andvehicle frame 20 and/or strutmember 46,48,50,52,54 are remained on desired location.In addition,transom 112 can help strutmember 46,48,50,52 to move between use and storage location universally.It should be understood, however, thatvehicle frame 20 does not needtransom 112, and if necessary, strut member can move between use and storage location independently.

Whentrailer 10 during in use location shown in Fig. 1-4 and 15,wheel 14,16 can separate with first distance, and when trailer during in the storage location shown in Fig. 5-8,17,19,21, wheel can separate with second distance, and this distance is less.Particularly, when trailer was folding,wheel 14,16 can move towards each other substantially, and when trailer launched, wheel can move substantially away from each other.Advantageously, whentrailer 10 during in folding or storage location,wheel 14,16 can be located and is used for using, and this can help to move folding trailer.Becausewheel 14,16 can move between use and storage location along same axis, if necessary, this can allowtrailer 10 to move by its wheel in use location, storage location and midway location.

In more detail, whentrailer 10 during in the use location,wheel 14,16 preferably separates the length of about axletree 96.Thereby if the length ofaxletree 96 is about 5 feet when expanded position,wheel 14,16 preferably separates approximately identical distance so.On the other hand, whentrailer 10 during in the folding position,wheel 14,16 is preferably aliging on the same direction and in parallel substantially structure so, and is the same in the use location with trailer, but the wheel partition distance is nearer.For example, whentrailer 10 during in the storage location,wheel 14,16 can separate 1/2,1/4 or 1/8 distance of the big body length that is less than or equal to axletree 96 substantially.

Whentrailer 10 during in the storage location, the end 98,104 that axletree 96 is connected towheel 14,16 can be set to close to each other or adjacent.And as mentioned above, the middle body 100,102 ofaxletree 96 can be set to close to each other or adjacent.In addition, because the middle body ofaxletree 96 100,102 preferably moves backward,arm 12 also can be dragged backward, and at least a portion of arm can be arranged between the middle body of axletree.Whentrailer 10 during in the folding position,arm 12 also can be at least partially disposed between the end 98,104 andwheel 14,16 of axletree 96.Thereby, whentrailer 10 when move the storage location, whenwheel 14,16 moved towards each other, axletree 96 andarm 12 can move backward.In addition, whentrailer 10 during at folding and expanded position, the various piece ofarm 12 andaxletree 96 preferably remains in the same plane substantially.

As mentioned above, whentrailer 10 during at folding and expanded position,vehicle frame 20 and dull and stereotyped 18 various piece preferably are arranged in the Different Plane.For example, whentrailer 10 during in the use location, dull and stereotyped 18 andvehicle frame 20 preferably in the plane of level substantially, align.Yet whentrailer 10 during in the folding position,vehicle frame 20 and dull and stereotyped 18 middle body at least are with vertical or vertical structure setting.Particularly, the middle body ofvehicle frame 20 andflat board 18 can be arranged in the vertical substantially structure and be arranged in the plane of alignment substantially.Thereby whentrailer 10 during in the use location, thatarm 12, dull and stereotyped 18,vehicle frame 20 andaxletree 96 can be arranged on is parallel substantially, in the plane of level.Whentrailer 10 during in the folding position,arm 12 preferably moves in a direction and remains in the identical substantially horizontal plane withaxletree 96, and the middle body ofvehicle frame 20 and dull and stereotyped 18 moves in different directions and moves in the Different Plane.Advantageously, this can help to form thetrailer 10 with higher rigidity and intensity.Also can be formed on trailer compacter in thefolding position 10.

Trailer 10 is preferably made by durable and durable material.For example, thevehicle frame 20 oftrailer 10,baffle plate 22,24,26,28,axletree 96 and other part can be made by metal (for example steel) or other durable and durable material.It should be understood thattrailer 10 and any part thereof can be made by other suitable material.

Advantageously, trailer can have multiple suitable arrangement and structure.For example, shown in Figure 25-49, anotherexemplary trailer 114 can comprise and similar as mentioned above part, feature andaspect.Trailer 114 also can have and similar as mentioned above size, shape, structure and layout.Yettrailer 114 can also have different parts, feature, aspect, size, shape, structure and layout, and this for example depends on the desired use of trailer.

Shown in Figure 25-30,trailer 114 can comprise theflat board 116 that has two or more parts, and these parts have interlockable and/or overlapping part.For example, dull and stereotyped 116 can comprise a pair of wavy part 118,120, and they are interlockable and/or overlapping to help structure dull and stereotyped.When dull and stereotyped 116 during in the use location, the preferably interlocking and/or overlapping of wavy part 118,120, when dull and stereotyped 116 during in the storage location, wavy part 118,120 preferably separates.Wavy part 118,120 is formed by steel plate and/or other suitable material desirably.Advantageously, wavy part 118,120 can help to disperse to be applied to bump and power on dull and stereotyped 116.And overlapping and/or interlocking portions 118,120 can help to strengthen each other.It should be understood that dull and stereotyped 116 can comprise the interlocking and/or the lap of any suitable number.Should also be understood that dull and stereotyped 116 can constitute single, single-piece structure, and, even these parts need interlocking and overlapping, also need not be wavy.If necessary, dull and stereotyped 116 upper surface can carry out the rubber surface polishing, compares with polishing with other material, and this can reduce to slide and reduce to clash into the damage that causes.

As shown in figure 31,trailer 114 can comprisevehicle wheel component 122, and this vehicle wheel component comprises at least one wheel 124.The size ofvehicle wheel component 122 and structure can be configured to helptrailer 114 to move between use location and storage location.Particularly, the size ofvehicle wheel component 122 and structure can be configured to pivot between the primary importance and the second place or move, and wherein thiswheel 124 engages stayed surface in primary importance, and wheel and stayed surface separate in the second place.When thewheel 124 ofvehicle wheel component 122 engaged stayed surface,trailer 114 can more easily move between use location and storage location.For example, when thewheel 124 ofvehicle wheel component 122 engaged stayed surface, thewheel 126 oftrailer 114 preferably separated with stayed surface, thereby allowed trailer more easily to move between use and storage location.

In more detail, whenvehicle wheel component 122 during in primary importance,wheel 124 preferably supports at least a portion load on the trailer wheels 126.Thereby, whentrailer 114 from the use location when move the folding position,trailer wheels 126 can more easily move with respect to stayed surface.It should be understood thatvehicle wheel component 122 can have multiple suitable arrangement, structure and parts, this for example depends on the purposes oftrailer 114 expections.

Vehicle wheel component 122 can be at the first and second position lockables or lockable not.For example, trailer can comprise locking hinge, locking pin or other structure, so thatvehicle wheel component 122 is locked in desired location.The denomination of invention that can be used for submitting on May 10th, 2004 in conjunction with the exemplary locking hinge ofvehicle wheel component 122 is the U.S. Patent application No.10/843 of " PORTABLE FOLDING TABLE WITH LOCKINGHINGE (portable folding table that has locking hinge) ", open in 037, be incorporated herein for your guidance in full.

Shown in Figure 31-32,37-39 and 41-44,trailer 114 can comprisearm 128, and this arm size and structure are configured to move between expansion or use location and folding or storage location.As described below, whentrailer 114 was mobile between use and storage location,arm 128 preferably moved between use andstorage location.Trailer 114 also can comprise supportingcomponent 130, this supporting component hold-downarm 128, and it is mobile between expansion and folding position to be convenient to arm.Shown in Figure 31 and 39, supportingcomponent 130 can comprise first load-carryingelement 132 and second load-carrying element 134.Each load-carryingelement 132 and 134 can comprise first and second portion, and this first can pivot or otherwise be connected totrailer 114 movably, and this second portion can pivot or otherwise be connected to arm 128 movably.It should be understood that supportingcomponent 130 can comprise multiple suitable components, they are with multiple appropriate structures setting.

Shown in Figure 25 and 31-32,trailer 114 can comprisefront apron 136 and theback shield 138 that optionally is attached to trailer.Advantageously, front and rear baffle 136,138 can be used as the slope, to make things convenient for trailer to load and/or unloading.For example, an end offront apron 136 and an end ofback shield 138 are attachable to the rear portion oftrailer 114, and the other end of baffle plate can lean against on the stayed surface.This can allow the object rolling or be transported in thetrailer 114 or fromtrailer 114 to shift out.By after using front and rear baffle 136,138 as the slope, front and rear baffle optionally is attached to the front and rear oftrailer 114 again, and this can help to strengthen and/or strengthen the side shield of trailer.Advantageously, front and rear baffle 136,138 can be interchangeable, and this helps trailer more easily to make, assemble and use.

Shown in Figure 34 and 36, the rear portion oftrailer 114 can comprise one ormore attachment member 140, and the size of this attachment member and structure are configured to baffle plate 136,138 is attached to the afterbody of trailer, as the slope.In addition, shown in Figure 32-36,trailer 114 can comprise slit 142, and this slit size and structure are configured to hold the part of baffle plate 136,138, thereby baffle plate is connected to trailer in vertical substantially position, as shown in figure 25.The size ofslit 142 and structure can be configured by uses snap fit, frictional fit and/or interference fit that baffle plate 136,138 is connected to trailer.The best as shown in figure 33, slit 142 can be formed by pair of flanges 144 or other suitable structure.

As shown in figure 37,trailer 114 can comprisevehicle frame 146, and this vehicle frame can be connected to dull and stereotyped 116.Vehicle frame 146 can comprise one or more strut members, for example microscler strut member 148,150,152,154,156,158,160.Strut member 148,150 preferably extends along length end wise between the side of the front and back of trailer oftrailer 114; And strut member 152,154,156,158,160 preferably laterally extends between the left and right sides of trailer along the Width of trailer.Strut member 152,154,156,158,160 can extend between strut member 148,150 and strut member 148,150 is connected mutually; And strut member 152,154,156,158,160 can comprise a plurality of the pivot or interconnecting member movably otherwise.For example, shown in Figure 25,32-33 and 37, strut member 152,154,156,158,160 can be connected to strut member 148,150 by one or more hinges 162.

Best shown in Figure 25 and 33, the size of the part ofhinge 162 and structure can be configured to provide lashing (tie-down) 164 when forexample trailer 114 is in expansion or use location.Lashing 164 can be advantageously by using rope, chain, cable, elastic threads etc. to be used for object hitched or otherwise be fixed to trailer 114.In more detail, hinge 162 can comprise pivot pin 166.As shown in figure 33, pivot pin 166 can separate withflat board 116 and/orvehicle frame 146, and this can be convenient to rope, chain, cable, elastic threads etc. and be attached to pivot pin.Becausehinge 162 can be used for providing lashing 164,trailer 114 is without any need for extra lashing, and this may be consuming time when making, and/or may increase the cost oftrailer 114.

Shown in Figure 42-49,trailer 114 can compriseaxletree 170, and axletree extends betweenwheel 14,16 andwheel 14,16 is connectedmutually.Axletree 170 preferably includes and can pivot or connecting bridge movably otherwise.Particularly,axletree 170 can comprise four parts 172,174,176,178.For example, first 172 can be connected to first wheel, 180, the fourparts 178 and can be connected to second wheel 182.Second portion 174 can be by for example using suitable fasteners or pivot pin, one or more carriage oradaptor union 184 and/or other suitable device and can be pivoted or otherwise be connected to first 172 andarm 128 movably.Third part 176 can be by for example using suitable fasteners or pivot pin, one or more carriage oradaptor union 184 and/or other suitable device and can be pivoted or otherwise be connected to the4th part 178 andarm 128 movably.

It should be understood thataxletree 170 can have multiple different structure and layout, this for example depends on the desired use of trailer 114.For example, as shown in figure 48, the middle body 174,176 ofaxletree 170 can be become by microscler support configuration.Particularly,middle body 174 can be configured to by microscler strut member 224,226; Andmiddle body 176 can be configured to by microscler strut member 228,230.Microscler strut member can for example help preventaxletree 170 to rotate or reverse.Microscler strut member also can strengthen the intensity ofaxletree 170 and/or be convenient to axletree is connected toarm 128 and/or wheel.The middle body 174,176 that it should be understood, however, thataxletree 170 can have various other suitable components and structure.In addition, it should be understood thataxletree 170 can have other suitable components and structure, this for example depends on the desired use oftrailer 114.

Advantageously, by comprising a plurality of parts that pivot or interconnect movably,axletree 170 can move between a plurality of positions, moves between use and storage location to allow trailer 114.For example, shown in Figure 31-32 and 37-39, whentrailer 114 during in use location as shown in figure 25,axletree 170 can be positioned on first or expanded position, and whentrailer 114 during in the storage location shown in Figure 40-42,axletree 170 can be positioned on second or the folding position.Whentrailer 114 folded,axletree 170 can move towards the second place and away from primary importance, and whentrailer 114 launched,axletree 170 can move towards primary importance and away from the second place.

Shown in Figure 42-49,arm 128 can be connected to the part ofaxletree 170, for examplesecond portion 174 and/or third part 176.Advantageously, if second and third part 174,176 is folded back andarm 128 is connected tosecond portion 174 orthird part 178, arm also can move backward so.Significantly, this can form morecompact trailer 114, this storage of can being more convenient for.Second portion 174,third part 176 andarm 128 can pivot or otherwise interconnection movably by for example suitable fasteners or pivot pin, one or more carriage oradaptor union 184 and/or other suitable device.

As shown in figure 49,trailer 114 can comprise actuation member, actuating mechanism and adjustingpart 186, and the size of this adjusting part and structure are configured to the position of regulatingarm 128 andaxletree 170 whentrailer 10 is mobile between expanded position and folding position.In addition, the size of adjustingpart 186 and structure can be configured to desired location is fixed or be locked in toarm 128 and/oraxletree 170, for example use or the storage location.And the size of adjustingpart 186 and structure can be configured tomobile trailer 114 between folding position and expanded position.For example, following described in more detail, adjustingpart 186 can help trailer is moved to the storage location and shifted trailer onto uselocation.Adjusting part 186 also can providetrailer 114 controlled motion between use and storage location.Significantly, because the motion oftrailer 114 controollable always, trailer can not by mistake or undesirably move, and this may make the easier use of trailer.In addition, adjustingpart 186 can helptrailer 114 is remained on use and storage location, and prevents that trailer from moving from use or storage location suddenly.If necessary, can use one or more breech locks and/or other suitable device thattrailer 114 is fixed on folding or expanded position.

Advantageously, adjustingpart 186 can allowtrailer 114 to move between use and storage location quickly and easily.In addition, adjustingpart 186 can allowtrailer 114 automatically and/or mechanically to move between use and storage location.This can increase the potential user of trailer, may need fewer energy, power or artificial becausemake trailer 114 move between use and storage location.

As shown in the figure, adjustingpart 186 can comprisetransom 188, track (track) 190,axle 192 and movably carriage assembly or slide block 194.For example, as shown in figure 43,transom 188 can pivot or otherwise be connected to movably the middle body 174,176 ofaxle 170 by using suitable fasteners for example or pivot pin, carriage oradaptor union 196 and/or other suitable device.As shown in figure 49,transom 188 can also be able to pivot or otherwise be connected tocarriage assembly 194 movably.For example,transom 188 can be pivotably connected to thepivot pin 198 ofcarriage assembly 194.

The best as shown in figure 49,carriage assembly 194 can comprise that size and structure are configured to that the first 200 that engages withtrack 190 and size and structure are configured to andaxle 192 second portions that engage 202.For example, the first 200 ofcarriage assembly 194 preferably slides with respect to track 190, andsecond portion 202 preferably screw-type is connected toaxle 192.

Axle 192 can be connected toarm 128 by fabricated section 204.For example, fabricatedsection 204 can comprise first 206 that is connected toarm 128 and thesecond portion 208 that is connected to axle 192.The openings thataxle 192 preferably passessecond portion 208 insert, and axle is preferably by using for example one ormore plate 210 to remain on the fixed position with respect tosecond portion.Axle 192 also can be connected toadaptor union 212, and this adaptor union can be used for connecting crank, handle and/or is used for the miscellaneous equipment of turning cylinder.

Turningcylinder 192 can be used for helping regulatingarm 128 and the position ofaxletree 170 between expansion and folding position.For example, whenaxle 192 rotated onfirst direction 214, the screw thread of axle can engage the screw thread ofcarriage assembly 194, with alongtrack 190 moving carriage assembly on away from the direction of fabricated section 204.Whencarriage assembly 194 moves away from fabricatedsection 204, pin 198removable transoms 188, this transom can makeaxletree 170 andarm 128 move towards the folding position and away from expanded position.Whenaxle 192 rotated on relativesecond direction 216, the screw thread of axle can engage the screw thread ofcarriage assembly 194, so that carriage assembly is moving on the direction of fabricatedsection 204 along track 190.Whencarriage assembly 194 when fabricatedsection 204 moves, pin 198removable transoms 188, this transom can makeaxletree 170 andarm 128 move towards expanded position and away from the folding position.

Shown in Figure 31-32,37-39 and 43-45, when axletree during at expanded position,axletree 170 can be with straight substantially structure setting.For example, the part 174,176 ofaxletree 170 is preferably along roughly the same planar registration, and this can help the axletree that provides more solid, more stable and/or safer.In addition,axletree 170 preferably is arranged in the same plane.As mentioned above, it should be understood that, when axletree during at expanded position,axletree 170 must not have straight substantially structure, if necessary, axletree can for example be spent to the angle forward between 5 degree or about 1 about 1 and spend to the angle backward between 5 degree with angle setting forward or backward.

Unless power is applied on theaxle 192,carriage assembly 194 remains in the fixing substantially position desirably, and can prevent thattrailer 114,axletree 170 and/orarm 128 from moving between use and storage location.In more detail, the size ofcarriage assembly 194 and structure can be configured to only move whenaxle 192 rotates.Thereby if turning effort is not applied on theaxle 192, carriage assembly can remain on the fixed position so, and can prevent thattrailer 114,axletree 170 and/orarm 128 from moving between use and storage location.Therefore,carriage assembly 194 can be used fortrailer 114,axletree 170 and/orarm 128 are locked in use and storage location.And, if necessary, the size ofcarriage assembly 194 and structure also can be configured to be locked intrailer 114,axletree 170 and/orarm 128 between use and storage location and comprise in the continuous or at least roughly continuous position range of use and storage location.It should be understood thatcarriage assembly 194 also can be locked in other correct position withtrailer 114,axletree 170 and/orarm 128, and if necessary, the other parts of adjustingpart 186 can be used for trailer, axletree and/or arm are locked in desired location.

Yettrailer 114 must not be used to make trailer to move between use and storage location by adjusting part 186.For example,vehicle wheel component 122 can be used for helping to make thattrailer 114 moves between folding and use location.It should be understood that adjusting part that other is suitable and/or structure or equipment can be used in make trailer use and the storage location between move.Particularly,trailer 114 can comprise other assembly, and the size of these assemblies and structure are arranged such that the other parts ofarm 128,vehicle frame 146,axletree 170 and/or trailer move between use and storage location.

For example, as Fig. 1-2,7 and 13-14 shown in,trailer 10 can comprise the adjustingpart 218 that has capstan winch 220.Adjustingpart 218 also can comprise the cable of the one or more parts that are coupled to capstan winch and trailer 10.This cable can be by using for example size and structure to be configured to hold cable a part and/or cable is directed to these parts thatcarriage 222 in the desired location is coupled to trailer 10.Adjustingpart 218 also can comprise one or more pulleys that are connected to any required part of trailer 10.Thereby cable can be attached to a plurality of parts oftrailer 10 bycarriage 222 and pulley, and the size of adjustingpart 218 and structure can be configured to be convenient totrailer 10 is moved to the storage location from the use location.

In more detail,capstan winch 220 can be used for the tensioning cable and is used fortrailer 10 is moved to the folding position from the use location.Particularly, cable is attachable to a plurality of parts oftrailer 10, makes that cable can spur the both sides of trailer together when capstan winch rotation and cable tensioning.Thereby adjustingpart 218 can be used fortrailer 10 is moved to the storage location from the use location.

Trailer also can move between use and folding position by using other structure, forexample registration device 232 as shown in figure 50.Registration device 232 can comprise twowheels 234 and twoarms 236 by the vehicle frame interconnection.The wheel that thearm 236 ofregistration device 232 can be used for lifting trailer is away from stayed surface, for example the floor in Automobile Service workshop, ground, track etc.Therebyregistration device 232 can comprise and can be used in thehandle 237 that controlarm 236 lifts trailer wheels.When trailer wheels separated with stayed surface, trailer can more easily move between use and folding position.Particularly, when trailer wheels engages stayed surface, may stop or hinder trailer moving between use and folding position in the friction between trailer wheels and the stayed surface.Yet by making trailer wheels and stayed surface separate, thewheel 234 ofregistration device 232 can join stayed surface to, thereby allows trailer more easily to move between use and folding position.

Thereby, it should be understood that multiple suitable construction and device can be used for making things convenient for trailer to move between use and storage location.Advantageously, when trailer during in the storage location, trailer can be compacter and be needed much smaller storage space.This can allow trailer to use in multiple varying environment and store.For example, in the use location, trailer can have the width of about 5 feet (1.52m) or about 6 feet (1.83m).Yet when trailer during in the folding position, trailer can have much smaller width.Particularly, the width of trailer can be less than 36 inches (91cm) and/or less than about 30 inches (76cm), and this can allow trailer to pass the door opening of many routines.It should be understood, however, that trailer can have either large or small width in use and/or folding position, this for example depends on the concrete structure of trailer.

When trailer during in the folding position, trailer preferably can move to allow it to be positioned at desired location on its wheel quickly and easily.This for example can allow the user quickly and easily trailer to be stored in Automobile Service workshop, the builder's temporary shed etc.Yet when trailer during in the folding position, trailer preferably can not or move by the power actuated vehicle traction.For example, the draft arm of trailer (for example above-mentioned arm 12,128) can be set to prevent during in the folding position when trailer the traction of trailer.Particularly, draft arm can be arranged so that and be difficult to or the impossible draft arm that uses.For example, draft arm can be arranged in the retracted position of trailer front end back.This can guarantee that trailer is only launching or is being pulled during the use location at trailer.

As mentioned above, trailer can have difformity, size configurations and layout, and this for example depends on the purposes of trailer expection.For example, shown in Figure 51-89, anotherexemplary trailer 238 can comprise and similar as mentioned above part, feature and aspect.Yettrailer 238 also can comprise other part, feature and aspect.Advantageously, these many different parts, feature and aspect can be in conjunction with, exchanges etc., and this for example depends on the purposes of trailer expection.Thereby, although trailer can be described to have concrete part, feature, aspect, size, shape, structure, layout etc., it should be understood that any suitable combination that any given trailer can have part, feature, aspect, size, shape, structure, layout etc.

For example, shown in Figure 51-64,trailer 238 can comprisefixation kit 240, and the size of this fixation kit and structure are configured to one or more baffle plates are fixed to trailer movably.Particularly,fixation kit 240 can be used forfront apron 242 andback shield 244 optionally are connected to the front and rear part oftrailer 238, and is best shown in Figure 54.

In more detail, best shown in Figure 55-60,fixation kit 240 can compriseengagement member 246, and the size of this engagement member and structure are configured to contact and engage the part of baffle plate, baffle plate is fixed in the desired locationhelping.Engagement member 246 can help fixed dam, makes at least a portion of baffle plate be arranged under protrusion, extension or thelip 248, and thislip 248 can help fixed dam better.Shown in Figure 59-60,fixation kit 240 also can comprise biasingmember 250, and the size of this biasing member and structure are configured to thisengagement member 246 of bias voltage, with contact or joint baffle plate.Particularly,fixation kit 240 can comprisepin 252, and this pin can be connected toengagement member 246 and biasingmember 250, but and biasing member bias voltage pin, make engagement member towards the contact of engagement member wherein with engage the position bias voltage of baffle plate.

If front and rear baffle 242,244 optionally is connected totrailer 238,fixation kit 240 is preferably used for baffle plate is fixed totrailer 238 so.Particularly, twofixation kits 240 can be used forfront apron 242 is fixed totrailer 238, and two fixation kits can be used forback shield 244 is fixed to trailer.Especially, a fixation kit can be used for each side of front and rear baffle 242,244 is fixed to trailer 238.In more detail, best shown in Figure 55-58,trailer 238 can comprise left baffle 254,256 respectively, and these baffle plates can comprise protrusion, extension or lip 248.In addition, left baffle 254,256 can comprise slit 258, and the size of this slit and structure are configured to hold the end of front and rear baffle 242,244.Engagement member 246 helps the end of front and rear baffle 242,244 is fixed in theslit 258 desirably.Advantageously, front and rear baffle 242,244 can be connected totrailer 238 interchangeably.

Shown in Figure 61,fixation kit 240 can comprise handle 260.Handle 260 can be connected to pin 252, and handle can be held with a firm grip so thatengagement member 246 moves between joint and disengaging configuration.As shown in the figure,engagement member 246 comprises angled sides desirably, and it makes baffle plate 242,244 can be connected totrailer 238, handlesfixation kit 240 and need not the user.Particularly, angled sides can allow baffle plate 242,244 to be inserted in the slit, need not the user and handles fixation kit.When baffle plate 242,244 during in desired location,engagement member 246 is biased in the baffle plate in the corresponding holding portion, so that baffle plate is fixed in the desired location.

Fixation kit 240 also can help baffle plate 242,244 with vertical substantially structure location, and it can be arranged at least a portion of baffle plate under protrusion, extension or the lip 248.For example, best shown in Figure 64, baffle plate can be set to be positioned under thelip 248 to small part, and this can help prevent baffle plate to remove fromtrailer 238 unintentionally.Particularly, originally baffle plate can be inserted in theslit 258 at a certain angle.In case baffle plate is in desired location, theengagement member 246 offixation kit 240 can engage baffle plate, and baffle plate can be arranged under thelip 248, and this can help baffle plate is fixed on desired location.It should be understood thatfixation kit 240 must not be arranged on baffle plate under thelip 248, and for example other structure of spring or pin can be used for baffle plate is biased under the lip.Any suitable number and the layout that should also be understood thatfixation kit 240 can be used for baffle plate is fixed to trailer.And, it should be understood thatfixation kit 240 can have other suitable shape, size, structure and layout, this for example depends on the purposes of size, shape and the expection of trailer.

Shown in Figure 65-66, the rear portion oftrailer 238 and front and rear baffle 242,244 can comprise attachment member 262,264, and the size of this attachment member and structure are configured to baffle plate is attached to the rear portion of trailer, to be used as the slope.Thereby, whentrailer 238 just in use, front and rear baffle 242,244 can be used as sidewall, and these baffle plates also can be used as the slope so that the loading and unloading trailer.It should be understood that front and rear baffle 242,244 is unessential as the slope, and if necessary, left baffle also can be used as the slope.

In more detail, the rear portion oftrailer 238 can comprise two outward extendingflanges 262, and the size of these flanges and structure are configured to hold the corresponding outward extendingflange 264 of front and rear baffle 242,244.Be inserted in the holding portion that is formed byflange 262 by the end with theflange 264 of baffle plate, outward extending flange 262,264 connects.Thereby the size of attachment member 262,264 and structure can be configured to be connected to interchangeably the baffle plate 242,244 of trailer 238.Attachment member 262,264 can also have other suitable shape, size, structure and layout, and this for example depends on the concrete structure oftrailer 238.

Whentrailer 238 is launching or during the use location, trailer preferably locks or be fixed on the fixed position.For example, shown in Figure 68-71,trailer 238 can comprisebreech lock 266, and the size of this breech lock and structure are configured to help trailer is fixed in the expandedposition.Breech lock 266 can be connected to the vehicle frame and/or the flat board oftrailer 238, for example thedraft arm 268 of trailer 238.Particularly, the part ofbreech lock 266 can be inserted in the holding portion (for example slit, opening etc.) of long element 270.In addition, the opening ofbreech lock 266 can with the one or more register in thearm 268, and fastener 272 can pass these openings and insert, and remains in the holding portion ofmember 270 with this part with breech lock.Shown in Figure 70-71, fastener 272 can be fixing by using ring,spring cotter 274 etc.Significantly, this can help trailer is remained in the use location.In addition, this can help preventtrailer 238 to move to the folding position from the use location unintentionally.Therebybreech lock 266 can be used fortrailer 238 is fixed in the use location.

When hope maketrailer 238 from the use location when move the folding position, can take off breech lock 266.As mentioned above, various mechanism can be used so that trailer moves to the folding position from the use location.In order to helptrailer 238 to move to the folding position, can use guidingpiece 276 from the use location.For example, shown in Figure 54, guidingpiece 276 can be connected to arm 268.Advantageously, whentrailer 238 is folded, ifarm 268 moves so the part of trailer (for example flat board or vehicle frame) but contact guidance spare 276 backward.Particularly, shown in Figure 54, guidingpiece 276 can comprisesloping portion 280, and the size of this sloping portion and structure are configured to vehicle frame or the flat board that whenarm 268 moves backward this sloping portion touches trailer 238.Particularly, shown in Figure 67, whentrailer 238 just is being folded, butlong element 270 contact guidance spares 276, but other suitable part of flat board or vehicle frame can touch guiding piece.Because the vehicle frame oftrailer 238 or flat board must move up to cross guidingpiece 276, this helps the folding of trailer.

Can be used for being convenient to making trailer use and the folding position between the mechanism of another adequate types of moving shown in Figure 73-78.For example,trailer 238 can comprise adjustingpart 282, and the size of this adjusting part and structure are configured to the position of regulatingarm 268 and axletree 278.This adjustingpart 282 can comprisetransom 284, get on the right track andlower railway 286,axle 288 and slide mechanism, and for example carriage assembly 290.Particularly,transom 284 can pivot or is connected to axletree 278 movably by fastener, pin, carriage, adaptor union etc.Transom 284 also can be connected tocarriage assembly 290 pivotly or movably by fastener, pin, carriage, adaptor union etc.Be configured to alongtrack 286 slips or mobile the size ofcarriage assembly 290 and structureoptimization.Carriage assembly 290 also preferably is coupled to axle 288.For example,carriage assembly 290 andaxle 288 can be by being threaded.

In addition, axle 288 can be connected to arm 268 by using fabricated section 292, and this fabricated section can be connected to track 286.Especially, the opening that axle 288 can pass in the fabricated section 292 inserts, and fabricated section can be fixing substantially by using any suitable device along the position of axle.The miscellaneous equipment that axle 288 also can be connected to crank, handle and/or can be used for making axle to rotate.Axle 288 is rotated can be used for helping to make arm 268 and axletree 278 between expansion and folding position, to move.For example, when axle 288 rotated on first direction, the screw thread of axle can engage the screw thread of carriage assembly 290, with along track 286 away from fabricated section 292 moving carriage assemblies.When carriage assembly 290 moved away from fabricated section 292, transom 284 can make axletree 278 and arm 268 move towards the folding position and away from expanded position.On the other hand, if axle 288 rotates on relative second direction, the screw thread of axle can engage the screw thread of carriage assembly 290, so that carriage assembly moves towards fabricated section 292 along track 286.When carriage assembly 290 when fabricated section 292 moves, transom 284 can make axletree 278 and arm 268 move towards expanded position and away from the folding position.Advantageously, axle 288 can be rotated by the equipment of number of different types, for example crank 293 or motor.If the use motor, it can allow trailer automatically to open or close.

Except trailer can move between use and folding position quickly and easily, trailer also can provide improved manipulation, drive characteristic etc.Particularly, trailer can provide more stable and more failure-free drive because for example when the use trailer, wheel can remain in the desired location.For example, shown in Figure 79-80, trailer can comprise thesuspension 294 that can be connected to vehicle frame.In more detail,suspension 294 can comprise the leaf spring that is connected with the load-carryingelement 296 of vehicle frame, and axletree can be connected to this leaf spring.It should be understood thatsuspension 294 can comprise other suitable components, suspension can have other suitable arrangement and structure, and this for example depends on the purposes of trailer expection.

In more detail, the leaf spring ofsuspension 294 can be connected to load-carryingelement 296 by carriage 298,300,302.Particularly, the carriage 298,302 that is connected to load-carryingelement 296 can be substantially the U-shaped carriage, and also can having substantially, thecarriage 300 of U-shaped structure can be connected tocarriage 198 and suspension 294.Carriage 298,302 preferably is connected to load-carryingelement 296 in the fixed position, andcarriage 300 preferably can pivot or otherwise is connected tocarriage 298 andsuspension 294movably.Carriage 302 is gone back the cocoa pivot or otherwise is connected tosuspension 294 movably.

Shown in Figure 79-85, carriage 298,300,302 can comprise pair of flanges or wall, and these flanges or wall align substantially with the opposite side portion of the leaf spring of suspension 294.Preferably, the flange of carriage 300,302 be set near and/or in abutting connection with the sidepiece of leaf spring, this can help prevent leaf spring to reverse unintentionally, allows leaf spring to move up and down desirably or deflection simultaneously.

Shown in Figure 81-82 and 84, tension member 304,306 can be connected to carriage 298,302.The size of tension member 304,306 and structure can be configured to the flange or the wall of carriage 298,302 are remained in the desired location.In addition, tension member 304,306 can help to avoid carriage 298,302 to reverse unintentionally or be out of shape.Carriage 298,302 and tension member 304,306 can comprise the separating component that can interconnect, and for example pass through solder interconnections.It should be understood that carriage 298,302 and tension member 304,306 can be formed integrally as a single-piece single structure desirably.Carriage 298,300,302 and tension member 304,306 preferably are made of metal, but carriage and tension member can be configured to and/or be had other suitable shape, size, structure and a layout by other material.

Shown in Figure 79-81 and 88-89,axletree 278 and/or comprise wheel shaft and the vehicle wheel component of wheel hub can be connected tosuspension 294 by adaptor union 308.For example,adaptor union 308 can comprise for example first and for example second portion ofcarriage 312 ofcarriage 310, wherein the size of this first is configured to be connected withaxletree 278 with structure, and the size of this second portion is configured to be connected with the leaf spring ofsuspension 294 withstructure.Carriage 310 preferably can pivot or be connected to axletree 278 movably, andcarriage 312 preferably is connected to the leaf spring ofsuspension 294 in the fixed position.It should be understood thatadaptor union 308 and carriage 310,312 can be connected to the other parts of axletree and suspension by using other suitable structure.

Adaptor union 308 also can comprise thepillar 314 that is connected to carriage 310,312.Carriage 310,312 andpillar 314 preferably are made of metal, and pillar preferably is fixedly connected to carriage by welding.It should be understood that carriage 310,312 andpillar 314 can be made by other suitable material, and can be desirably by using connections such as fastener, adhesives.

Shown in Figure 80-81,carriage 312 can comprise holdingportion 316, and the size of this holding portion and structure are configured to hold thepart 318 of the leaf spring of suspension 294.Particularly, best shown in Figure 88-89,carriage 312 can comprise the part that is substantially U-shaped with pair of flanges or wall 320,322.The leaf spring ofsuspension 294 can be fixed in the desired location by clevisbolt 324 and transom orplate 326, will describe in more detail below.

Shown in Figure 79-81 and 88-89, the flange 320-322 ofcarriage 312 can align substantially with the opposite side portion of the leaf spring of suspension 294.Preferably, flange 320,322 be set near and/or in abutting connection with the sidepiece of leaf spring, this can help prevent leaf spring to reverse unintentionally, allows leaf spring to move up and down desirably simultaneously.If necessary, flange 320,322 can be set to parallel substantially each other, and can be set near and/or in abutting connection with the parallel substantially opposite side portion of leaf spring.Certainly, flange 320,322 can be provided with other relative position or other suitable zone, and this for example depends on the concrete structure ofcarriage 312 orsuspension 294.

Carriage 312 and flange 320,322 preferably have microscler shape, and it is basically greater than the thickness of axletree 278.For example,carriage 312 and flange 320,322 preferably have the length of two-fold at least of the thickness that is axletree 278.In addition,carriage 312 and flange 320,322 can have at least three times length of the thickness that is axletree 278.The leaf spring that the microscler shape ofcarriage 312 and flange 320,322 can advantageously help further to preventsuspension 294 reverses unintentionally.Certainly,carriage 312 and flange 320,322 can have either large or small length desirably.In addition, flange 320,322 can have different length, and can have multiple appropriate structures and layout.

Shown in Figure 80,adaptor union 308 can be fixed to the leaf spring ofsuspension 294 by clevisbolt 324 and plate 326.It should be understood, however, thatadaptor union 308 can be fixed to suspension by using any other suitable device.

Shown in Figure 90,trailer 328 can comprise bolt hook coupling device, and the size of this bolt hook coupling device and structure are configured to be connected to trailer bolt hook.Particularly, the arm oftrailer 328 can comprise or be connected to bolthook coupling device 330, and the size of this bolt hook coupling device and structure are configured to the bolt hook coupling connection bolt hook with towing vehicle.The size of bolthook coupling device 330 and structure can be configured to be coupled to desirably the bolt hook of multiple different size and/or structure.

Bolthook coupling device 330 can compriseswitch 332, and this switch can be configured to move between open position and off position.Whenswitch 332 during at open position, bolthook coupling device 330 can be coupled to the bolt hook of towing vehicle.After bolthook coupling device 330 was coupled to the bolt hook, switch 332 can cut out so that bolt hook coupling device is fixed to the bolt hook.Yet ifswitch 332 cuts out before bolthook coupling device 330 is coupled to the bolt hook, this switch can prevent that bolt hook coupling device is coupled to the bolt hook so.Thereby switch 332 must at first be opened, and is coupled to the bolt hook to allow bolthook coupling device 330, and then, switch can cut out so that bolt hook coupling device is fixed to the bolt hook.It should be understood that bolthook coupling device 330 and switch 332 can have other suitable shape, size, structure and layout, but bolt hook coupling device and switch are all optional.

Shown in Figure 90-91,trailer 328 can comprise also and preventcoupling connection equipment 334 that it can comprise protrusion, extension etc.Prevent that the size ofcoupling connection equipment 334 and structure are configured to prevent whentrailer 328 during in the storage location shown in Figure 91,switch 332 is moved to open position from off position.Therefore, when trailer during in the storage location, this can help prevent the user that switch 332 is moved to open position andtrailer 328 is attached to towing vehicle.Should also be understood that to prevent thatcoupling connection equipment 334 can have other suitable shape, size, structure and layout, but prevent that coupling connection equipment is optional.

Advantageously, as mentioned above, trailer can be used for carrying various objects.After using trailer, people can make that trailer moves to the storage location from the use location, thereby allow trailer more effectively to store.When needs reused trailer, people can be moved back into the use location from the storage location with trailer.

In addition, also shown in the drawings as mentioned above, trailer can comprise the baffle plate that can optionally be connected to trailer and take apart from trailer.For example, baffle plate can with vertical substantially regioselectivity be connected to trailer, break away from from trailer to help prevent object.One or more baffle plates also can be taken apart from trailer, and for example front and rear baffle moves to the storage location to allow trailer from the use location.After the trailer storage, trailer can be moved back into expanded position, and baffle plate can reconnect to trailer.If necessary, one or more baffle plates can be used as the slope, so that the loading and unloading trailer.It should be understood, however, that baffle plate does not need optionally can be connected to maybe and can take apart from trailer, and trailer is without any need for baffle plate.And it should be understood that trailer needn't be movably between use location and storage location.

The aspect that other that can be used for being used in combination with trailer is suitable, feature, construct and be arranged in shown in the following file and describe: the name of submitting on December 12nd, 2005 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/749 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 775; The name of submitting on December 20th, 2005 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/752 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 194; The name of submitting on March 1st, 2006 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/777 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 760; The name of submitting on June 1st, 2006 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/810 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 088; The name of submitting on August 29th, 2006 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/840 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 849; The name of submitting on August 29th, 2006 is called the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/840 of " TRAILER (trailer) ", 893; The name of submitting on December 11st, 2006 is called the U.S. Patent application No.___________ (lawyer's registration number No.15499.823.2) of " TRAILER (trailer) "; The name of submitting on December 11st, 2006 is called the U.S. Patent application No.___________ (lawyer's registration number No.15499.846) of " TRAILER (trailer) "; The name of submitting on December 11st, 2006 is called the U.S. Patent application No.___________ (lawyer's registration number No.15499.847) of " TRAILER (trailer) "; The name of submitting on December 11st, 2006 is called the U.S. Patent application No.___________ (lawyer's registration number No.15499.848) of " TRAILER (trailer) "; The name of submitting on December 11st, 2006 is called the U.S. Patent application No.___________ (lawyer's registration number No.15499.893) of " TRAILER (trailer) "; The name of submitting on December 11st, 2006 is called the U.S. Patent application No.___________ (lawyer's registration number No.15499.894) of " TRAILER (trailer) "; The open file of these applications is introduced for your guidance in full at this.

Although described the present invention according to some preferred implementation, other embodiment that it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that also falls within the scope of the present invention.Therefore, scope of the present invention is limited only by the accompanying claims.

Claims (58)

1. folding trailer, it can move between use location and storage location, and described folding trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame, it comprises front portion, rear portion, right side and left side;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel, this axletree can move between the primary importance and the second place, axletree is substantially along axial alignment in this primary importance, axletree is with folding structure setting in this second place, axletree is arranged in the identical substantially plane in this primary importance and this second place, when axletree from this primary importance when this second place moves, axletree moves along backward direction substantially; With

Dull and stereotyped, it is connected to vehicle frame, flat board comprises first and second portion, flat board can move between the primary importance and the second place, first and second parts of this primary importance middle plateform substantially with first planar registration, first and second parts of this second place middle plateform be arranged in the folding position and substantially with second planar registration, this first plane and second plane are with different basically angle settings;

Wherein when trailer was in the use location, axletree is arranged on this primary importance and flat board is arranged on this primary importance; And

Wherein when trailer was in the storage location, axletree is arranged on this second place and flat board is arranged on this second place.

2. trailer according to claim 1, wherein when trailer from the use location when move the storage location, dull and stereotyped folding along the direction that makes progress substantially.

3. trailer according to claim 1, wherein axletree is arranged in this primary importance and the second place in the plane of level substantially;

First and second parts of its middle plateform are arranged in this primary importance in the plane of level substantially; And

First and second parts of its middle plateform are arranged in the vertical substantially plane in this second place.

4. trailer according to claim 1, wherein when trailer from the use location when move the storage location, axletree fold back substantially and flat board upwards folding substantially.

5. trailer according to claim 1, the first of its middle plateform comprises wavy part, dull and stereotyped second portion comprises wavy part, when flat board is in primary importance, the wavy part of the first and second dull and stereotyped parts is arranged to the structure of overlapping and interlocking, when flat board was in the second place, the wavy part of the first and second dull and stereotyped parts separately.

6. trailer according to claim 1, also comprise draft arm, this draft arm is connected to axletree, when axletree is in primary importance, draft arm is arranged in the expanded position of the front portion that extends beyond vehicle frame, and when axletree was in the second place, draft arm was arranged in the retracted position, when axletree from this primary importance when this second place is folding, draft arm moves along backward direction substantially.

7. trailer according to claim 1, wherein when trailer from the use location when move the storage location, axletree is folding in the plane of approximate horizontal, and dull and stereotyped folding in roughly vertical plane simultaneously.

8. trailer according to claim 1, also comprise hinge member, this hinge member is with the first of axletree and the second portion interconnection of axletree, and when axletree was in primary importance, hinge member connected into roughly straight line with the first of axletree and the second portion of axletree.

9. trailer according to claim 1, also comprise hinge member, this hinge member is with the first of axletree and the second portion interconnection of axletree, and when axletree was in primary importance, the first of axletree and the second portion of axletree extended forward with the angle that is approximately equal to or less than 5 degree.

10. trailer according to claim 1, also comprise hinge member, this hinge member is with the first of axletree and the second portion interconnection of axletree, and when axletree was in primary importance, the first of axletree and the second portion of axletree extended back with the angle that is approximately equal to or less than 5 degree.

11. a folding trailer, it can move between use location and storage location, and described folding trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame, it comprises front portion, rear portion, right side and left side;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel, this axletree can move between the primary importance and the second place, axletree is substantially along axial alignment in this primary importance, axletree is with folding structure setting in this second place, axletree is arranged in the identical substantially plane in this primary importance and this second place, when axletree from this primary importance when this second place moves, axletree moves along backward direction substantially; With

Draft arm, it is connected to axletree, when axletree is in primary importance, draft arm is arranged in expanded position, and when axletree was in the second place, draft arm was arranged in retracted position, when axletree from this primary importance when this second place moves, draft arm moves along backward direction substantially.

12. trailer according to claim 11, also comprise flat board, it is connected to vehicle frame, flat board comprises first and second portion, flat board can move between the primary importance and the second place, first and second parts of this primary importance middle plateform substantially with first planar registration, first and second parts of this second place middle plateform be arranged in the folding position and substantially with second planar registration, this first plane and second plane are with different basically angle settings, when trailer is in the use location, flat board is arranged on this primary importance, and when trailer was in the storage location, flat board was arranged on this second place.

13. trailer according to claim 12, wherein axletree is arranged in this primary importance and the second place in the plane of level substantially;

First and second parts of its middle plateform are arranged in this primary importance in the plane of level substantially; And

First and second parts of its middle plateform are arranged in the vertical substantially plane in this second place.

14. trailer according to claim 12, wherein when trailer from the use location when move the storage location, axletree fold back substantially and flat board upwards folding substantially.

15. trailer according to claim 12, the first of its middle plateform comprises wavy part, dull and stereotyped second portion comprises wavy part, when flat board is in primary importance, the wavy part of the first and second dull and stereotyped parts is arranged to the structure of overlapping and interlocking, when flat board was in the second place, the wavy part of the first and second dull and stereotyped parts separately.

16. trailer according to claim 12, wherein when trailer from the use location when move the storage location, axletree is folding in the plane of approximate horizontal, and dull and stereotyped folding in roughly vertical plane simultaneously.

17. trailer according to claim 11, also comprise hinge member, this hinge member is with the first of axletree and the second portion interconnection of axletree, and when axletree was in primary importance, hinge member connected into roughly straight line with the first of axletree and the second portion of axletree.

18. trailer according to claim 11, also comprise hinge member, this hinge member is with the first of axletree and the second portion interconnection of axletree, and when axletree was in primary importance, the first of axletree and the second portion of axletree extended forward with the angle that is approximately equal to or less than 5 degree.

19. trailer according to claim 11, also comprise hinge member, this hinge member is with the first of axletree and the second portion interconnection of axletree, and when axletree was in primary importance, the first of axletree and the second portion of axletree extended back with the angle that is approximately equal to or less than 5 degree.

20. a trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame;

Wheel, it is arranged near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel;

The first side wall, it is connected to vehicle frame;

Second sidewall, it is connected to vehicle frame;

First end wall;

Second end wall;

First slit in the first side wall, the size of this first slit and structure are configured to hold and keep at least a portion of first end wall;

First slit in second sidewall, the size of this first slit and structure are configured to hold and keep at least a portion of first end wall;

Second slit in the first side wall, the size of this second slit and structure are configured to hold and keep at least a portion of second end wall; And

Second slit in second sidewall, the size of this second slit and structure are configured to hold and keep at least a portion of second end wall.

21. trailer according to claim 20 also comprises:

First lip, it is arranged near first slit in the first side wall, and the size of first lip and structure are configured at least a portion with first end wall and remain in first slit in the first side wall;

Second lip, it is arranged near first slit in second sidewall, and the size of second lip and structure are configured at least a portion with first end wall and remain in first slit in second sidewall;

The 3rd lip, it is arranged near second slit in the first side wall, and the size of the 3rd lip and structure are configured at least a portion with second end wall and remain in second slit in the first side wall;

The 4th lip, it is arranged near second slit in second sidewall, and the size of the 4th lip and structure are configured at least a portion with second end wall and remain in second slit in second sidewall.

22. trailer according to claim 21 also comprises:

First engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first end wall and are biased into position under first lip;

Second engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first end wall and are biased into position under second lip;

The 3rd engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with second end wall and are biased into position under the 3rd lip; And

The 4th engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with second end wall and are biased into position under the 4th lip.

23. trailer according to claim 20 also comprises:

First engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first end wall and are biased into position in first slit in the first side wall;

Second engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first end wall and are biased into position in first slit in second sidewall;

The 3rd engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with second end wall and are biased into position in second slit in the first side wall; And

The 4th engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with second end wall and are biased into position in second slit in second sidewall.

24. trailer according to claim 20, wherein the size of first slit in the first side wall and structure are configured to utilize snap fit, frictional fit or interference fit to hold and keep at least a portion of first end wall;

Wherein the size of first slit in second sidewall and structure are configured to utilize snap fit, frictional fit or interference fit to hold and keep at least a portion of first end wall;

Wherein the size of second slit in the first side wall and structure are configured to utilize snap fit, frictional fit or interference fit to hold and keep at least a portion of second end wall; And

Wherein the size of second slit in second sidewall and structure are configured to utilize snap fit, frictional fit or interference fit to hold and keep at least a portion of second end wall.

25. trailer according to claim 20, wherein the size of first slit in the first side wall and structure are configured to hold interchangeably at least a portion of first end wall or at least a portion of second end wall;

Wherein the size of first slit in second sidewall and structure are configured to hold interchangeably at least a portion of first end wall or at least a portion of second end wall;

Wherein the size of second slit in the first side wall and structure are configured to hold interchangeably at least a portion of first end wall or at least a portion of second end wall; And

Wherein the size of second slit in second sidewall and structure are configured to hold interchangeably at least a portion of first end wall or at least a portion of second end wall.

26. trailer according to claim 20, wherein the size of first end wall and second end wall and structure are configured to be connected to trailer as the slope.

27. trailer according to claim 20, wherein the first side wall and second sidewall are connected to vehicle frame interchangeably.

28. trailer according to claim 20, wherein first end wall and second end wall are connected to vehicle frame interchangeably.

29. trailer according to claim 20, wherein the first side wall, second sidewall, first end wall and second end wall are connected to vehicle frame interchangeably.

30. a trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel;

First baffle plate;

First wall, it is connected to vehicle frame, and this first wall comprises first holding portion, and the size of this first holding portion and structure are configured to hold and keep the part of first baffle plate; With

Second wall, it is connected to vehicle frame, and this second wall comprises first holding portion, and the size of this first holding portion and structure are configured to hold and keep the part of first baffle plate.

31. trailer according to claim 30 also comprises:

First lip, it is arranged near first holding portion in the first wall, and the size of this first lip and structure are configured at least a portion of first baffle plate is remained in first holding portion of first wall; And

Second lip, it is arranged near first holding portion in second wall, and the size of this second lip and structure are configured at least a portion of first baffle plate is remained in first holding portion of second wall.

32. trailer according to claim 31 also comprises:

First engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first baffle plate and are biased into position under first lip; And

Second engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first baffle plate and are biased into position under second lip.

33. trailer according to claim 30 also comprises:

First engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first baffle plate and are biased into position in first holding portion in the first wall; And

Second engagement member, its size and structure are configured at least a portion with first baffle plate and are biased into position in first holding portion in second wall.

34. trailer according to claim 30 also comprises:

Second baffle;

Second holding portion in first wall, the size of this second holding portion and structure are configured to hold and keep the part of second baffle; And

Second holding portion in second wall, the size of this second holding portion and structure are configured to hold and keep the part of second baffle.

35. trailer according to claim 30, wherein first baffle plate holds by snap fit, frictional fit or interference fit and remains in first holding portion of first wall; And

Wherein first baffle plate holds by snap fit, frictional fit or interference fit and remains in first holding portion of second wall.

36. trailer according to claim 30, wherein the size of first baffle plate and second baffle and structure are configured to be connected to trailer as the slope.

37. trailer according to claim 30, wherein the first wall and second wall are connected to vehicle frame interchangeably.

38. trailer according to claim 30, wherein first baffle plate and second baffle are connected to vehicle frame interchangeably.

39. a trailer that comprises use location and " loaded " position, described trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame, it comprises front and rear;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel;

Antetheca, it is connected to the front portion of vehicle frame, and when trailer was in the use location, antetheca was arranged in the vertical substantially position; With

Rear wall, it is connected to the rear portion of vehicle frame, and when trailer was in the use location, rear wall was arranged in the vertical substantially position,

When trailer was in " loaded " position, antetheca and rear wall were connected to the rear portion of vehicle frame and extend downwards to form the slope substantially.

40. a folding trailer, it can move between use location and storage location, and described folding trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame, it comprises front portion, rear portion, right side and left side;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel, and this axletree can move between the primary importance and the second place, and axletree is substantially along axial alignment in this primary importance, and axletree is with folding structure setting in this second place;

Draft arm, it can move between expanded position and folding position, and the part of draft arm extends beyond the front portion of vehicle frame so that be attached to towing vehicle in this expanded position, and draft arm at least roughly is arranged under the vehicle frame in this folding position; With

Adjusting part, its size and structure are configured to regulate the part of axletree between this primary importance and the second place, the size of adjusting part and structure also are configured to regulate the position of draft arm between this expanded position and folding position.

41. according to the described trailer of claim 40, wherein adjusting part also comprises:

Track; With

Carriage assembly, its size and structure are configured to move between the primary importance and the second place along track, and carriage assembly is by moving the position of regulating axletree and draft arm between the primary importance of track and the second place.

42. according to the described trailer of claim 40, wherein adjusting part also comprises:

Axle; With

Carriage assembly, its size and structure are configured to move between the primary importance and the second place along axle, and carriage assembly is by moving the position of regulating axletree and draft arm between the primary importance of axle and the second place.

43. according to the described trailer of claim 40, wherein adjusting part also comprises:

Track;

Axle; With

Carriage assembly, its size and structure are configured to move between the primary importance and the second place along track, and carriage assembly is by moving the position of regulating axletree and draft arm between the primary importance of track and the second place.

44. according to the described trailer of claim 40, wherein the size of adjusting part and structure are configured to axletree and draft arm optionally are locked in desired location.

45. according to the described trailer of claim 40, wherein the size of adjusting part and structure are configured to axletree optionally is locked in position between primary importance, the second place or this primary importance and the second place.

46. according to the described trailer of claim 40, wherein the size of adjusting part and structure are configured to draft arm optionally is locked in position between folding position, expanded position or this folding position and the expanded position.

47. a trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel;

Suspension, it is connected to vehicle frame, and this suspension comprises leaf spring; With

Adaptor union, it is connected to the leaf spring of axletree and suspension, this adaptor union comprises single-piece single-piece carriage, and this carriage comprises that size and structure are configured to be configured to second flange with second side contacts of leaf spring with first flange of first side contacts of leaf spring and size and structure.

48. according to the described trailer of claim 47, wherein the carriage of adaptor union has the structure that is substantially U-shaped.

49. according to the described trailer of claim 47, wherein first end of leaf spring is connected to the first of vehicle frame, and second end of leaf spring is connected to the second portion of vehicle frame.

50. according to the described trailer of claim 49, wherein first end of leaf spring is connected to the first of vehicle frame by first carriage that is substantially U-shaped structure, and second end of leaf spring is connected to the second portion of vehicle frame by second carriage that is substantially the U-shaped structure.

51. according to the described trailer of claim 47, wherein the length of the carriage of adaptor union is equal to or greater than the twice of axletree width substantially.

52. according to the described trailer of claim 47, wherein the length of the carriage of adaptor union is equal to or greater than three times of axletree width substantially.

53. a trailer comprises:

Vehicle frame;

Wheel, it is set near vehicle frame;

Axletree, it is connected to wheel;

Suspension, it is connected to vehicle frame, and this suspension comprises leaf spring; With

Adaptor union, it is connected to the leaf spring of axletree and suspension, this adaptor union comprise with the first microscler flange of the first side adjacency of leaf spring and with the second microscler flange of the second side adjacency of leaf spring.

54. according to the described trailer of claim 53, wherein the first microscler flange and the second microscler flange-shape become the part of a single-piece single structure.

55. according to the described trailer of claim 53, wherein first end of leaf spring is connected to the first of vehicle frame, and second end of leaf spring is connected to the second portion of vehicle frame.

56. according to the described trailer of claim 55, wherein first end of leaf spring is connected to the first of vehicle frame by first carriage that is substantially U-shaped structure, and second end of leaf spring is connected to the second portion of vehicle frame by second carriage that is substantially the U-shaped structure.

57. according to the described trailer of claim 53, wherein the length of first of the adaptor union microscler flange and the second microscler flange is equal to or greater than the twice of axletree width substantially.

58. according to the described trailer of claim 53, wherein the length of first of the adaptor union microscler flange and the second microscler flange is equal to or greater than three times of axletree width substantially.

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