CA2402888A1 - Multi-purpose trailer - Google Patents
Multi-purpose trailer Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2402888A1 CA2402888A1 CA 2402888 CA2402888A CA2402888A1 CA 2402888 A1 CA2402888 A1 CA 2402888A1 CA 2402888 CA2402888 CA 2402888 CA 2402888 A CA2402888 A CA 2402888A CA 2402888 A1 CA2402888 A1 CA 2402888A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- trailer
- mountable
- dolly
- tent
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P3/00—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
- B60P3/06—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying vehicles
- B60P3/07—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying vehicles for carrying road vehicles
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P3/00—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
- B60P3/32—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects comprising living accommodation for people, e.g. caravans, camping, or like vehicles
- B60P3/34—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects comprising living accommodation for people, e.g. caravans, camping, or like vehicles the living accommodation being expansible, collapsible or capable of rearrangement
- B60P3/341—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects comprising living accommodation for people, e.g. caravans, camping, or like vehicles the living accommodation being expansible, collapsible or capable of rearrangement comprising flexible elements
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D63/00—Motor vehicles or trailers not otherwise provided for
- B62D63/06—Trailers
- B62D63/061—Foldable, extensible or yielding trailers
Abstract
The present invention provides a weatherproof, compact, light weight and lockable reconfigurable utility trailer of small enough dimension that it may be easily towed by a vehicle as small as a sub-compact automobile and may be conveniently stored in the vertical position on the storage dolly. The trailer employs forward and rear hinged end gates to, which are affixed a quick disconnect tent frame which in conjunction with a ride support assembly comprises the camper tent frame. In addition to the camper trailer is a free standing extra room which employs the trailer lid as a floor and uses a similar tent framework and cover. With the camper tent frame and exterior cover removed the trailer becomes a flat deck of sufficient dimension to transport cargo such as building materials, furniture, or dirt bikes. Also employed are quick disconnect bike racks mounted to the trailer to which the bikes may be locked. Reconfiguration of the trailer from one mode to another is accomplished easily and without tools or mechanic skills.
Description
MULTI-PURPOSE TRAILER
Field of the Invention This invention relates to utility trailers which are compact and light weight and more specifically to trailers which may he pulled by a small automobile and easily converted to a tent trailer, to an open mobile container. sealed weather proof secure mobile container, or a flat deck for hauling cargo.
Background of the invention 'There exists many different types of light-weight utility trailers with a multitude of uses. Many are suitable only for camping, such devices are shown in lJnited States Patent No.
4,014,586 to Swofford, No. 5,080,426 to Johnson, No.5.3~75,002 to Church and Canadian Patent i 5 No. 1,036,632 to Barnett. While these devices are light weight and compact. their tent frame work and lid apparatus are affixed in such a manner that tl~e removal is a complex task and the flat deck conf lguration is not feasible. These devices are dedicated camping trailers that do not readily convert to any other use.
Field of the Invention This invention relates to utility trailers which are compact and light weight and more specifically to trailers which may he pulled by a small automobile and easily converted to a tent trailer, to an open mobile container. sealed weather proof secure mobile container, or a flat deck for hauling cargo.
Background of the invention 'There exists many different types of light-weight utility trailers with a multitude of uses. Many are suitable only for camping, such devices are shown in lJnited States Patent No.
4,014,586 to Swofford, No. 5,080,426 to Johnson, No.5.3~75,002 to Church and Canadian Patent i 5 No. 1,036,632 to Barnett. While these devices are light weight and compact. their tent frame work and lid apparatus are affixed in such a manner that tl~e removal is a complex task and the flat deck conf lguration is not feasible. These devices are dedicated camping trailers that do not readily convert to any other use.
2 0 United States Patent No. 2., l 54, 365 to Taylor i:; a general purpose collapsible trailer with solid panels and an attached handling pole. the use of which is required for structure set-up.
This apparatus also requires a canvas type cover for its tolo, sides and rear.
Not only is this device too heavy to be pulled by a small automobile. it is also not aesthetically pleasing, nor is it readily convertible to cargo hauling.
~' S
Canadian Patent No. 1,173.475 to Campbell and Canadian Patent No. 2,266,400 to Kass disclose a light weight and compact car;~o trailer suitable for towing with a compact automobile. This apparatus is intended for use in o closed lid conii~~uration only and not readily adapted for any other use.
United States Patent No. 6,28 3,5 37 to DeVore discloses a multi- purpose trailer which embodies many properties desirable in a trailer except that it is intended to haul heavy cargo with a large vehicle and is thus unsuitable for use with a compact automobile, and also requires more space for its storage than would otherwise be required.
United States Patent No. (a,1 02. 468 to Lowrey w al discloses a convertible camping 1G trailer, which for open cargo use requires removal ofthe camping apparatus and this design also requires the time consuming erection of a tent on the trailer. ~ his apparatus due to its size is also not suitable for towing with a compact automobile.
Clnited States Patent No. >,462, 3 3( to Brown discloses a folding, camping, cargo 1 ~ trailer being of sufficient dimensi«r~ to carry such c: ar'To as a snowmobile or the like. Due to its size it is also not suitable for tovwing with a compact ai.nomobile This apparatus is also not readily convertible to an open cargo configuration.
l_)nited States Patent No. -1,273,351 to Salammder discloses a rnLtlti-purpose trailer which can be used as a boat. tent or utility trader or for transportation of motorcycles and snowmobiles. A trailer of sufficient dimension to carry nvo snowmobiles would be inappropriate for use with a compact automo bile This embodiment has no provision for transporting tlae tent, its structure or camping gear on the trailer while traveling to the camp site.
United States Patent No. ?.6d6,30c) to Tuson discloses a collapsible trailer caravan.
This apparatus is a utility trailer which when used in the camping nude must have attached to it solid end and side panels which are affixed to the trailer with hinges. This configuration has a plurality of poles which define the roof as well as solid panel,; which define the sides and ends.
These items and a canvas type cover must be added to convert the utility trailer to a camper. The complexity of the apparatus and its aesthetics render it unsuitable. Also its size renders it inappropriate for use with a compact automobile.
Canadian Patent No. 2,287.14? to Springer discloses a trailer-tongue extension apparatus which is inappropriate for use with the present invention as there is no appropriate location for its storage.
Canadian Patent No. I , l () 1,014 to Strader discloses a utility trailer frame assembly which is characterized by an elongated hallow spine which carries a trailer hitch draw which slides longitudinally within it. This is a very complex apparatus which also has only one position for towing.
~5 ~ummaryof the Invention 1. Ii is therefore an object of the presE:nt invention to provide a compact tent trailer of sufficiently small dimension that it may be pulled by a small automobile.
?. It is another object of tl~e present invention to provide a tent trailer that may be folded and unfolded quickly and easily.
This apparatus also requires a canvas type cover for its tolo, sides and rear.
Not only is this device too heavy to be pulled by a small automobile. it is also not aesthetically pleasing, nor is it readily convertible to cargo hauling.
~' S
Canadian Patent No. 1,173.475 to Campbell and Canadian Patent No. 2,266,400 to Kass disclose a light weight and compact car;~o trailer suitable for towing with a compact automobile. This apparatus is intended for use in o closed lid conii~~uration only and not readily adapted for any other use.
United States Patent No. 6,28 3,5 37 to DeVore discloses a multi- purpose trailer which embodies many properties desirable in a trailer except that it is intended to haul heavy cargo with a large vehicle and is thus unsuitable for use with a compact automobile, and also requires more space for its storage than would otherwise be required.
United States Patent No. (a,1 02. 468 to Lowrey w al discloses a convertible camping 1G trailer, which for open cargo use requires removal ofthe camping apparatus and this design also requires the time consuming erection of a tent on the trailer. ~ his apparatus due to its size is also not suitable for towing with a compact automobile.
Clnited States Patent No. >,462, 3 3( to Brown discloses a folding, camping, cargo 1 ~ trailer being of sufficient dimensi«r~ to carry such c: ar'To as a snowmobile or the like. Due to its size it is also not suitable for tovwing with a compact ai.nomobile This apparatus is also not readily convertible to an open cargo configuration.
l_)nited States Patent No. -1,273,351 to Salammder discloses a rnLtlti-purpose trailer which can be used as a boat. tent or utility trader or for transportation of motorcycles and snowmobiles. A trailer of sufficient dimension to carry nvo snowmobiles would be inappropriate for use with a compact automo bile This embodiment has no provision for transporting tlae tent, its structure or camping gear on the trailer while traveling to the camp site.
United States Patent No. ?.6d6,30c) to Tuson discloses a collapsible trailer caravan.
This apparatus is a utility trailer which when used in the camping nude must have attached to it solid end and side panels which are affixed to the trailer with hinges. This configuration has a plurality of poles which define the roof as well as solid panel,; which define the sides and ends.
These items and a canvas type cover must be added to convert the utility trailer to a camper. The complexity of the apparatus and its aesthetics render it unsuitable. Also its size renders it inappropriate for use with a compact automobile.
Canadian Patent No. 2,287.14? to Springer discloses a trailer-tongue extension apparatus which is inappropriate for use with the present invention as there is no appropriate location for its storage.
Canadian Patent No. I , l () 1,014 to Strader discloses a utility trailer frame assembly which is characterized by an elongated hallow spine which carries a trailer hitch draw which slides longitudinally within it. This is a very complex apparatus which also has only one position for towing.
~5 ~ummaryof the Invention 1. Ii is therefore an object of the presE:nt invention to provide a compact tent trailer of sufficiently small dimension that it may be pulled by a small automobile.
?. It is another object of tl~e present invention to provide a tent trailer that may be folded and unfolded quickly and easily.
3. It is vet another object of the present invention to provide an additional multi-purpose room adjacent to the tent trailer r~~hich uses the trailer lid as an elevated platform.
4. It is another object o1 the present inventican to provide a compact tent trailer 5 which can be reconfigured for use as an open top fully sided trailer.
5. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a compact tent trailer which can be reconfigured for use as a sealed, weather proof. secure mobile compartment.
5. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a compact tent trailer which can be reconfigured for use as a sealed, weather proof. secure mobile compartment.
6. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a compact tent trailer which can be reconfigured for use as a flat deck trailer.
7. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a multi-use trailer of sufficiently small dimension that it can be conveniently :stored in small area such as a storage locker.
8. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a compact tent trailer which through its simplicity- of design can be produced at a reasonable cost..
9. It is yet another object c~f~tloe present invention to provide a forwardly extendable tongue that may be used to maintain tow vehicle to trailer clearance when the forward end gate is pivoted horizontally to the flat deck position.
10. It is yet another object of tlue present invention to provide a detachable intermediate support for the rear end gate when it is pivc->ted horizontally to the flat deck position.
11. It is vet another object of the present invention to provide a detachable forward ..
and rear trailer leveling apparatus.
and rear trailer leveling apparatus.
12. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide detachable bicycle racks.
13. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a trailer which 0 0 through the use of hooks and tie down straps may carry car4~o securely on its lid.
14. It is vet another object of the present invention to provide a trailer which maybe reconfigured to any of the previously mentioned modes without tools or mechanical skills.
15. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a detachable trailer storage dolly with castors to support and store the trailer in the vertical position.
In accordance with the foregoing objects the present invention comprises a utility trailer of the type which has a platform which is mounted to a f~ran~e and suspension for towing behind a vehicle. The present invention has a plurality of upvv,.ardly extending walls, a top cover, forward and rear gates attached by hinge to the trailer franne m which is affixed the tent frame and cover.
The present invention addresses the need for a mcclti-purpose trailer of small enough dimension that it may be stored easily and conveniently and is towable by a small automobile. With high fuel prices hay; come a proliferation of compact and sub-compact automobiles. The family unit of two people has become common place. This reconfigurable trailer fills the need to camp and haul in a convenient and fu.iel etiicient manner.
The trailer is readily convertible from a closed, sealed, secure mobile container to an open container, to a flat deck or to a tent trailer, simply, quickly, easily and without tools or mechanical skills.
i5 In summary, the convertible utility and camloing trailer according to the present invention includes a rigid base frame lying in a first plane so as to extend laterall~~ between opposite first and second side edges of the frame, and so as to extend longitudinally between front and rear edges of the frame. At least one pair of wheels are mounted to the frame so as to be laterally disposed relative to the frame for rolling translation of the trailer along a longitudinal 2 0 direction-of travel axis of the trailer. where the direction-of'-travel axis of the trailer is parallel to and medially disposed between the side edges of the frame.
A rigid hollow tube which serves as a spine is ri~~idtv mounted to the frame so as to define a member receiving bore along a longitudinally extending centroidal axis ofthe tube. The 2 5 tube may be a continuous rigid spine nnc~rnber forming a polygon in cross section and extending from the rear edge to the front ec.lge of the frame. The holy'~on may be a square. The tube is aligned co-axially with the direction-ot-travel axis and extends substantially lnetween, and to. the front and rear edges of the frame. The tube is sized tile>ng its len~~th so as to receive in simultaneous co-axial mounting, appositely disposed in the bore, a forwardly extendable rigid hitch draw member and a rearwardly extending rear support member. A hitch means is mounted to a distal end of the draw member. The draw member is telescopically mountable in the tube for sliding from a forward end of the tube between extended and rcuracted positions. When the draw member is in either position, that is, in either the e~aendeci r>r retracted positions, the rear support member may be slidably mounted into a rearward end of the tube. opposite the forward end, so as to cantilever an exposed portion of the rt°ar support member from the tube.
A planar rear end gate is pivotally mountable to the rear edge of the frame for folding between an upright position and :~ laid-llat position. l the laid flat position the rear end gate rests on the exposed portion of tlae rear support. A planar front end gate is pivotally mountable to the front edge of the frame for folding between an upright position and a laid flat position resting on the draw member when in its extended position. A pair of side panels is mountable upright to the side edges of the frame. A rigid Moor is mounted onto an upper surface 1 ~ of the frame, parallel to the lust plane anti generally co-planar and co-extensive with the end gates when in their laid flat positions. Means are provided for releasably locking the end gates against ends of the side panels when the end dates and the side panels are mounted to the frame and when the end gates are pivoted into their upright positions. A rigid generally planar cover is mountable onto the side panels and the end gates when in their upright positiuns.
~0 The trailer of the present invention may further include a detachably mountable bike rack releasably lockably mountable to the Iivune along at least one of the side edges of the frame. The bile rack may comprise an elongate upturned channel member mountable parallel to and generally coplanar with_ in the first plane, one side edge of the frame.
The trailer oh the present invention nmv further include elongate legs releasably mountable to the rear support member and the dram- member for stabilizin~~ the trailer about the E
pair of wheels. The legs may be selectively adjustable. by length-adjusting means mounted on the legs, so that their length may be adjusted to level the i~rame on uneven ground.
In one embodiment, the cover may be positioned adjacent the rear end gate, when in S its laid flat position. Vvith the cover resting on tine ground a de-mountable first tent frame is mountable onto at least the end gates when in their laid flat positions. A
second tent frame is mountable to the first tent frame so as to extend aft oi~ the rear end gate and is mountable onto the cover when on the ground so that the cover forms a floor ol~tl~e second tent frame. The first and second tent frames defines first and second cavities. A flexible first cover is mountable over the first tent frame. A l7exible second is mountable over the second tent frame.
The first tent frame, when mounted on at least the end gates functions as a bedroom and whereby the second tent frame when mounted to the first tent frame and nnounted t.o the cover positic»~ed on the ground adjacent the rear end gate, may function as an extra room.
The trailer of the present invention may i~urther include a storage dolly mountable to the frame at the rear edge. 'hhe dolly inciudes rigid support members extending perpendicularly from the frame when the dolly is mounted to the frame so as to lie in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. The rear end gate. when in its upright position, lies in the second plane. A pair of wheels is mounted to the dolly so that, v,h en the dolly is mounted to the fi-arne and the frame is 0 oriented vertically, the support members are horizontal to the ground surface. The wheels mounted to the dolly are in contact with the ground surface when the frame is vertical. A second dolly may be mountable under the rear end gate when the rear end gate. is in the upright position relative to the frame and the frame is vertical. The second dolly includes a plurality of wheels mounted so as to he in contact with the ground when the second dolly is under the rear end gate ~5 and the frame is vertical. The frame may include longitudinally extending frame side members.
~hhe dolly may include a pair of laterally spaced apart ri~~id arms (or sliding mating engagement into apertures in rearmost ends of the frame side me°mbers.
The trailer of the present invention muy also include a rigid storage compartment mounted to the frame so as to extend under the frame when the frame is horizontal and the wheels are in contact with the ground.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure I is a plan view of the frame assembly c~i the preferred en nbodiment with the deck removed and bike rake attached.
Figure 2 is a right side elevation of the prefert-ecl cmbodimec~t which shows the trailer in the fully closed mobile configuration.
Figure 3 is a right side f:levation of the preferred embodiment which shows the trailer in the mobile flat deck cargo mode with end gates folded down and trailer draw extended and cover lid removed.
Figure 4 is a right side elevation of the preferred embodiment which shows the bedroom and extra room skeletal assemblies and forward and rear leveling legs in the camping configuration.
Figure ~ is a rear elevation of the preferred enohudimcnt which shows the bedroom and extra room skeletal assemblies rear leveling leg ~<~nd ,tc>rage box with doors open and supported.
Figure 6 is a rear elevation of the preferred cmh«diment which shows the extra room and bedroom with door flaps open and bedroom screen closed.
Figure 7 is a right side elevation of the preferred embodiment which shows the extra room forward arch skeletal assembly attachment to transverse connecting rods and to bedroom rear arch.
Figure 8 is a right side elevation o(~ the preferred embodiment which shows the trailer in the camping configuration with the bedroom and ewra room covers in place.
Figure ~ is a detail of a side view of~ the preferred embodiment which shows the bedroom ridge pole intersecting the end arch.
Figure 10 is a detail of a side view of the preferred embodiment which shows the bedroom intermediate ridge support intersecting toe trailer side panel.
Figure 11 is detail of a plan view of the preferred embodimerri which shows the intersection and attachment oi~ihe bedroom ridge pole, iWermc~iiatc support and connecting cross.
Figure l? is a detail of a aide view of a tie dc~w-n strap.
Fissure f s is a detail c~Fa aide viwv of an elasticised fastening strap.
Figure 14 is a right side elevation of the prei~erred embodiment which shows the end arch intersecting and attached to the end gate mounting bracket.
c, I=figure 15 is a detail of a plan view of figure 1 1.
Figure 16 is a right side elevation of the preferred embodiment which shows the trailer mounted vertically on the storage dolly.
Figurel7 is a side elevation of trailer storage dolly stabilizer.
Figure 18 is a plan view of the f'ran~e of' the storage dolly of the preferred embodiment.
,0 Figure 19 is a front elevation of the storage dully of the preferred embodiment.
Figure 20 is an elevation <~f the intermediate rear end cafe support of the preferred embodiment.
Figure 21 is an elevation ofthe rear end gate intermediate support and leveling leg of the preferred embodiment.
Figure 22 is an elevation of the ierwarcl trailer support and leveling leg of the '~ 0 preferred embodiment.
Figure 23 is a cross section of a tul.~e with a cotter pin and clevis pin installed.
1 (' Figure 24 is a cross section of a cotter pin with a clevis pin installed.
Brief Description of the Drawing Index Sorted by reference numbers 100 wheel and tire assembly 101 wheel and tire assembly ,pare 102 suspension assembly 200 perimeter frame 201 main support cross member 202 secondary cross member 203 hollow spine 204 hollow trailer draw 205 hitch 7 5 206 cotter pin holes, hollow spine trailer draw 207 cotter-clevis assembly 208 cotter pin hole rear end gate support 209 trailer deck 210 recessed cargo tie downs 0 21 1 bike rack charnel 212 bike rack support arms 21 ? bike rack receptacle 214 bike rack receptacle cotter pin hole 21~ bicycle anti-wear strip 2 5 220 cargo box 221 cargo box hinge 222 cargo box door 223 locking cargo box latch 224 cargo box front panel 225 cargo box rear panel 226 cargo box bottom 227 cargo box door support 228 tail light 230 end gate full perimeter 90 degree lip 31 side panel full perimeter 90 degree lip 2 3? forward end gate 233 rear end gate 234 side panel 235 end gate hinge 236 top cover 237 top cover full perimeter 90 degree lip 238 top cover latch assembly 239 tie down straps 240 tie down eyes 241 end gate outer support cable 242 end gate bracket 24 3 end gate bracket end arch retainer holes 244 rear end gate intermediate flat deck support 2 0 245 rear end gate intermediate support ~ itlo leveling leg ''46 forward support with leveling leg ?47 end gate threaded locating dowel 248 end gate threaded locating dowel hole 250 bedroom end arch 2 5 251 bedroom intermediate ridge support 252 bedroom ridge pole section 253 bedroom ridge support cross 260 extra room sectional arch assembly with internal connectin~~ elastic 261 e~;tra room transverse connecting rod 3 0 262 elastic fastener with integral pool:
263 tie straps bedroom to extra room 264 front screen window and exterior flap 265 bedroom end screen door 266 bedroom exterior end trap 267 extra room exterior end flap 268 bedroom exterior cover 269 extra room exterior cover X80 trailer storage dolly receptacle 281 trailer storage dolly 0 282 trailer storage dolly perimeter frame 283 trailer storage dolly probe to trailer receptacle 284 locking wheel casters 285 trailer storage dolly stabilizer Detailed Description of Emhodinnents of the Invention Figure l is comprised of the frame assen~hty of the present invention. The suspension 102 and wheel and tire assembly 100 are of conventional design with appropriate load rating for the weight which will be carried. The perimeter frame 200. main support cross members 2 0 201 and secondary cross members 202 are welded together and constructed of hollow tubing, angle. or channel aluminum or steel with corrosion resistant coating. The hollow spine 203 is welded to intersecting cross mernloers and carries within its lcnrth the hollow tube trailer draw 204 which has affixed to its forward ones the trailer hitch 2()S. 7~hc hollow spine 203 and trailer draw ''04 have corresponding cotter pin hobs 206 by v~~hicl~ the _lraw is secured in the extended or 5 nested position by cotter-clevis pin assembly 20 ~'.
The trailer draw 204 may he extended i~cwvard from the nested position to maintain trailer to tow vehicle clearance w°hen the trailer i~, towed with the forward end gate 232 in the flat deck configuration. The end gate intermediate supports 244 or 245 are secured within the hollow spine 203 at pin hole 208 by a cotter-clevis assembly 207. Pre manufactured recessed cargo tie down eves 210 are affixed to the trailer perimeter frame assembly 200 for use in conjunction with commercially available tie down straps to stabilize cargo.
Bile rack support channel '? 11 and bike rack sul~lxmt arms 212 are made of stainless steel or aluminum or any other non-corrosive. str~:mg, light weight material and are bolted or welded together. Bike rack support arms ~' 12 slide inside of the receptacle 213 and are secured by cotter-clevis pin assembly 207. The bicycle tires nest within the npwurdly extending side walls of the bike channel 21 1 and are secured to the channel by elastic fasteners 262 or similar device. The upper bike frame is secured to the: trailer at tie down eyes 240 hs means of elastic fasteners 262 or other similar device. The bike may also be locked to the top ccwcr latch assembly 238 by means of a padlock and chain. Anti- wear strip 21 ~ of urethane or other similar low friction material is affixed to the trailer lid lip 2 3'7 to minimise scuffin h of the bike paint when the trailer is in motion.
The bike rack assembly 21 1 and ? I 2 is easily removed when not required by withdrawing securing cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 from receptacle 21 3 pin holes 214 and sliding support arms 212 outwards and away from the trailer.
Figure 2 shows hollow spine 20 ~ which carries within its length hollow trailer draw ? 0 204 and has mounted to its underside a spare tire asscmhly 101 in the rearward location. Trailer draw 204 is in the nested position amd secured with the Gorier-clevis pin assembly 207 at pin holes 206. Bile rack receptacles 213 are located as shown on each side of the trailer and the.
corresponding bike anti-wear strip 215 is attached to each side oh the top cover 236 at full perimeter lip 237.
7~op cover 2 36 is made of aluminum. fiberglass or any other strong light weight non-corrosive material. It has a 9t) degree downward pro,jertin~~ lip 2 37 at each of its four edges 1 <
which are welded together at their intersections. Tlne top cover 2 36 is weather stripped where it mates with side panels 2 34 and end crates 232 and 2=s3. Ii also has reinforcing ribs advantageously located and welded to its underside to add strength and rigidity. 1'o the top cover 236 left and right lips 237 are attached tie down eyes '240 which may be used in cc:~njunction with pre-manufactured tie down straps to secure cargo to the top cover .'_ 36. The top cover 23C is held tight to end gates 232 and 233 and side panels 234 by tie down straps ? 39 which are located substantially at each of its four corners. Top cover latch assembly 2 38 may be ol~ a pre-manufactured design and is lockable.
Also shown is a sealed cargo boy 220 which is comprised of hinges 221, doors 222, front panel 224, rear panel 22~, and bottom 220. Tloe cargo box is weather striped and employs a pre-manufactured lockable latch assembly 223 to secure both doors.
Forward end gate 2 3:.' and rear end gate ? 3_~ are weather stripped where they intersect the left and right side panels 234. In the substantially vertical position end gates 232 and ~3p are secured to the interior of the side panels 2;~4 by tie dco~~~n strops 2 39.
Figure 3 shows trailer draw 204 in the extended tlat deck cargo mode with trailer hitch 205 attached to its torw°ard end and Iras mounted to its underside a spare tire assembly 1 Ol in 2 0 the forv~~ard location. Hollow spine trailer draw cotter-pin holes 20(>
are used in conjunction with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 to s~c~.ire trailer draw 204 in the position.
Cotter- pin hole rear end gate support 208 is used in conjunction with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 to secure rear end gate intermediate flat deck support 244. S~zpport 244 mounts into hollow spine 203.
A pre-manufactured tail light assembly 228 is t~ttached to the frame cmd is located so that it will not be damaged when the trailer is tilted.
r Forward end gate 2;2 and rear end gate 23 > are attached to the trailer frame 200 by hinges 235 with screws or weld. To each end gate 2 >2 and ?s:~ is atiixed by weld two end gate brackets 242. C.'onnected to end gate bracl.:et 242 at outer hole 24 ~ and secured with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 is support cable 241 which extends diagonally upwards, towards and it attached to side panels 234.
Figure 4 shows rear end gate intermediate support 245 with leveling leg 245a and forward support 246 and leveling leg 246a deployed in the camping position.
Support 246 is secured to the hollow spine 203 using, cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 and ptn hole 206. Rear end gate intermediate support with leveling leg 245 is secured within the hollow spine 203 by cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 and pin hole 20R.
'hhe bedroom cover frame assembly is cc~mpr'ksed oi~ bedroom end arches 250, bedroom intermediate ridge supports 251. ridge pole sections''S2 and ridge support cross 253. The frame assembly is comprised of tubular material light w-~eight. strong. and non- corrosive such as fiberglass, aluminum, or stainless steel, or galvanized or epoxy powder coated steel. End arch 250 is a rigid continuous framework with welded connections as rc.°duired.
It is cc»»prised of an arch section which extends from each end gate upwards to intersect the ridge. The lower portion is attached to the end gate bracket 242 and a diagonal brace connects the aforementioned portions together. The bedroom internoediate ridge support :? 51 is central 1y located at the side panel top lip ~' 0 231 and is comprised of two symmetrical half arches of a similar ccmfiguration to end arches 250 which together with ridge pole sections 252 inters~_°ct ridge support cross 2~3. Bedroom rear end arch 250 and forward extra room arch assembly ='_60 arc located equidistant from intermediate ridge support 251 with extra room arch fnime~ 2(>0 outboard oi~ bedroom arch frame 250. The extra room sectional arch assembly 260 with internal ccmnecting a ! ~istic is employed at the forward and rear ends of the extra room. Each assenobly is eonulorisecl of tw-o one half arches and two straight lower legs which nest into each other and arc. held secure by internal elastic and engage top cover 236 at tie down eves 240. 'fhe sections may be disen~~~y<i and collapsed for storage while iE
remaining interconnected by the internal elastic. T'hc extra room transverse connecting rods 261 connect arch assemblies 260 at locating dowels which are welded to arch assembly 260. The extra room frame components 260 and 261 may be made of the same materials as bedroom frame components 250, 251, and 252.
Figure 5 shoves bike rack receptacle 21 ~ with cotter-pin hole 214.
Trailer deck 209 is also shown ai.~d may he of amv light weigh strong non-corrosive material such as aluminum, t7berglass or sealed plywood.
Trailer top cover 236 is also used as an elevated (lorn~ for the extra room.
The top cover 236 has reinforcing ribs installed advantageously un the underside for added rigidity and also employs the tie down eyes 240 as anchors for the extra room frame 260.
Cargo doors 222. left side and right side are sl»~wn in the open position supported by cables 227.
Bedroom arch 250 and extra room arch assembly 260 are shown skeletally in their relative positions with 260 being higher tar extra head room and also being wider to intersect with 2 0 tie down eyes 240 mounted on top cove, 236. 'hhe hul Icwv I~rume 2()() side members serve as a trailer storage dolly receptacle 280, into which slides trailer storage dolly probe 283.
Figure 6 is comprised of tie straps 26 3 which are sev~m to the rear corners of the bedroom exterior cover 268 for attachment to the forward extra room arch assembly 260. Also ~5 shown is the forward screen window with retractable cxterinr flap 264. 'The bedroom rear end screen door may be held closed by means of a zipper or tied open with sewn in retaining tie straps.
Bedroom exterior end flap 2E~6 designated by the dotted line, and extra room end flap 267 are both shown in the open position and may be held open by en~ploving sewn in tie straps.
Figure 7 shows skeletal extra room forward arch assembly 260, tie strap 263 location and intersections with transverse connecting rods 261 and top cover 236 at tie dovvro eyes 240. Transverse connecting rods 261 intersect dowels welded to arch assembly 260 and are held secure by fasteners 262.
Figure 8 is a side view of~the trailer in the camping configuration with the bedroom exterior cover 268 and extra room exterior cover 26c) in place. '<1e covers are preferably made of waterproof and breathable fabric which is tear resistant. light weight. and tire retardant. It is attached to the arch assemblies 250 and 260, end gates 2s2 and ? 3 , and side panels 234 with sewn in tie straps. Velcro, or other pre-manufactureed fastening devices. The dotted line shows the bedroom extending within the extra room. 'hhe ex~:ra room cover 26c) fbrward edge is elasticized and loosely fits over' part ofthe bedroom cover 26;x, as shown. This simplit7es the extra room set up on irregular ground while maintaining a weather resistant connection between the two structures. Leveling legs 245 and 246 arc deployed in the camping mode.
Figure 9 shows a bedroono ridge pole section 252 intersecting a dowel welded to the bedroom end arch 250. This connection does not reduire tastenin~~ as the effect of the bedroom cover 268 is to maintain compression orn the bedr~:>om frame assembly 250, 252, and 253.
Figure 10 shows the bedroom intertnediatc rici«r support 251 intersecting the trailer side panel 2 34 at the top lip 2 31 and extending through sail lip ~' ,1 until a stop on the ridge support 251 contacts said panel lip ~' 31.
1 ~', Figure 11 depicts the bedroom ridge pole sections 252 and bedroom intermediate ridge supports 251 intersecting and fastened to the 1_~edroom ridge support cross 253 with elastic fasteners 262. This assembly is intended, when collapsed, to rtrnain interconnected with elastic fasteners 262 thus reducing the number of components and sinnplifyinc the set up.
Figure 12 shows the tylae of pre-manufactured rubber tie down strap which is used to secure end gates 2 32 and 2 , 3 to the top cover 2_ 6 and io side panels 2 34. Alternatively other fasteners which perform the same function may be used.
Figure 13 shows the type of elastic fastener with integral hook 262 used to connect bedroom intermediate ridge supports 251. bedroom ridge pole sections 252, and bedroom ridge support cross 253. It is also used to connect the extra room arch assembly 260 to the extra room transverse connecting rods 261.
~~5 Figure 14 depicts an end gate bracket 242 which is welded to the end gates 232 and 233 and is used to connect the end arches 250 and support cables 241 to said end gates. Support cables 241 are also affixed to the inside of the side panels 2 34 by means of a typical shoulder bolt.
Threaded dowel 247 which penetrates side panel end lip 231 is used in coyjunction with hole 248 ~' 0 in the end gates 232 and 23 3 to improve lateral stability ofthc side panels when the end gates are in the closed position. A w°ing nut may be added m the tl~rca~l~d dov.vc l for increased strength if needed. Holes 24 3 in the end .ate brac:hets 242 are used in conjunction with cotter-clevis assembly 207 to secure end arches 250 and support cables 2=11 in place;.
Figure l 5 is a plan view c>f end date 232 or 2s > with a channel type bracket welded in place. Vv'ithin the open cavity defined by the upwardly exW ndin~~
channel type bracket iG
sidewalk is located the lower portion of the end arch 250 which with support cable 241 is held in place by cotter-clevis assernblv 207.
Figure 16 depicts a right side elevation of~the trailer in the vertically stored position with the trailer storage dolly '281 probe 283 inserted into the trailer storage dolly receptacle 280 (seen in Figure 5) trailer storage dolly stabilizer 28:~ affixed to hollow spine 203 at cotter pin hole 208 with cotter-clevis assembly 207.
Figurel7 shows an elevation of -,h a trailer storage dolly stabilizer which is comprised of a section of channel which mates wish the hollow spine 20 3 at its bottom and side surfaces and is secured with cotter-clevis assembly 207 at pin hole 208. The apparatus is also comprised of a lower member perpendicular and diagcmally braced to said channel to which is affixed a swivel castor.
Figure 18 shows a plan view of the trailer .w~rage dolly frame 282 with two upwardly extending probes which is constructed of hollow tube steel with welded joints and is gusseted at the corners.
Figure 19 shov.vs an elevation of the trailer ;;forage dolly 281 with upwardly 00 extending probes 28 3 locking castors 28-1 and stabilizer 285_ Figure 20 is a side view of the rear cnd cafe intermediate flat deck support which shows pin hole 208 which is used to loci: and secure it inside the hollow spine 203 with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207. The upper rear surface oi~244 is elev~ned as necessary to intersect and support rear end gate ~ 3_s in its substantially horizontal position.
Figure 21 she>ws the rear and gate intermediate support with leveling leg 245.
Pin hole 208 is used to lock and secure it inside the hollow spine 21) 3 with cotter-clevis assembly 207.
The upper rear surface of support 245 is elevated as necessary to intersect and support end gate 233 in the substantially horizontal position. Welded to support 24_5 is a turn buckle type assembly with left and right threads and a foot welded to tl~e bottom of the lower leg.
The turn buckle is turned to extend or contract its length and thus rai:;e or Iewer and level the trailer. Alternatively a pre-manufactured jack of similar function may be used.
Figure 22 show's the forward support and level ing leg X46 which is attached to the exterior of the hollow spine 203 at forward pin hole= 20C using cotter-clevis assembly 207. Forward support 24C is comprised of steel acngle or channel which contacts the side and bottom faces ofthe hollow spine 20, and has w~olded to it a turn buc:klc type asscn;bly with left and right threads and a foot welded to the bottom of the lower leg. l~he turn hucl:le is turned to extend or contract its 1 S length and thus raise or lower and level tlne trailer. .=llternativel,y a pre-manufactured jack of similar function may be used.
Figure 2, shows a typical installation of the crater-clevis pin assembly 207.
This type of fastener is used to secure the hollow ~ spine 20 3 to the trailer draw 204, end gate supports 0 244 and 245 to the hollow spine 20 ~, bike rack support arms ~ 12 to bike rack receptacle 213, and end arch assembly 250 and support cable 241 to ewd gate bracket 242.
Figure 24 shows the clevis pin installed to secure the cotter-pin in place.
The foregoin~~ detail description of tl~e prclerred embodiment ofthe invention has peen for the purpose of illustration ,and not limitation aad is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to tile precise form disclosed. Numerous changes may he made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed.
Operation of the Invention J
The nested camper trailer is of~sulficient interior dimension that with the end arches 250 attached to end gates 232 and 23_ and exterior clover 268 attached there still is sufficient room for a mattress. bedding, pillows, gc>If cluhs. lawn chairs and lut gage. When it is desired to use the trailer in the camping mode, rear end gate intermediate support witlo leveling leg 245 and forward support with leveling leg 246 may he attached to the hollow shine in their respective locations and secured with cotter-clevis assembly 207. 'fhc trailer may be leveled by extending or contracting leveling legs 245 and 246 as necessary. Altern<ztively if the ground slope is minimal the trailer may be left attached to the vehicle with the leveling legs 245 and 246 not required. The trailer top cover 236 is removed and positioned on the ground at the rear of tl-ne trailer to he used as an elevated floor platform. All end gate tie downs 2,9 are detached and the rear end gate 233 may now be pivoted into the substantially horizontal position with the attached end arch 250 extending vertically. Next, the forward end gate 2 32 may he pivoted intcn the substantially horizontal position with the attached forward end arch 250 extending vertically. 'hhis order must be maintained as the rear end arch 250 is recessed from tl7e oc.ner edge from the rear end gate 23 3 as shown in figure 0 No. l 4 to permit the forward end arc( 25t> to rest uapon it when the trailer is in the nested position.
The exterior cover 268 is permanently tied to the ulaper portion of the forward and rear end arches X50 SO that when the end arches 25l) arc pivoted to the ~.uhstnntially vertical position the trailer interior is covered. 'hhe assembly comprised of the hcdroorn intermediate ridge support 251, bedroom ridge pole section 252 and bedroonn ridge support cross 253 are permanently 5 interconnected with elastic fasteners 2(,2 and may now he installed connecting intermediate supports 251 with side panels 2 34 and ridge pole sections 252 v.~~ith end arches 250. The exterior cower 268 may now be fastened to tloe trailer body. floe extra room forward sectional arch -, assembly with internal connecting elastic 260 is fastened to the bedroom exterior cover 268 by sewn in ties and is anchored at its lower extremit~~ by tie clown eyes 240 on top cover 236. The extra room rear arch assembly 260 is connected to tl~e extra rc~um forward arch assembly 260 by transverse connecting rods 2f~ l and is~ fastened with elastic fasteners 262.
The rear extra room arch assembly 260 is also anchored at its lower extremity at tie down eyes 240. The extra room exterior cover 269 may now be installed and tied to the: extra room assembly 260 using sewn in ties or other appropriate f asteners. The camper assembly with bedroom and extra room is now assembled.
if it is desired to use the trailer in the t7at deck mode simply remove cotter-clevis assembly 207 from pin holes 206. extent! the trailer draw 204 and reinsert cotter-clevis assembly 207 into holes 206. The trailer electrical harness i~; of suliicient length to permit the extension of trailer draw 204. The rear end gate internoediatc flat deck support 244 is inserted into the rear end of the hollow spine 203 and is pinned in fslace with cotter-clevic assembly 207 at pin hole 208. The bedroom end arches 250 are the only parts of the exterior cover 268 frame normally attached to the.
trailer and may be easily removed with the exterior cover 26f~ affixed to it by extracting cotter-clevis assembly 207 from the end gate brac>tets 24:? retainer hales 24 3. With the end gates pivoted substantially horizontal the trailer is now reconfigured to Imul building materials, motorcycle, ATV, furniture or any other cargo that may be strapped down to the recessed cargo tie down eyes 210 and is within the appropriate weight carrying limits of the trailer.
The trailer may also be used in the closed locked mode with end arches 250 and exterior cover 268 removed. 'hhis conf7~luration l;rovides a secure sealed environment free from dirt and moisture in which to haul luggage, tools, sporting equipment. or other valuables. On the top cover 236 may be carried additional cargo tied to tie dow-n eyes 240.
The trailer n nay also be ~.~sed as an uncovcrec! Hilly sided container for hauling commodities where the flat deck length is not required.
If bikes are to be carried, the bike rack as>sembly 21 1 and 212 is installed into receptacle 213 and is secured with cotter-clevis assembly 207. 'hhe bikes wheels are then simply strapped to the rack channel 2l 1 and to the top lid tie down eyes 240 with bungee type fasteners and may also be locked to the top cover latch 238.
The lockable cargo box 220 may be used to store any or all supports 244, 245, or 246, camping gear, tools. fishing gear or any other miscellan~~.~us items.
-,10 When the trailer is to be stored. the storage dc711y probes 283 are inserted into the trailer receptacles 280. With the castors in the locl.:ed position the rear end of the trailer is tilted downwards onto the dolly and then pivoned into thmertical position. Tl~e trailer storage dolly stabilizer 285 is then affixed to the hollow spine°_ 203 at pin bole 208 using cotter-clevis pin assembly 207. The trailer is of st.uficiently snoall dimension that it may easily pass through a standard door way and may be conveniently stc»-ed in a locker.
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications ;are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the sloirit or scope thereof. Accordin~lv, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defrned by the following claims.
In accordance with the foregoing objects the present invention comprises a utility trailer of the type which has a platform which is mounted to a f~ran~e and suspension for towing behind a vehicle. The present invention has a plurality of upvv,.ardly extending walls, a top cover, forward and rear gates attached by hinge to the trailer franne m which is affixed the tent frame and cover.
The present invention addresses the need for a mcclti-purpose trailer of small enough dimension that it may be stored easily and conveniently and is towable by a small automobile. With high fuel prices hay; come a proliferation of compact and sub-compact automobiles. The family unit of two people has become common place. This reconfigurable trailer fills the need to camp and haul in a convenient and fu.iel etiicient manner.
The trailer is readily convertible from a closed, sealed, secure mobile container to an open container, to a flat deck or to a tent trailer, simply, quickly, easily and without tools or mechanical skills.
i5 In summary, the convertible utility and camloing trailer according to the present invention includes a rigid base frame lying in a first plane so as to extend laterall~~ between opposite first and second side edges of the frame, and so as to extend longitudinally between front and rear edges of the frame. At least one pair of wheels are mounted to the frame so as to be laterally disposed relative to the frame for rolling translation of the trailer along a longitudinal 2 0 direction-of travel axis of the trailer. where the direction-of'-travel axis of the trailer is parallel to and medially disposed between the side edges of the frame.
A rigid hollow tube which serves as a spine is ri~~idtv mounted to the frame so as to define a member receiving bore along a longitudinally extending centroidal axis ofthe tube. The 2 5 tube may be a continuous rigid spine nnc~rnber forming a polygon in cross section and extending from the rear edge to the front ec.lge of the frame. The holy'~on may be a square. The tube is aligned co-axially with the direction-ot-travel axis and extends substantially lnetween, and to. the front and rear edges of the frame. The tube is sized tile>ng its len~~th so as to receive in simultaneous co-axial mounting, appositely disposed in the bore, a forwardly extendable rigid hitch draw member and a rearwardly extending rear support member. A hitch means is mounted to a distal end of the draw member. The draw member is telescopically mountable in the tube for sliding from a forward end of the tube between extended and rcuracted positions. When the draw member is in either position, that is, in either the e~aendeci r>r retracted positions, the rear support member may be slidably mounted into a rearward end of the tube. opposite the forward end, so as to cantilever an exposed portion of the rt°ar support member from the tube.
A planar rear end gate is pivotally mountable to the rear edge of the frame for folding between an upright position and :~ laid-llat position. l the laid flat position the rear end gate rests on the exposed portion of tlae rear support. A planar front end gate is pivotally mountable to the front edge of the frame for folding between an upright position and a laid flat position resting on the draw member when in its extended position. A pair of side panels is mountable upright to the side edges of the frame. A rigid Moor is mounted onto an upper surface 1 ~ of the frame, parallel to the lust plane anti generally co-planar and co-extensive with the end gates when in their laid flat positions. Means are provided for releasably locking the end gates against ends of the side panels when the end dates and the side panels are mounted to the frame and when the end gates are pivoted into their upright positions. A rigid generally planar cover is mountable onto the side panels and the end gates when in their upright positiuns.
~0 The trailer of the present invention may further include a detachably mountable bike rack releasably lockably mountable to the Iivune along at least one of the side edges of the frame. The bile rack may comprise an elongate upturned channel member mountable parallel to and generally coplanar with_ in the first plane, one side edge of the frame.
The trailer oh the present invention nmv further include elongate legs releasably mountable to the rear support member and the dram- member for stabilizin~~ the trailer about the E
pair of wheels. The legs may be selectively adjustable. by length-adjusting means mounted on the legs, so that their length may be adjusted to level the i~rame on uneven ground.
In one embodiment, the cover may be positioned adjacent the rear end gate, when in S its laid flat position. Vvith the cover resting on tine ground a de-mountable first tent frame is mountable onto at least the end gates when in their laid flat positions. A
second tent frame is mountable to the first tent frame so as to extend aft oi~ the rear end gate and is mountable onto the cover when on the ground so that the cover forms a floor ol~tl~e second tent frame. The first and second tent frames defines first and second cavities. A flexible first cover is mountable over the first tent frame. A l7exible second is mountable over the second tent frame.
The first tent frame, when mounted on at least the end gates functions as a bedroom and whereby the second tent frame when mounted to the first tent frame and nnounted t.o the cover positic»~ed on the ground adjacent the rear end gate, may function as an extra room.
The trailer of the present invention may i~urther include a storage dolly mountable to the frame at the rear edge. 'hhe dolly inciudes rigid support members extending perpendicularly from the frame when the dolly is mounted to the frame so as to lie in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. The rear end gate. when in its upright position, lies in the second plane. A pair of wheels is mounted to the dolly so that, v,h en the dolly is mounted to the fi-arne and the frame is 0 oriented vertically, the support members are horizontal to the ground surface. The wheels mounted to the dolly are in contact with the ground surface when the frame is vertical. A second dolly may be mountable under the rear end gate when the rear end gate. is in the upright position relative to the frame and the frame is vertical. The second dolly includes a plurality of wheels mounted so as to he in contact with the ground when the second dolly is under the rear end gate ~5 and the frame is vertical. The frame may include longitudinally extending frame side members.
~hhe dolly may include a pair of laterally spaced apart ri~~id arms (or sliding mating engagement into apertures in rearmost ends of the frame side me°mbers.
The trailer of the present invention muy also include a rigid storage compartment mounted to the frame so as to extend under the frame when the frame is horizontal and the wheels are in contact with the ground.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure I is a plan view of the frame assembly c~i the preferred en nbodiment with the deck removed and bike rake attached.
Figure 2 is a right side elevation of the prefert-ecl cmbodimec~t which shows the trailer in the fully closed mobile configuration.
Figure 3 is a right side f:levation of the preferred embodiment which shows the trailer in the mobile flat deck cargo mode with end gates folded down and trailer draw extended and cover lid removed.
Figure 4 is a right side elevation of the preferred embodiment which shows the bedroom and extra room skeletal assemblies and forward and rear leveling legs in the camping configuration.
Figure ~ is a rear elevation of the preferred enohudimcnt which shows the bedroom and extra room skeletal assemblies rear leveling leg ~<~nd ,tc>rage box with doors open and supported.
Figure 6 is a rear elevation of the preferred cmh«diment which shows the extra room and bedroom with door flaps open and bedroom screen closed.
Figure 7 is a right side elevation of the preferred embodiment which shows the extra room forward arch skeletal assembly attachment to transverse connecting rods and to bedroom rear arch.
Figure 8 is a right side elevation o(~ the preferred embodiment which shows the trailer in the camping configuration with the bedroom and ewra room covers in place.
Figure ~ is a detail of a side view of~ the preferred embodiment which shows the bedroom ridge pole intersecting the end arch.
Figure 10 is a detail of a side view of the preferred embodiment which shows the bedroom intermediate ridge support intersecting toe trailer side panel.
Figure 11 is detail of a plan view of the preferred embodimerri which shows the intersection and attachment oi~ihe bedroom ridge pole, iWermc~iiatc support and connecting cross.
Figure l? is a detail of a aide view of a tie dc~w-n strap.
Fissure f s is a detail c~Fa aide viwv of an elasticised fastening strap.
Figure 14 is a right side elevation of the prei~erred embodiment which shows the end arch intersecting and attached to the end gate mounting bracket.
c, I=figure 15 is a detail of a plan view of figure 1 1.
Figure 16 is a right side elevation of the preferred embodiment which shows the trailer mounted vertically on the storage dolly.
Figurel7 is a side elevation of trailer storage dolly stabilizer.
Figure 18 is a plan view of the f'ran~e of' the storage dolly of the preferred embodiment.
,0 Figure 19 is a front elevation of the storage dully of the preferred embodiment.
Figure 20 is an elevation <~f the intermediate rear end cafe support of the preferred embodiment.
Figure 21 is an elevation ofthe rear end gate intermediate support and leveling leg of the preferred embodiment.
Figure 22 is an elevation of the ierwarcl trailer support and leveling leg of the '~ 0 preferred embodiment.
Figure 23 is a cross section of a tul.~e with a cotter pin and clevis pin installed.
1 (' Figure 24 is a cross section of a cotter pin with a clevis pin installed.
Brief Description of the Drawing Index Sorted by reference numbers 100 wheel and tire assembly 101 wheel and tire assembly ,pare 102 suspension assembly 200 perimeter frame 201 main support cross member 202 secondary cross member 203 hollow spine 204 hollow trailer draw 205 hitch 7 5 206 cotter pin holes, hollow spine trailer draw 207 cotter-clevis assembly 208 cotter pin hole rear end gate support 209 trailer deck 210 recessed cargo tie downs 0 21 1 bike rack charnel 212 bike rack support arms 21 ? bike rack receptacle 214 bike rack receptacle cotter pin hole 21~ bicycle anti-wear strip 2 5 220 cargo box 221 cargo box hinge 222 cargo box door 223 locking cargo box latch 224 cargo box front panel 225 cargo box rear panel 226 cargo box bottom 227 cargo box door support 228 tail light 230 end gate full perimeter 90 degree lip 31 side panel full perimeter 90 degree lip 2 3? forward end gate 233 rear end gate 234 side panel 235 end gate hinge 236 top cover 237 top cover full perimeter 90 degree lip 238 top cover latch assembly 239 tie down straps 240 tie down eyes 241 end gate outer support cable 242 end gate bracket 24 3 end gate bracket end arch retainer holes 244 rear end gate intermediate flat deck support 2 0 245 rear end gate intermediate support ~ itlo leveling leg ''46 forward support with leveling leg ?47 end gate threaded locating dowel 248 end gate threaded locating dowel hole 250 bedroom end arch 2 5 251 bedroom intermediate ridge support 252 bedroom ridge pole section 253 bedroom ridge support cross 260 extra room sectional arch assembly with internal connectin~~ elastic 261 e~;tra room transverse connecting rod 3 0 262 elastic fastener with integral pool:
263 tie straps bedroom to extra room 264 front screen window and exterior flap 265 bedroom end screen door 266 bedroom exterior end trap 267 extra room exterior end flap 268 bedroom exterior cover 269 extra room exterior cover X80 trailer storage dolly receptacle 281 trailer storage dolly 0 282 trailer storage dolly perimeter frame 283 trailer storage dolly probe to trailer receptacle 284 locking wheel casters 285 trailer storage dolly stabilizer Detailed Description of Emhodinnents of the Invention Figure l is comprised of the frame assen~hty of the present invention. The suspension 102 and wheel and tire assembly 100 are of conventional design with appropriate load rating for the weight which will be carried. The perimeter frame 200. main support cross members 2 0 201 and secondary cross members 202 are welded together and constructed of hollow tubing, angle. or channel aluminum or steel with corrosion resistant coating. The hollow spine 203 is welded to intersecting cross mernloers and carries within its lcnrth the hollow tube trailer draw 204 which has affixed to its forward ones the trailer hitch 2()S. 7~hc hollow spine 203 and trailer draw ''04 have corresponding cotter pin hobs 206 by v~~hicl~ the _lraw is secured in the extended or 5 nested position by cotter-clevis pin assembly 20 ~'.
The trailer draw 204 may he extended i~cwvard from the nested position to maintain trailer to tow vehicle clearance w°hen the trailer i~, towed with the forward end gate 232 in the flat deck configuration. The end gate intermediate supports 244 or 245 are secured within the hollow spine 203 at pin hole 208 by a cotter-clevis assembly 207. Pre manufactured recessed cargo tie down eves 210 are affixed to the trailer perimeter frame assembly 200 for use in conjunction with commercially available tie down straps to stabilize cargo.
Bile rack support channel '? 11 and bike rack sul~lxmt arms 212 are made of stainless steel or aluminum or any other non-corrosive. str~:mg, light weight material and are bolted or welded together. Bike rack support arms ~' 12 slide inside of the receptacle 213 and are secured by cotter-clevis pin assembly 207. The bicycle tires nest within the npwurdly extending side walls of the bike channel 21 1 and are secured to the channel by elastic fasteners 262 or similar device. The upper bike frame is secured to the: trailer at tie down eyes 240 hs means of elastic fasteners 262 or other similar device. The bike may also be locked to the top ccwcr latch assembly 238 by means of a padlock and chain. Anti- wear strip 21 ~ of urethane or other similar low friction material is affixed to the trailer lid lip 2 3'7 to minimise scuffin h of the bike paint when the trailer is in motion.
The bike rack assembly 21 1 and ? I 2 is easily removed when not required by withdrawing securing cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 from receptacle 21 3 pin holes 214 and sliding support arms 212 outwards and away from the trailer.
Figure 2 shows hollow spine 20 ~ which carries within its length hollow trailer draw ? 0 204 and has mounted to its underside a spare tire asscmhly 101 in the rearward location. Trailer draw 204 is in the nested position amd secured with the Gorier-clevis pin assembly 207 at pin holes 206. Bile rack receptacles 213 are located as shown on each side of the trailer and the.
corresponding bike anti-wear strip 215 is attached to each side oh the top cover 236 at full perimeter lip 237.
7~op cover 2 36 is made of aluminum. fiberglass or any other strong light weight non-corrosive material. It has a 9t) degree downward pro,jertin~~ lip 2 37 at each of its four edges 1 <
which are welded together at their intersections. Tlne top cover 2 36 is weather stripped where it mates with side panels 2 34 and end crates 232 and 2=s3. Ii also has reinforcing ribs advantageously located and welded to its underside to add strength and rigidity. 1'o the top cover 236 left and right lips 237 are attached tie down eyes '240 which may be used in cc:~njunction with pre-manufactured tie down straps to secure cargo to the top cover .'_ 36. The top cover 23C is held tight to end gates 232 and 233 and side panels 234 by tie down straps ? 39 which are located substantially at each of its four corners. Top cover latch assembly 2 38 may be ol~ a pre-manufactured design and is lockable.
Also shown is a sealed cargo boy 220 which is comprised of hinges 221, doors 222, front panel 224, rear panel 22~, and bottom 220. Tloe cargo box is weather striped and employs a pre-manufactured lockable latch assembly 223 to secure both doors.
Forward end gate 2 3:.' and rear end gate ? 3_~ are weather stripped where they intersect the left and right side panels 234. In the substantially vertical position end gates 232 and ~3p are secured to the interior of the side panels 2;~4 by tie dco~~~n strops 2 39.
Figure 3 shows trailer draw 204 in the extended tlat deck cargo mode with trailer hitch 205 attached to its torw°ard end and Iras mounted to its underside a spare tire assembly 1 Ol in 2 0 the forv~~ard location. Hollow spine trailer draw cotter-pin holes 20(>
are used in conjunction with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 to s~c~.ire trailer draw 204 in the position.
Cotter- pin hole rear end gate support 208 is used in conjunction with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 to secure rear end gate intermediate flat deck support 244. S~zpport 244 mounts into hollow spine 203.
A pre-manufactured tail light assembly 228 is t~ttached to the frame cmd is located so that it will not be damaged when the trailer is tilted.
r Forward end gate 2;2 and rear end gate 23 > are attached to the trailer frame 200 by hinges 235 with screws or weld. To each end gate 2 >2 and ?s:~ is atiixed by weld two end gate brackets 242. C.'onnected to end gate bracl.:et 242 at outer hole 24 ~ and secured with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 is support cable 241 which extends diagonally upwards, towards and it attached to side panels 234.
Figure 4 shows rear end gate intermediate support 245 with leveling leg 245a and forward support 246 and leveling leg 246a deployed in the camping position.
Support 246 is secured to the hollow spine 203 using, cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 and ptn hole 206. Rear end gate intermediate support with leveling leg 245 is secured within the hollow spine 203 by cotter-clevis pin assembly 207 and pin hole 20R.
'hhe bedroom cover frame assembly is cc~mpr'ksed oi~ bedroom end arches 250, bedroom intermediate ridge supports 251. ridge pole sections''S2 and ridge support cross 253. The frame assembly is comprised of tubular material light w-~eight. strong. and non- corrosive such as fiberglass, aluminum, or stainless steel, or galvanized or epoxy powder coated steel. End arch 250 is a rigid continuous framework with welded connections as rc.°duired.
It is cc»»prised of an arch section which extends from each end gate upwards to intersect the ridge. The lower portion is attached to the end gate bracket 242 and a diagonal brace connects the aforementioned portions together. The bedroom internoediate ridge support :? 51 is central 1y located at the side panel top lip ~' 0 231 and is comprised of two symmetrical half arches of a similar ccmfiguration to end arches 250 which together with ridge pole sections 252 inters~_°ct ridge support cross 2~3. Bedroom rear end arch 250 and forward extra room arch assembly ='_60 arc located equidistant from intermediate ridge support 251 with extra room arch fnime~ 2(>0 outboard oi~ bedroom arch frame 250. The extra room sectional arch assembly 260 with internal ccmnecting a ! ~istic is employed at the forward and rear ends of the extra room. Each assenobly is eonulorisecl of tw-o one half arches and two straight lower legs which nest into each other and arc. held secure by internal elastic and engage top cover 236 at tie down eves 240. 'fhe sections may be disen~~~y<i and collapsed for storage while iE
remaining interconnected by the internal elastic. T'hc extra room transverse connecting rods 261 connect arch assemblies 260 at locating dowels which are welded to arch assembly 260. The extra room frame components 260 and 261 may be made of the same materials as bedroom frame components 250, 251, and 252.
Figure 5 shoves bike rack receptacle 21 ~ with cotter-pin hole 214.
Trailer deck 209 is also shown ai.~d may he of amv light weigh strong non-corrosive material such as aluminum, t7berglass or sealed plywood.
Trailer top cover 236 is also used as an elevated (lorn~ for the extra room.
The top cover 236 has reinforcing ribs installed advantageously un the underside for added rigidity and also employs the tie down eyes 240 as anchors for the extra room frame 260.
Cargo doors 222. left side and right side are sl»~wn in the open position supported by cables 227.
Bedroom arch 250 and extra room arch assembly 260 are shown skeletally in their relative positions with 260 being higher tar extra head room and also being wider to intersect with 2 0 tie down eyes 240 mounted on top cove, 236. 'hhe hul Icwv I~rume 2()() side members serve as a trailer storage dolly receptacle 280, into which slides trailer storage dolly probe 283.
Figure 6 is comprised of tie straps 26 3 which are sev~m to the rear corners of the bedroom exterior cover 268 for attachment to the forward extra room arch assembly 260. Also ~5 shown is the forward screen window with retractable cxterinr flap 264. 'The bedroom rear end screen door may be held closed by means of a zipper or tied open with sewn in retaining tie straps.
Bedroom exterior end flap 2E~6 designated by the dotted line, and extra room end flap 267 are both shown in the open position and may be held open by en~ploving sewn in tie straps.
Figure 7 shows skeletal extra room forward arch assembly 260, tie strap 263 location and intersections with transverse connecting rods 261 and top cover 236 at tie dovvro eyes 240. Transverse connecting rods 261 intersect dowels welded to arch assembly 260 and are held secure by fasteners 262.
Figure 8 is a side view of~the trailer in the camping configuration with the bedroom exterior cover 268 and extra room exterior cover 26c) in place. '<1e covers are preferably made of waterproof and breathable fabric which is tear resistant. light weight. and tire retardant. It is attached to the arch assemblies 250 and 260, end gates 2s2 and ? 3 , and side panels 234 with sewn in tie straps. Velcro, or other pre-manufactureed fastening devices. The dotted line shows the bedroom extending within the extra room. 'hhe ex~:ra room cover 26c) fbrward edge is elasticized and loosely fits over' part ofthe bedroom cover 26;x, as shown. This simplit7es the extra room set up on irregular ground while maintaining a weather resistant connection between the two structures. Leveling legs 245 and 246 arc deployed in the camping mode.
Figure 9 shows a bedroono ridge pole section 252 intersecting a dowel welded to the bedroom end arch 250. This connection does not reduire tastenin~~ as the effect of the bedroom cover 268 is to maintain compression orn the bedr~:>om frame assembly 250, 252, and 253.
Figure 10 shows the bedroom intertnediatc rici«r support 251 intersecting the trailer side panel 2 34 at the top lip 2 31 and extending through sail lip ~' ,1 until a stop on the ridge support 251 contacts said panel lip ~' 31.
1 ~', Figure 11 depicts the bedroom ridge pole sections 252 and bedroom intermediate ridge supports 251 intersecting and fastened to the 1_~edroom ridge support cross 253 with elastic fasteners 262. This assembly is intended, when collapsed, to rtrnain interconnected with elastic fasteners 262 thus reducing the number of components and sinnplifyinc the set up.
Figure 12 shows the tylae of pre-manufactured rubber tie down strap which is used to secure end gates 2 32 and 2 , 3 to the top cover 2_ 6 and io side panels 2 34. Alternatively other fasteners which perform the same function may be used.
Figure 13 shows the type of elastic fastener with integral hook 262 used to connect bedroom intermediate ridge supports 251. bedroom ridge pole sections 252, and bedroom ridge support cross 253. It is also used to connect the extra room arch assembly 260 to the extra room transverse connecting rods 261.
~~5 Figure 14 depicts an end gate bracket 242 which is welded to the end gates 232 and 233 and is used to connect the end arches 250 and support cables 241 to said end gates. Support cables 241 are also affixed to the inside of the side panels 2 34 by means of a typical shoulder bolt.
Threaded dowel 247 which penetrates side panel end lip 231 is used in coyjunction with hole 248 ~' 0 in the end gates 232 and 23 3 to improve lateral stability ofthc side panels when the end gates are in the closed position. A w°ing nut may be added m the tl~rca~l~d dov.vc l for increased strength if needed. Holes 24 3 in the end .ate brac:hets 242 are used in conjunction with cotter-clevis assembly 207 to secure end arches 250 and support cables 2=11 in place;.
Figure l 5 is a plan view c>f end date 232 or 2s > with a channel type bracket welded in place. Vv'ithin the open cavity defined by the upwardly exW ndin~~
channel type bracket iG
sidewalk is located the lower portion of the end arch 250 which with support cable 241 is held in place by cotter-clevis assernblv 207.
Figure 16 depicts a right side elevation of~the trailer in the vertically stored position with the trailer storage dolly '281 probe 283 inserted into the trailer storage dolly receptacle 280 (seen in Figure 5) trailer storage dolly stabilizer 28:~ affixed to hollow spine 203 at cotter pin hole 208 with cotter-clevis assembly 207.
Figurel7 shows an elevation of -,h a trailer storage dolly stabilizer which is comprised of a section of channel which mates wish the hollow spine 20 3 at its bottom and side surfaces and is secured with cotter-clevis assembly 207 at pin hole 208. The apparatus is also comprised of a lower member perpendicular and diagcmally braced to said channel to which is affixed a swivel castor.
Figure 18 shows a plan view of the trailer .w~rage dolly frame 282 with two upwardly extending probes which is constructed of hollow tube steel with welded joints and is gusseted at the corners.
Figure 19 shov.vs an elevation of the trailer ;;forage dolly 281 with upwardly 00 extending probes 28 3 locking castors 28-1 and stabilizer 285_ Figure 20 is a side view of the rear cnd cafe intermediate flat deck support which shows pin hole 208 which is used to loci: and secure it inside the hollow spine 203 with cotter-clevis pin assembly 207. The upper rear surface oi~244 is elev~ned as necessary to intersect and support rear end gate ~ 3_s in its substantially horizontal position.
Figure 21 she>ws the rear and gate intermediate support with leveling leg 245.
Pin hole 208 is used to lock and secure it inside the hollow spine 21) 3 with cotter-clevis assembly 207.
The upper rear surface of support 245 is elevated as necessary to intersect and support end gate 233 in the substantially horizontal position. Welded to support 24_5 is a turn buckle type assembly with left and right threads and a foot welded to tl~e bottom of the lower leg.
The turn buckle is turned to extend or contract its length and thus rai:;e or Iewer and level the trailer. Alternatively a pre-manufactured jack of similar function may be used.
Figure 22 show's the forward support and level ing leg X46 which is attached to the exterior of the hollow spine 203 at forward pin hole= 20C using cotter-clevis assembly 207. Forward support 24C is comprised of steel acngle or channel which contacts the side and bottom faces ofthe hollow spine 20, and has w~olded to it a turn buc:klc type asscn;bly with left and right threads and a foot welded to the bottom of the lower leg. l~he turn hucl:le is turned to extend or contract its 1 S length and thus raise or lower and level tlne trailer. .=llternativel,y a pre-manufactured jack of similar function may be used.
Figure 2, shows a typical installation of the crater-clevis pin assembly 207.
This type of fastener is used to secure the hollow ~ spine 20 3 to the trailer draw 204, end gate supports 0 244 and 245 to the hollow spine 20 ~, bike rack support arms ~ 12 to bike rack receptacle 213, and end arch assembly 250 and support cable 241 to ewd gate bracket 242.
Figure 24 shows the clevis pin installed to secure the cotter-pin in place.
The foregoin~~ detail description of tl~e prclerred embodiment ofthe invention has peen for the purpose of illustration ,and not limitation aad is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to tile precise form disclosed. Numerous changes may he made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed.
Operation of the Invention J
The nested camper trailer is of~sulficient interior dimension that with the end arches 250 attached to end gates 232 and 23_ and exterior clover 268 attached there still is sufficient room for a mattress. bedding, pillows, gc>If cluhs. lawn chairs and lut gage. When it is desired to use the trailer in the camping mode, rear end gate intermediate support witlo leveling leg 245 and forward support with leveling leg 246 may he attached to the hollow shine in their respective locations and secured with cotter-clevis assembly 207. 'fhc trailer may be leveled by extending or contracting leveling legs 245 and 246 as necessary. Altern<ztively if the ground slope is minimal the trailer may be left attached to the vehicle with the leveling legs 245 and 246 not required. The trailer top cover 236 is removed and positioned on the ground at the rear of tl-ne trailer to he used as an elevated floor platform. All end gate tie downs 2,9 are detached and the rear end gate 233 may now be pivoted into the substantially horizontal position with the attached end arch 250 extending vertically. Next, the forward end gate 2 32 may he pivoted intcn the substantially horizontal position with the attached forward end arch 250 extending vertically. 'hhis order must be maintained as the rear end arch 250 is recessed from tl7e oc.ner edge from the rear end gate 23 3 as shown in figure 0 No. l 4 to permit the forward end arc( 25t> to rest uapon it when the trailer is in the nested position.
The exterior cover 268 is permanently tied to the ulaper portion of the forward and rear end arches X50 SO that when the end arches 25l) arc pivoted to the ~.uhstnntially vertical position the trailer interior is covered. 'hhe assembly comprised of the hcdroorn intermediate ridge support 251, bedroom ridge pole section 252 and bedroonn ridge support cross 253 are permanently 5 interconnected with elastic fasteners 2(,2 and may now he installed connecting intermediate supports 251 with side panels 2 34 and ridge pole sections 252 v.~~ith end arches 250. The exterior cower 268 may now be fastened to tloe trailer body. floe extra room forward sectional arch -, assembly with internal connecting elastic 260 is fastened to the bedroom exterior cover 268 by sewn in ties and is anchored at its lower extremit~~ by tie clown eyes 240 on top cover 236. The extra room rear arch assembly 260 is connected to tl~e extra rc~um forward arch assembly 260 by transverse connecting rods 2f~ l and is~ fastened with elastic fasteners 262.
The rear extra room arch assembly 260 is also anchored at its lower extremity at tie down eyes 240. The extra room exterior cover 269 may now be installed and tied to the: extra room assembly 260 using sewn in ties or other appropriate f asteners. The camper assembly with bedroom and extra room is now assembled.
if it is desired to use the trailer in the t7at deck mode simply remove cotter-clevis assembly 207 from pin holes 206. extent! the trailer draw 204 and reinsert cotter-clevis assembly 207 into holes 206. The trailer electrical harness i~; of suliicient length to permit the extension of trailer draw 204. The rear end gate internoediatc flat deck support 244 is inserted into the rear end of the hollow spine 203 and is pinned in fslace with cotter-clevic assembly 207 at pin hole 208. The bedroom end arches 250 are the only parts of the exterior cover 268 frame normally attached to the.
trailer and may be easily removed with the exterior cover 26f~ affixed to it by extracting cotter-clevis assembly 207 from the end gate brac>tets 24:? retainer hales 24 3. With the end gates pivoted substantially horizontal the trailer is now reconfigured to Imul building materials, motorcycle, ATV, furniture or any other cargo that may be strapped down to the recessed cargo tie down eyes 210 and is within the appropriate weight carrying limits of the trailer.
The trailer may also be used in the closed locked mode with end arches 250 and exterior cover 268 removed. 'hhis conf7~luration l;rovides a secure sealed environment free from dirt and moisture in which to haul luggage, tools, sporting equipment. or other valuables. On the top cover 236 may be carried additional cargo tied to tie dow-n eyes 240.
The trailer n nay also be ~.~sed as an uncovcrec! Hilly sided container for hauling commodities where the flat deck length is not required.
If bikes are to be carried, the bike rack as>sembly 21 1 and 212 is installed into receptacle 213 and is secured with cotter-clevis assembly 207. 'hhe bikes wheels are then simply strapped to the rack channel 2l 1 and to the top lid tie down eyes 240 with bungee type fasteners and may also be locked to the top cover latch 238.
The lockable cargo box 220 may be used to store any or all supports 244, 245, or 246, camping gear, tools. fishing gear or any other miscellan~~.~us items.
-,10 When the trailer is to be stored. the storage dc711y probes 283 are inserted into the trailer receptacles 280. With the castors in the locl.:ed position the rear end of the trailer is tilted downwards onto the dolly and then pivoned into thmertical position. Tl~e trailer storage dolly stabilizer 285 is then affixed to the hollow spine°_ 203 at pin bole 208 using cotter-clevis pin assembly 207. The trailer is of st.uficiently snoall dimension that it may easily pass through a standard door way and may be conveniently stc»-ed in a locker.
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications ;are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the sloirit or scope thereof. Accordin~lv, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defrned by the following claims.
Claims (12)
1. A convertible utility and camping trailer comprising:
a rigid base frame lying in a first plane so as to extend laterally between opposite first and second side edges of said frame and longitudinally between front and rear edges of said frame, at least one pair of wheels mounted to said frame so as to be laterally disposed relative to said frame for rolling translation of said trailer along a longitudinal direction-of-travel axis of said trailer, said direction-of-travel axis of said trailer parallel to and medially disposed between said side edges of said frame, a rigid hollow tube rigidly mounted to said frame so as to define a member receiving bore along a longitudinally extending centroidal axis of said tube, said tube aligned co-axially with said direction-of-travel axis and extending substantially between, and to, said front and rear edges of said frame, and sized so as to receive in simultaneous co-axial mounting, oppositely disposed in said bore, a forwardly extendable rigid hitch draw member and a rearwardly extending rear support member, a hitch means mounted to a distal end of said draw member.
wherein said draw member is telescopically mountable in said tube for sliding from a forward end of said tube between extended and retracted positions, and wherein when said draw member is in either position of said extended or retracted positions, said rear support member may be slidably mounted into a rearward end of said tube opposite said forward end so as to cantilever an exposed portion of said rear support member from said tube, a planar rear end gate pivotally mountable to said rear edge of said frame for folding between an upright position and a laid-flat position resting on said exposed portion of said rear support, a planar front end gate pivotally mountable to said front edge of said frame for folding between an upright position and a laid flat position resting on said draw member when in said extended position, a pair of side panels mountable upright to said side edges of said frame, a rigid floor mounted onto an upper surface of said frame, parallel to said first plane and generally co-planar and co-extensive with said end gates when in said laid flat positions, means for releasably locking said end gales against ends of said side panels when said end gates and said side panels are mounted to said frame and when said end gates are pivoted into their upright positions.
a rigid base frame lying in a first plane so as to extend laterally between opposite first and second side edges of said frame and longitudinally between front and rear edges of said frame, at least one pair of wheels mounted to said frame so as to be laterally disposed relative to said frame for rolling translation of said trailer along a longitudinal direction-of-travel axis of said trailer, said direction-of-travel axis of said trailer parallel to and medially disposed between said side edges of said frame, a rigid hollow tube rigidly mounted to said frame so as to define a member receiving bore along a longitudinally extending centroidal axis of said tube, said tube aligned co-axially with said direction-of-travel axis and extending substantially between, and to, said front and rear edges of said frame, and sized so as to receive in simultaneous co-axial mounting, oppositely disposed in said bore, a forwardly extendable rigid hitch draw member and a rearwardly extending rear support member, a hitch means mounted to a distal end of said draw member.
wherein said draw member is telescopically mountable in said tube for sliding from a forward end of said tube between extended and retracted positions, and wherein when said draw member is in either position of said extended or retracted positions, said rear support member may be slidably mounted into a rearward end of said tube opposite said forward end so as to cantilever an exposed portion of said rear support member from said tube, a planar rear end gate pivotally mountable to said rear edge of said frame for folding between an upright position and a laid-flat position resting on said exposed portion of said rear support, a planar front end gate pivotally mountable to said front edge of said frame for folding between an upright position and a laid flat position resting on said draw member when in said extended position, a pair of side panels mountable upright to said side edges of said frame, a rigid floor mounted onto an upper surface of said frame, parallel to said first plane and generally co-planar and co-extensive with said end gates when in said laid flat positions, means for releasably locking said end gales against ends of said side panels when said end gates and said side panels are mounted to said frame and when said end gates are pivoted into their upright positions.
2. The trailer of claim 1 further comprising a detachable mountable bike rack releasably lockable mountable to said frame along at least one of said side edges of said frame, wherein said bike rack comprises an elongate upturned channel member mountable parallel to and generally coplanar with in said first plane said at least one side edge of said frame.
3. The trailer of claim 1 further comprising elongate legs releasably mountable to said rear support member and said draw member for stabilizing said trailer about said at least one pair of wheels.
4. The trailer of claim 3 wherein said legs are selectively adjustable by length adjusting means so that their length may be adjusted to level said frame on uneven ground.
5. The trailer of claim 1 further comprising a rigid generally planar cover mountable onto said side panels and said end gates when mounted onto said frame and said end gates in said upright positions.
6. The trailer of claim 5 wherein said cover may be positioned adjacent said rear end gate when in said laid flat position with said cover resting on the ground, a de-mountable first tent frame mountable onto at least said end gates when in said laid flat positions, a second tent frame mountable to said first tent frame so as to extend aft of said rear end gate and mountable onto said cover so that said cover forms a floor of said second tent frame, said first and second tent frames defining first and second cavities, a flexible first cover mountable over said first tent frame and a flexible second mountable over said second tent frame whereby said first tent frame when mounted on at least said end gates functions as a bedroom and whereby said second tent frame when mounted to said first tent frame and mounted to said cover positioned on the ground adjacent said rear end gate functions as an extra room.
7. The trailer of claim 1 further comprising a storage dolly mountable to said frame at said rear edge, said dolly including rigid support members extending perpendicularly from said frame when said dolly is mounted to said frame so as to lie in a second plane perpendicular to said first plane, said rear end gate when in said upright position lying in said second plane, at least a pair of wheels mounted to said dolly so that when said dolly is mounted to said frame and said frame is oriented vertically, said support members are horizontal to a ground surface, at least a pair of wheels mounted to said dolly in contact with the ground surface when said frame is vertical.
8. The trailer of claim 7 further comprising a second dolly mountable under said rear end gate when said rear end gate is in said upright position relative to said frame and said frame is vertical, wherein said second dolly includes a plurality of wheels mounted so as to be in contact with the ground when the dolly is under said rear end gate and said frame is vertical.
9. The trailer of claim 1 wherein a rigid storage compartment is mounted to said frame so as to extend under said frame when said frame is horizontal and said wheels in contact with the ground.
10. The trailer of claim 8 wherein said frame includes longitudinally extending frame side members and wherein said dolly includes a pair of laterally spaced apart rigid arms for sliding mating engagement into apertures in rearmost ends of said frame side members.
11. The trailer of claim 1 wherein said tube is a continuous rigid spine member forming a polygon in cross section and extending from said rear edge to said front edge of said frame.
12. The trailer of claim 1 wherein said polygon is a square.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2402888 CA2402888A1 (en) | 2002-09-24 | 2002-09-24 | Multi-purpose trailer |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2402888 CA2402888A1 (en) | 2002-09-24 | 2002-09-24 | Multi-purpose trailer |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2402888A1 true CA2402888A1 (en) | 2004-03-24 |
Family
ID=32181833
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2402888 Abandoned CA2402888A1 (en) | 2002-09-24 | 2002-09-24 | Multi-purpose trailer |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2402888A1 (en) |
-
2002
- 2002-09-24 CA CA 2402888 patent/CA2402888A1/en not_active Abandoned
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Dead |