CA2438225A1 - Extendable tractor trailer system - Google Patents
Extendable tractor trailer system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2438225A1 CA2438225A1 CA 2438225 CA2438225A CA2438225A1 CA 2438225 A1 CA2438225 A1 CA 2438225A1 CA 2438225 CA2438225 CA 2438225 CA 2438225 A CA2438225 A CA 2438225A CA 2438225 A1 CA2438225 A1 CA 2438225A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- container
- trailer
- box
- tractor
- chassis
- 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
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- RTZKZFJDLAIYFH-UHFFFAOYSA-N Diethyl ether Chemical compound CCOCC RTZKZFJDLAIYFH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- SUBDBMMJDZJVOS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 5-methoxy-2-{[(4-methoxy-3,5-dimethylpyridin-2-yl)methyl]sulfinyl}-1H-benzimidazole Chemical compound N=1C2=CC(OC)=CC=C2NC=1S(=O)CC1=NC=C(C)C(OC)=C1C SUBDBMMJDZJVOS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D53/00—Tractor-trailer combinations; Road trains
-
- 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
- B60P1/00—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
- B60P1/64—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading the load supporting or containing element being readily removable
- B60P1/6418—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading the load supporting or containing element being readily removable the load-transporting element being a container or similar
- B60P1/6481—Specially adapted for carrying different numbers of container or containers of different sizes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D33/00—Superstructures for load-carrying vehicles
- B62D33/04—Enclosed load compartments ; Frameworks for movable panels, tarpaulins or side curtains
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D53/00—Tractor-trailer combinations; Road trains
- B62D53/04—Tractor-trailer combinations; Road trains comprising a vehicle carrying an essential part of the other vehicle's load by having supporting means for the front or rear part of the other vehicle
- B62D53/06—Semi-trailers
- B62D53/067—Multi-purpose, convertible or extendable load surface semi-trailers
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
Description
ln~~
~~ee~~~~~W
~. lf~ld of the ~~ee~tio~
The invention relates to a container for increasing the cargo capacity of a tractor-trailer. l4~ore specifically, it relates to such a container that is mounted can the truck-tractor during over the road transport and then shifted onto the semi-trailer when the trailer is dropped off for loading and unloading.
~~ee~~~~~W
~. lf~ld of the ~~ee~tio~
The invention relates to a container for increasing the cargo capacity of a tractor-trailer. l4~ore specifically, it relates to such a container that is mounted can the truck-tractor during over the road transport and then shifted onto the semi-trailer when the trailer is dropped off for loading and unloading.
2. ~9escriptaon of the Pr~r r~rt A, tractor trailer is an articulated road vehicle used for transporting cargo having a steerable tractor on the rear of which is mounted a fifth whcrel to which the semi-trailer is pivotally and releasably connected. The fifth wheel is mounted on a chassis ofthe tractor to sit approximately above the rear wheels. The rear wheel:; may involve a single axle or a pair of tandem axles. The driver area of many modern tractor cabs has conveniences similar to those in automobiles, often including a sleeping s~ompartment behind the driver area.
In recent years construction of tractor-trailers has been modified in various ways to increase cargo-carrying capacity. The length and width of t:he standard semi-trailer is restricted by laws and regulations, as is its height above the road surface.
C9ne modification has involved increasing the length of the truck-.-tractor chassis and fixing an auxiliary cargo container to the chassis between the cab anal the fifth wheel.
Sufficient room has to be maintained ahead of the ~ fth wheel to allow for movement of the front end of semi-trailer trailer during the articulation between the tractor and the semi-trailer.
~ne difficulty with fixing a cargo container to the tractor chassis involves loading and unloading of the container.
whereas a trailer may be easily loaded or unloaded b;y a forklift driven into it after it has been backed up to a loading dock, the loading or unloading of a cargo container fixed to a tractor chassis ahead of the fifth wheel is not as e;~sily accomplished. such cargo containers are often loaded and emptied through side doors, which usually does not allow for entry of a forl~li#~. Other situations involve unloading the container itself from the tractor and placing it on the floor for unloading. Both these scenarios can create dif#iculties that can be costly, especially if the loading or unloading operation is organized to load and unload o#T a loading duel.:.
Larry J. Fall, Canadian Patent no. 21?,18?9 solves the loading problem by providing a cargo container that can be shi#ted rearward on the tractor chassis over the fifth wheel, thus permitting it to be loaded and unloaded from a loading dock.
This solution creates another potentially costly problem, however. To fully load the tractor-trailer with cargo (or unload it) both the tractor and the trailer must be positioned at the loading dock. Each one using a bay of the loading dock. It v~ould be advantageous to have a cargo box that could be dropped off with the semi-trailer and loaded from the same loading dock bay door as the semi-trailer, and that the; tractor need not be stationed there during loading or unloading.
SUMMARY DE~CRa'TI~N OF THE ~VENTlEON
The invention regards a tractor~railer comprised of a truck-tractor and semi-trailer of the box van type. The thick tractor is #~tted with a box-container behind the cab and forward of the fifth-wheel. The box-container is supposed on a platform for over the road transport.
The semi-trailer is comprised of an extendable-eliassis with a van-container mounted atop it. The length of the van-container is substantial equal to the length of the extendable-chassis when it is retracted, and this length preferably is substantially equal to the maximum semi-trailer length permitted on the roads in l;he jurisdiction in wliicli it is being used. When being used for over the road ei-ansport the semi-trailer's extendable-chassis is kept in its retracted-position.
When the tractor-trailer reaches its destination and is o#f o#"regulated roads, in a freight yard, for example, where over the rt~ad semi-trailer length regulations do not apply, the extendable-chassis is converted to its elongated or extended-position. The rear end of the van-container is permanently al~'ixed to the rear e;nd of the extendable-chassis.
The front end of the van container, however, is releasably affixed to the extendable-
In recent years construction of tractor-trailers has been modified in various ways to increase cargo-carrying capacity. The length and width of t:he standard semi-trailer is restricted by laws and regulations, as is its height above the road surface.
C9ne modification has involved increasing the length of the truck-.-tractor chassis and fixing an auxiliary cargo container to the chassis between the cab anal the fifth wheel.
Sufficient room has to be maintained ahead of the ~ fth wheel to allow for movement of the front end of semi-trailer trailer during the articulation between the tractor and the semi-trailer.
~ne difficulty with fixing a cargo container to the tractor chassis involves loading and unloading of the container.
whereas a trailer may be easily loaded or unloaded b;y a forklift driven into it after it has been backed up to a loading dock, the loading or unloading of a cargo container fixed to a tractor chassis ahead of the fifth wheel is not as e;~sily accomplished. such cargo containers are often loaded and emptied through side doors, which usually does not allow for entry of a forl~li#~. Other situations involve unloading the container itself from the tractor and placing it on the floor for unloading. Both these scenarios can create dif#iculties that can be costly, especially if the loading or unloading operation is organized to load and unload o#T a loading duel.:.
Larry J. Fall, Canadian Patent no. 21?,18?9 solves the loading problem by providing a cargo container that can be shi#ted rearward on the tractor chassis over the fifth wheel, thus permitting it to be loaded and unloaded from a loading dock.
This solution creates another potentially costly problem, however. To fully load the tractor-trailer with cargo (or unload it) both the tractor and the trailer must be positioned at the loading dock. Each one using a bay of the loading dock. It v~ould be advantageous to have a cargo box that could be dropped off with the semi-trailer and loaded from the same loading dock bay door as the semi-trailer, and that the; tractor need not be stationed there during loading or unloading.
SUMMARY DE~CRa'TI~N OF THE ~VENTlEON
The invention regards a tractor~railer comprised of a truck-tractor and semi-trailer of the box van type. The thick tractor is #~tted with a box-container behind the cab and forward of the fifth-wheel. The box-container is supposed on a platform for over the road transport.
The semi-trailer is comprised of an extendable-eliassis with a van-container mounted atop it. The length of the van-container is substantial equal to the length of the extendable-chassis when it is retracted, and this length preferably is substantially equal to the maximum semi-trailer length permitted on the roads in l;he jurisdiction in wliicli it is being used. When being used for over the road ei-ansport the semi-trailer's extendable-chassis is kept in its retracted-position.
When the tractor-trailer reaches its destination and is o#f o#"regulated roads, in a freight yard, for example, where over the rt~ad semi-trailer length regulations do not apply, the extendable-chassis is converted to its elongated or extended-position. The rear end of the van-container is permanently al~'ixed to the rear e;nd of the extendable-chassis.
The front end of the van container, however, is releasably affixed to the extendable-
3/15 chassis' front end. A series of rollers are mounted on the bottom of the van-container and these rollers intersect with longitudinally positioned rails on the front top surface of the extendable-chassis. When the front ofthe van-container is ~diseonnected from the front end of the extendable-chassis and the extendable-chassis is telescopically elongated, the van-container will roll rearward in relation to the front end of the extendable-chassis. ~
means is provided to releasably affix tl~e van-container in this more rearward position.
~nce elongated, an empty space is made available on the top surface of the extendable chassis onto which the box-container can be transferred.
The box-container is supported by a platform positioned behind the cab of the track-tractor. The container is releasably affixed to this platform. This platform is supported by a series of hydraulic jacks. These jacks can be; used move the platform between a lowered-position, where it rest atop the truck-tractor chassis and a raised-position, where the platform°s top surface is at substantially the sane elevation as the top surface of the front end of the extendable-chassis. During over the road transport, the platform is preferably in the lowered-posataon.
i~Vhen the tractor-trailer arrives at its destination, and is offof regulated roads, the platform is elevated to its raised-position. ~ series, at least t~vo, bridging span-beams are placed between the platform's rear end and the front end of the extendable chess is, which has been converted into its extended-position, l~.ollers mounted on the bottom of the box-container intersect with rails running longitudinally along the top surface of the platform.
These rails are substantial level with and substantially longitudinally aligned v~ith rails that run the length of the span-beams and the rails on the to:p surface of the front end of the extendable-chassis. The box-container is disconnected from the platform and rolled over the series of aligned rails onto the front end ofthe extendable-chassis and releasably affixed to it. The rear end of the box-container preferably is flush against the front end of the van'container. The reverse process to that described here is used to convert the tractor-trailer back into its over the road configuration with the box-container mounted on the truck-firactor~.
The now extended length semi-trailer can be pulled around and repositioned off of regulated roads, including being taken from a trailer line up and positioned in a loading dock bay and vise versa.
The rear end of the box-container is fix with a cargo door preferably of the roller shutter type that can be latched and unlatch and opened ancd closed from the outside. The front end of the van container is also preferably fitted v~ith a roller shutter type door, preferably with substantially the same width and height of that on the box-container, that can he latch and unlatched and opened and closed from the interior ofthe van-container.
The rear end of the van-container is fix v~ith two barn doors typical of transport vans and multi-modal cargo containers. The semi-trailer can be backed into a loading dock with the barn doors open. If empty, the cargo can be loaded starting from the front end of the box-container by opening the two roller shutter doors. This kind of door can be opened and closed despite being almost right up against each other. A forklift can be driven the length of the van-container into the box container. ~nce the box-container is loaded, the roller shutter doors are closed and the van-container is loaded, front to back. The reverse process is followed if the two containers are to be unloaded.
The truck tractor that delivered the semi-trailer its destination, with box-~contair~er duly n3ounted upon the semi-trailer, does not need remain with the semi-trailer. The truck tractor can move on to pull other trailers over the road and a yard tractor can be used to move the elongated extended) semi-trailer off of regulated roads. A truck-tractor with similar characteristics to the one described is only needed v~rhen the semi-trailer {with box-container attached? is to once again to be used for over the road transport.
To move the box-container between the platform and the extendable-chassis' front end, in either direction, two winches are provided. One is p3-eferably mounted on the truck tractor behind the cab between the beams of the tractor chassis. The other winch is mounted between the beams ofthe front section of the extendable chassis, but rearward of front end of the van-eontaia~er when the extendable-chassis is in its extended position.
The cables extending from these winches are releasably hooked to rings on the front or rear of the box-container permitting the box-container to be pulled either forward of rearward as per what is required.
srl s Wh~e~ the platform is in its lowered-positio~a, its top surface is below the elevation of the fifth-wheel. Thus, the trick-tractor's i~#~h-wheel can be shi#~ed forward for better weight distribution and a eoneentior~al semi-trailer connected to it. The bottom surface of the front end of the conventional semi-trailer will be free to pivot above the top surface of the platform.
~7ESC . TION OF '~'~IF FRFFEI) F~OI3IFlYT
1. Overview o#° the ~~-awn Figures FIG. I is a side elevation of the innovative tractor trailer system with the semi_ trailer°s extendable chassis in the retracted position and the box container mounted on the trocl~ tractor behind the cab.
FIG 2 is a side elevation of the same tractor trailer ;system with the semi-trailers' extendable chassis in the ea~ter~ied position and the box container transferred to the front of the semi trailer.
FIG, 3 is a close up side elevation showing the box container in the process of being moved between the tractt~r arid the semi-trailer.
FIG. 4 is a close up top plan view showing the box container in the process of being mov ed between the tractor and the semi-trailer.
FIG. 5 is close up rear end cross section elevation, shawing the intersection;
of one of the rollers on the box container with the rails on the platior~n that supports the container.
FICr. 6 is a close up rear end cross seetiar~ elevation" showing the intersection of one of the rollers on the van container with the rails on the iextendable chassis that supports the container.
FIG. 7 is a close up side elevation of the rear part of the container platform and the front part of the semi-trailer, showing the span-beam system used to bridge the gap between the platform and the semi-trailer.
FIG. 8 is a close up rear end cross section of the rear part of the container platform shoving the span-beam system used to bridge between the platform and the semi-trailer.
bl15 2o Description Detail FIG. 1 shows a tractor-trailer 2. It has a track tractor 4 and a semi-trailer 5 releasably and pivotally connected to each other. The truck-tractor hoc; a tractor-chassis b that is suspended on a set of steerahle front-wheels 8 and one or more sets of rearward position drive-wheels 1~. t~r~ the forward end of the chassis is mounted a tractor-cab 12, preferably including an integrated sleeping compartment for the driver. At the rearward end of the tractor-chassis 6, preferably generally above the drive-wheels 10, is mounted a f fth-wheel 14.
P~ box-container l b for carrying cargo is mounted biehind the tractor-cab 1 ~
in its forward-position. It is forward from the fifth-wheel 14. Preferably the box-container lb approximates the width and height dimensions of the standard dry box van commonly used in over the road transport. The rearward end ofthe container has a box-door i7 that can be opened and closed to permit cargo to be loaded and unloaded.
Preferably, it is a common roller shutter type cargo box door which is opened and shut by being guided by rollers on tracks positioned running longitudinally along thE; top interior sides of the box-container lb. Such doors are known technology. The box-door 1'7 has a latching means knot shown) which permits the door to be latched and unlatched and opened and closed from the exterior of the box-container.
The box-container 16, in its forward-position, is mounted upon a container-platform 18, shown in its raised-position. The box-containe3r lb is releasably connectable to the container-platformf 8. 'The container-platform 18 is mounted on a series of platform jacks 19 that permit it to be moved vertically between a raised-position (as shown in the iigure3 and a lowered-position, where the bottom surface of the container-platforrra t 8 rests on the top surface of the tractor-chassis 6. The platform jacks 19 are rr~ounted at the ends of a series of cross-braces ~(3, beams mounted laterally across and through the tractor-chassis b. They extend about an equal length out on either side of the tractor-chassis b. Preferably, one cross-brace 20 is positioned near the front of the container-platform 18, and a second cross-brace 20 is positioned near the rear of the container-platform i8. Preferably, the platform-yacks 19 are mounted on both lateral ends of both of these two cross-braces 20. Preferably, each platf~rm-jack 19 is a vertically positioned hydraulically powered piston.
Tl~e semi-trailer 5 is composed of an extendable-chassis 24, supported toward its rear end by one or more sets oftrailer-wheels 26 {preferably a tandem or tri-axle configuration). f1 connector-pin {not shown), also called a :kingpin: is a#~ixed on front end bottom surface of the extendable-chassis 24. It permits the semi-trailer ~ to be releasably and pivotally connected to the truck-tractor 4 by means of the fi#~l~-wheel 14. 'dYhen so connected, the front end of the semi-trailer 5 front is supported by the rear end of the truck-tractor 4. A set of landing-gear 28 is mounted on the extendable-chassis 24. It is used to support the front end of the semi-trailer 5 when disconnected from the truck-tractor 4. It is set back from front end enough to permit thf; tractor-trailer 2 to pi~~ot appropriately during over the road transport. Tl~e described l~ingpin to fi~l~
wheel connections and the landing gear are known technology.
A van-container 30 is mounted on the extendable-cl~~ssis 24. Preferably, its interior dimensions approximate those of a stand dry box van used in over the road transport. At the front end of the van-container 30 is a van front-door 3 l .
Preferably, it is a common roller shutter type cargo van door tvl~ich is opened arid shut by being guided on rollers on tracts positioned longitudinally along the top interior sides of the van-container 3(?. The van-front-door 31 has a latching means {not shown) which permits the door to be latched and unlatched and to be opened and closed from the interior of the van-container 30. The van-container 30 also has a set of van-rear-doors 32, and preferably a pair of barn door style doors frequently used on over the road van boxes and mufti-modal cargo containers.
FIG. 2 slows the extendable-chassis 24 leas a front-;>ection 33, a rear-section. 34, and a telescoping-section 36. The telescoping-section 3fi is rigidly axed to the rear-section 34 and extends longitudinally forward from it telescoping into a corresponding longitudinal opening at the rearward end of the front-section 32. This feature permits the length of the extendable-chassis 24, and thus the semi-trailer 5, to be lengthened and shortened. FIG. 1 shows the extendable-chassis 24 in its ret3racted-position and FIG. 2 shows it in its extended-position. The technology of extendable or trombone trailers and 8/l~
extendable trailer chassis for the road transport of mufti-me>dal cargo containers and the like is well know. Known features include how such trailers are changed from the extended to the retracted positions and fixed in said positions. Therefore, no further discussion is provided on these matters here.
then the extendable-chassis 24 is in its retracted-position, as per FIG l, it has substantially the same length as the van-container 3U.
The front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24 has substantially the same width as the container-platform 18.
The van-container 30 is affixed to the rear-section ?,~ of the extendable-chassis 24, and it is releasably connected to the front-section 33. When the extendable-chassis 24 is to be moved from its retracted-position to its extended-position, the van container 3~
having been disconnected from the front-section 33, the vary--container 30 is transferred rearwvard visa vie the front end of the semi-trailer 5 when tl~e extendable-chassis is extended. Once extended, the fbrward portion of the front-section 33 is left without a container upon it. A series of span-beams 38 are releasably connected between the front end of the extendable-chassis 24 and the rear end of the container-platform 18. When so affixed, the top surface of the span-beams 38 is about level with the top surface of the container-platform lb, in its raised-position and the top surface of the front-section 33.
The span-beams 38 are used to bridge the gap between the truck-tractor 4 and the semi-trailer 5, permitting the box-container 16 to be transferred between the container-platform 18 and the unused front-section 33 of the extendable-chassi 24 in its extended-position.
Preferably, there are two span-beams 38, one toward each s>ide of the container-platforan 18 and extendable-chassis 24.
Means are provided to releasably affix the box-container 1 ~s t~ the front--section 33. ~~'hen the box-container 16 is affixed to the container-platform 18 it is termed to be in its tractor-position (as per FIG. 1). When it is affaxed to the front-section 33 ofthe extendable-chassis 24 it is termed to be in its trailer-position has per FIG.
2~.
The reverse process to that described above is used to move the box-container t 6 from the front-section 33 onto the container-platform t 8.
For over the road transport the box-container is put into the tractor-position, because the length of the semi-trailer 5, dvith the extendabhe-chassis 24 in its retracted-position is preferably substantially close to the maximum length allowable by regulations.
Clnce arriving at destination, for example a trt.~ck terminal or industrial installation, the extendable-chassis 24 can be changed into its extended-position and the box-container moved to its trailer-position, The truck tractor 4 can be separated from the seirii-trailer 5.
The semi-trailer S can be moved around in its elongated state by a conventional yard tractor in this environment vc~l~ere road regulations do not apply.
FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 show the box-container I6 being transferred between its tractor-position and its trailer-position. A pair of platform-rails 40 run parallel and longitudinally along the top surface of the container-platform 1G, one toward each side of the said platform. A span-rail 42 runs longitudinally along each of the span beams 38.
Une span-rail 38 is longitudinally aligned with each of the platform-rails 44.
A pair of trailer-rails 42 are positioned parallel to each other on the top surface of the front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24. The trailer-rails 42 are longitudinally aligned vaith the span-rails 42 and the platform-rails 44, and these three sets of rails form a continuous track. Hereafter, the combination of these three sets of rails is referred to as a continuous-track.
A series of box-rollers 4~C are of#ixed to the underside ofthe box-container 1f in two sets that are parallel to each other. Each set is positioned in a longitudinal line so that it intersects with one of the continuous-tracks permitting the box-container 16 to be rolled forward and rearward along the said track. Similarly, a series of van-rollers 48 are affixed to the underside of the van-container in two sets parallel to each other. 'fhe van-rollers 4~ are positioned to intersect vaith the trailer-rails 44 on the front-section 33, permitting the van-container 34 to roll forward and reartvard on the trailer-rails 44 when the extendable-chassis is moved between its extended-position and its retracted-position.
To move the box-eontair~er 16 in the forward direction, the drive force is provided by a tractor-winch 50 that preferably is mounted between the beams of the tracta3r-chassis b directly behind the tractor-cab 12. A tractor-winch-cable ~2, with a hook (not shown on the end, extends from the tractor-winch 54, at first gener,aily vertically, through a dVi ~~
cable-guide 53, and then generally longitudinally rearward. #t is releasably connected to a front-ring 54 that is mounted ~r~ the underside of the box-container 16 at tha front center.
To move the box container in the rearward direction, the dr~i~e farce is provided by a trailer-winch 56 from which a trailer-v,~inch-cable 5~, v~ith a hook {not sliou~n~ on the end, extends from in a generally longitudinally ft~rv~~ard dir~ectioris. The trailer-wirtch-cable ~S is releasably connected to a rear-ring 59 that is ~csunted on the underside oftl~e box-container 16 in a rear center position. #'referably, the trailer-winch Sb is mounted between the front-section 33 beams slightly reaz°v~ard of the position of the front end of tl~e van-container 30 when the extendable-chassis 24 is in the extended-position.
~ series of connector-slats ~0 are mounted on the underside of the box-cc~r~tainer I6 and tl~e underside of the van-container 30, extending abr3ut vertically doava~ward therefro~a. #'referably, one pair of connector-slats 6t3 is positioned, about parallel to each ether, toward the fror3t flf tl~ bc~x-cflntainer, extending downward right next to each of the two lateral sides of the container-platform 18 or tl~e front-section 33, depending on tl~e position of the box-container 16. preferably, a second pair of connector-slats ~0 is positioned, about parallel to each other, toward the rear ene! of the box container extending downward, also right next to each of the lateral sides of the container-platform t 8 or front-section 33. Preferabiy, a third pair of connector-slats is positioned, about parallel to each other, toward the front end ofthe van-contiuner 30 exter~di~ag downward, right next to each of tl~e lateral sides of the front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24.
each connector-slat 64 has a pin-opening ~l passing though it laterally. A
series of connector-pins 62 are mounted on the two lateral sides c~~f the container-platform # 8 arid on the two lateral sales of tl~e front-section 33. The corEnector-pins 6~
are of the size arid shape and positioning that they can be extended and reatracted through the pin-.
openings ~l in the connector-slats b0. There are connector-pins 62 positioned visa vie the connector-slats C0, so that the box-container #6 can be releasably of#ixed to the corgtainer-platfflrm 1 ~ in its tractor-position and releasably affixed to the front-section 33 of tl~e extendable chassis when in its trailer-position. also, there connected-pins 62 positioned visa vie the connector-slats 6~ permitting the van-contai~aer 3~ to be releasably affixed to the franc-section 33 with the extendable-chassis 24 in its extended-position and also 11l1 ~
releasably affixed to the front-section 33 with the extendable-chassis ~4 iaa its retracted-position.
~ platforside't~be 64 is mounted, running longitudinally, to each of the lateral sides of the container-platform 18 and is consider part of the container-platforml8. A
trailer-side-tube 65 is mounted, running longitudinally, to Each of the lateral sides of the front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24 and is considered part of the front-section 33.
p'IG. 5 is a close up rear end cross section showing the intersection of the box-roller 46 with the platform-rail 40. The box-roller 46 has t~vs~ vertical support-slats b6 that support a horizontal central-pin 68 at either end. The central-pin 68 passes through the center of a roller-wheel 70, forming the axle on which t:he box-roller 46 rotates. The perimeter of the roller-wheel ?d~ is preferably formed in a concave shape that mates with the convex shape of the top of the platform-rail 4L1. The span-rails 4~ and trailer-rails 44 have substantially the same size and shape The base structure of the box-container includes a box-floor ?2 that is mounted on and supported by two lateral-beams knot shown. These lateral-beams run longitudinally, the length of the box-container 16 one on either lower bottom side of it. The box-floor ?2 is also mounted ors and supported by a plurality of box joists 74 that run laterally connecting the tawo lateral-laeams at intervals along the length of the box-container t6. ~'referably, the support-slats 66 are affixed between two of the box joists ?4, and the central-pin f 8 positioned so that only a portion of the roller-wheel ?0 extends downward below the structural base elements of the box-container 16.
The container-platform 18 is comprised of a Longitudinal platform-bearrz ?~ on either lateral side of it, running its Length. A plurality ofplatform-foists ?8 connected the two platform-beams ?~ at intervals along its Length. The platform-beams ?6 and platform joists ?8 support a platform-floor 8~, which is mounted to them. The platform side-tubes fa4 are mounted on the lateral side of each ofthe platform-beams ?~. The connector-pins 6~ are mounted through the platform-beams. ?6 in a generally horizontal position. The connector-pin 62 has a push-piston 82, preferably hydraulically or-pneurnatically actuated, that drives the extension and retraction of the connector-bolt 84.
1~f15 FIG. 5 shows the connector-haft 84 retreated. then so retracted, the box-container lb is not affixed to the container-platform 18 or the front-section 33 and can be rolled forward or rearward. When extended the connector-bolt 84 passes through an aligned opening in the side of the platform side-tutje b4 and then through the pin-opening 61 in the connector-slat bt~, affixing the box-container 1 b to the container-platform 18. The connector-slat b0 extends about vertically downward right next to the about vertical side of the platform side-tube b4. preferably, an anti-lift-arm extends fron3 the bottom end of the connector-slat b0 inward under the bottom of the platform-side-tube b4, preventing the box-container lbfrom lifting or tipping when being transferred between its tractor-position and its trader-positron. Preferably, the connector-slats b0 are mounted to the box-container lb between two of the box-joists 74.
FIG. b is a close up rear end cross section showing the intersection of one of the van-rollers 48 with the corresponding trailer-rail 44. The wan-roller 48 has two vertical support-slats 66 supporting a Horizontal central-pin 68 at either end. The central-pin 68 passes through the center of a roller-wheel 70, forming the axle on which the van-roller 48 rotates. The perimeter of the roller-wheel '70 is preferably formed in a concave shape that mates with the convex shape of the top of the trailer-rail 44. The base structure of the wan-container 3~ includes a van-floor 88 that is mounted on and supported by two lateral-wan-beams knot shown. These lateral-beams run longitudinally, the length of the wan-container 3d? one on either lower bottom side oI° it. The wan--floor 88 is also mounted on and supported by a plurality of van joists 94 that run laterally across connecting the two lateral-van-beams at intervals along the length of the van-container 30.
Preferably, the support-slats 6b are affixed between two ofthe van joists g0, and the central-pin 68 is positioned so tHat only a portion ofthe roller-wheel '~0 extends downward below the base structure of the van-container 30.
The front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24 has a front-section-beam 92 running longitudinally along each lateral side of it. A plurality of front-section joists 94 are positioned laterally across connecting the two front-section-beams 92 at intervals along its length. The front-section-beans 9~ and the front-section-joists 94 support a fro~at-section-floor 9b, wHich is mounted to them. The trailer-side-tubes b are mounted on 13~1~
the lateral side of each of the front-section-beams 92. The <~onnector-pins fit are ~noonted through the front-section-beans 92 in a generally horizontal position. The connector-pin b2 has a push-piston 82, preferably hydraulically or pneumatically actuated, that drives the extension and retraction of the connector-bolt 84. FIG. 6 shows the connector-bolt 84 extended and passing through an aligned opea~ir~g in the side of the trailer-side-tube 65 and then through the pin-opening b 1 in the connector-slat ~i(~, affixing the van-container 34 to the front-section 33 on the extendable-chassis ~4. For the van container 30 to roll forward and rearward, the connector-bolt 84 need be z~etracted. The connector-slat 60 extends about vertically downward right next to the about vertical side of the trailer-side-tube 65. 1~n anti-lift-arm extends from the bottom end of the connector-slat 60 inward under the bottom of the trailer-side-tube 65, preventi~ag the ~~~n-container 3~ from lifting or tipping when the extendable-chassis 24 is being moV~ed between its retracted-position and its extended-position. Preferably, the connector-slats ~3 are mounted to the van-container 3a between t~.vo of the van joists 90.
FIG. 7 and FIG S show close up views of one of the: span-beams 38 and how it is releasably affixed to the rear end of the container-platform 18 and the front end of the extendable-chassis 24.
A pair of span-beam-saddles 1 t~ are mounted on tl3e rear end of the container-platform 18, and a second pair of span-beasaddles 1130 a3-e rr~ounted on the front end of the extendable-chassis 24. These two pair of span-bearr~-saddles l~fl are longitudinally aligned with each other. Each span-beam-saddle 10~ has two vertical side walls and a horizontal bottom wall forming a slot into which the longitudia~al end of the spar-beam 38 mates. ~ span-beam-bolt 10~ is passed through openings in the side walls of the span-beam-saddle 100 and a corresponding opening that passes laterally through the span-beam. then the truck-tractor 4 and the semi-trailer 5 are about longitudinally aligned (visa vie their longitudinal centerlines, both ends of the span-beams 38 are nested into the span-beam saddles to bridge the gap between the eontair~er-platform 18 and the extendable-chassis 24.
The front end of the span-beams 38 are nested into the span-beam-saddles 140 on the rear end ofthe container-platform 18 and the rear end oi~the span-beams 38 are nested t4J~s into the span-beam-saddles 100 on the front end ofthe extendable-chassis 24.
The span-beam-bolts 1(32 affix the span-beams 38 in place. i~hen so aff'gxed the span-rails 42 will be substantially aligned with the platform rails 40 and the trailer-rails 44 so as to form a continuous track. The box-container 16 can be rolled in either direction between its tractor-position and its trailer-position cover the continuous tract. ~ span-beam-angle 104 is mounted on the lateral side of each span-beam 3~. then the span-beam is mounted in the span-beam-saddles 100, the horizontal extension of the span-beam-angle 104 is at about the same elevation as the bottom surface of the platform-side-tube b4 anti the trailer-side-tube 6~. When the box-container 1~ is move frc>m its tractor-position to its trailer-position, the anti-lift-arm 8b passes under the span-beam-angle 104, preventing the box-container 16 from lifting or tipping as it is being transferred.
ff the box-container lb is not mounted on the conta3;ner-platform 18, the truck-tractor 4 can be used to pull a conventional trailer (semi-trailer). The container-platform is put in its lowered-position where its top surface is lower than the connecting place surface of the fifth-wheel 12. The fifth-~.vheel 12 can be shifted forward for better weight distribution, The conventional trailer, when connected to the truck-tractor 4 will articulate freely above the top surface of the container-platform 18. This characteristic permits the truck-tractor 4 to be used in conventional trailer pulling application as well as the specialized application described above.
A SEA~~TD ElI~BCl~~ll~E~ °p A second embodiment of the invention involves the track-tractor 4 and semi-trailer 5 with the characteristics general described above in the preferred embodiment, except that the semi-trailer 5 is pulled as one oftwo trailers in a train. In other words, the truck-tractor 4 pulls the semi-trailer 5 and a second-trailer (not shocvnj all pivotally and releasably connected in a train. l~hen the box-container 16 is in its tractor-positron, the length of the tractor and two-trailer-train is within the legal length permitted by road transport regulations, and preferably substantially close to the maximum allowable. When the extendable-chassis 24 of the semi-trailer is put into its extended-position and the box-container moved to its trailer-position, then the length of the tractor and two-trailer-train surpasses the maximazm regulated length aiio~ai3le. o~vevr r, the semitrailer 5, with the extendable-chassis 24 in the extended-position and! with tbf; box cflntainer in its trailer-positiori is, if puiled alc»e witht~ut the second trailer, within the allowable lerigtb for over the road transport. The second-trailer is also within allowable length if pulled alflrle by a tractor. This embodiment permits that the truck-tractt~r 4 to transport the box-container, the semi-trailer ~, arid the second-trailer to a ~esti~atio~. Tloe box-cortairier 1(~ n,arg there be transferred or~tc~ the semi-trailer 5. The exte~eled se~ai-trailer 5 aid the seconded container can from there be transported to their destination:>, beir$g polled by c~rlverttional over the road tractors, that dQ got require the special characteristics of the truck-tractor 5 described in this irtvet~tio~ description.
means is provided to releasably affix tl~e van-container in this more rearward position.
~nce elongated, an empty space is made available on the top surface of the extendable chassis onto which the box-container can be transferred.
The box-container is supported by a platform positioned behind the cab of the track-tractor. The container is releasably affixed to this platform. This platform is supported by a series of hydraulic jacks. These jacks can be; used move the platform between a lowered-position, where it rest atop the truck-tractor chassis and a raised-position, where the platform°s top surface is at substantially the sane elevation as the top surface of the front end of the extendable-chassis. During over the road transport, the platform is preferably in the lowered-posataon.
i~Vhen the tractor-trailer arrives at its destination, and is offof regulated roads, the platform is elevated to its raised-position. ~ series, at least t~vo, bridging span-beams are placed between the platform's rear end and the front end of the extendable chess is, which has been converted into its extended-position, l~.ollers mounted on the bottom of the box-container intersect with rails running longitudinally along the top surface of the platform.
These rails are substantial level with and substantially longitudinally aligned v~ith rails that run the length of the span-beams and the rails on the to:p surface of the front end of the extendable-chassis. The box-container is disconnected from the platform and rolled over the series of aligned rails onto the front end ofthe extendable-chassis and releasably affixed to it. The rear end of the box-container preferably is flush against the front end of the van'container. The reverse process to that described here is used to convert the tractor-trailer back into its over the road configuration with the box-container mounted on the truck-firactor~.
The now extended length semi-trailer can be pulled around and repositioned off of regulated roads, including being taken from a trailer line up and positioned in a loading dock bay and vise versa.
The rear end of the box-container is fix with a cargo door preferably of the roller shutter type that can be latched and unlatch and opened ancd closed from the outside. The front end of the van container is also preferably fitted v~ith a roller shutter type door, preferably with substantially the same width and height of that on the box-container, that can he latch and unlatched and opened and closed from the interior ofthe van-container.
The rear end of the van-container is fix v~ith two barn doors typical of transport vans and multi-modal cargo containers. The semi-trailer can be backed into a loading dock with the barn doors open. If empty, the cargo can be loaded starting from the front end of the box-container by opening the two roller shutter doors. This kind of door can be opened and closed despite being almost right up against each other. A forklift can be driven the length of the van-container into the box container. ~nce the box-container is loaded, the roller shutter doors are closed and the van-container is loaded, front to back. The reverse process is followed if the two containers are to be unloaded.
The truck tractor that delivered the semi-trailer its destination, with box-~contair~er duly n3ounted upon the semi-trailer, does not need remain with the semi-trailer. The truck tractor can move on to pull other trailers over the road and a yard tractor can be used to move the elongated extended) semi-trailer off of regulated roads. A truck-tractor with similar characteristics to the one described is only needed v~rhen the semi-trailer {with box-container attached? is to once again to be used for over the road transport.
To move the box-container between the platform and the extendable-chassis' front end, in either direction, two winches are provided. One is p3-eferably mounted on the truck tractor behind the cab between the beams of the tractor chassis. The other winch is mounted between the beams ofthe front section of the extendable chassis, but rearward of front end of the van-eontaia~er when the extendable-chassis is in its extended position.
The cables extending from these winches are releasably hooked to rings on the front or rear of the box-container permitting the box-container to be pulled either forward of rearward as per what is required.
srl s Wh~e~ the platform is in its lowered-positio~a, its top surface is below the elevation of the fifth-wheel. Thus, the trick-tractor's i~#~h-wheel can be shi#~ed forward for better weight distribution and a eoneentior~al semi-trailer connected to it. The bottom surface of the front end of the conventional semi-trailer will be free to pivot above the top surface of the platform.
~7ESC . TION OF '~'~IF FRFFEI) F~OI3IFlYT
1. Overview o#° the ~~-awn Figures FIG. I is a side elevation of the innovative tractor trailer system with the semi_ trailer°s extendable chassis in the retracted position and the box container mounted on the trocl~ tractor behind the cab.
FIG 2 is a side elevation of the same tractor trailer ;system with the semi-trailers' extendable chassis in the ea~ter~ied position and the box container transferred to the front of the semi trailer.
FIG, 3 is a close up side elevation showing the box container in the process of being moved between the tractt~r arid the semi-trailer.
FIG. 4 is a close up top plan view showing the box container in the process of being mov ed between the tractor and the semi-trailer.
FIG. 5 is close up rear end cross section elevation, shawing the intersection;
of one of the rollers on the box container with the rails on the platior~n that supports the container.
FICr. 6 is a close up rear end cross seetiar~ elevation" showing the intersection of one of the rollers on the van container with the rails on the iextendable chassis that supports the container.
FIG. 7 is a close up side elevation of the rear part of the container platform and the front part of the semi-trailer, showing the span-beam system used to bridge the gap between the platform and the semi-trailer.
FIG. 8 is a close up rear end cross section of the rear part of the container platform shoving the span-beam system used to bridge between the platform and the semi-trailer.
bl15 2o Description Detail FIG. 1 shows a tractor-trailer 2. It has a track tractor 4 and a semi-trailer 5 releasably and pivotally connected to each other. The truck-tractor hoc; a tractor-chassis b that is suspended on a set of steerahle front-wheels 8 and one or more sets of rearward position drive-wheels 1~. t~r~ the forward end of the chassis is mounted a tractor-cab 12, preferably including an integrated sleeping compartment for the driver. At the rearward end of the tractor-chassis 6, preferably generally above the drive-wheels 10, is mounted a f fth-wheel 14.
P~ box-container l b for carrying cargo is mounted biehind the tractor-cab 1 ~
in its forward-position. It is forward from the fifth-wheel 14. Preferably the box-container lb approximates the width and height dimensions of the standard dry box van commonly used in over the road transport. The rearward end ofthe container has a box-door i7 that can be opened and closed to permit cargo to be loaded and unloaded.
Preferably, it is a common roller shutter type cargo box door which is opened and shut by being guided by rollers on tracks positioned running longitudinally along thE; top interior sides of the box-container lb. Such doors are known technology. The box-door 1'7 has a latching means knot shown) which permits the door to be latched and unlatched and opened and closed from the exterior of the box-container.
The box-container 16, in its forward-position, is mounted upon a container-platform 18, shown in its raised-position. The box-containe3r lb is releasably connectable to the container-platformf 8. 'The container-platform 18 is mounted on a series of platform jacks 19 that permit it to be moved vertically between a raised-position (as shown in the iigure3 and a lowered-position, where the bottom surface of the container-platforrra t 8 rests on the top surface of the tractor-chassis 6. The platform jacks 19 are rr~ounted at the ends of a series of cross-braces ~(3, beams mounted laterally across and through the tractor-chassis b. They extend about an equal length out on either side of the tractor-chassis b. Preferably, one cross-brace 20 is positioned near the front of the container-platform 18, and a second cross-brace 20 is positioned near the rear of the container-platform i8. Preferably, the platform-yacks 19 are mounted on both lateral ends of both of these two cross-braces 20. Preferably, each platf~rm-jack 19 is a vertically positioned hydraulically powered piston.
Tl~e semi-trailer 5 is composed of an extendable-chassis 24, supported toward its rear end by one or more sets oftrailer-wheels 26 {preferably a tandem or tri-axle configuration). f1 connector-pin {not shown), also called a :kingpin: is a#~ixed on front end bottom surface of the extendable-chassis 24. It permits the semi-trailer ~ to be releasably and pivotally connected to the truck-tractor 4 by means of the fi#~l~-wheel 14. 'dYhen so connected, the front end of the semi-trailer 5 front is supported by the rear end of the truck-tractor 4. A set of landing-gear 28 is mounted on the extendable-chassis 24. It is used to support the front end of the semi-trailer 5 when disconnected from the truck-tractor 4. It is set back from front end enough to permit thf; tractor-trailer 2 to pi~~ot appropriately during over the road transport. Tl~e described l~ingpin to fi~l~
wheel connections and the landing gear are known technology.
A van-container 30 is mounted on the extendable-cl~~ssis 24. Preferably, its interior dimensions approximate those of a stand dry box van used in over the road transport. At the front end of the van-container 30 is a van front-door 3 l .
Preferably, it is a common roller shutter type cargo van door tvl~ich is opened arid shut by being guided on rollers on tracts positioned longitudinally along the top interior sides of the van-container 3(?. The van-front-door 31 has a latching means {not shown) which permits the door to be latched and unlatched and to be opened and closed from the interior of the van-container 30. The van-container 30 also has a set of van-rear-doors 32, and preferably a pair of barn door style doors frequently used on over the road van boxes and mufti-modal cargo containers.
FIG. 2 slows the extendable-chassis 24 leas a front-;>ection 33, a rear-section. 34, and a telescoping-section 36. The telescoping-section 3fi is rigidly axed to the rear-section 34 and extends longitudinally forward from it telescoping into a corresponding longitudinal opening at the rearward end of the front-section 32. This feature permits the length of the extendable-chassis 24, and thus the semi-trailer 5, to be lengthened and shortened. FIG. 1 shows the extendable-chassis 24 in its ret3racted-position and FIG. 2 shows it in its extended-position. The technology of extendable or trombone trailers and 8/l~
extendable trailer chassis for the road transport of mufti-me>dal cargo containers and the like is well know. Known features include how such trailers are changed from the extended to the retracted positions and fixed in said positions. Therefore, no further discussion is provided on these matters here.
then the extendable-chassis 24 is in its retracted-position, as per FIG l, it has substantially the same length as the van-container 3U.
The front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24 has substantially the same width as the container-platform 18.
The van-container 30 is affixed to the rear-section ?,~ of the extendable-chassis 24, and it is releasably connected to the front-section 33. When the extendable-chassis 24 is to be moved from its retracted-position to its extended-position, the van container 3~
having been disconnected from the front-section 33, the vary--container 30 is transferred rearwvard visa vie the front end of the semi-trailer 5 when tl~e extendable-chassis is extended. Once extended, the fbrward portion of the front-section 33 is left without a container upon it. A series of span-beams 38 are releasably connected between the front end of the extendable-chassis 24 and the rear end of the container-platform 18. When so affixed, the top surface of the span-beams 38 is about level with the top surface of the container-platform lb, in its raised-position and the top surface of the front-section 33.
The span-beams 38 are used to bridge the gap between the truck-tractor 4 and the semi-trailer 5, permitting the box-container 16 to be transferred between the container-platform 18 and the unused front-section 33 of the extendable-chassi 24 in its extended-position.
Preferably, there are two span-beams 38, one toward each s>ide of the container-platforan 18 and extendable-chassis 24.
Means are provided to releasably affix the box-container 1 ~s t~ the front--section 33. ~~'hen the box-container 16 is affixed to the container-platform 18 it is termed to be in its tractor-position (as per FIG. 1). When it is affaxed to the front-section 33 ofthe extendable-chassis 24 it is termed to be in its trailer-position has per FIG.
2~.
The reverse process to that described above is used to move the box-container t 6 from the front-section 33 onto the container-platform t 8.
For over the road transport the box-container is put into the tractor-position, because the length of the semi-trailer 5, dvith the extendabhe-chassis 24 in its retracted-position is preferably substantially close to the maximum length allowable by regulations.
Clnce arriving at destination, for example a trt.~ck terminal or industrial installation, the extendable-chassis 24 can be changed into its extended-position and the box-container moved to its trailer-position, The truck tractor 4 can be separated from the seirii-trailer 5.
The semi-trailer S can be moved around in its elongated state by a conventional yard tractor in this environment vc~l~ere road regulations do not apply.
FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 show the box-container I6 being transferred between its tractor-position and its trailer-position. A pair of platform-rails 40 run parallel and longitudinally along the top surface of the container-platform 1G, one toward each side of the said platform. A span-rail 42 runs longitudinally along each of the span beams 38.
Une span-rail 38 is longitudinally aligned with each of the platform-rails 44.
A pair of trailer-rails 42 are positioned parallel to each other on the top surface of the front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24. The trailer-rails 42 are longitudinally aligned vaith the span-rails 42 and the platform-rails 44, and these three sets of rails form a continuous track. Hereafter, the combination of these three sets of rails is referred to as a continuous-track.
A series of box-rollers 4~C are of#ixed to the underside ofthe box-container 1f in two sets that are parallel to each other. Each set is positioned in a longitudinal line so that it intersects with one of the continuous-tracks permitting the box-container 16 to be rolled forward and rearward along the said track. Similarly, a series of van-rollers 48 are affixed to the underside of the van-container in two sets parallel to each other. 'fhe van-rollers 4~ are positioned to intersect vaith the trailer-rails 44 on the front-section 33, permitting the van-container 34 to roll forward and reartvard on the trailer-rails 44 when the extendable-chassis is moved between its extended-position and its retracted-position.
To move the box-eontair~er 16 in the forward direction, the drive force is provided by a tractor-winch 50 that preferably is mounted between the beams of the tracta3r-chassis b directly behind the tractor-cab 12. A tractor-winch-cable ~2, with a hook (not shown on the end, extends from the tractor-winch 54, at first gener,aily vertically, through a dVi ~~
cable-guide 53, and then generally longitudinally rearward. #t is releasably connected to a front-ring 54 that is mounted ~r~ the underside of the box-container 16 at tha front center.
To move the box container in the rearward direction, the dr~i~e farce is provided by a trailer-winch 56 from which a trailer-v,~inch-cable 5~, v~ith a hook {not sliou~n~ on the end, extends from in a generally longitudinally ft~rv~~ard dir~ectioris. The trailer-wirtch-cable ~S is releasably connected to a rear-ring 59 that is ~csunted on the underside oftl~e box-container 16 in a rear center position. #'referably, the trailer-winch Sb is mounted between the front-section 33 beams slightly reaz°v~ard of the position of the front end of tl~e van-container 30 when the extendable-chassis 24 is in the extended-position.
~ series of connector-slats ~0 are mounted on the underside of the box-cc~r~tainer I6 and tl~e underside of the van-container 30, extending abr3ut vertically doava~ward therefro~a. #'referably, one pair of connector-slats 6t3 is positioned, about parallel to each ether, toward the fror3t flf tl~ bc~x-cflntainer, extending downward right next to each of the two lateral sides of the container-platform 18 or tl~e front-section 33, depending on tl~e position of the box-container 16. preferably, a second pair of connector-slats ~0 is positioned, about parallel to each other, toward the rear ene! of the box container extending downward, also right next to each of the lateral sides of the container-platform t 8 or front-section 33. Preferabiy, a third pair of connector-slats is positioned, about parallel to each other, toward the front end ofthe van-contiuner 30 exter~di~ag downward, right next to each of tl~e lateral sides of the front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24.
each connector-slat 64 has a pin-opening ~l passing though it laterally. A
series of connector-pins 62 are mounted on the two lateral sides c~~f the container-platform # 8 arid on the two lateral sales of tl~e front-section 33. The corEnector-pins 6~
are of the size arid shape and positioning that they can be extended and reatracted through the pin-.
openings ~l in the connector-slats b0. There are connector-pins 62 positioned visa vie the connector-slats C0, so that the box-container #6 can be releasably of#ixed to the corgtainer-platfflrm 1 ~ in its tractor-position and releasably affixed to the front-section 33 of tl~e extendable chassis when in its trailer-position. also, there connected-pins 62 positioned visa vie the connector-slats 6~ permitting the van-contai~aer 3~ to be releasably affixed to the franc-section 33 with the extendable-chassis 24 in its extended-position and also 11l1 ~
releasably affixed to the front-section 33 with the extendable-chassis ~4 iaa its retracted-position.
~ platforside't~be 64 is mounted, running longitudinally, to each of the lateral sides of the container-platform 18 and is consider part of the container-platforml8. A
trailer-side-tube 65 is mounted, running longitudinally, to Each of the lateral sides of the front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24 and is considered part of the front-section 33.
p'IG. 5 is a close up rear end cross section showing the intersection of the box-roller 46 with the platform-rail 40. The box-roller 46 has t~vs~ vertical support-slats b6 that support a horizontal central-pin 68 at either end. The central-pin 68 passes through the center of a roller-wheel 70, forming the axle on which t:he box-roller 46 rotates. The perimeter of the roller-wheel ?d~ is preferably formed in a concave shape that mates with the convex shape of the top of the platform-rail 4L1. The span-rails 4~ and trailer-rails 44 have substantially the same size and shape The base structure of the box-container includes a box-floor ?2 that is mounted on and supported by two lateral-beams knot shown. These lateral-beams run longitudinally, the length of the box-container 16 one on either lower bottom side of it. The box-floor ?2 is also mounted ors and supported by a plurality of box joists 74 that run laterally connecting the tawo lateral-laeams at intervals along the length of the box-container t6. ~'referably, the support-slats 66 are affixed between two of the box joists ?4, and the central-pin f 8 positioned so that only a portion of the roller-wheel ?0 extends downward below the structural base elements of the box-container 16.
The container-platform 18 is comprised of a Longitudinal platform-bearrz ?~ on either lateral side of it, running its Length. A plurality ofplatform-foists ?8 connected the two platform-beams ?~ at intervals along its Length. The platform-beams ?6 and platform joists ?8 support a platform-floor 8~, which is mounted to them. The platform side-tubes fa4 are mounted on the lateral side of each ofthe platform-beams ?~. The connector-pins 6~ are mounted through the platform-beams. ?6 in a generally horizontal position. The connector-pin 62 has a push-piston 82, preferably hydraulically or-pneurnatically actuated, that drives the extension and retraction of the connector-bolt 84.
1~f15 FIG. 5 shows the connector-haft 84 retreated. then so retracted, the box-container lb is not affixed to the container-platform 18 or the front-section 33 and can be rolled forward or rearward. When extended the connector-bolt 84 passes through an aligned opening in the side of the platform side-tutje b4 and then through the pin-opening 61 in the connector-slat bt~, affixing the box-container 1 b to the container-platform 18. The connector-slat b0 extends about vertically downward right next to the about vertical side of the platform side-tube b4. preferably, an anti-lift-arm extends fron3 the bottom end of the connector-slat b0 inward under the bottom of the platform-side-tube b4, preventing the box-container lbfrom lifting or tipping when being transferred between its tractor-position and its trader-positron. Preferably, the connector-slats b0 are mounted to the box-container lb between two of the box-joists 74.
FIG. b is a close up rear end cross section showing the intersection of one of the van-rollers 48 with the corresponding trailer-rail 44. The wan-roller 48 has two vertical support-slats 66 supporting a Horizontal central-pin 68 at either end. The central-pin 68 passes through the center of a roller-wheel 70, forming the axle on which the van-roller 48 rotates. The perimeter of the roller-wheel '70 is preferably formed in a concave shape that mates with the convex shape of the top of the trailer-rail 44. The base structure of the wan-container 3~ includes a van-floor 88 that is mounted on and supported by two lateral-wan-beams knot shown. These lateral-beams run longitudinally, the length of the wan-container 3d? one on either lower bottom side oI° it. The wan--floor 88 is also mounted on and supported by a plurality of van joists 94 that run laterally across connecting the two lateral-van-beams at intervals along the length of the van-container 30.
Preferably, the support-slats 6b are affixed between two ofthe van joists g0, and the central-pin 68 is positioned so tHat only a portion ofthe roller-wheel '~0 extends downward below the base structure of the van-container 30.
The front-section 33 of the extendable-chassis 24 has a front-section-beam 92 running longitudinally along each lateral side of it. A plurality of front-section joists 94 are positioned laterally across connecting the two front-section-beams 92 at intervals along its length. The front-section-beans 9~ and the front-section-joists 94 support a fro~at-section-floor 9b, wHich is mounted to them. The trailer-side-tubes b are mounted on 13~1~
the lateral side of each of the front-section-beams 92. The <~onnector-pins fit are ~noonted through the front-section-beans 92 in a generally horizontal position. The connector-pin b2 has a push-piston 82, preferably hydraulically or pneumatically actuated, that drives the extension and retraction of the connector-bolt 84. FIG. 6 shows the connector-bolt 84 extended and passing through an aligned opea~ir~g in the side of the trailer-side-tube 65 and then through the pin-opening b 1 in the connector-slat ~i(~, affixing the van-container 34 to the front-section 33 on the extendable-chassis ~4. For the van container 30 to roll forward and rearward, the connector-bolt 84 need be z~etracted. The connector-slat 60 extends about vertically downward right next to the about vertical side of the trailer-side-tube 65. 1~n anti-lift-arm extends from the bottom end of the connector-slat 60 inward under the bottom of the trailer-side-tube 65, preventi~ag the ~~~n-container 3~ from lifting or tipping when the extendable-chassis 24 is being moV~ed between its retracted-position and its extended-position. Preferably, the connector-slats ~3 are mounted to the van-container 3a between t~.vo of the van joists 90.
FIG. 7 and FIG S show close up views of one of the: span-beams 38 and how it is releasably affixed to the rear end of the container-platform 18 and the front end of the extendable-chassis 24.
A pair of span-beam-saddles 1 t~ are mounted on tl3e rear end of the container-platform 18, and a second pair of span-beasaddles 1130 a3-e rr~ounted on the front end of the extendable-chassis 24. These two pair of span-bearr~-saddles l~fl are longitudinally aligned with each other. Each span-beam-saddle 10~ has two vertical side walls and a horizontal bottom wall forming a slot into which the longitudia~al end of the spar-beam 38 mates. ~ span-beam-bolt 10~ is passed through openings in the side walls of the span-beam-saddle 100 and a corresponding opening that passes laterally through the span-beam. then the truck-tractor 4 and the semi-trailer 5 are about longitudinally aligned (visa vie their longitudinal centerlines, both ends of the span-beams 38 are nested into the span-beam saddles to bridge the gap between the eontair~er-platform 18 and the extendable-chassis 24.
The front end of the span-beams 38 are nested into the span-beam-saddles 140 on the rear end ofthe container-platform 18 and the rear end oi~the span-beams 38 are nested t4J~s into the span-beam-saddles 100 on the front end ofthe extendable-chassis 24.
The span-beam-bolts 1(32 affix the span-beams 38 in place. i~hen so aff'gxed the span-rails 42 will be substantially aligned with the platform rails 40 and the trailer-rails 44 so as to form a continuous track. The box-container 16 can be rolled in either direction between its tractor-position and its trailer-position cover the continuous tract. ~ span-beam-angle 104 is mounted on the lateral side of each span-beam 3~. then the span-beam is mounted in the span-beam-saddles 100, the horizontal extension of the span-beam-angle 104 is at about the same elevation as the bottom surface of the platform-side-tube b4 anti the trailer-side-tube 6~. When the box-container 1~ is move frc>m its tractor-position to its trailer-position, the anti-lift-arm 8b passes under the span-beam-angle 104, preventing the box-container 16 from lifting or tipping as it is being transferred.
ff the box-container lb is not mounted on the conta3;ner-platform 18, the truck-tractor 4 can be used to pull a conventional trailer (semi-trailer). The container-platform is put in its lowered-position where its top surface is lower than the connecting place surface of the fifth-wheel 12. The fifth-~.vheel 12 can be shifted forward for better weight distribution, The conventional trailer, when connected to the truck-tractor 4 will articulate freely above the top surface of the container-platform 18. This characteristic permits the truck-tractor 4 to be used in conventional trailer pulling application as well as the specialized application described above.
A SEA~~TD ElI~BCl~~ll~E~ °p A second embodiment of the invention involves the track-tractor 4 and semi-trailer 5 with the characteristics general described above in the preferred embodiment, except that the semi-trailer 5 is pulled as one oftwo trailers in a train. In other words, the truck-tractor 4 pulls the semi-trailer 5 and a second-trailer (not shocvnj all pivotally and releasably connected in a train. l~hen the box-container 16 is in its tractor-positron, the length of the tractor and two-trailer-train is within the legal length permitted by road transport regulations, and preferably substantially close to the maximum allowable. When the extendable-chassis 24 of the semi-trailer is put into its extended-position and the box-container moved to its trailer-position, then the length of the tractor and two-trailer-train surpasses the maximazm regulated length aiio~ai3le. o~vevr r, the semitrailer 5, with the extendable-chassis 24 in the extended-position and! with tbf; box cflntainer in its trailer-positiori is, if puiled alc»e witht~ut the second trailer, within the allowable lerigtb for over the road transport. The second-trailer is also within allowable length if pulled alflrle by a tractor. This embodiment permits that the truck-tractt~r 4 to transport the box-container, the semi-trailer ~, arid the second-trailer to a ~esti~atio~. Tloe box-cortairier 1(~ n,arg there be transferred or~tc~ the semi-trailer 5. The exte~eled se~ai-trailer 5 aid the seconded container can from there be transported to their destination:>, beir$g polled by c~rlverttional over the road tractors, that dQ got require the special characteristics of the truck-tractor 5 described in this irtvet~tio~ description.
Claims
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2438225 CA2438225A1 (en) | 2003-07-25 | 2003-07-25 | Extendable tractor trailer system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2438225 CA2438225A1 (en) | 2003-07-25 | 2003-07-25 | Extendable tractor trailer system |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2438225A1 true CA2438225A1 (en) | 2005-01-25 |
Family
ID=34085290
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2438225 Abandoned CA2438225A1 (en) | 2003-07-25 | 2003-07-25 | Extendable tractor trailer system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2438225A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10543875B2 (en) | 2016-12-20 | 2020-01-28 | Équipement Max-Atlas International Inc. | Extendable trailer for freight containers |
-
2003
- 2003-07-25 CA CA 2438225 patent/CA2438225A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10543875B2 (en) | 2016-12-20 | 2020-01-28 | Équipement Max-Atlas International Inc. | Extendable trailer for freight containers |
| US10988189B2 (en) | 2016-12-20 | 2021-04-27 | Équipement Max-Atlas International Inc. | Extendable trailer for freight containers |
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