CA2497580C - A system and method for lifting a jeep axle - Google Patents
A system and method for lifting a jeep axle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2497580C CA2497580C CA 2497580 CA2497580A CA2497580C CA 2497580 C CA2497580 C CA 2497580C CA 2497580 CA2497580 CA 2497580 CA 2497580 A CA2497580 A CA 2497580A CA 2497580 C CA2497580 C CA 2497580C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- trailer
- axle
- axis
- jeep
- raised position
- 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.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
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
- 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
-
- 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
- B62D53/061—Semi-trailers of flat bed or low loader type or fitted with swan necks
-
- 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
- B62D53/08—Fifth wheel traction couplings
- B62D53/0857—Auxiliary semi-trailer handling or loading equipment, e.g. ramps, rigs, coupling supports
- B62D53/0864—Dollies for fifth wheel coupling
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D61/00—Motor vehicles or trailers, characterised by the arrangement or number of wheels, not otherwise provided for, e.g. four wheels in diamond pattern
- B62D61/12—Motor vehicles or trailers, characterised by the arrangement or number of wheels, not otherwise provided for, e.g. four wheels in diamond pattern with variable number of ground engaging wheels, e.g. with some wheels arranged higher than others, or with retractable wheels
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)
Abstract
A system for moving a trailer from an operable position to a raised position and releasably locking the trailer in the raised position. The system is comprised of a supporting vehicle. A
trailer is connected to the supporting vehicle in a manner that restricts movement of the trailer along a first axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer.
Restriction members are able to restrict movement of the trailer along a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. A loading member has a surface area. An actuating member is able to apply a force to the surface area of the loading member.
This force pivots the trailer about a third axis, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer, to the raised position where a releasable locking mechanism is engaged to help maintain the trailer in the raised position.
trailer is connected to the supporting vehicle in a manner that restricts movement of the trailer along a first axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer.
Restriction members are able to restrict movement of the trailer along a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. A loading member has a surface area. An actuating member is able to apply a force to the surface area of the loading member.
This force pivots the trailer about a third axis, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer, to the raised position where a releasable locking mechanism is engaged to help maintain the trailer in the raised position.
Description
A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIFTING A JEEP AXLE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to jeep axles, and in particular to jeep axles used with logging tractors. Jeep axles are primarily used to relieve some of the payload carried by the axles of the logging tractor and trailer in order to meet roadway weight distribution restrictions.
However, when the tractor and trailer combination is not carrying a payload it is desirable to carry the jeep axle, and by extension, the trailer on the tractor so as to shorten the overall length of the vehicle and to improve handling.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention relates to jeep axles, and in particular to jeep axles used with logging tractors. Jeep axles are primarily used to relieve some of the payload carried by the axles of the logging tractor and trailer in order to meet roadway weight distribution restrictions.
However, when the tractor and trailer combination is not carrying a payload it is desirable to carry the jeep axle, and by extension, the trailer on the tractor so as to shorten the overall length of the vehicle and to improve handling.
[0002] Conventional jeep axles are loaded onto the tractor by backing up the tractor so as to manoeuvre the jeep axle up a set of ramps onto the tractor. However, in adverse conditions, such as in snow and or on icy surfaces, this manoeuvring may be extremely difficult. As well, due to the added articulation points, backing the jeep axles up onto the ramps may be extremely challenging.
[0003] This invention overcomes the above mentioned problems by providing a system for lifting the jeep axle and thereby the entire weight of the jeep axle onto the tractor, and allowing for the trailer to be carried on the tractor, positioned on top of the jeep axle and extending rearward from the jeep axle, thereby shortening the overall length of the vehicle and improve handling.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for moving a trailer from an operable position to a raised position, and releasably locking the trailer in the raised position. The system is comprised of a supporting vehicle. A trailer is connected to the supporting vehicle in a manner that restricts movement of the trailer along a first axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. Restriction members are able to restrict movement of the trailer along a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. A loading member has a surface area. An actuating member is able to apply a force to the surface area of the loading member. This force pivots the trailer about a third axis, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer, to the raised position where a releasable locking mechanism is engaged to maintain the trailer in the raised position.
[00051 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for moving a trailer from an operable position relative to a supporting vehicle to a raised position relative to the supporting vehicle, and releasably locking the trailer in the raised position.
The method comprises restricting movement of the trailer along a first axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. Movement of the trailer is also restricted along a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. A force is applied to a surface to pivot the trailer about a third axis, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer, to the raised position. Finally, a locking member is engaged to maintain the trailer in the raised position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00061 In the drawings;
Figure 1 is a side perspective view of a logging tractor, shown in fragment, and a jeep axle, according to an embodiment of the invention, the jeep axle being in a position behind the tractor and lifted away from the ground;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of tractor in fragment and showing the loading member connected to the tractor;
Figure 3 is a side perspective view of the tractor and jeep axle, in fragment, showing the actuating mechanism communicating with the loading member;
Figure 3A is a bottom-side rear perspective view thereof showing the actuating mechanism communicating with the loading member;
Figure 4, is a top-side perspective view of the jeep axle in fragment, showing the actuating mechanism and the locking mechanism as they would appear when the jeep axle is in the operable position, with the jeep wheels on the ground;
Figure 5, is a side perspective view thereof, showing the actuating mechanism and the locking mechanism as they would appear when the jeep axle is being moved from the operable position to the raised position of Figure 1;
Figure 6, is a side perspective view thereof, showing the actuating mechanism and the locking mechanism as they would appear when the jeep axle is in the raised position;
Figure 7 is a fragmentary, top-side perspective view with the locking mechanism pivoted upwards showing the unlocking levers; and Figure 8, is a fragmentary perspective view of the tractor showing the deployment mechanism for the loading member.
Figure 9 is a simplified elevation view of the trailer, loading member and actuating mechanism, showing the trailer in the operable position in broken lines and showing the trailer in the raised position in solid lines.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[00071 Referring to the drawings, and first to Figure 1, this shows a jeep axle, or auxiliary trailer, 10 connected to a tractor 20. The jeep axle 10 has been lifted to a raised position wherein the entire weight of the jeep axle has been transferred to the tractor according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown by arrows 100 and 105, the wheels 12 and 14 of the jeep axle 10 are completely lifted off the ground 5.
[0008] The jeep axle 10 is moved to the raised position from an operable position, wherein the wheels 12 and 14 of the jeep axle communicate with the ground 5, by restricting the movement of the jeep axle along a first axis 110 which is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the jeep axle. The movement of the jeep axle 10 is also restricted along a second axis 120, shown in Figure 6, which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the jeep axle. Then, the jeep axle 10 is pivoted in an upwards direction about a third axis 130, shown in Figure 2, which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the jeep axle. Once the jeep axle 10 has been pivoted to the raised position as shown in Figure 1, a locking member 50, shown in Figure 4, is engaged to help maintain the jeep axle 10 in the raised position. The jeep axle 10 may be returned to the operable position by disengaging the locking member 50 and pivoting the jeep axle in a downwards direction about the third axis 130.
[0009] In this embodiment of the invention, movement of the jeep axle 10 along the first axis 110 is restricted by connecting the jeep axle to the tractor 20. The front end 13 of the jeep axle 10 engages the fifth wheel 22 of the tractor 20 in the conventional manner, thereby connecting the jeep axle to the tractor 20 and restricting movement of the jeep axle along the first axis 110.
[0010] Movement of the jeep axle 10 along the second axis 120 is restricted by first deploying a loading member 24. The loading member 24, as shown in Figure 2, has an elongated surface area 23 with three fins 25, 26, and 27 that extend outwards in a direction generally perpendicular to the surface area. Fins 25 and 27 are located adjacent to opposing ends of the surface area and fin 26 is located generally midway between fins 25 and 27. The effect of this arrangement is to divide the surface area into two separate surfaces 28 and 29.
The first surface 28 is contained between fins 25 and 26, and the second surface 29 is contained between fins 26 and 27.
[0011] The loading member 24 is pivotable about an axle 76, shown in Figure 3.
When the jeep axle 10 is in the operable position, the loading member 24 is withdrawn towards the tractor frame 21. When the operator wishes to move the jeep axle 10 from the operable position to the raised position the loading member 24 is deployed outwards away from the tractor frame 21 as shown in Figure 2. In this embodiment an air cylinder 70, shown in Figure 8, is connected to the loading member by cable 71 and is used to deploy the loading member 24, however, other mechanisms known in the prior art such as hydraulic actuators may be used to deploy the loading member. The loading member 24 is then engaged by the jeep axle 10, as shown in Figures 3 and 3A, thereby restricting the movement of the jeep axle along the second axis 120.
[0012] In this embodiment of the invention, the loading member 24 is engaged by an actuating mechanism 15 of the jeep axle 10. The actuating mechanism is a twin pneumatic system which is shown in better detail in Figure 4. The actuating mechanism 15 has two inflatable air bags 30 and 40. The air bags 30 and 40 extend outwards from the frame I 1 of the jeep axle 10. There are engaging members 32 and 42 connected to the ends of the air bags that are opposite to the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10. There are springs 112 and 114, shown in Figure 9, that connect engaging members 32 and 42 respectively to the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10. The springs 112 and 114 being extended when the trailer 10 is in the raised position and the springs being relaxed when the trailer is in the operable position.
[00051 According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for moving a trailer from an operable position relative to a supporting vehicle to a raised position relative to the supporting vehicle, and releasably locking the trailer in the raised position.
The method comprises restricting movement of the trailer along a first axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. Movement of the trailer is also restricted along a second axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer. A force is applied to a surface to pivot the trailer about a third axis, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer, to the raised position. Finally, a locking member is engaged to maintain the trailer in the raised position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00061 In the drawings;
Figure 1 is a side perspective view of a logging tractor, shown in fragment, and a jeep axle, according to an embodiment of the invention, the jeep axle being in a position behind the tractor and lifted away from the ground;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of tractor in fragment and showing the loading member connected to the tractor;
Figure 3 is a side perspective view of the tractor and jeep axle, in fragment, showing the actuating mechanism communicating with the loading member;
Figure 3A is a bottom-side rear perspective view thereof showing the actuating mechanism communicating with the loading member;
Figure 4, is a top-side perspective view of the jeep axle in fragment, showing the actuating mechanism and the locking mechanism as they would appear when the jeep axle is in the operable position, with the jeep wheels on the ground;
Figure 5, is a side perspective view thereof, showing the actuating mechanism and the locking mechanism as they would appear when the jeep axle is being moved from the operable position to the raised position of Figure 1;
Figure 6, is a side perspective view thereof, showing the actuating mechanism and the locking mechanism as they would appear when the jeep axle is in the raised position;
Figure 7 is a fragmentary, top-side perspective view with the locking mechanism pivoted upwards showing the unlocking levers; and Figure 8, is a fragmentary perspective view of the tractor showing the deployment mechanism for the loading member.
Figure 9 is a simplified elevation view of the trailer, loading member and actuating mechanism, showing the trailer in the operable position in broken lines and showing the trailer in the raised position in solid lines.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[00071 Referring to the drawings, and first to Figure 1, this shows a jeep axle, or auxiliary trailer, 10 connected to a tractor 20. The jeep axle 10 has been lifted to a raised position wherein the entire weight of the jeep axle has been transferred to the tractor according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown by arrows 100 and 105, the wheels 12 and 14 of the jeep axle 10 are completely lifted off the ground 5.
[0008] The jeep axle 10 is moved to the raised position from an operable position, wherein the wheels 12 and 14 of the jeep axle communicate with the ground 5, by restricting the movement of the jeep axle along a first axis 110 which is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the jeep axle. The movement of the jeep axle 10 is also restricted along a second axis 120, shown in Figure 6, which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the jeep axle. Then, the jeep axle 10 is pivoted in an upwards direction about a third axis 130, shown in Figure 2, which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the jeep axle. Once the jeep axle 10 has been pivoted to the raised position as shown in Figure 1, a locking member 50, shown in Figure 4, is engaged to help maintain the jeep axle 10 in the raised position. The jeep axle 10 may be returned to the operable position by disengaging the locking member 50 and pivoting the jeep axle in a downwards direction about the third axis 130.
[0009] In this embodiment of the invention, movement of the jeep axle 10 along the first axis 110 is restricted by connecting the jeep axle to the tractor 20. The front end 13 of the jeep axle 10 engages the fifth wheel 22 of the tractor 20 in the conventional manner, thereby connecting the jeep axle to the tractor 20 and restricting movement of the jeep axle along the first axis 110.
[0010] Movement of the jeep axle 10 along the second axis 120 is restricted by first deploying a loading member 24. The loading member 24, as shown in Figure 2, has an elongated surface area 23 with three fins 25, 26, and 27 that extend outwards in a direction generally perpendicular to the surface area. Fins 25 and 27 are located adjacent to opposing ends of the surface area and fin 26 is located generally midway between fins 25 and 27. The effect of this arrangement is to divide the surface area into two separate surfaces 28 and 29.
The first surface 28 is contained between fins 25 and 26, and the second surface 29 is contained between fins 26 and 27.
[0011] The loading member 24 is pivotable about an axle 76, shown in Figure 3.
When the jeep axle 10 is in the operable position, the loading member 24 is withdrawn towards the tractor frame 21. When the operator wishes to move the jeep axle 10 from the operable position to the raised position the loading member 24 is deployed outwards away from the tractor frame 21 as shown in Figure 2. In this embodiment an air cylinder 70, shown in Figure 8, is connected to the loading member by cable 71 and is used to deploy the loading member 24, however, other mechanisms known in the prior art such as hydraulic actuators may be used to deploy the loading member. The loading member 24 is then engaged by the jeep axle 10, as shown in Figures 3 and 3A, thereby restricting the movement of the jeep axle along the second axis 120.
[0012] In this embodiment of the invention, the loading member 24 is engaged by an actuating mechanism 15 of the jeep axle 10. The actuating mechanism is a twin pneumatic system which is shown in better detail in Figure 4. The actuating mechanism 15 has two inflatable air bags 30 and 40. The air bags 30 and 40 extend outwards from the frame I 1 of the jeep axle 10. There are engaging members 32 and 42 connected to the ends of the air bags that are opposite to the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10. There are springs 112 and 114, shown in Figure 9, that connect engaging members 32 and 42 respectively to the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10. The springs 112 and 114 being extended when the trailer 10 is in the raised position and the springs being relaxed when the trailer is in the operable position.
[0013] The engaging members 32 and 42 are shaped similar to hollow triangular prisms open at the base, with the air bags 30 and 40 being connected to the first sides 34 and 44 of the prism shaped engaging members. Elongated axle 74, shown in Figure 3, spans the width of the jeep axle 10 and penetrates the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 34 perpendicular to their ends and near the their apexes. In this embodiment of the invention, the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 34 may pivot independently about the elongated axle 74.
[0014] When the air bags 30 and 40 are inflated the engaging members are pivoted outwards from the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10, about the elongated axle 74, and the engaging members engage the loading member 24. Prism shaped engaging member 32 is received snugly between fins 25 and 26 of the loading member, with the first end 35 of prism shaped engaging member 32 being adjacent to fin 25 and the second end 36 of prism shaped engaging member 32 being adjacent to fin 26. In similar form, prism shaped engaging member 42 is received snugly between fins 26 and 27 of the loading member 24, with the first end 45 of prism shaped engaging member 42 being adjacent to fin 26 and the second end 46 of prism shaped engaging member 42 being adjacent to fin 27. When the engaging members 32 and 42 are fully received by the loading member 24, movement of the jeep axle 10 along the second axis 120 is restricted.
[0015] After movement of the jeep axle 10 about the second axis 120 has been restricted, the jeep axle may then be pivoted about the third axis 130 from the operable position to the raised position. In this embodiment of the invention, the jeep axle 10 is pivoted about the third axis 130 by further inflating air bags 30 and 40 of the actuating mechanism 15. Further inflating the air bags 30 and 40 causes the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 42 to further pivot about their apexes and axle 74, thereby causing second sides 37 and 47 of the prism shaped engaging members to respectively communicate with surfaces 28 and 29 of the loading member 24. The second sides 37 and 47 of the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 42 communicate with the surfaces 28 and 29 of the loading member 24 in a manner so as to apply a force against the surfaces. When the movement of the jeep axle along the first axis 110 and second axis 120 is restricted, the net effect of the force is the pivoting of the jeep axle 10 about the third axis 130 in an upwards movement of the jeep axle to the raised position. As the air bags 30 and 40 are further inflated and the jeep axle 10 is pivoted about the third axis 130 to the raised position, the wheels 12 and 14 of the jeep axle 10 are lifted off of the ground.
[0016] Once the jeep axle 10 is in the raised position the locking mechanism 50 is engaged to help maintain the jeep axle in the raised position. In this embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism 50 is a series of independent pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58, best shown in Figure 4. A cylindrical axle 52 spans the width of the jeep axle 10. The cylindrical axle 52 is supported at the first end by drawbar coupling 17 and at the second end by drawbar coupling 18, as shown in Figure 7. Each pivotable hook 54, 56, 58 is fixed to the cylindrical axle 52. Each pivotable hook 54, 56, 58 may pivot independently about the cylindrical axle while being restricted from moving along the cylindrical axle 52. In this embodiment of the invention movement of the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 along the cylindrical axle is restricted by weldments. Pivotable hook 54 is located adjacent the first end of the cylindrical axle 52, pivotable hook 58 is located adjacent the second end of the cylindrical base, and pivotable hook 56 is located generally midway between pivotable hooks 54 and 58. Weights 95, 96 and 97 are welded to pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 and assist the pivotable hooks to pivot.
(0017] As prism shaped engaging member 32 is pivoted about axle 74 from the position shown in Figure 4 to the position shown in Figure 5, the pivotable hooks 54 and 56 of the locking mechanism 50 slide along the end 33 of the first side 34 of prism shaped engaging member 32 until the pivotable hooks 54 and 56 drop down and secure engaging member 32, as shown in Figure 6. Similarly, as the engaging member 42 is pivoted about its from the position shown in Figure 4 to the position shown in Figure 5, the pivotable hooks 56 and 58 of the locking mechanism 50 slide along the end 43 of the first side 44 of prism shaped engaging member 42 until the pivotable hooks 56 and 58 drop down and secure engaging member 42, as shown in Figure 6. After the engaging members 32 and 42 and by extension the jeep axle 10, have been secured in position by the locking mechanism 50, the operator deflates the air bags 30 and 40, and the jeep axle remains secured in the raised position.
[0018] When the operator wishes to return the jeep axle 10 from the raised position to the operable position, the locking mechanism is released, thereby allowing thejeep axle to pivot about the third axis 130 in a downwards direction back to the operable position. In this embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism 50 is disengaged by first inflating the air bags 30 and 40 then applying a torque to the locking mechanism, thereby causing the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 to pivot in an upwards direction and release the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 42. The torque is applied to the locking mechanism by a series of unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68, shown in Figure 7. The unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68 are located along a second elongated member 62 which extends the width of the j eep axle l 0. The second elongated member is supported at the first end by drawbar coupling 17 and at the second end by drawbar coupling 18, and the second elongated member 62 is rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The above structure is best shown in Figure 7.
100191 The second elongated member 62 extends across the width of the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10 slightly offset relative to the cylindrical base 52 of the locking mechanism. The unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68 extend perpendicularly outwards from the elongated member 62 in a generally horizontal orientation. When the jeep axle 10 is secured in the raised position, the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 are in a generally horizontal orientation overlaying the unlocking levers, with pivotable hook 54 overlaying unlocking lever 64, pivotable hook 56 overlaying unlocking lever 66, and pivotable hook 58 overlaying unlocking lever 68.
[0020] To release the locking mechanism 50 the operator actuates the unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68 to move in an upwards direction by rotating the elongated member 62 about its longitudinal axis, thereby applying an upward torque force to the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 respectively. This upwards torque causes the pivotable hooks to move upwards and releases the engaging members 32 and 42. In this embodiment of the invention, the unlocking levers are actuated by spring latch 79, shown in Figure 3. Simultanoeusly, with the torque being applied to the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58, the operator inflates the air bags 30 and 40 thereby allowing the engaging members 32 and 42 to move clear of the locking mechanism 50. Air bags 30 and 40 are then deflated and springs 112 and 114 retract returning the engaging members 32 and 42 to a withdrawn position, permitting the jeep axle to pivot about the third axis 130 in a downward direction back to the operable position.
[0021] It will be understood by someone skilled in the art that many of the details provided above are given by way of example only and can be altered or deleted without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0014] When the air bags 30 and 40 are inflated the engaging members are pivoted outwards from the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10, about the elongated axle 74, and the engaging members engage the loading member 24. Prism shaped engaging member 32 is received snugly between fins 25 and 26 of the loading member, with the first end 35 of prism shaped engaging member 32 being adjacent to fin 25 and the second end 36 of prism shaped engaging member 32 being adjacent to fin 26. In similar form, prism shaped engaging member 42 is received snugly between fins 26 and 27 of the loading member 24, with the first end 45 of prism shaped engaging member 42 being adjacent to fin 26 and the second end 46 of prism shaped engaging member 42 being adjacent to fin 27. When the engaging members 32 and 42 are fully received by the loading member 24, movement of the jeep axle 10 along the second axis 120 is restricted.
[0015] After movement of the jeep axle 10 about the second axis 120 has been restricted, the jeep axle may then be pivoted about the third axis 130 from the operable position to the raised position. In this embodiment of the invention, the jeep axle 10 is pivoted about the third axis 130 by further inflating air bags 30 and 40 of the actuating mechanism 15. Further inflating the air bags 30 and 40 causes the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 42 to further pivot about their apexes and axle 74, thereby causing second sides 37 and 47 of the prism shaped engaging members to respectively communicate with surfaces 28 and 29 of the loading member 24. The second sides 37 and 47 of the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 42 communicate with the surfaces 28 and 29 of the loading member 24 in a manner so as to apply a force against the surfaces. When the movement of the jeep axle along the first axis 110 and second axis 120 is restricted, the net effect of the force is the pivoting of the jeep axle 10 about the third axis 130 in an upwards movement of the jeep axle to the raised position. As the air bags 30 and 40 are further inflated and the jeep axle 10 is pivoted about the third axis 130 to the raised position, the wheels 12 and 14 of the jeep axle 10 are lifted off of the ground.
[0016] Once the jeep axle 10 is in the raised position the locking mechanism 50 is engaged to help maintain the jeep axle in the raised position. In this embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism 50 is a series of independent pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58, best shown in Figure 4. A cylindrical axle 52 spans the width of the jeep axle 10. The cylindrical axle 52 is supported at the first end by drawbar coupling 17 and at the second end by drawbar coupling 18, as shown in Figure 7. Each pivotable hook 54, 56, 58 is fixed to the cylindrical axle 52. Each pivotable hook 54, 56, 58 may pivot independently about the cylindrical axle while being restricted from moving along the cylindrical axle 52. In this embodiment of the invention movement of the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 along the cylindrical axle is restricted by weldments. Pivotable hook 54 is located adjacent the first end of the cylindrical axle 52, pivotable hook 58 is located adjacent the second end of the cylindrical base, and pivotable hook 56 is located generally midway between pivotable hooks 54 and 58. Weights 95, 96 and 97 are welded to pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 and assist the pivotable hooks to pivot.
(0017] As prism shaped engaging member 32 is pivoted about axle 74 from the position shown in Figure 4 to the position shown in Figure 5, the pivotable hooks 54 and 56 of the locking mechanism 50 slide along the end 33 of the first side 34 of prism shaped engaging member 32 until the pivotable hooks 54 and 56 drop down and secure engaging member 32, as shown in Figure 6. Similarly, as the engaging member 42 is pivoted about its from the position shown in Figure 4 to the position shown in Figure 5, the pivotable hooks 56 and 58 of the locking mechanism 50 slide along the end 43 of the first side 44 of prism shaped engaging member 42 until the pivotable hooks 56 and 58 drop down and secure engaging member 42, as shown in Figure 6. After the engaging members 32 and 42 and by extension the jeep axle 10, have been secured in position by the locking mechanism 50, the operator deflates the air bags 30 and 40, and the jeep axle remains secured in the raised position.
[0018] When the operator wishes to return the jeep axle 10 from the raised position to the operable position, the locking mechanism is released, thereby allowing thejeep axle to pivot about the third axis 130 in a downwards direction back to the operable position. In this embodiment of the invention, the locking mechanism 50 is disengaged by first inflating the air bags 30 and 40 then applying a torque to the locking mechanism, thereby causing the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 to pivot in an upwards direction and release the prism shaped engaging members 32 and 42. The torque is applied to the locking mechanism by a series of unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68, shown in Figure 7. The unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68 are located along a second elongated member 62 which extends the width of the j eep axle l 0. The second elongated member is supported at the first end by drawbar coupling 17 and at the second end by drawbar coupling 18, and the second elongated member 62 is rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The above structure is best shown in Figure 7.
100191 The second elongated member 62 extends across the width of the frame 11 of the jeep axle 10 slightly offset relative to the cylindrical base 52 of the locking mechanism. The unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68 extend perpendicularly outwards from the elongated member 62 in a generally horizontal orientation. When the jeep axle 10 is secured in the raised position, the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 are in a generally horizontal orientation overlaying the unlocking levers, with pivotable hook 54 overlaying unlocking lever 64, pivotable hook 56 overlaying unlocking lever 66, and pivotable hook 58 overlaying unlocking lever 68.
[0020] To release the locking mechanism 50 the operator actuates the unlocking levers 64, 66 and 68 to move in an upwards direction by rotating the elongated member 62 about its longitudinal axis, thereby applying an upward torque force to the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58 respectively. This upwards torque causes the pivotable hooks to move upwards and releases the engaging members 32 and 42. In this embodiment of the invention, the unlocking levers are actuated by spring latch 79, shown in Figure 3. Simultanoeusly, with the torque being applied to the pivotable hooks 54, 56 and 58, the operator inflates the air bags 30 and 40 thereby allowing the engaging members 32 and 42 to move clear of the locking mechanism 50. Air bags 30 and 40 are then deflated and springs 112 and 114 retract returning the engaging members 32 and 42 to a withdrawn position, permitting the jeep axle to pivot about the third axis 130 in a downward direction back to the operable position.
[0021] It will be understood by someone skilled in the art that many of the details provided above are given by way of example only and can be altered or deleted without departing from the scope of the invention.
Claims (9)
1. A system for moving a trailer between an operable position to a raised, and releasably locking the trailer in the raised position, the system comprising:
a supporting vehicle;
a trailer, the trailer being connected to the supporting vehicle in an manner that restricts movement of the trailer along a first axis, the first axis being generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the trailer;
a loading member mounted on the supporting vehicle, the loading member having a surface;
restriction members mounted on either the supporting vehicle or the trailer, the restriction members being able to restrict the movement of the trailer about a second axis, the second axis being generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer;
an actuating mechanism mounted on the trailer, the actuating mechanism being able to apply a force to the surface of the loading member, the force causing the trailer to pivot about a third axis to the raised position, the third axis being generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer; and a releasable locking mechanism mounted on either the supporting or the trailer, the locking mechanism being able to help to secure the trailer in the raised position relative to the trailer.
a supporting vehicle;
a trailer, the trailer being connected to the supporting vehicle in an manner that restricts movement of the trailer along a first axis, the first axis being generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the trailer;
a loading member mounted on the supporting vehicle, the loading member having a surface;
restriction members mounted on either the supporting vehicle or the trailer, the restriction members being able to restrict the movement of the trailer about a second axis, the second axis being generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer;
an actuating mechanism mounted on the trailer, the actuating mechanism being able to apply a force to the surface of the loading member, the force causing the trailer to pivot about a third axis to the raised position, the third axis being generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the trailer; and a releasable locking mechanism mounted on either the supporting or the trailer, the locking mechanism being able to help to secure the trailer in the raised position relative to the trailer.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1 wherein, the supporting vehicle has a fifth wheel, the trailer engaging the fifth wheel.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, further including a deploying mechanism, the deploying mechanism deploying the loading member to a desired position.
4. The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the deploying mechanism is a gas-spring mechanism.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the restriction members extend perpendicularly outwards from the surface of the loading member, the restriction members engaging the actuating mechanism when the actuating mechanism applies the force to the surface of the loading member.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuating mechanism includes a pneumatic expansion member and an engaging member, the engaging member applying the force to the surface of the loading member as the pneumatic expansion member is being inflated.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1 wherein, the locking mechanism includes a pivotable hook and an unlocking lever, the pivotable hook engaging the actuating member when the trailer is in the raised position and the unlocking lever being able to applying a torque force to the pivotable hook, the torque force causing the pivotable hook to release the actuating member so as to allow the trailer to return to the operable position, the unlocking lever being actuated by a spring latch.
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the supporting vehicle is a tractor.
9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trailer is a jeep axle.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2497580 CA2497580C (en) | 2005-02-18 | 2005-02-18 | A system and method for lifting a jeep axle |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2497580 CA2497580C (en) | 2005-02-18 | 2005-02-18 | A system and method for lifting a jeep axle |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2497580A1 CA2497580A1 (en) | 2006-08-18 |
| CA2497580C true CA2497580C (en) | 2010-01-19 |
Family
ID=36889353
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2497580 Expired - Fee Related CA2497580C (en) | 2005-02-18 | 2005-02-18 | A system and method for lifting a jeep axle |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2497580C (en) |
-
2005
- 2005-02-18 CA CA 2497580 patent/CA2497580C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2497580A1 (en) | 2006-08-18 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US20170049039A1 (en) | Implement convertible between use configuration and transport configuration | |
| US7584980B2 (en) | Fold up/fold down tow dolly for use with a load bearing vehicle hitch | |
| US20070147977A1 (en) | Vehicle and equipment transport vehicle | |
| US9656588B2 (en) | Trailer apparatuses having traverse hydraulic tail | |
| CA1051938A (en) | Trailer connection means | |
| US20060099061A1 (en) | Ramp for truck and trailers for automotive and equipment delivery | |
| US20200122624A1 (en) | Pneumatic Platform Tow Truck with Hinge | |
| US4448132A (en) | Convertible railway-highway vehicle | |
| US20210253013A1 (en) | Vehicle Cargo Container and Lift Frame Assembly with Inflatable Bag-Assisted Lift Frame for Vehicle | |
| WO2012166598A1 (en) | Container trailer | |
| US5988974A (en) | Vehicle lifting and towing apparatus | |
| US7534083B2 (en) | Trailer operable in lowered and raised transport positions | |
| US7083182B2 (en) | Two-wheeled recovery trailers | |
| US4078684A (en) | Folding gooseneck trailer and method | |
| CA2351457C (en) | Self-stowing wheeled support structure | |
| CA2497580C (en) | A system and method for lifting a jeep axle | |
| US5904364A (en) | Folding frame log trailer | |
| US7976029B2 (en) | Airplane trailer | |
| US3597784A (en) | Vehicle with dismountable ramp | |
| GB2040258A (en) | Trailers | |
| JP4598670B2 (en) | Truck with inclined deck | |
| WO2003099638A1 (en) | Hydraulic steering mechanisms | |
| CA2195255C (en) | Positive locking trailer tail | |
| CA3085887A1 (en) | Wheel assemblies, apparatuses, and related methods for a kneeling vehicle or trailer chassis | |
| CA3056512A1 (en) | Inflatable bag-assisted lift frame for vehicle |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |