CA2690684C - Dump trailer with adjustable tipping hinge - Google Patents
Dump trailer with adjustable tipping hinge Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2690684C CA2690684C CA 2690684 CA2690684A CA2690684C CA 2690684 C CA2690684 C CA 2690684C CA 2690684 CA2690684 CA 2690684 CA 2690684 A CA2690684 A CA 2690684A CA 2690684 C CA2690684 C CA 2690684C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- tub
- frame
- mounting
- tipping
- rearward
- 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
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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
- B62D53/06—Semi-trailers
-
- 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
- B60P1/04—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with a tipping movement of load-transporting element
- B60P1/28—Tipping body constructions
- B60P1/283—Elements of tipping devices
-
- 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
- B60P1/04—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with a tipping movement of load-transporting element
- B60P1/28—Tipping body constructions
- B60P1/283—Elements of tipping devices
- B60P1/286—Loading buckets
-
- 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
- B62D53/068—Semi-trailers having devices to equalise or modify the load between the fifth wheel and the rear wheels
Abstract
A dump trailer comprises a tub pivotally supported on a main frame for pivotal rotation about a tipping axis between a transport position and a dumping position by a pair of tipping hinge assemblies. The tipping hinge assemblies are adjustably mounted onto the tub so that a position of the tub relative to the frame, and the tipping axis fixed relative to the frame, can be adjusted between a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and at least one second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame. The tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position so that there is a greater overhang of the end gate relative to the wheels of the trailer and the tipping axis in the rearward position.
Description
DUMP TRAILER WITH ADJUSTABLE TIPPING HINGE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a dump trailer having an adjustable tipping hinge, and more particularly relates to dump trailer in which the tipping hinge has a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub of the trailer and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub of the trailer in which a rear end of the tub is farther rearward in the rearward position than in the forward position.
BACKGROUND
Dump trailers are commonly used in many different fields and applications. A typical dump trailer comprises an elongate tub arranged to be supported at a front end on a hitch of a towing vehicle, for example a fifth wheel hitch, and supported at a rear end on a rear wheel assembly. A tipping hinge assembly couples the rear end of the tub to the frame supported on the rear wheel assembly while a suitable lifting mechanism is coupled between the front end of the tub and the frame supporting the hitching member thereon. In this manner, the front end can be elevated by pivoting the tub about the rear tipping axis of the tipping hinge assembly from a generally horizontal transport position to a downward and rearward inclined dumping position.
In most applications, it is desired to have the rear wheels close to the rear end of the tub for optimal weight distribution of the material in the tub between the rear wheel assembly and the wheels of the towing vehicle upon which the front end of the tub is supported by the hitching member. This arrangement typically results in a minimal overhang of the rear end of the tub locating the end gate thereon in relation to the frame and rear wheel assembly upon which it is supported.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a dump trailer having an adjustable tipping hinge, and more particularly relates to dump trailer in which the tipping hinge has a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub of the trailer and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub of the trailer in which a rear end of the tub is farther rearward in the rearward position than in the forward position.
BACKGROUND
Dump trailers are commonly used in many different fields and applications. A typical dump trailer comprises an elongate tub arranged to be supported at a front end on a hitch of a towing vehicle, for example a fifth wheel hitch, and supported at a rear end on a rear wheel assembly. A tipping hinge assembly couples the rear end of the tub to the frame supported on the rear wheel assembly while a suitable lifting mechanism is coupled between the front end of the tub and the frame supporting the hitching member thereon. In this manner, the front end can be elevated by pivoting the tub about the rear tipping axis of the tipping hinge assembly from a generally horizontal transport position to a downward and rearward inclined dumping position.
In most applications, it is desired to have the rear wheels close to the rear end of the tub for optimal weight distribution of the material in the tub between the rear wheel assembly and the wheels of the towing vehicle upon which the front end of the tub is supported by the hitching member. This arrangement typically results in a minimal overhang of the rear end of the tub locating the end gate thereon in relation to the frame and rear wheel assembly upon which it is supported.
Alternatively, when using a dump trailer with paving equipment, it is typically preferred to dump paving material directly from the dump trailer to the inlet hopper of paving equipment without spilling onto the surrounding area, which typically requires a larger overhang of the rear of the tub beyond the trailer frame and rear wheels.
The current method used by all manufacturers is to therefore require the customer to specify which amount of overhang is desired so that the trailer can be manufactured, and purchased in that configuration. The trailer is now less suitable for other uses, prompting many customers to own more trailers simply so that there are trailers of both configurations available. The trailer is subsequently limited to that application so that a customer may potentially require purchasing more than one trailer where varied applications are desired.
US 6,880,894 by Obermeyer discloses a dump trailer for asphalt paving including a hinge arm extending upward and forward from the tipping axis to the rear end of the trailer to encourage more rearward positioning of the tub in the dumping position. The forward inclination of the hinge arm requires that the rear end of the tub be displaced upwardly as well as rearwardly as it is pivoted from the transport position to the dumping position so that considerably more force is required for lifting to a dumping position. Also, the trailer in this instance cannot be reconfigured so that the trailer must generally be dedicated to a use for asphalt paving.
Canadian patent 1,265,549 by Hicks; and US patents 4,958,854 by Parks; 4,948,155 by Smith et al.; and 3,181,914 by Humes disclose further variations to trailers in which the rear wheel assemblies can be adjusted relative to the trailer frame. While the adjustment of the rear wheels can optimize weight distribution, no means are disclosed for varying the amount of overhang of the tub relative to the wheels without varying the overall wheelbase of the rear wheels relative to the towing vehicle. Accordingly the applications of these trailers remain relatively limited while also requiring a considerably more complex mounting structure of the trailer onto the rear wheel assembly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a dump trailer for use with a towing vehicle, the trailer comprising:
a frame extending in a longitudinal direction between a front end and a rear end;
a hitching member mounted on the front end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the front end of the frame on the towing vehicle;
a rear wheel assembly mounted on the rear end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the rear end of the frame for rolling movement along the ground in the longitudinal direction;
a tub arranged to be supported on the frame, the tub comprising a floor and upright side walls extending in the longitudinal direction from a front end including a front wall spanning between the side walls to a rear end which is open so as to be arranged to dump material from the tub therethrough; and a tipping hinge supporting the rear end of the tub on the rear end of the frame such that the tub is pivotal relative to the frame about a tipping axis between a transport position in which the front end and the rear end of the tub are supported adjacent to the frame and a dumping position in which the tub is rotated about the tipping axis in relation to the transport position such that the front end of the tub is spaced upwardly from the frame in relation to the transport position;
the tipping hinge comprising a first portion arranged to be fixed relative to a first mounting surface on the tub and a second portion arranged to be fixed relative to a second mounting surface on the frame, the first and second portions being coupled so as to be pivotal relative to one another about the tipping axis;
at least one of the first and second portions being arranged to be mounted in fixed relation to the respective mounting surface in either one of a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame in which the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position while in the transport position of the tipping hinge.
In the illustrated embodiment, the tub is thus arranged to remain fixed in a selected one of the forward position corresponding to the first mounting position of the tipping hinge or the rearward position corresponding to the second mounting position of the tipping hinge as the first and second portions of the tipping hinge are pivoted relative to one another between the dumping position and the transport position.
The adjustable nature of the tipping hinge assembly allows the repositioning of the tub, and accordingly the adjustment of the overhang of the rear end of the tub relative to the frame while the wheelbase remains fixed.
Accordingly a single trailer can accommodate both optimal wheel loading as well as an optimal overhang of the rear end of the tub for specific applications such as asphalt paving in a manner which can be readily modified by an end user. Accordingly a manufacturer can manufacture a single trailer configuration at lower cost which can be subsequently reconfigured by a dealer or end user as may be desired with minimal tooling requirements.
When the frame includes a cradle portion arranged to support the tub directly thereon in the transport position, preferably the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the cradle of the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position.
The current method used by all manufacturers is to therefore require the customer to specify which amount of overhang is desired so that the trailer can be manufactured, and purchased in that configuration. The trailer is now less suitable for other uses, prompting many customers to own more trailers simply so that there are trailers of both configurations available. The trailer is subsequently limited to that application so that a customer may potentially require purchasing more than one trailer where varied applications are desired.
US 6,880,894 by Obermeyer discloses a dump trailer for asphalt paving including a hinge arm extending upward and forward from the tipping axis to the rear end of the trailer to encourage more rearward positioning of the tub in the dumping position. The forward inclination of the hinge arm requires that the rear end of the tub be displaced upwardly as well as rearwardly as it is pivoted from the transport position to the dumping position so that considerably more force is required for lifting to a dumping position. Also, the trailer in this instance cannot be reconfigured so that the trailer must generally be dedicated to a use for asphalt paving.
Canadian patent 1,265,549 by Hicks; and US patents 4,958,854 by Parks; 4,948,155 by Smith et al.; and 3,181,914 by Humes disclose further variations to trailers in which the rear wheel assemblies can be adjusted relative to the trailer frame. While the adjustment of the rear wheels can optimize weight distribution, no means are disclosed for varying the amount of overhang of the tub relative to the wheels without varying the overall wheelbase of the rear wheels relative to the towing vehicle. Accordingly the applications of these trailers remain relatively limited while also requiring a considerably more complex mounting structure of the trailer onto the rear wheel assembly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a dump trailer for use with a towing vehicle, the trailer comprising:
a frame extending in a longitudinal direction between a front end and a rear end;
a hitching member mounted on the front end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the front end of the frame on the towing vehicle;
a rear wheel assembly mounted on the rear end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the rear end of the frame for rolling movement along the ground in the longitudinal direction;
a tub arranged to be supported on the frame, the tub comprising a floor and upright side walls extending in the longitudinal direction from a front end including a front wall spanning between the side walls to a rear end which is open so as to be arranged to dump material from the tub therethrough; and a tipping hinge supporting the rear end of the tub on the rear end of the frame such that the tub is pivotal relative to the frame about a tipping axis between a transport position in which the front end and the rear end of the tub are supported adjacent to the frame and a dumping position in which the tub is rotated about the tipping axis in relation to the transport position such that the front end of the tub is spaced upwardly from the frame in relation to the transport position;
the tipping hinge comprising a first portion arranged to be fixed relative to a first mounting surface on the tub and a second portion arranged to be fixed relative to a second mounting surface on the frame, the first and second portions being coupled so as to be pivotal relative to one another about the tipping axis;
at least one of the first and second portions being arranged to be mounted in fixed relation to the respective mounting surface in either one of a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame in which the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position while in the transport position of the tipping hinge.
In the illustrated embodiment, the tub is thus arranged to remain fixed in a selected one of the forward position corresponding to the first mounting position of the tipping hinge or the rearward position corresponding to the second mounting position of the tipping hinge as the first and second portions of the tipping hinge are pivoted relative to one another between the dumping position and the transport position.
The adjustable nature of the tipping hinge assembly allows the repositioning of the tub, and accordingly the adjustment of the overhang of the rear end of the tub relative to the frame while the wheelbase remains fixed.
Accordingly a single trailer can accommodate both optimal wheel loading as well as an optimal overhang of the rear end of the tub for specific applications such as asphalt paving in a manner which can be readily modified by an end user. Accordingly a manufacturer can manufacture a single trailer configuration at lower cost which can be subsequently reconfigured by a dealer or end user as may be desired with minimal tooling requirements.
When the frame includes a cradle portion arranged to support the tub directly thereon in the transport position, preferably the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the cradle of the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position.
5 The tipping hinge preferably comprises a pair of tipping hinge assemblies mounted laterally spaced apart from one another in a direction of the tipping axis.
The open end of the tub is preferably spaced farther rearward from the tipping axis in the rearward position of the tub than the forward position of the tub.
When a position of the first portion of the tipping hinge on the first mounting surface differs between the forward position and the rearward position of the tub, the first portion of the tipping hinge is preferably arranged to be fixed onto the first mounting surface on the tub in either one of the first mounting position corresponding to the forward position of the tub or the second mounting position corresponding to the rearward position.
The first portion of the tipping hinge is preferably arranged to be fixed relative to the tub by threaded fasteners in both the first and second mounting positions.
The first portion of the tipping hinge and the first mounting surface preferably comprise uptight members such that the fasteners are arranged to extend generally horizontally through cooperating apertures in the first portion of the tipping hinge and the first mounting surface of the tub.
When the first mounting surface and the first portion of the tipping hinge each comprise an upright flange, the upright flanges of the first mounting surface and the first portion are preferably mounted to one another in an overlapping configuration in both the first and second positions.
There may be provided a shoulder formed alongside one of the upright flanges of the tipping hinge in which the shoulder is abutted against an end of the other one of the upright flanges in at least one of the first and second positions There may be provided a common lift cylinder mounted between the front end of the frame and the front end of the tub in both the forward and rearward position of the tub.
In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second portions are arranged to be mounted in relation to the respective mounting surface in any one of a plurality of intermediate mounting positions in which each intermediate mounting position corresponding to a respective position of the tub supported on the frame between the forward and rearward positions.
When the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion, the mounting portion may comprise a plurality of mounting apertures arranged for connection by suitable fasteners to co-operating mounting apertures in the first mounting surface of the tub in which the plurality of mounting apertures of the mounting portion correspond to different mounting positions of the tub relative to the frame.
The first portion of the tipping hinge preferably comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion. In a preferred embodiment, the pivot portion is identical in orientation in both the forward position and the rearward position.
Alternatively, according to a further embodiment, the mounting portion may be reversibly mounted on the first mounting surface in the second position in relation to the first position. In this instance, the pivot portion of the first portion of the tipping hinge may be offset from a center of the mounting portion in the longitudinal direction when a position of the mounting portion of the first portion of the tipping hinge in relation to the tub in the longitudinal direction is substantially identical in both the first and second positions.
In some embodiments, one of either the first mounting surface or the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a plurality of projections and the other one of the first mounting surface and the first portion comprises a plurality of recesses arranged to mate with the projections therein in both the first and second positions.
In this instance, one of the projections and the recesses may comprise a first set and a second set in which the first set is mated with the other one of the projections and the recesses in the first position and the second set is mated with the other one of the projections and the recesses in the second position. The projections and the recesses are preferably arranged to be slidably displaced relative to one another in a substantially vertical direction between an engaged position in the first and second positions and a released position in which the first portion is separated from the first mounting surface.
Some embodiments of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the dump trailer including an adjustable tipping hinge according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the trailer of Figure 1 illustrating a bottom and rear side of the trailer.
The open end of the tub is preferably spaced farther rearward from the tipping axis in the rearward position of the tub than the forward position of the tub.
When a position of the first portion of the tipping hinge on the first mounting surface differs between the forward position and the rearward position of the tub, the first portion of the tipping hinge is preferably arranged to be fixed onto the first mounting surface on the tub in either one of the first mounting position corresponding to the forward position of the tub or the second mounting position corresponding to the rearward position.
The first portion of the tipping hinge is preferably arranged to be fixed relative to the tub by threaded fasteners in both the first and second mounting positions.
The first portion of the tipping hinge and the first mounting surface preferably comprise uptight members such that the fasteners are arranged to extend generally horizontally through cooperating apertures in the first portion of the tipping hinge and the first mounting surface of the tub.
When the first mounting surface and the first portion of the tipping hinge each comprise an upright flange, the upright flanges of the first mounting surface and the first portion are preferably mounted to one another in an overlapping configuration in both the first and second positions.
There may be provided a shoulder formed alongside one of the upright flanges of the tipping hinge in which the shoulder is abutted against an end of the other one of the upright flanges in at least one of the first and second positions There may be provided a common lift cylinder mounted between the front end of the frame and the front end of the tub in both the forward and rearward position of the tub.
In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second portions are arranged to be mounted in relation to the respective mounting surface in any one of a plurality of intermediate mounting positions in which each intermediate mounting position corresponding to a respective position of the tub supported on the frame between the forward and rearward positions.
When the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion, the mounting portion may comprise a plurality of mounting apertures arranged for connection by suitable fasteners to co-operating mounting apertures in the first mounting surface of the tub in which the plurality of mounting apertures of the mounting portion correspond to different mounting positions of the tub relative to the frame.
The first portion of the tipping hinge preferably comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion. In a preferred embodiment, the pivot portion is identical in orientation in both the forward position and the rearward position.
Alternatively, according to a further embodiment, the mounting portion may be reversibly mounted on the first mounting surface in the second position in relation to the first position. In this instance, the pivot portion of the first portion of the tipping hinge may be offset from a center of the mounting portion in the longitudinal direction when a position of the mounting portion of the first portion of the tipping hinge in relation to the tub in the longitudinal direction is substantially identical in both the first and second positions.
In some embodiments, one of either the first mounting surface or the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a plurality of projections and the other one of the first mounting surface and the first portion comprises a plurality of recesses arranged to mate with the projections therein in both the first and second positions.
In this instance, one of the projections and the recesses may comprise a first set and a second set in which the first set is mated with the other one of the projections and the recesses in the first position and the second set is mated with the other one of the projections and the recesses in the second position. The projections and the recesses are preferably arranged to be slidably displaced relative to one another in a substantially vertical direction between an engaged position in the first and second positions and a released position in which the first portion is separated from the first mounting surface.
Some embodiments of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the dump trailer including an adjustable tipping hinge according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the trailer of Figure 1 illustrating a bottom and rear side of the trailer.
Figure 3 is a side elevational view of the tub and a rear portion of the frame of the trailer of Figure 1 shown connected by the tipping hinge shown in broken line in a first mounting position and shown in solid line in a second mounting position in which the tub is forward of the first mounting position.
Figure 4 and Figure 5 are side elevational views of the tipping hinge according to a second embodiment in a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub and a second mounting position corresponding to a second position of the tub respectively in the transport position.
Figure 6 and Figure 7 are rear bottom perspective views of the tipping hinge of Figures 4 and 5 in the first mounting position and the second mounting position respectively.
Figure 8 is a perspective inner side view of one of the tipping hinge of Figures 4 and 5 in the forward transport position.
Figure 9 is a perspective outer side view of the tipping hinge according to Figure 8.
Figure 10 is a side elevational view of the dump trailer including the tipping hinge according to the preferred embodiment of Figure 1.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of the tipping hinge according to the preferred embodiment of Figure 1.
Figure 12 and Figure 13 are side elevational views of the preferred embodiment of the tipping hinge in the transport position and the dumping position respectively in which the hinge is in the first mounting position.
Figure 14 and Figure 15 are side elevational views of the preferred embodiment of the tub in the second mounting position of the tub as the tub is pivoted between the transport position and dumping position respectively.
Figure 4 and Figure 5 are side elevational views of the tipping hinge according to a second embodiment in a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub and a second mounting position corresponding to a second position of the tub respectively in the transport position.
Figure 6 and Figure 7 are rear bottom perspective views of the tipping hinge of Figures 4 and 5 in the first mounting position and the second mounting position respectively.
Figure 8 is a perspective inner side view of one of the tipping hinge of Figures 4 and 5 in the forward transport position.
Figure 9 is a perspective outer side view of the tipping hinge according to Figure 8.
Figure 10 is a side elevational view of the dump trailer including the tipping hinge according to the preferred embodiment of Figure 1.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of the tipping hinge according to the preferred embodiment of Figure 1.
Figure 12 and Figure 13 are side elevational views of the preferred embodiment of the tipping hinge in the transport position and the dumping position respectively in which the hinge is in the first mounting position.
Figure 14 and Figure 15 are side elevational views of the preferred embodiment of the tub in the second mounting position of the tub as the tub is pivoted between the transport position and dumping position respectively.
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying Figures there is illustrated an adjustable tipping hinge which is particularly suited for use with a dump trailer 12 in which the tipping hinge comprises two tipping hinge assemblies 10 which are supported laterally spaced apart from one another adjacent a rear end of the trailer.
The dump trailer with which the tipping hinge is used typically comprises a main frame 14 extending in a longitudinal direction from a front end 16 to a rear end 18. The main frame 14 primarily comprises two elongate beams spanning the full length of the main frame between the front end and rear end thereof so as to extend in the longitudinal direction parallel and spaced apart from one another. A
plurality of cross bars 22 span laterally between the two elongate beams 20 at longitudinally spaced positions to support the beams in fixed relation to one another.
A hitching member 24 is mounted between the beams adjacent the front end 16 thereof so as to be arranged to support the front end of the trailer on a fifth wheel hitch of a highway truck tractor for towing in which the hitching member couples to the fifth wheel hitch plate for relative pivotal movement about a vertical hitch axis.
The frame is supported for rolling movement on the ground in the longitudinal direction by a rear wheel assembly 26 which supports the rear end of the frame thereon. In the illustrated embodiment the rear wheel assembly comprises set of three axles 28 which are parallel and spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction to support the beams thereon by suitable suspension members coupled between the axles and the main frame. The rear wheel assembly is generally fixed in the longitudinal direction relative to the main frame including the hitching member thereof.
The trailer further comprises a tub 32 supported on the main frame and comprising a floor 34 and two side walls 36 mounted in a generally U-shaped configuration with the floor to extend together with the floor in the longitudinal direction between the front end rear ends of the tub. A front wall 38 encloses the front end of the tub while the rear end of the tub is open between the side walls for dumping the material of the tub therethrough. The tub may additionally expand from front to back as a result of a tapered profile of the floor and/or wall panels.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying Figures there is illustrated an adjustable tipping hinge which is particularly suited for use with a dump trailer 12 in which the tipping hinge comprises two tipping hinge assemblies 10 which are supported laterally spaced apart from one another adjacent a rear end of the trailer.
The dump trailer with which the tipping hinge is used typically comprises a main frame 14 extending in a longitudinal direction from a front end 16 to a rear end 18. The main frame 14 primarily comprises two elongate beams spanning the full length of the main frame between the front end and rear end thereof so as to extend in the longitudinal direction parallel and spaced apart from one another. A
plurality of cross bars 22 span laterally between the two elongate beams 20 at longitudinally spaced positions to support the beams in fixed relation to one another.
A hitching member 24 is mounted between the beams adjacent the front end 16 thereof so as to be arranged to support the front end of the trailer on a fifth wheel hitch of a highway truck tractor for towing in which the hitching member couples to the fifth wheel hitch plate for relative pivotal movement about a vertical hitch axis.
The frame is supported for rolling movement on the ground in the longitudinal direction by a rear wheel assembly 26 which supports the rear end of the frame thereon. In the illustrated embodiment the rear wheel assembly comprises set of three axles 28 which are parallel and spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction to support the beams thereon by suitable suspension members coupled between the axles and the main frame. The rear wheel assembly is generally fixed in the longitudinal direction relative to the main frame including the hitching member thereof.
The trailer further comprises a tub 32 supported on the main frame and comprising a floor 34 and two side walls 36 mounted in a generally U-shaped configuration with the floor to extend together with the floor in the longitudinal direction between the front end rear ends of the tub. A front wall 38 encloses the front end of the tub while the rear end of the tub is open between the side walls for dumping the material of the tub therethrough. The tub may additionally expand from front to back as a result of a tapered profile of the floor and/or wall panels.
10 An end gate is arranged to be supported on the rear end of the tub which typically comprises a gate panel hinged at a top end to the tub for pivotal movement about a horizontal gate axis between a closed position spanning the open end of the tub and an open position in which the bottom end of the gate panel is pivoted outwardly away from the tub for dumping.
The two tipping hinge assemblies 10 are spaced apart in the lateral direction of the tipping axis for commonly pivotally coupling the rear end of the tub to the rear end of the main frame. The tipping axis is generally horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and is arranged to be substantially fixed in location in relation to the main frame in the illustrated embodiment. The tub is pivotal relative to the main frame between a transport position and a dumping position. In the transport position the tub extends generally horizontally forward from the rear end at the pivot axis such that the front end of the tub is supported on the front end of the frame. A cradle 40 is provided on the top side of the main frame to extend rearward from the front end thereof to support the front end of the floor of the tub directly thereon in the transport position. The cradle 40 remains fixed in relation to the main frame.
In the dumping position, the front end of the tub is displaced upwardly so as to be spaced above the frame and spaced above the location of the front end of the tub in the transport position. Furthermore in the dumping position, the tub is pivoted about the pivot axis at the rear of the main frame and tub so that the tub extends upwardly and forwardly from the pivot axis.
The tub is arranged to be displaced from the transport position to the dumping position by a lift mechanism 42 coupled between the front end of the main frame and the front end of the tub. In the illustrated embodiment the lift mechanism comprises a hydraulic piston cylinder having a cylinder end coupled to the front end of the tub and a piston end coupled to the front end of the frame such that extension of the hydraulic piston cylinder causes the front end of the tub to be raised from the frame while contracting the hydraulic piston cylinder returns the front end of the tub to the transport position.
Each tipping hinge assembly comprises a first portion 44 arranged to be fixedly mounted to a first mounting surface 46 of the tub and a second portion arranged to be fixedly mounted to a second mounting surface 50 of the main frame.
Each beam of the main frame is arranged to support a respective one of the tipping hinge assemblies at a rear portion 52 thereof. The rear portion 52 of each beam is located above the rearmost axle and comprises an end portion of the beam where a top side of the beam is sloped downwardly and rearwardly to the rear end of the beam to define the second mounting surface 50 on the main frame.
In Figures 4 through 9, the second portion 50 of each tipping hinge assembly comprises two parallel mounting plates 54 which are parallel and laterally spaced apart from one another in fixed welded connection to the top side of the rear portion of the beam defining the second mounting surface such that the plates are generally vertical and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the trailer.
The two mounting plates 54 are each generally triangular in shape having a base side fixed to the second mounting surface 50 of the main frame and an opposing apex locating a pivot mounting location of the hinge axis. The two mounting plates 54 of each second portion are arranged to receive the corresponding first portion 44 pivotally therebetween for connection by a horizontal pivot pin extending commonly through the first and second portions at the location of the hinge axis.
The tub 32 includes two frame members 56 fixed onto the bottom side of the floor of the tub adjacent the rear end thereof in which the two frame members extend in the longitudinal direction of the trailer parallel and are spaced apart from one another for alignment with respective ones of the beams of the main frame.
The frame members 56 comprise upright flanges which depend downwardly from the bottom side of the floor of the tub to define the first mounting surfaces 46 of the tub.
The first portions 44 in this instance also comprise upright flanges in the form of triangular plates having a base side defining a mounting portion 58 along the top edge of the flange and a pivot portion 60 comprising a lower apex of the triangular plate opposite the mounting portion 58. The pivot portion 60 locates a pivot pin mounting location adjacent the apex thereof for alignment with the pivot pin mounting locations of the two mounting plates of the second portion 48 between which the triangular plate of the first portion 44 is received. The pivot portion 60 is offset from a centre of the mounting portion in the longitudinal direction so as to be located adjacent and directly below one of the two longitudinally opposed ends of the mounting portion 58 of the first portion.
A plurality of cooperating apertures 62 are provided in both the upright flanges of the first portion 44 and first mounting surface 46 of each tipping hinge assembly so as to be spaced apart from one another in a longitudinally extending row.
The cooperating apertures in the two upright flanges of each tipping hinge assembly are arranged to align with one another to receive threaded fasteners therethrough for selectively fixing the first portion to the first mounting surface when the upright flanges are mounted in an overlapping configuration parallel and alongside one another. The first portions of the tipping hinge assembly are spaced apart farther than the upright flanges defining the first mounting surfaces of the tub such that each first portion overlaps an outer side of the respective flange against which it is mounted and fastened by horizontally extending bolts extending through the cooperating apertures 62 therebetween.
The first portions of the two tipping hinge assemblies are each arranged to be mounted onto the respective first mounting surfaces in both a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame. The first mounting position is illustrated in Figures 4 and 6 and the second mounting position is in Figures 5 and 7.
In the first position of the first portions fixed to the first mounting surfaces of the tub, the forward position of the tub results in a small overhang of the tub designated by X in Figure 4. In this instance the pivot portion 60 is positioned at the rear end of the first portion with the mounting portion extending forward therefrom so that the corresponding mounting location of the first portion on the first mounting surface of the tub is generally forward of the tipping axis.
In the second position, the first portion is mounted on substantially the identical location in the longitudinal direction on the first mounting surface of the tub as compared to the first position; however, the forward and rearward ends of the mounting portion are reversed in relation to one another as compared to the first position by flipping about a vertical axis between the first and second positions.
Accordingly in the second position the pivot portion of the portion is located at a forward end and the mounting portion extends substantially rearward therefrom along with the mounting location of the first portion on the tub so that the tub is spaced rearward in the rearward position as compared to the forward position as measured in the longitudinal direction.
The hinge axis remains fixed in relation to the frame and the other fixed components of the frame including the cradle, the rear wheel assembly and the hitching member so that displacement of the tub between the forward and rearward positions relative to the frame also displaces the tub in relation to the cradle, the rear wheels and the hitching member. By relocating the tub rearward relative to the hinge axis in the rearward position as compared to the forward position, the tub is accordingly positioned farther rearward in the longitudinal direction in either one of the transport or dumping positions when in the rearward position of the tub and the second position of the first portion.
In the rearward position of the tub, the resulting overhang exceeds the overhang designated by X in Figure 4 by an additional amount designated by Y
in Figure 5 which may be in the order of one foot in dimension for example. When dumping in the rearward position, the inclination of the tub in the dumping position is substantially identical in either mounting positions of the first portion so as to extend generally downward and rearward to the open rear end; however, in the rearward position the rear end extends farther rearward and downward in relation to the forward position. The greater overhang permits a greater reach into the inlet hopper of paving equipment for example.
The upright flange of each first portion 44 also comprises a supporting portion 64 along both sides of the flange in which the two supporting portions include a top edge which defines a shoulder 66 extending generally in the longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the top edge of the upright flange but spaced therebelow. In this manner each of the shoulders 66 is suitably positioned for abutment with the bottom edge of the upright flange defining the first mounting surface 46 of the tub when mounted in an overlapping configuration with the upright flange of the first portion.
10 Each shoulder on the opposing sides of the upright flange of the first portion is arranged to only abut the bottom edge of the upright plate forming the first mounting surface in a respective one of either the first or second positions of the tipping hinge assembly. As the first mounting surfaces of the tub are positioned inwardly in relation to the first portions which overlap the outer sides thereof, it is accordingly only the shoulder 66 located along the inner side of the upright flanges of the first portions which is used in either one of the first or second positions. By reversing the flanges forming the first portions between the first and second mounting positions thereof different ones of the shoulders 66 will accordingly be positioned along the inner side for abutment against the bottom edge of the first mounting surface.
The bottom edge of each of the upright flanges of the tub defining the first mounting surfaces is arranged to be oriented in the longitudinal direction of the tub so as to extend generally horizontally in the transport position. Each bottom edge includes a plurality of recesses 68 formed therein in a row in the longitudinal direction of the tub so as to define corresponding projections 70 extending generally downwardly between adjacent ones of the recesses 68.
Each shoulder 66 of the supporting portions of the first portion includes a corresponding mating top edge having a plurality of upward projections 72 which extend upwardly to respective pointed apexes spaced apart in the longitudinal direction in a row. The projections 72 accordingly define respective recessed between adjacent one of the projections. In this manner the mating profiles of the shoulders 66 and the bottom edges of the first mounting surfaces can be mated with one another by relative sliding movement in a generally vertical direction between an engaged position of the projections 70 into the recesses 74 and the projections 72 into the recesses 68 in either one of the forward or rearward positions and a disengaged position of the recesses and projections by separating the first portions from the first mounting surfaces during reconfiguration of the trailer.
By providing two shoulders 66 along opposing sides of each first portion, each first portion includes a first set of projections and recesses therebetween along one side which only mates in the first position of the tipping hinge assembly corresponding to the forward position of the tub while the projections and recesses therebetween along the other shoulder form a second set only arranged to mate with the first mounting surface in the second position of the tipping hinge assemblies corresponding to the rearward position of the tub. Typically one threaded fastener is provided in association with each of the projections in the first mounting surface of the tub flanges for alignment with corresponding apertures in the upright flange of the first portion so that the threaded fasteners received through the cooperating apertures between the first portions and the first mounting surfaces function primarily to maintain the recesses and projections in an engaged position relative to one another during pivotal movement of the tub between transport and dumping position in either one of the forward configuration or rearward configurations of the tub.
Referring now to the preferred embodiment of Figures 1 through 3 and Figures 10 through 15, many features are substantially identical to the previous embodiment in which like parts are referred to using the same reference numerals.
In the preferred embodiment, the frame 14 of the dump trailer 12 again comprises a pair of beams 20 joined by crossbars 22. The beams 20 span in a longitudinal direction between a front end supporting the hitching member 24 thereon and a rear end supported on a similar configuration of the rear wheel assembly 26.
The construction of the tub 32 is also substantially identical so as to comprise a floor, upright side walls 36, and a front wall 38. The lift mechanism 42 permits the tub to be pivoted on laterally spaced tipping hinge assemblies 10 between the transport position supported in a generally horizontal orientation on the cradle 40 of the frame and a dumping position extending downward at a rearward incline to dump the contents of the tub through the open rear end of the tub.
The two frame members 56 along the bottom side of the tub at the rear portion thereof in the preferred embodiment again comprise upright mounting plates joined to the tub by horizontal mounting flanges at the top edge of the plate.
The bottom edge in this instance is substantially straight in the longitudinal direction of the tub from a front end to a rear end. The front end is sloped upwardly and forwardly so as to join the tub floor similarly to the profile of the rear portions 52 of the beams. The rear end is abutted with the rear end wall of the tub which surrounds the gate assembly. An opening 100 is provided extending laterally through each frame member 56 adjacent the rear end thereof for receiving various conduits and the like therethrough. Similarly to the previous embodiment the two frame members 56 define the first mounting surface 46 onto which the respective tipping hinge assemblies 10 are mounted onto the tub.
In the preferred embodiment, the rear portions 52 of the two beams of the frame are substantially stepped in profile comprising a first portion 102 extending downwardly and rearwardly from the top side of the beam for alignment with the front edge of the respective frame member 56. A second portion 104 extends horizontally rearward from the bottom end of the first portion 102 spaced below the top end of the beam by a distance corresponding approximately to the height of the upright plates forming the frame members 56.
The horizontal second portion 104 thus extends alongside and bellow the bottom edge of the respective frame member 56 in the forward position of the tub when pivoted into the transport position as shown in Figure 14. A third portion 106 extends downwardly and rearwardly from the rear end of the second portion 104 to the rear end of the rear portion 52 and defines the mounting surface 50 on the frame which supports the second portion 48 of the hinge thereon as in the previous embodiment. The second portion 48 of the hinge in this instance is similarly formed of two triangular plates mounted parallel and spaced apart from one another in an upright orientation in fixed and welded relation to the second mounting surface 50 of the frame.
The first portion 44 of each hinge 10 is received between the two plates forming the second portion 48. The first portion 44 also comprises a generally triangular plate defining a pivot portion 60 at a lowermost apex which receives the hinge pin of the hinge therethrough for connection to the two plates of the second portion 48. Also like the previous embodiment, the first portion 44 extends upward from the apex to an opposing flat side of the plate defining the mounting portion 58 which is selectively mounted to the first mounting surface 46 on the tub.
The two tipping hinge assemblies 10 are spaced apart in the lateral direction of the tipping axis for commonly pivotally coupling the rear end of the tub to the rear end of the main frame. The tipping axis is generally horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and is arranged to be substantially fixed in location in relation to the main frame in the illustrated embodiment. The tub is pivotal relative to the main frame between a transport position and a dumping position. In the transport position the tub extends generally horizontally forward from the rear end at the pivot axis such that the front end of the tub is supported on the front end of the frame. A cradle 40 is provided on the top side of the main frame to extend rearward from the front end thereof to support the front end of the floor of the tub directly thereon in the transport position. The cradle 40 remains fixed in relation to the main frame.
In the dumping position, the front end of the tub is displaced upwardly so as to be spaced above the frame and spaced above the location of the front end of the tub in the transport position. Furthermore in the dumping position, the tub is pivoted about the pivot axis at the rear of the main frame and tub so that the tub extends upwardly and forwardly from the pivot axis.
The tub is arranged to be displaced from the transport position to the dumping position by a lift mechanism 42 coupled between the front end of the main frame and the front end of the tub. In the illustrated embodiment the lift mechanism comprises a hydraulic piston cylinder having a cylinder end coupled to the front end of the tub and a piston end coupled to the front end of the frame such that extension of the hydraulic piston cylinder causes the front end of the tub to be raised from the frame while contracting the hydraulic piston cylinder returns the front end of the tub to the transport position.
Each tipping hinge assembly comprises a first portion 44 arranged to be fixedly mounted to a first mounting surface 46 of the tub and a second portion arranged to be fixedly mounted to a second mounting surface 50 of the main frame.
Each beam of the main frame is arranged to support a respective one of the tipping hinge assemblies at a rear portion 52 thereof. The rear portion 52 of each beam is located above the rearmost axle and comprises an end portion of the beam where a top side of the beam is sloped downwardly and rearwardly to the rear end of the beam to define the second mounting surface 50 on the main frame.
In Figures 4 through 9, the second portion 50 of each tipping hinge assembly comprises two parallel mounting plates 54 which are parallel and laterally spaced apart from one another in fixed welded connection to the top side of the rear portion of the beam defining the second mounting surface such that the plates are generally vertical and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the trailer.
The two mounting plates 54 are each generally triangular in shape having a base side fixed to the second mounting surface 50 of the main frame and an opposing apex locating a pivot mounting location of the hinge axis. The two mounting plates 54 of each second portion are arranged to receive the corresponding first portion 44 pivotally therebetween for connection by a horizontal pivot pin extending commonly through the first and second portions at the location of the hinge axis.
The tub 32 includes two frame members 56 fixed onto the bottom side of the floor of the tub adjacent the rear end thereof in which the two frame members extend in the longitudinal direction of the trailer parallel and are spaced apart from one another for alignment with respective ones of the beams of the main frame.
The frame members 56 comprise upright flanges which depend downwardly from the bottom side of the floor of the tub to define the first mounting surfaces 46 of the tub.
The first portions 44 in this instance also comprise upright flanges in the form of triangular plates having a base side defining a mounting portion 58 along the top edge of the flange and a pivot portion 60 comprising a lower apex of the triangular plate opposite the mounting portion 58. The pivot portion 60 locates a pivot pin mounting location adjacent the apex thereof for alignment with the pivot pin mounting locations of the two mounting plates of the second portion 48 between which the triangular plate of the first portion 44 is received. The pivot portion 60 is offset from a centre of the mounting portion in the longitudinal direction so as to be located adjacent and directly below one of the two longitudinally opposed ends of the mounting portion 58 of the first portion.
A plurality of cooperating apertures 62 are provided in both the upright flanges of the first portion 44 and first mounting surface 46 of each tipping hinge assembly so as to be spaced apart from one another in a longitudinally extending row.
The cooperating apertures in the two upright flanges of each tipping hinge assembly are arranged to align with one another to receive threaded fasteners therethrough for selectively fixing the first portion to the first mounting surface when the upright flanges are mounted in an overlapping configuration parallel and alongside one another. The first portions of the tipping hinge assembly are spaced apart farther than the upright flanges defining the first mounting surfaces of the tub such that each first portion overlaps an outer side of the respective flange against which it is mounted and fastened by horizontally extending bolts extending through the cooperating apertures 62 therebetween.
The first portions of the two tipping hinge assemblies are each arranged to be mounted onto the respective first mounting surfaces in both a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame. The first mounting position is illustrated in Figures 4 and 6 and the second mounting position is in Figures 5 and 7.
In the first position of the first portions fixed to the first mounting surfaces of the tub, the forward position of the tub results in a small overhang of the tub designated by X in Figure 4. In this instance the pivot portion 60 is positioned at the rear end of the first portion with the mounting portion extending forward therefrom so that the corresponding mounting location of the first portion on the first mounting surface of the tub is generally forward of the tipping axis.
In the second position, the first portion is mounted on substantially the identical location in the longitudinal direction on the first mounting surface of the tub as compared to the first position; however, the forward and rearward ends of the mounting portion are reversed in relation to one another as compared to the first position by flipping about a vertical axis between the first and second positions.
Accordingly in the second position the pivot portion of the portion is located at a forward end and the mounting portion extends substantially rearward therefrom along with the mounting location of the first portion on the tub so that the tub is spaced rearward in the rearward position as compared to the forward position as measured in the longitudinal direction.
The hinge axis remains fixed in relation to the frame and the other fixed components of the frame including the cradle, the rear wheel assembly and the hitching member so that displacement of the tub between the forward and rearward positions relative to the frame also displaces the tub in relation to the cradle, the rear wheels and the hitching member. By relocating the tub rearward relative to the hinge axis in the rearward position as compared to the forward position, the tub is accordingly positioned farther rearward in the longitudinal direction in either one of the transport or dumping positions when in the rearward position of the tub and the second position of the first portion.
In the rearward position of the tub, the resulting overhang exceeds the overhang designated by X in Figure 4 by an additional amount designated by Y
in Figure 5 which may be in the order of one foot in dimension for example. When dumping in the rearward position, the inclination of the tub in the dumping position is substantially identical in either mounting positions of the first portion so as to extend generally downward and rearward to the open rear end; however, in the rearward position the rear end extends farther rearward and downward in relation to the forward position. The greater overhang permits a greater reach into the inlet hopper of paving equipment for example.
The upright flange of each first portion 44 also comprises a supporting portion 64 along both sides of the flange in which the two supporting portions include a top edge which defines a shoulder 66 extending generally in the longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the top edge of the upright flange but spaced therebelow. In this manner each of the shoulders 66 is suitably positioned for abutment with the bottom edge of the upright flange defining the first mounting surface 46 of the tub when mounted in an overlapping configuration with the upright flange of the first portion.
10 Each shoulder on the opposing sides of the upright flange of the first portion is arranged to only abut the bottom edge of the upright plate forming the first mounting surface in a respective one of either the first or second positions of the tipping hinge assembly. As the first mounting surfaces of the tub are positioned inwardly in relation to the first portions which overlap the outer sides thereof, it is accordingly only the shoulder 66 located along the inner side of the upright flanges of the first portions which is used in either one of the first or second positions. By reversing the flanges forming the first portions between the first and second mounting positions thereof different ones of the shoulders 66 will accordingly be positioned along the inner side for abutment against the bottom edge of the first mounting surface.
The bottom edge of each of the upright flanges of the tub defining the first mounting surfaces is arranged to be oriented in the longitudinal direction of the tub so as to extend generally horizontally in the transport position. Each bottom edge includes a plurality of recesses 68 formed therein in a row in the longitudinal direction of the tub so as to define corresponding projections 70 extending generally downwardly between adjacent ones of the recesses 68.
Each shoulder 66 of the supporting portions of the first portion includes a corresponding mating top edge having a plurality of upward projections 72 which extend upwardly to respective pointed apexes spaced apart in the longitudinal direction in a row. The projections 72 accordingly define respective recessed between adjacent one of the projections. In this manner the mating profiles of the shoulders 66 and the bottom edges of the first mounting surfaces can be mated with one another by relative sliding movement in a generally vertical direction between an engaged position of the projections 70 into the recesses 74 and the projections 72 into the recesses 68 in either one of the forward or rearward positions and a disengaged position of the recesses and projections by separating the first portions from the first mounting surfaces during reconfiguration of the trailer.
By providing two shoulders 66 along opposing sides of each first portion, each first portion includes a first set of projections and recesses therebetween along one side which only mates in the first position of the tipping hinge assembly corresponding to the forward position of the tub while the projections and recesses therebetween along the other shoulder form a second set only arranged to mate with the first mounting surface in the second position of the tipping hinge assemblies corresponding to the rearward position of the tub. Typically one threaded fastener is provided in association with each of the projections in the first mounting surface of the tub flanges for alignment with corresponding apertures in the upright flange of the first portion so that the threaded fasteners received through the cooperating apertures between the first portions and the first mounting surfaces function primarily to maintain the recesses and projections in an engaged position relative to one another during pivotal movement of the tub between transport and dumping position in either one of the forward configuration or rearward configurations of the tub.
Referring now to the preferred embodiment of Figures 1 through 3 and Figures 10 through 15, many features are substantially identical to the previous embodiment in which like parts are referred to using the same reference numerals.
In the preferred embodiment, the frame 14 of the dump trailer 12 again comprises a pair of beams 20 joined by crossbars 22. The beams 20 span in a longitudinal direction between a front end supporting the hitching member 24 thereon and a rear end supported on a similar configuration of the rear wheel assembly 26.
The construction of the tub 32 is also substantially identical so as to comprise a floor, upright side walls 36, and a front wall 38. The lift mechanism 42 permits the tub to be pivoted on laterally spaced tipping hinge assemblies 10 between the transport position supported in a generally horizontal orientation on the cradle 40 of the frame and a dumping position extending downward at a rearward incline to dump the contents of the tub through the open rear end of the tub.
The two frame members 56 along the bottom side of the tub at the rear portion thereof in the preferred embodiment again comprise upright mounting plates joined to the tub by horizontal mounting flanges at the top edge of the plate.
The bottom edge in this instance is substantially straight in the longitudinal direction of the tub from a front end to a rear end. The front end is sloped upwardly and forwardly so as to join the tub floor similarly to the profile of the rear portions 52 of the beams. The rear end is abutted with the rear end wall of the tub which surrounds the gate assembly. An opening 100 is provided extending laterally through each frame member 56 adjacent the rear end thereof for receiving various conduits and the like therethrough. Similarly to the previous embodiment the two frame members 56 define the first mounting surface 46 onto which the respective tipping hinge assemblies 10 are mounted onto the tub.
In the preferred embodiment, the rear portions 52 of the two beams of the frame are substantially stepped in profile comprising a first portion 102 extending downwardly and rearwardly from the top side of the beam for alignment with the front edge of the respective frame member 56. A second portion 104 extends horizontally rearward from the bottom end of the first portion 102 spaced below the top end of the beam by a distance corresponding approximately to the height of the upright plates forming the frame members 56.
The horizontal second portion 104 thus extends alongside and bellow the bottom edge of the respective frame member 56 in the forward position of the tub when pivoted into the transport position as shown in Figure 14. A third portion 106 extends downwardly and rearwardly from the rear end of the second portion 104 to the rear end of the rear portion 52 and defines the mounting surface 50 on the frame which supports the second portion 48 of the hinge thereon as in the previous embodiment. The second portion 48 of the hinge in this instance is similarly formed of two triangular plates mounted parallel and spaced apart from one another in an upright orientation in fixed and welded relation to the second mounting surface 50 of the frame.
The first portion 44 of each hinge 10 is received between the two plates forming the second portion 48. The first portion 44 also comprises a generally triangular plate defining a pivot portion 60 at a lowermost apex which receives the hinge pin of the hinge therethrough for connection to the two plates of the second portion 48. Also like the previous embodiment, the first portion 44 extends upward from the apex to an opposing flat side of the plate defining the mounting portion 58 which is selectively mounted to the first mounting surface 46 on the tub.
Each of the mounting portions 58 and the first mounting surface 46 comprise a row of cooperating apertures formed therein which is aligned in the longitudinal direction of the tub in the mounted position. Both the mounting portion 58 and the first mounting surface 46 again comprise upright mounting plates which are mounted in an overlapping configuration such that the first mounting surface defined by each frame member overlaps an inner side of the respective mounting portion 58 of the two first portions 44 of the two hinge assemblies 10. A
plurality of the cooperating apertures 62 in the mounting portions 58 and the first mounting surface 46 are aligned with one another in each of the forward and rearward positions of the tub relative to the frame to receive threaded fasteners therethrough in a horizontal orientation for fastening in a secure and readily releasable manner.
In the first mounting position of Figures 14 and 15, the tub is positioned in the forward position relative to the frame so that all of the apertures 62 in the mounting portion 58 are aligned with respective ones of the apertures in the frame members which correspond to the rearmost apertures therein. The front end of the frame members are thus positioned in close proximity to the respective first portions 102 of the rear portions 52 of the beams of the frame. This corresponds to a first prescribed overhang of the tub relative to the frame through pivotal movement of the tub between the transport and dumping positions.
When it is desired to increase the rearward projecting overhang of the tub relative to the frame, the tub is displaced into the rearward position thereof by displacing the mounting of the first portion of the hinge relative to the frame members on the tub into the second mounting position shown in Figures 12 and 13. In this instance the tub is slidably displaced reward in the longitudinal direction thereof relative to the hinge assembly components fixed on the frame so that each of the apertures in the mounting portions 58 of the hinge assemblies are instead aligned with forwardmost ones of the apertures 62 in the row of apertures in the frame members 56 of the tub. The tub in this instance when positioned in the rearward position is again spaced further rearward relative to the frame, the cradle on the 5 frame, the rear wheel assembly, and the hitching member of the frame similarly to the previous embodiment.
In both the first and second mounting positions some of the apertures in the frame member 56 are mounted to respective ones of the apertures in the mounting portion 58; however, they are aligned with different ones of the apertures 10 depending on the position of the tub. Each mounting position of the tub thus corresponds to a unique combination of apertures 62 in the mounting portions 58 and the frame members 56 which are aligned with one another and which receive fasteners therethroug h.
Also similarly to the previous embodiment, each of the plates forming 15 the first portions 44 of the hinge assemblies further comprise an additional plate along an inner surface thereof. The additional plate on the inner surface defines a supporting portion 64 having a top edge parallel and spaced below the top edge defining the mounting portion 58 to define a shoulder 66 along an inner side of each first portion 44. The shoulder 66 extends in the longitudinal direction of the tub and is 20 positioned so as to be aligned in engagement with the bottom edge of the respective frame member 56 in either of the mounted positions of the tub. The supporting portions 64 provide support for the tub on the hinge assemblies to increase the structural support of the fasteners while also providing a suitable surface along which the frame members 56 are slidable when the fasteners are released for displacement of the tub between the forward and rearward positions.
plurality of the cooperating apertures 62 in the mounting portions 58 and the first mounting surface 46 are aligned with one another in each of the forward and rearward positions of the tub relative to the frame to receive threaded fasteners therethrough in a horizontal orientation for fastening in a secure and readily releasable manner.
In the first mounting position of Figures 14 and 15, the tub is positioned in the forward position relative to the frame so that all of the apertures 62 in the mounting portion 58 are aligned with respective ones of the apertures in the frame members which correspond to the rearmost apertures therein. The front end of the frame members are thus positioned in close proximity to the respective first portions 102 of the rear portions 52 of the beams of the frame. This corresponds to a first prescribed overhang of the tub relative to the frame through pivotal movement of the tub between the transport and dumping positions.
When it is desired to increase the rearward projecting overhang of the tub relative to the frame, the tub is displaced into the rearward position thereof by displacing the mounting of the first portion of the hinge relative to the frame members on the tub into the second mounting position shown in Figures 12 and 13. In this instance the tub is slidably displaced reward in the longitudinal direction thereof relative to the hinge assembly components fixed on the frame so that each of the apertures in the mounting portions 58 of the hinge assemblies are instead aligned with forwardmost ones of the apertures 62 in the row of apertures in the frame members 56 of the tub. The tub in this instance when positioned in the rearward position is again spaced further rearward relative to the frame, the cradle on the 5 frame, the rear wheel assembly, and the hitching member of the frame similarly to the previous embodiment.
In both the first and second mounting positions some of the apertures in the frame member 56 are mounted to respective ones of the apertures in the mounting portion 58; however, they are aligned with different ones of the apertures 10 depending on the position of the tub. Each mounting position of the tub thus corresponds to a unique combination of apertures 62 in the mounting portions 58 and the frame members 56 which are aligned with one another and which receive fasteners therethroug h.
Also similarly to the previous embodiment, each of the plates forming 15 the first portions 44 of the hinge assemblies further comprise an additional plate along an inner surface thereof. The additional plate on the inner surface defines a supporting portion 64 having a top edge parallel and spaced below the top edge defining the mounting portion 58 to define a shoulder 66 along an inner side of each first portion 44. The shoulder 66 extends in the longitudinal direction of the tub and is 20 positioned so as to be aligned in engagement with the bottom edge of the respective frame member 56 in either of the mounted positions of the tub. The supporting portions 64 provide support for the tub on the hinge assemblies to increase the structural support of the fasteners while also providing a suitable surface along which the frame members 56 are slidable when the fasteners are released for displacement of the tub between the forward and rearward positions.
Due to the plurality of apertures located at intermediate positions between the first and second mounting positions of the hinge assembly corresponding to the forward and rearward positions of the tub relative to the frame, in the preferred embodiment the tub can also be mounted at a plurality of intermediate positions relative to the frame between the forward and rearward positions. In each intermediate mounting position of the mounting portion 58 to the respective frame members 56, a unique combination of apertures of the frame member are aligned with the apertures in the mounting portion which corresponds to a unique prescribed amount of rearward projecting overhang of the tub relative to the frame which is in between the prescribed overhang amounts of the forward and rearward positions respectively. In either of the mounting positions of the hinge assembly and the corresponding positions of the tub relative to the frame in the longitudinal direction, the connection of the first portion and second portion of the hinge assemblies remains identical so that the position of the first portions of the hinge assemblies relative to the frame remain substantially identical in any one of the forward, intermediate or reward positions of the tub relative to the frame. In each instance the position of the tub relative to the first and second portions of the hinge assemblies are varied with variation of the longitudinal position of the tub relative to the frame.
To retain the hinge pins more securely, in the preferred embodiment a retainer plate 108 is mounted about the inner end of each hinge pin of the two hinge assemblies. The retainer plates 108 are each secured to the innermost one of the two plates defining the second portion of the hinge by a suitable fastener connected to the retainer plate at a position spaced radially from the tipping axis of the hinge pin.
In either embodiment, the lift mechanism 42 comprises a hydraulic piston cylinder configuration in which the lift cylinder is the same one which remains mounted between the frame and the tub regardless of the position of the tub relative to the frame between the forward and rearward positions thereof. The mounting location, length and configuration of the lift cylinder are arranged in each instance so that the tub is moveable through a full range of tipping motion between the transport position and the dumping position regardless of the position of the tub relative to the frame between the forward and rearward positions thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the base of the lift cylinder is mounted centrally on the frame in the lateral direction at a longitudinal position immediately forward of the front wall of the tub in the transport position. The front wall extends upwardly at a forward inclination to a top end which mounts the top end of the lift cylinder laterally centered thereon such that extension of the lift cylinder causes the front end of the tub to be lifted relative to the frame into the dumping position as in the previous embodiment.
To retain the hinge pins more securely, in the preferred embodiment a retainer plate 108 is mounted about the inner end of each hinge pin of the two hinge assemblies. The retainer plates 108 are each secured to the innermost one of the two plates defining the second portion of the hinge by a suitable fastener connected to the retainer plate at a position spaced radially from the tipping axis of the hinge pin.
In either embodiment, the lift mechanism 42 comprises a hydraulic piston cylinder configuration in which the lift cylinder is the same one which remains mounted between the frame and the tub regardless of the position of the tub relative to the frame between the forward and rearward positions thereof. The mounting location, length and configuration of the lift cylinder are arranged in each instance so that the tub is moveable through a full range of tipping motion between the transport position and the dumping position regardless of the position of the tub relative to the frame between the forward and rearward positions thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the base of the lift cylinder is mounted centrally on the frame in the lateral direction at a longitudinal position immediately forward of the front wall of the tub in the transport position. The front wall extends upwardly at a forward inclination to a top end which mounts the top end of the lift cylinder laterally centered thereon such that extension of the lift cylinder causes the front end of the tub to be lifted relative to the frame into the dumping position as in the previous embodiment.
Claims (21)
1. A dump trailer for use with a towing vehicle, the trailer comprising:
a frame extending in a longitudinal direction between a front end and a rear end;
a hitching member mounted on the front end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the front end of the frame on the towing vehicle;
a rear wheel assembly mounted on the rear end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the rear end of the frame for rolling movement along the ground in the longitudinal direction;
a tub arranged to be supported on the frame, the tub comprising a floor and upright side walls extending in the longitudinal direction from a front end including a front wall spanning between the side walls to a rear end which is open so as to be arranged to dump material from the tub therethrough; and a tipping hinge supporting the rear end of the tub on the rear end of the frame such that the tub is pivotal relative to the frame about a tipping axis between a transport position in which the front end and the rear end of the tub are supported adjacent to the frame and a dumping position in which the tub is rotated about the tipping axis in relation to the transport position such that the front end of the tub is spaced upwardly from the frame in relation to the transport position;
the tipping hinge comprising a first portion arranged to be fixed relative to a first mounting surface on the tub and a second portion arranged to be fixed relative to a second mounting surface on the frame, the first and second portions being coupled so as to be pivotal relative to one another about the tipping axis;
at least one of the first and second portions being arranged to be mounted in fixed relation to the respective mounting surface in either one of a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame in which the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position while in the transport position of the tipping hinge.
a frame extending in a longitudinal direction between a front end and a rear end;
a hitching member mounted on the front end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the front end of the frame on the towing vehicle;
a rear wheel assembly mounted on the rear end of the frame so as to be arranged to support the rear end of the frame for rolling movement along the ground in the longitudinal direction;
a tub arranged to be supported on the frame, the tub comprising a floor and upright side walls extending in the longitudinal direction from a front end including a front wall spanning between the side walls to a rear end which is open so as to be arranged to dump material from the tub therethrough; and a tipping hinge supporting the rear end of the tub on the rear end of the frame such that the tub is pivotal relative to the frame about a tipping axis between a transport position in which the front end and the rear end of the tub are supported adjacent to the frame and a dumping position in which the tub is rotated about the tipping axis in relation to the transport position such that the front end of the tub is spaced upwardly from the frame in relation to the transport position;
the tipping hinge comprising a first portion arranged to be fixed relative to a first mounting surface on the tub and a second portion arranged to be fixed relative to a second mounting surface on the frame, the first and second portions being coupled so as to be pivotal relative to one another about the tipping axis;
at least one of the first and second portions being arranged to be mounted in fixed relation to the respective mounting surface in either one of a first mounting position corresponding to a forward position of the tub supported on the frame and a second mounting position corresponding to a rearward position of the tub supported on the frame in which the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position while in the transport position of the tipping hinge.
2. The trailer according to Claim 1 wherein the tub is spaced farther rearward in relation to both the hitching member and the rear wheel assembly on the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position.
3. The trailer according to either one of Claims 1 or 2 wherein the frame includes a cradle portion arranged to support the tub directly thereon in the transport position, the tub being spaced farther rearward in relation to the cradle of the frame in the rearward position than in the forward position.
4. The trailer according to any one of Claims 1 through 3 wherein the tipping hinge comprises a pair of tipping hinge assemblies mounted laterally spaced apart from one another in a direction of the tipping axis.
5. The trailer according to any one of Claims 1 through 4 wherein the open end of the tub is spaced farther rearward from the tipping axis in the rearward position of the tub than the forward position of the tub.
6. The trailer according to any one of Claims 1 through 5 wherein a position of the first portion of the tipping hinge on the first mounting surface differs between the forward position and the rearward position of the tub and wherein the first portion of the tipping hinge is arranged to be fixed onto the first mounting surface on the tub in either one of the first position corresponding to the forward position of the tub or the second mounting position corresponding to the rearward position.
7. The trailer according to Claim 6 wherein the first portion of the tipping hinge is arranged to be fixed relative to the tub by threaded fasteners in both the first and second positions.
8. The trailer according to Claim 7 wherein the first portion of the tipping hinge and the first mounting surface comprising upright members and the fasteners are arranged to extend generally horizontally through cooperating apertures in the first portion of the tipping hinge and the first mounting surface of the tub.
9. The trailer according to Claim 6 wherein the first mounting surface and the first portion of the tipping hinge each comprise an upright flange, the upright flanges of the first mounting surface and the first portion being mounted to one another in an overlapping configuration in both the first and second positions.
10. The trailer according to Claim 9 wherein there is provided a shoulder formed alongside one of the upright flanges of the tipping hinge, the shoulder being abutted against an end of the other one of the upright flanges in at least one of the first and second positions
11. The trailer according to Claim 1 wherein there is provided a common lift cylinder mounted between the front end of the frame and the front end of the tub in both the forward and rearward position of the tub.
12. The trailer according to Claim 1 wherein at least one of the first and second portions are arranged to be mounted in relation to the respective mounting surface in any one of a plurality of intermediate mounting positions, each intermediate mounting position corresponding to a respective position of the tub supported on the frame between the forward and rearward positions.
13. The trailer according to Claim 6 wherein the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion, the mounting portion comprising a plurality of mounting apertures arranged for connection by suitable fasteners to co-operating mounting apertures in the first mounting surface of the tub, the plurality of mounting apertures of the mounting portion corresponding to different mounting positions of the tub relative to the frame.
14. The trailer according to Claim 6 wherein the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion, the pivot portion being identical in orientation in both the forward position and the rearward position.
15. The trailer according to Claim 6 wherein the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a mounting portion arranged to be mounted on the first mounting surface of the tub and a pivot portion arranged to be pivotally coupled to the second portion, the mounting portion being reversibly mounted on the first mounting surface in the second position in relation to the first position.
16. The trailer according to Claim 15 wherein the pivot portion of the first portion of the tipping hinge is offset from a center of the mounting portion in the longitudinal direction.
17. The trailer according to Claim 16 wherein a position of the mounting portion of the first portion of the tipping hinge in relation to the tub in the longitudinal direction is substantially identical in both the first and second positions.
18. The trailer according to Claim 6 wherein one of the first mounting surface and the first portion of the tipping hinge comprises a plurality of projections and the other one of the first mounting surface and the first portion comprises a plurality of recesses arranged to matingly receive the projections therein in both the first and second positions.
19. The trailer according to Claim 18 wherein one of the projections and the recesses comprises a first set and a second set, the first set being mated with the other one of the projections and the recesses in the first position and the second set being mated with the other one of the projections and the recesses in the second position.
20. The trailer according to Claim 18 wherein the projections and the recesses are arranged to be slidably displaced relative to one another in a substantially vertical direction between an engaged position in the first and second positions and a released position in which the first portion is separated from the first mounting surface.
21. The trailer according to any one of Claims 1 through 20 wherein the tub is arranged to remain fixed in a selected one of the forward position corresponding to the first mounting position of the tipping hinge or the rearward position corresponding to the second mounting position of the tipping hinge as the first and second portions of the tipping hinge are pivoted relative to one another between the dumping position and the transport position.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2690684 CA2690684C (en) | 2009-12-02 | 2009-12-02 | Dump trailer with adjustable tipping hinge |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2690684 CA2690684C (en) | 2009-12-02 | 2009-12-02 | Dump trailer with adjustable tipping hinge |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2690684A1 CA2690684A1 (en) | 2011-06-02 |
| CA2690684C true CA2690684C (en) | 2014-04-22 |
Family
ID=44114220
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2690684 Expired - Fee Related CA2690684C (en) | 2009-12-02 | 2009-12-02 | Dump trailer with adjustable tipping hinge |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2690684C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2021079352A1 (en) * | 2019-10-25 | 2021-04-29 | Industries Fabkor Inc. | Systems and methods for connecting an actuator between a dump body and a chassis of a truck, and hinge assembly for pivotally connecting a dump body to a chassis of a truck |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE202014101150U1 (en) * | 2014-03-13 | 2014-05-21 | Hans Hermann Bergmann | Commercial vehicle with trough |
-
2009
- 2009-12-02 CA CA 2690684 patent/CA2690684C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2021079352A1 (en) * | 2019-10-25 | 2021-04-29 | Industries Fabkor Inc. | Systems and methods for connecting an actuator between a dump body and a chassis of a truck, and hinge assembly for pivotally connecting a dump body to a chassis of a truck |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2690684A1 (en) | 2011-06-02 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20130703 |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20161202 |