CA2958442A1 - Powered trailer moving device - Google Patents
Powered trailer moving device Download PDFInfo
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- CA2958442A1 CA2958442A1 CA2958442A CA2958442A CA2958442A1 CA 2958442 A1 CA2958442 A1 CA 2958442A1 CA 2958442 A CA2958442 A CA 2958442A CA 2958442 A CA2958442 A CA 2958442A CA 2958442 A1 CA2958442 A1 CA 2958442A1
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- Prior art keywords
- trailer
- motor
- drive
- powered
- drive wheel
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- 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.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D59/00—Trailers with driven ground wheels or the like
- B62D59/04—Trailers with driven ground wheels or the like driven from propulsion unit on trailer
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D49/00—Tractors
- B62D49/005—Tractors for semi-trailers
- B62D49/007—Tractors for handling trailers, e.g. roll-trailers in terminals
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D51/00—Motor vehicles characterised by the driver not being seated
- B62D51/04—Motor vehicles characterised by the driver not being seated the driver walking
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
- B66F19/00—Hoisting, lifting, hauling or pushing, not otherwise provided for
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
- B66F5/00—Mobile jacks of the garage type mounted on wheels or rollers
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Handcart (AREA)
Abstract
A Powered Trailer Moving Device for moving a trailer when the trailer is not attached to a tow vehicle, particularly when moving the trailer into or out of restrictive parking spaces is disclosed. The powered trailer moving device comprises a motor, at least two drive wheels, a drive mechanism, and a control means. In a first preferred embodiment, the powered trailer moving device comprises a powered trailer dolly attached to the tongue of the trailer by means of a hitch ball and a stabilizing clamp. In further preferred embodiments, the powered trailer moving device comprises two drive wheels in tangential contact with the tread of two trailer tires so as to drive the trailer forward or backward, and to steer the trailer by selectively controlling the rotation or engagement of each of the drive wheels.
Description
POWERED TRAILER MOVING DEVICE
Description FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a device for moving an un-powered vehicle hereinafter referred to as a trailer, when the trailer is not attached to a tow vehicle.
The present invention is especially advantageous in a situation where a trailer is to be moved into or out of a parking space where obstructions or other constraints would impede or prohibit the use of a tow vehicle. A further advantage of the present invention is the ability to move the trailer into or out of a parking space with improved control and accuracy as compared to moving the trailer by means of an attached tow vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In the prior art, Canadian Patent application CA 2964253, Donald Banwart, laid open March 26, 2015, describes a self-powered converter dolly, and further references a number of related prior art patents. These patents are specific to applications involving commercial fifth wheel "semi" trailers and involve mechanisms and devices specific to that application. Other known powered trailer dollies are referenced below.
Historically, utility trailers and camping trailers which are too heavy to be moved by hand require the use of a tow vehicle while being parked or maneuvered at low speed from one place to another. Backing a trailer by means of a tow vehicle is particularly difficult due to the articulation of the trailer with respect to the tow vehicle combined with limited visibility from the driver's seat in a tow vehicle. A second person is often required to provide signals to the driver in order to back a trailer safely.
One solution for smaller trailers is a non-powered two-wheeled trailer dolly with a hitch ball mounted so as to transmit the tongue weight of the trailer to the ground via the dolly tires. An elongate handle on the dolly facilitates steering and applying motive force by hand. A
manual dolly requires significant strength on the part of the person moving the trailer and is limited to smooth, level rolling surfaces and limited trailer weights_ It is common for RV dealers to use a forklift to pick up the tongue of a trailer and make use of the power and maneuverability of a forklift to move a trailer to a desired location. Another solution for some trailer owners is to mount a hitch ball onto a small off-road vehicle, commonly called a "quad", for the purpose of moving a trailer to a desired location.
However both the forklift and quad methods are not useful when the trailer is to be parked at a remote location without access to these machines, for example when parking a camping trailer in a small campsite, or when parking a utility trailer for loading or unloading in a constrained space. A known powered two-wheeled dolly design incorporates a threaded collar below the hitch ball wherein the collar is tightened against the underside of the trailer coupler in order to prevent the dolly from tilting due to the driving force of the dolly's wheels. A moment is generated by the driving force of the dolly's wheels and the resistance to movement of the trailer transmitted though the hitch ball. Because of the narrow width of the coupler and the much larger distance of the hitch ball from the ground, the resistive forces between the coupler and the threaded collar are very large compared to the driving force of the dolly's wheels, perhaps by a factor of 10 or more. Furthermore, the resistive force against the coupler is vertically upward tending to lift the trailer coupler off of the hitch ball. Trailer couplers are designed to accept large forces in a horizontal direction and downward forces due to the tongue weight of the trailer, but uplift is resisted only by a mechanical latch designed only to prevent inadvertent disconnection of the trailer. As a result, when moving a heavy trailer up a slope or on uneven terrain, it is possible that the coupler could be damaged, or the hitch ball could pull out of the coupler. Another known powered dolly design includes additional idler wheels or casters to resist the above described moment. However, the force on the idler wheels is vertical and consequently reduces the amount of weight on the driving wheels of the powered dolly and therefore reduces the ability of the dolly to move a heavy trailer against a slope or obstacle.
There exists a need for a practical and portable means for moving trailers into and out of parking spaces.
Description FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a device for moving an un-powered vehicle hereinafter referred to as a trailer, when the trailer is not attached to a tow vehicle.
The present invention is especially advantageous in a situation where a trailer is to be moved into or out of a parking space where obstructions or other constraints would impede or prohibit the use of a tow vehicle. A further advantage of the present invention is the ability to move the trailer into or out of a parking space with improved control and accuracy as compared to moving the trailer by means of an attached tow vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In the prior art, Canadian Patent application CA 2964253, Donald Banwart, laid open March 26, 2015, describes a self-powered converter dolly, and further references a number of related prior art patents. These patents are specific to applications involving commercial fifth wheel "semi" trailers and involve mechanisms and devices specific to that application. Other known powered trailer dollies are referenced below.
Historically, utility trailers and camping trailers which are too heavy to be moved by hand require the use of a tow vehicle while being parked or maneuvered at low speed from one place to another. Backing a trailer by means of a tow vehicle is particularly difficult due to the articulation of the trailer with respect to the tow vehicle combined with limited visibility from the driver's seat in a tow vehicle. A second person is often required to provide signals to the driver in order to back a trailer safely.
One solution for smaller trailers is a non-powered two-wheeled trailer dolly with a hitch ball mounted so as to transmit the tongue weight of the trailer to the ground via the dolly tires. An elongate handle on the dolly facilitates steering and applying motive force by hand. A
manual dolly requires significant strength on the part of the person moving the trailer and is limited to smooth, level rolling surfaces and limited trailer weights_ It is common for RV dealers to use a forklift to pick up the tongue of a trailer and make use of the power and maneuverability of a forklift to move a trailer to a desired location. Another solution for some trailer owners is to mount a hitch ball onto a small off-road vehicle, commonly called a "quad", for the purpose of moving a trailer to a desired location.
However both the forklift and quad methods are not useful when the trailer is to be parked at a remote location without access to these machines, for example when parking a camping trailer in a small campsite, or when parking a utility trailer for loading or unloading in a constrained space. A known powered two-wheeled dolly design incorporates a threaded collar below the hitch ball wherein the collar is tightened against the underside of the trailer coupler in order to prevent the dolly from tilting due to the driving force of the dolly's wheels. A moment is generated by the driving force of the dolly's wheels and the resistance to movement of the trailer transmitted though the hitch ball. Because of the narrow width of the coupler and the much larger distance of the hitch ball from the ground, the resistive forces between the coupler and the threaded collar are very large compared to the driving force of the dolly's wheels, perhaps by a factor of 10 or more. Furthermore, the resistive force against the coupler is vertically upward tending to lift the trailer coupler off of the hitch ball. Trailer couplers are designed to accept large forces in a horizontal direction and downward forces due to the tongue weight of the trailer, but uplift is resisted only by a mechanical latch designed only to prevent inadvertent disconnection of the trailer. As a result, when moving a heavy trailer up a slope or on uneven terrain, it is possible that the coupler could be damaged, or the hitch ball could pull out of the coupler. Another known powered dolly design includes additional idler wheels or casters to resist the above described moment. However, the force on the idler wheels is vertical and consequently reduces the amount of weight on the driving wheels of the powered dolly and therefore reduces the ability of the dolly to move a heavy trailer against a slope or obstacle.
There exists a need for a practical and portable means for moving trailers into and out of parking spaces.
2 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of this invention to provide an apparatus for moving a non-powered vehicle with the following advantages over prior art:
a) To provide a powered drive means whereby a trailer may be maneuvered without being connected to a tow vehicle.
b) To provide a portable powered trailer dolly with a connection to the trailer whereby the motive forces are resolved with an adequate safety factor.
c) To provide a powered drive means whereby a trailer can be safely maneuvered by one person.
d) To provide a powered drive means integrally mounted to a trailer so as to be available for use at any location with minimal set-up effort.
The apparatus for moving a non-powered vehicle comprises:
A trailer with at least two wheels and two tires, A motor, At least two drive wheels, At least one drive mechanism connecting the motor to at least one of the drive wheels, A frame, A control means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
It is an object of this invention to provide an apparatus for moving a non-powered vehicle with the following advantages over prior art:
a) To provide a powered drive means whereby a trailer may be maneuvered without being connected to a tow vehicle.
b) To provide a portable powered trailer dolly with a connection to the trailer whereby the motive forces are resolved with an adequate safety factor.
c) To provide a powered drive means whereby a trailer can be safely maneuvered by one person.
d) To provide a powered drive means integrally mounted to a trailer so as to be available for use at any location with minimal set-up effort.
The apparatus for moving a non-powered vehicle comprises:
A trailer with at least two wheels and two tires, A motor, At least two drive wheels, At least one drive mechanism connecting the motor to at least one of the drive wheels, A frame, A control means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
3 Fig. 1 depicts a plan view of a trailer with a portable powered dolly attached to the trailer.
Fig. 2 depicts a side elevation of a trailer with a portable powered dolly attached to the trailer.
Fig. 3 depicts a plan view of a portable powered dolly attached in an articulated position to a trailer.
Fig. 4 depicts a side elevation of a portable powered dolly attached to a trailer at a larger scale.
Fig. 5 depicts a plan view of a portable powered dolly attached to a trailer at a larger scale.
Fig. 6 depicts a side elevation of a trailer, partially cut away, with an integral drive mechanism mounted to the trailer frame.
Fig. 7 depicts a plan view of a trailer frame with an integral drive mechanism mounted to the trailer frame.
Fig. 8 depicts an end elevation of an integral drive mechanism mounted to the trailer frame.
Fig. 9 depicts a drive arrangement of an integral drive mechanism mounted to a trailer frame where the drive mechanism is in a driving position.
Fig. 10 depicts a drive arrangement of an integral drive mechanism mounted to a trailer frame where the drive mechanism is in a towing position.
Fig. 11 depicts a plan view of a dual drive arrangement.
Fig. 12 depicts an end elevation of a dual drive arrangement.
Fig. 13 depicts a plan view of an alternative dual drive arrangement.
Fig. 14 depicts a side elevation of an alternative dual drive arrangement where the drive mechanism is in a driving position.
Fig. 2 depicts a side elevation of a trailer with a portable powered dolly attached to the trailer.
Fig. 3 depicts a plan view of a portable powered dolly attached in an articulated position to a trailer.
Fig. 4 depicts a side elevation of a portable powered dolly attached to a trailer at a larger scale.
Fig. 5 depicts a plan view of a portable powered dolly attached to a trailer at a larger scale.
Fig. 6 depicts a side elevation of a trailer, partially cut away, with an integral drive mechanism mounted to the trailer frame.
Fig. 7 depicts a plan view of a trailer frame with an integral drive mechanism mounted to the trailer frame.
Fig. 8 depicts an end elevation of an integral drive mechanism mounted to the trailer frame.
Fig. 9 depicts a drive arrangement of an integral drive mechanism mounted to a trailer frame where the drive mechanism is in a driving position.
Fig. 10 depicts a drive arrangement of an integral drive mechanism mounted to a trailer frame where the drive mechanism is in a towing position.
Fig. 11 depicts a plan view of a dual drive arrangement.
Fig. 12 depicts an end elevation of a dual drive arrangement.
Fig. 13 depicts a plan view of an alternative dual drive arrangement.
Fig. 14 depicts a side elevation of an alternative dual drive arrangement where the drive mechanism is in a driving position.
4 Fig. 15 depicts a side elevation of an alternative dual drive arrangement where the drive mechanism is in a towing position.
Fig. 16 depicts a plan view of an alternative pivot geometry wherein the drive mechanism is in a driving position.
Fig. 17 depicts a plan view of an alternative pivot geometry wherein the drive mechanism is in a towing position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, a trailer 10 is connected to a powered dolly 12 resembling a conventional two-wheeled trailer dolly with the addition of a drive means and a clamp device 14. In Fig. 3, the powered dolly 12 is shown in a position to steer the trailer 10 in a curved path. The Clamp device 14 remains in line with the longitudinal axis 16 of the trailer 10.
A differential 18 incorporated into the drive means of the powered dolly 12 allows the powered dolly 12 to be rotated about the hitch ball 20 without requiring the drive wheels 22 to slip on the roadway surface. As shown in Fig. 4, one end of clamp device 14 is rigidly connected to the trailer jack stub shaft 24, while the opposite end of clamp device 14 is mounted via two bearings 26 onto hitch ball support shaft 28. It can be seen that Dim. B is approximately twice Dim. A. By considering the forces and moments applied by the driving of the drive wheels 22, it can be further deduced that the motive force of powered dolly 12 against trailer 10 is resolved through the clamp device 14 and hitch ball 20 wherein the lateral force at the hitch ball 20 is in a horizontal direction and approximately double the horizontal force at the dolly axle 30, and the horizontal force at the clamp device 14 is in the opposite horizontal direction and approximately triple the horizontal force at the dolly axle 30. With proper mechanical design applied to the above described geometry, the connection between powered dolly 12 and trailer 10 can be made very strong and reliable. The trailer coupler 32 is designed to accept large forces in a horizontal direction so there is no risk of the coupler 32 being damaged or disengaging from the hitch ball 20 while the trailer 10 is being moved by powered dolly
Fig. 16 depicts a plan view of an alternative pivot geometry wherein the drive mechanism is in a driving position.
Fig. 17 depicts a plan view of an alternative pivot geometry wherein the drive mechanism is in a towing position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, a trailer 10 is connected to a powered dolly 12 resembling a conventional two-wheeled trailer dolly with the addition of a drive means and a clamp device 14. In Fig. 3, the powered dolly 12 is shown in a position to steer the trailer 10 in a curved path. The Clamp device 14 remains in line with the longitudinal axis 16 of the trailer 10.
A differential 18 incorporated into the drive means of the powered dolly 12 allows the powered dolly 12 to be rotated about the hitch ball 20 without requiring the drive wheels 22 to slip on the roadway surface. As shown in Fig. 4, one end of clamp device 14 is rigidly connected to the trailer jack stub shaft 24, while the opposite end of clamp device 14 is mounted via two bearings 26 onto hitch ball support shaft 28. It can be seen that Dim. B is approximately twice Dim. A. By considering the forces and moments applied by the driving of the drive wheels 22, it can be further deduced that the motive force of powered dolly 12 against trailer 10 is resolved through the clamp device 14 and hitch ball 20 wherein the lateral force at the hitch ball 20 is in a horizontal direction and approximately double the horizontal force at the dolly axle 30, and the horizontal force at the clamp device 14 is in the opposite horizontal direction and approximately triple the horizontal force at the dolly axle 30. With proper mechanical design applied to the above described geometry, the connection between powered dolly 12 and trailer 10 can be made very strong and reliable. The trailer coupler 32 is designed to accept large forces in a horizontal direction so there is no risk of the coupler 32 being damaged or disengaging from the hitch ball 20 while the trailer 10 is being moved by powered dolly
5 12. As shown in Fig. 5, the arrangement of the powered dolly 12 components includes a motor 34, drive chains and sprockets 36, a drive shaft 38 on which is mounted a differential 18. The motor 34 comprises an electric motor which may be powered from the trailer battery, or alternatively from a source of electric power independent from the trailer. A control switch 40 is mounted onto elongate handle 42. It should be noted that this first embodiment of the present invention is not suitable for use with a "fifth wheel"
style of trailer 10. Another limitation to this first embodiment of the present invention is the need to transport the apparatus separately from the trailer 10 for use at remote locations.
In a second preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, drive wheels 22 are in tangential contact with trailer tires 46 and the drive wheels 22 are held against the trailer tires 46 by means of linear actuators 48. The linear actuators 48 comprise commercially available electric screw actuators, or alternatively hydraulic or air cylinders, or air diaphragm pots. Drive wheels 22 are fixed onto drive shaft 50.
Drive shaft 50 is pivotally connected to the trailer frame 52 via pivot arm 54, drive shaft bearing 53, and pivot bearing 56. The tongue weight of the trailer 10 is supported by swivel caster 58 which is mounted onto the trailer jack stub shaft 24. When both drive wheels 22 are held in contact with their respective trailer tires 46, and the drive shaft 50 is caused to rotate by motor 60, the trailer 10 moves forward or backward in a straight line. When only one drive wheel 22 is held in contact with its respective trailer tire 46 by its respective linear actuator 48, and the opposite drive wheel 22 is disengaged from contact with its respective trailer tire 46 by its respective linear actuator 48, and an electric brake 62 is applied on the same side of the trailer 10 as the disengaged drive wheel 22, and the drive shaft 50 is caused to rotate by motor 34, the trailer 10 will be caused to turn on an arc approximately centered on the trailer tire 46 on the same side of trailer 10 as the electric brake 62 is applied. The swivel caster 58 rotates accordingly in response to the turning of the trailer 10. The trailer 10 can therefore be maneuvered and steered controllably by selective engagement and disengagement of a drive wheel 22 by partially retracting its respective linear actuator 48, and by selective application of
style of trailer 10. Another limitation to this first embodiment of the present invention is the need to transport the apparatus separately from the trailer 10 for use at remote locations.
In a second preferred embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, drive wheels 22 are in tangential contact with trailer tires 46 and the drive wheels 22 are held against the trailer tires 46 by means of linear actuators 48. The linear actuators 48 comprise commercially available electric screw actuators, or alternatively hydraulic or air cylinders, or air diaphragm pots. Drive wheels 22 are fixed onto drive shaft 50.
Drive shaft 50 is pivotally connected to the trailer frame 52 via pivot arm 54, drive shaft bearing 53, and pivot bearing 56. The tongue weight of the trailer 10 is supported by swivel caster 58 which is mounted onto the trailer jack stub shaft 24. When both drive wheels 22 are held in contact with their respective trailer tires 46, and the drive shaft 50 is caused to rotate by motor 60, the trailer 10 moves forward or backward in a straight line. When only one drive wheel 22 is held in contact with its respective trailer tire 46 by its respective linear actuator 48, and the opposite drive wheel 22 is disengaged from contact with its respective trailer tire 46 by its respective linear actuator 48, and an electric brake 62 is applied on the same side of the trailer 10 as the disengaged drive wheel 22, and the drive shaft 50 is caused to rotate by motor 34, the trailer 10 will be caused to turn on an arc approximately centered on the trailer tire 46 on the same side of trailer 10 as the electric brake 62 is applied. The swivel caster 58 rotates accordingly in response to the turning of the trailer 10. The trailer 10 can therefore be maneuvered and steered controllably by selective engagement and disengagement of a drive wheel 22 by partially retracting its respective linear actuator 48, and by selective application of
6 the respective electric brake 62. As shown in Fig.8, drive base 64 is supported from the drive shaft 50 via self-aligning bearings 66 and from parallel arms 68.
Parallel arms 68 are supported from cross bar 70 which is fixed to trailer frame 52. In Fig.9 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the extended state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and prevent the drive base 64 from rotating about the drive shaft 50. In Fig.10 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the retracted state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and hold the drive base 64 in a retracted position which would be the normal position of the drive base 64 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10. The motor 34 comprises an electric motor which may be powered from the trailer battery, or alternatively from a source of electric power independent from the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic pump on board the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise an internal combustion motor. The control means (not illustrated) includes a minimum of forward-stop-reverse, and left-straight-right switch positions. The control means may include wireless communication means, and may include sophisticated logic in order to translate the operator's inputs into the desired motion of the trailer. The control means may further include a means to prevent towing the trailer 10 while the mechanisms of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing.
In a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, the features and functions are as described for the second preferred embodiment, except a differential 18 is incorporated into the drive shaft 50 to allow the trailer 10 to turn by selectively applying a trailer brake 62 without disengaging a drive wheel 22 from contact with a respective trailer tire 46.
In a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figs.
11 and 12, two drive wheels 22 are each independently driven by a complete drive assembly
Parallel arms 68 are supported from cross bar 70 which is fixed to trailer frame 52. In Fig.9 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the extended state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and prevent the drive base 64 from rotating about the drive shaft 50. In Fig.10 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the retracted state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and hold the drive base 64 in a retracted position which would be the normal position of the drive base 64 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10. The motor 34 comprises an electric motor which may be powered from the trailer battery, or alternatively from a source of electric power independent from the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic pump on board the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise an internal combustion motor. The control means (not illustrated) includes a minimum of forward-stop-reverse, and left-straight-right switch positions. The control means may include wireless communication means, and may include sophisticated logic in order to translate the operator's inputs into the desired motion of the trailer. The control means may further include a means to prevent towing the trailer 10 while the mechanisms of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing.
In a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, the features and functions are as described for the second preferred embodiment, except a differential 18 is incorporated into the drive shaft 50 to allow the trailer 10 to turn by selectively applying a trailer brake 62 without disengaging a drive wheel 22 from contact with a respective trailer tire 46.
In a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figs.
11 and 12, two drive wheels 22 are each independently driven by a complete drive assembly
7 comprising one drive wheel 22 fixed onto one drive shaft 50, one driven sprocket 78 fixed to drive shaft 50, one drive base 64 and one motor 34. Drive shafts 50 are pivotally connected to the trailer frame 52 via pivot arm 54 drive shaft bearing 53 and pivot bearing 56. When both drive wheels 22 are held in contact with their respective trailer tires 46 by linear actuators 48, and both drive shafts 50 are caused to rotate by motor 34, the trailer 10 moves forward or backward in a straight line. When one motor 34 is stopped while the other motor 34 is running, the trailer 10 is caused to turn on an arc approximately centered on the trailer tire 46 on the same side of trailer 10 as the motor 34 is stopped. Furthermore it can be deduced that any difference in speed between the two motors 34 will cause the trailer 10 to turn in an arc. If one motor 34 is reversed while the other motor 34 is running, the trailer can be caused to rotate about an axis approximately centered between the trailer tires 46. The swivel caster rotates accordingly in response to the turning of the trailer 10. The trailer 10 can therefore be maneuvered and steered controllably by selectively starting, stopping, reversing or varying the speed of the motors 34. Drive base 64 is supported from the drive shaft 50 via self-aligning bearings 66 and from parallel arms 68.
Parallel arms 68 are supported from cross bar 70 which is fixed to trailer frame 52. Drive shaft 50 is supported from pivot arms 54 via pivot bearings 56. In Fig.9 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the extended state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and prevent the drive base 64 from rotating about the drive shaft 50. In Fig.10 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the retracted state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and hold the drive base 64 in a retracted position which would be the normal position of the drive base 64 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10. The linear actuators 48 comprise commercially available electric screw actuators, or alternatively hydraulic or air cylinders, or air diaphragm pots. The motor 34 comprises an electric motor which may be powered from the trailer battery, or alternatively from a source of electric power independent from the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic
Parallel arms 68 are supported from cross bar 70 which is fixed to trailer frame 52. Drive shaft 50 is supported from pivot arms 54 via pivot bearings 56. In Fig.9 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the extended state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and prevent the drive base 64 from rotating about the drive shaft 50. In Fig.10 it is seen that drive base 64 is located by the position of drive shaft 50 which is determined by the retracted state of linear actuators 48 (refer to Fig.6). Parallel arms 68 support the end of the drive base 64 opposite from the drive shaft 50 and hold the drive base 64 in a retracted position which would be the normal position of the drive base 64 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10. The linear actuators 48 comprise commercially available electric screw actuators, or alternatively hydraulic or air cylinders, or air diaphragm pots. The motor 34 comprises an electric motor which may be powered from the trailer battery, or alternatively from a source of electric power independent from the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic
8 pump on board the trailer. The motor 34 may comprise an internal combustion motor.
The control means (not illustrated) includes a minimum of forward-stop-reverse, and left-straight-right switch positions. The control means may include wireless communication means, and may include sophisticated logic in order to translate the operator's inputs into the desired motion of the trailer. The control means may further include a means to prevent towing the trailer 10 while the mechanisms of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing.
In a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figs.
13, 14 and 15, two drive wheels 22 are each independently driven by a drive assembly comprising one drive wheel 22 fixed directly onto the output shaft of a speed reducer 76, and one motor 34. The drive assembly is pivotally connected to the trailer frame 52 via pivot arm 54, two pivot bearings 56, and pivot pin 78. When both drive wheels 22 are held in contact with their respective trailer tires 46 by linear actuators 48, and both drive wheels 22 are caused to rotate by respective motors 34, the trailer 10 (refer to Fig.
6) moves forward or backward in a straight line. When one motor 34 is stopped while the other motor 34 is running, the trailer 10 is caused to turn on an arc approximately centered on the trailer tire 46 on the same side of trailer 10 as the motor 34 is stopped.
Furthermore it can be deduced that any difference in speed between the two motors 34 will cause the trailer 10 to turn in an arc. If one motor 34 is reversed while the other motor 34 is running, the trailer can be caused to rotate about an axis approximately centered between the trailer tires 46. The swivel caster 58 (refer to Fig. 6) rotates accordingly in response to the turning of the trailer 10. The trailer 10 can therefore be maneuvered and steered controllably by selectively starting, stopping, reversing or varying the speed of the motors 34. In Fig.14 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the extended state of linear actuator 48 so that the drive wheel 22 is engaged in a driving position, in tangential contact with the trailer tire 46. In Fig.15 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the retracted state of linear actuator 48 which would be the normal position of the drive wheel 22 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10. The linear actuators 48 comprise commercially available electric
The control means (not illustrated) includes a minimum of forward-stop-reverse, and left-straight-right switch positions. The control means may include wireless communication means, and may include sophisticated logic in order to translate the operator's inputs into the desired motion of the trailer. The control means may further include a means to prevent towing the trailer 10 while the mechanisms of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing.
In a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figs.
13, 14 and 15, two drive wheels 22 are each independently driven by a drive assembly comprising one drive wheel 22 fixed directly onto the output shaft of a speed reducer 76, and one motor 34. The drive assembly is pivotally connected to the trailer frame 52 via pivot arm 54, two pivot bearings 56, and pivot pin 78. When both drive wheels 22 are held in contact with their respective trailer tires 46 by linear actuators 48, and both drive wheels 22 are caused to rotate by respective motors 34, the trailer 10 (refer to Fig.
6) moves forward or backward in a straight line. When one motor 34 is stopped while the other motor 34 is running, the trailer 10 is caused to turn on an arc approximately centered on the trailer tire 46 on the same side of trailer 10 as the motor 34 is stopped.
Furthermore it can be deduced that any difference in speed between the two motors 34 will cause the trailer 10 to turn in an arc. If one motor 34 is reversed while the other motor 34 is running, the trailer can be caused to rotate about an axis approximately centered between the trailer tires 46. The swivel caster 58 (refer to Fig. 6) rotates accordingly in response to the turning of the trailer 10. The trailer 10 can therefore be maneuvered and steered controllably by selectively starting, stopping, reversing or varying the speed of the motors 34. In Fig.14 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the extended state of linear actuator 48 so that the drive wheel 22 is engaged in a driving position, in tangential contact with the trailer tire 46. In Fig.15 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the retracted state of linear actuator 48 which would be the normal position of the drive wheel 22 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10. The linear actuators 48 comprise commercially available electric
9 screw actuators, or alternatively hydraulic or air cylinders, or air diaphragm pots. The motor 34 comprises an electric motor which may be powered from the trailer battery, or alternatively from a source of electric power independent from the trailer.
The motor 34 may comprise a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic pump on board the trailer.
The control means (not illustrated) includes a minimum of forward-stop-reverse, and left-straight-right switch positions. The control means may include wireless communication means, and may include sophisticated logic in order to translate the operator's inputs into the desired motion of the trailer. The control means may further include a means to prevent towing the trailer 10 while the mechanisms of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing. Figs. 16 and 17 depict an alternative pivot geometry for the drive assembly of this fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein the pivot pin 78 axis is approximately vertical. In Fig.16 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the extended state of linear actuator 48 so that the drive wheel 22 is engaged in a driving position, in tangential contact with the trailer tire 46. In Fig.17 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the retracted state of linear actuator 48 which would be the normal position of the drive wheel 22 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10.
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.
The motor 34 may comprise a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic pump on board the trailer.
The control means (not illustrated) includes a minimum of forward-stop-reverse, and left-straight-right switch positions. The control means may include wireless communication means, and may include sophisticated logic in order to translate the operator's inputs into the desired motion of the trailer. The control means may further include a means to prevent towing the trailer 10 while the mechanisms of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing. Figs. 16 and 17 depict an alternative pivot geometry for the drive assembly of this fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein the pivot pin 78 axis is approximately vertical. In Fig.16 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the extended state of linear actuator 48 so that the drive wheel 22 is engaged in a driving position, in tangential contact with the trailer tire 46. In Fig.17 it is seen that drive wheel 22 is located by the retracted state of linear actuator 48 which would be the normal position of the drive wheel 22 when the apparatus of the present invention is not being used to move the trailer 10.
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.
Claims (26)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An apparatus for moving a non-powered vehicle hereinafter referred to as a trailer when the trailer is not attached to a tow vehicle, comprising:
(a) the trailer with at least two wheels and two tires, (b) a motor, (c) at least two drive wheels, (d) at least one drive mechanism connecting the motor to the at least one drive wheel, (e) a frame, (f) a control means.
(a) the trailer with at least two wheels and two tires, (b) a motor, (c) at least two drive wheels, (d) at least one drive mechanism connecting the motor to the at least one drive wheel, (e) a frame, (f) a control means.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein the motor is an electric motor.
3. The device of claim 2 wherein the electric motor is a direct current motor powered from a battery.
4. The device of claim 1 wherein the motor is a hydraulic motor powered from a hydraulic pump mounted integral with the trailer.
5. The device of claim 1 wherein the motor is an internal combustion motor.
6. The devices of claims 1 through 5 wherein at least one drive wheel is selectively movable from a retracted position to an engaged position wherein an engaged position comprises a drive wheel whose axis of rotation is approximately parallel with the axis of rotation of the trailer tire, and whose surface is in tangential contact with the tread surface of the trailer tire, and wherein a dis-engaged position comprises a drive wheel whose surface is not in contact with a trailer tire.
7. The device of claim 6 wherein at least one linear actuator causes at least one drive wheel to move between an engaged position in contact with the tread surface of a trailer tire and a disengaged position not in contact with a trailer tire.
8. The device of claim 6 wherein a drive wheel is supported from a pivot bearing wherein the drive wheel moves in arc as the drive wheel moves from an engaged position to a disengaged position.
9. The device of claim 8 wherein the linear actuator comprises a screw mechanism driven by an electric motor.
10. The device of claim 8 wherein the linear actuator comprises a hydraulic cylinder powered from a hydraulic pump mounted integral with the trailer.
11. The device of claim 8 wherein the linear actuator comprises an air cylinder or air diaphragm pot powered from a compressed air supply mounted integral with the trailer.
12. The devices of claims 1 through 3 wherein at least one drive wheel is in contact with the ground or roadway.
13. The device of claim 12 wherein the frame includes a hitch ball retained within a coupler wherein the coupler is attached to the trailer.
14. The device of claim 13 wherein the frame includes a stabilizing clamp rigidly attached to the tongue of the trailer.
15. The device of claim 14 wherein the stabilizing clamp includes a rotary bearing with its axis of rotation approximately vertical and centered on the vertical axis of the hitch ball.
16. The device of claim 15 wherein the frame further includes an elongate handle rigidly attached to the frame for the purpose of rotating the frame about a vertical axis approximately coinciding with the vertical axis of the hitch ball.
17. The devices of claims 1 through 11 wherein the trailer further comprises electric brake units on at least two wheels.
18. The devices of claims 1 through 11 and claim 17 wherein the trailer further comprises at least one idler wheel mounted on at least one swivel caster bearing so as to support the tongue weight of the trailer to allow the trailer to maintain or change its direction of movement in response to the driving forces of the trailer tires.
19. The devices of claims 1 through 11, claim 17 and claim 18 wherein the frame comprises a drive base and at least one link to resist the torque generated by the drive mechanism.
20. The devices of claims 1 through 19 wherein the control means comprises a hand-held switch unit.
21. The device of claim 20 wherein the control means comprises a wireless communication means between the hand-held switch unit and a control module affixed to the frame or trailer.
22. The device of claim 16 wherein the control means comprises a switch unit affixed to the frame or handle.
23. The device of claim 20 and claim 21 wherein the control means comprises circuitry to selectively apply an electric brake on one or more wheels of the trailer for the purpose of causing the trailer to change its direction of movement.
24. The device of claim 23 wherein the control means comprises circuitry to selectively vary the speed or rotation direction of one or more wheels of the trailer for the purpose of causing the trailer to change its direction of movement.
25. The device of claim 24 wherein the control means comprises a means to prevent towing the trailer with a tow vehicle while any of the components of the present invention are not in the correct state for towing.
26. The device of claim 25 wherein the drive mechanism comprises a speed reducer located between the motor and a drive wheel.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2958442A CA2958442A1 (en) | 2017-02-20 | 2017-02-20 | Powered trailer moving device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2958442A CA2958442A1 (en) | 2017-02-20 | 2017-02-20 | Powered trailer moving device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2958442A1 true CA2958442A1 (en) | 2018-08-20 |
Family
ID=63245256
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2958442A Abandoned CA2958442A1 (en) | 2017-02-20 | 2017-02-20 | Powered trailer moving device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2958442A1 (en) |
-
2017
- 2017-02-20 CA CA2958442A patent/CA2958442A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20200220 |