EP4719787A1

EP4719787A1 - Ground-mountable retractable trailer stand system

Info

Publication number: EP4719787A1
Application number: EP24813639.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Joseph J. Di Biase; Sean Miller; Timothy Hing-Yan Chung
Original assignee: Ideal Warehouse Innovations Inc
Current assignee: Ideal Warehouse Innovations Inc
Priority date: 2023-05-26
Filing date: 2024-05-24
Publication date: 2026-04-08
Also published as: WO2024243680A1; CA3231333A1; MX2025013778A

Abstract

An adjustable trailer support stand for supporting the underside of a trailer is provided. The trailer support stand comprises a base unit, a frame member that is driven to move relative to the base unit by a primary actuator, and a pair of movable support elements that are mounted on the frame member and are driven to move by a pair of actuators. The frame member can be driven from a stored position to a support position by the primary actuator. Once the frame member is in the support position, the pair of actuators can drive the movement of the pair of movable support elements such that the support elements abut and collectively support the underside of the trailer. In some embodiment, the support elements comprise a support member that is pivotably mounted therebetween for supporting the underside the trailer at an angle.

Description

GROUND-MOUNT ABLE RETRACTABLE TRAILER STAND SYSTEM

Field of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure relates to trailer stands for supporting the trailers of semi -tractor-trailer trucks parked at, for example, loading docks. In particular, the disclosure relates to aground-mountable, retractable trailer stand system.

Background of the Disclosure

[0002] Semi-tractor-trailer trucks are a combination of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailers used to transport freight. The semi-trailer attaches to the tractor unit with a fifth-wheel hitch. Depending on the region, this type of truck may be referred to as a transport truck, semi-tractor truck, tractor-trailer truck, articulated truck, artic, single truck, eighteen-wheeler, or articulated lorry. The trailer is equipped with landing gear, allowing for the raising, lowering, and support of the forward end of the trailer when it is not supported by, for example, a tractor unit, a shunt truck, a detachable front-axle assembly known as a dolly, or the tail of another trailer, in other words, when the trailer is freestanding.

[0003] When a trailer is delivered to, for example, a loading dock, the tractor unit positions the trailer and the operator detaches the kingpin from the fifth wheel, disconnects the service lines, and manually lowers the legs of the landing gear. This allows the tractor unit to be driven away and the trailer to stand freely on its supporting landing gear. Depending on the task, the trailer can be loaded or unloaded with, for example, a forklift or a fork-truck, which can cause the trailer to become nose-heavy and/or to rock side-to-side and/or frontwards and backwards. If the landing gear and/or points of attachment are faulty or are otherwise weakened, such as by wear and tear or by rust, the landing gear could collapse under the weight and/or movement of the trailer, causing the trailer to tip over or nose-dive, sometimes with forklift and operator inside. To prevent this, trailer jacks or trailer stands can be positioned under the nose of the parked trailer to provide a fail-safe support for the trailer if and when there is landing gear failure and/or collapse. Trailer jacks or stands that engage the underside of the trailer once positioned additionally provide stabilization of the trailer as it is unloaded or loaded, limiting or preventing the movement of the trailer back and forth and/or side to side while the forklift drives in and out of the trailer during the loading and/or unloading operations. However, many trailer jacks or trailer stands require personnel to manually position and remove them underneath the trailer, which can be dangerous to such personnel. [0004] A need, therefore, exists for the development of a trailer stand that obviates or mitigates at least one of the disadvantages described above or that provides a useful alternative.

Summary of the Disclosure

[0005] According to an aspect, there is provided a retractable trailer stand system for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand system comprising: a base unit comprising a bottom surface that is mountable to, or within, a ground surface, and a support frame; a frame member having a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit and a second end; a primary actuator connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a stored position and a support position where the second end of the frame member is disposed above the base unit; a support assembly comprising at least one support element that is movably connected to the frame member, the at least one support element having a connecting end with a contact surface that is shaped for supporting a portion of an underside of the trailer when the frame member is in the support position; and at least one actuator connected to the at least one support element for driving a motion of the at least one support element relative to the frame member when the frame member is in the support position, the at least one support element being movable between a retracted position where the contact surface of the at least one support element is disposed at a first distance above the base unit , and an extended position where the contact surface of the at least one support element is disposed at a second distance above the base unit , wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

[0006] In an embodiment, the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit such that when the frame member is in the stored position, the second end of the frame member is disposed within the support frame of the base unit.

[0007] In an embodiment, the base unit and the support frame define at least part of an enclosure for receiving the frame member and the primary actuator when the frame member is in the stored position. [0008] In an embodiment, the frame member comprises at least one guide channel that is disposed along a length of the frame member, and wherein the at least one support element is slidably mounted within the at least one guide channel for moving between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0009] In an embodiment, the frame member comprises a cover plate mounted to an outer surface thereof, and where the cover plate is shaped such that when the frame member is in the stored position, the cover plate defines an upper, covering surface of the base unit that covers at least a portion of an opening of the enclosure. [0010] In an embodiment, the base unit further comprises at least one cover plate covering at least a portion of the support frame.

[0011] In an embodiment, the at least one cover plate comprises at least front, rear, right, and left side walls that are removably attached between the base unit and the support frame, wherein a bottom end of each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls abuts at least one outer edge of the base unit, and wherein a top end of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls defines the opening of the enclosure. [0012] In an embodiment, each of the base unit and opening of the enclosure of the base unit have a substantially quadrilateral form, and wherein the base unit has a longer length and a longer width than a length and width of the opening of the enclosure such that each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls forms a ramp structure.

[0013] In an embodiment, the primary actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is pivotably connected to the base unit, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the frame member.

[0014] In an embodiment, the at least one actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is connected to the frame member and a second end that is connected to the at least one support element.

[0015] In an embodiment, the at least one support element is maintained in the retracted position when the frame member is in the stored position, and wherein the at least one support element can be driven between the extended position and the retracted position by the at least one actuator when the frame member is in the support position.

[0016] In an embodiment, the support assembly further comprises a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the support member is connected to the at least one support element, and wherein the support member is structured to provide the contact surface of the at least one support element.

[0017] In an embodiment, the at least one support element comprises a second end opposing the connecting end of the at least one support element, and wherein the at least one actuator is attached to the second end of the at least one support elements.

[0018] In an embodiment, the primary actuator comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder and wherein the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic cylinder.

[0019] In embodiment, when the frame member is in the support position, the first and second ends of the support member can be driven to move by the at least one actuator from the retracted position towards the extended position, until the contact surfaces of each of the first and second ends of the support member independently abut the underside of the trailer. [0020] In an embodiment, the retractable trailer stand system further comprising: at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary hydraulic cylinder and the at least one hydraulic cylinder for controlling the operation thereof; and at least first and second pressure sensors that are connected to the at least one controller and which are operably connected to the primary and at least one hydraulic cylinders, respectively, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained therewithin.

[0021] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of the contact surface of the first end of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer; receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensor that is indicative of the contact surface of the second end of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer; fixing a position of each of the first and second ends of the support member relative to the frame member by locking the at least one hydraulic cylinder, based on the first signal received from the first pressure sensor and the second signal received from the second pressure sensor.

[0022] In an embodiment, the magnitude of the first signal from the first pressure sensor and the magnitude of the second signal from the second pressure sensor are each proportional to a pressure that is being applied to the contact surfaces of the first and second ends of the support member by the trailer. [0023] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving the first signal and/or the second signal from at least one of the first and second pressure sensors, wherein the first and/or the second signal is indicative of the contact surface abutting the underside of the trailer; controlling each of the primary actuator and the at least one actuator such that a current position of the frame member and each of the first and second ends of the support member is maintained.

[0024] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: detecting a change in at least one of the first signal and the second signal from the first and second pressure sensors, wherein the change in the at least one of the first signal and second signal is indicative of a collapse of a set of landing gear of the trailer; and locking each of the primary actuator and the at least one actuator such that the contact surface of each of the first and second ends of the support member is maintained at the second distance above the base unit.

[0025] In an embodiment, the change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined maximum value.

[0026] In an embodiment, the change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a rate of change of a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined acceptable rate of change. [0027] In an embodiment, the at least one pressure sensor is a hydraulic pressure transducer.

[0028] In an embodiment, the frame member is movable between the stored position, the support position, and an intermediate position defined between the stored position and the support position, wherein the base unit further comprises a counterbalance biasing element mounted therein; and wherein the counterbalance biasing element is positioned within the base unit for biasing the frame member towards the intermediate position such that when the frame member is in the stored position and the primary actuator is driven to lift the frame member, the biasing force of the counterbalance biasing element will drive the frame member from the stored position to the intermediate position. According to another aspect, there is provided a retractable trailer stand for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand comprising a base unit comprising a face that is mountable to a ground surface and a support frame, a frame member comprising a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit, and a second end that is displaceable relative to the base unit, a primary actuator assembly connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a first position, and a second position where the second end of the support member is disposed above the base unit, a support assembly comprising at least one support element that is movably attached to the frame member, and a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the support member is pivotably connected to the at least one support element for supporting an underside of the trailer, and at least one actuator connected to the at least one support element, for driving a motion of the at least one support element between a first configuration where the first end of the support member is disposed at a first distance from the second end of the frame member and the second end of the support member is disposed at a second distance from the second end of the frame member such that the support member is inclined at a first angle relative to the base unit, and a second configuration where the first end of the support member is disposed at the first distance from the second end of the frame member and the second end of the support member is disposed at a third distance from the second end of the frame member such that the support member is inclined at a second angle relative to the base unit.

[0029] In an embodiment, the second distance is greater than the first distance such that when the first and second ends of the support member are in the first configuration, the first angle of the support member is in a first rotational direction relative to the base unit, and wherein the third distance is less than the first distance such that when the first and second ends of the support member are in the second configuration, the second angle of the support member is in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. [0030] In an embodiment, the at least one support element comprises a first end that is movably connected to the mounting structure, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the support member. [0031] In an embodiment, the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit such that when the frame member is in the first position, the second end of the frame member is disposed within the support frame of the base unit.

[0032] In an embodiment, the frame member further comprises a mounting structure.

[0033] In an embodiment, the primary actuator comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder and the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic cylinder, such that as the at least one support element is driven towards the extended position by the at least one hydraulic cylinder, the support member will abut the underside of the trailer and will pivot in one of the first or second rotational directions such that an angle of the support member corresponds to an angle of tilt of the underside of the trailer relative to the base unit.

[0034] In an embodiment, the retractable trailer stand further comprises: at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary hydraulic cylinder and the at least one hydraulic cylinder for controlling the operation thereof; at least first and second hydraulic pressure sensors that are connected to the at least one controller and which are connected to the primary hydraulic and the at least one hydraulic cylinder, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained therewithin; and at least first and second pressure sensors that connected to the at least one controller and which are connected to the first and second ends of the support member.

[0035] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of the first end of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer stand; receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensor that is indicative of the second end of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer; fixing a position of the at least one support element relative to the frame member by locking -off the fluid in the at least one hydraulic cylinder and thus fixing a position of the contact surfaces of the first and second ends of the support member relative to the underside of the trailer.

[0036] According to an aspect, there is provided a retractable trailer stand system for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand system comprising a base unit comprising a bottom surface that is mountable to a ground surface, and a support frame, a frame member having a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit, and a second end, a primary actuator connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a stored position and a support position where the second end of the frame member is disposed above the base unit, a support assembly comprising first and second support elements that are movably connected to the frame member, each of the first and second support elements having a connecting end with a contact surface that is shaped for supporting a portion of an underside of the trailer when the frame member is in the support position, first and second actuators connected to the first and second support elements for driving an independent motion of each of the first and second support elements relative to the frame member, the first and second support elements being movable between a retracted position where the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements is disposed at a first distance above the base unit, and an extended position where the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements is disposed at a second distance above the base unit, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

[0037] In an embodiment, the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit such that when the frame member is in the stored position, the second end of the frame member is disposed within the support frame of the base unit.

[0038] In an embodiment, the base unit and the support frame define at least part of an enclosure for receiving the frame member and the primary actuator when the frame member is in the stored position.

[0039] In an embodiment, the frame member comprises a pair of guide channels that are disposed along a length of the frame member, and wherein each of the first and second support elements are slidably mounted within one of the pair of guide channels for moving between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0040] In an embodiment, the frame member comprises a cover plate mounted to an outer surface thereof, and where the cover plate is shaped such that when the frame member is in the stored position, the cover plate defines an upper, covering surface of the base unit that covers at least a portion of an opening of the enclosure.

[0041] In an embodiment, the base unit further comprises at least one cover plate covering at least a portion of the support frame.

[0042] In an embodiment, the at least one cover plate comprises at least front, rear, right, and left side walls that are removably attached between the base unit and the support frame, wherein a bottom end of each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls abuts at least one outer edge of the base unit, and wherein a top end of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls defines the opening of the enclosure. [0043] In an embodiment, each of the base unit and opening of the enclosure of the base unit have a substantially quadrilateral form, and wherein the base unit has a longer length and a longer width than a length and width of the opening of the enclosure such that each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls forms a ramp structure. [0044] In an embodiment, the primary actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is pivotably connected to the base unit, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the frame member.

[0045] In an embodiment, the first actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is connected to the frame member and a second end that is connected to the first support element; and wherein the second actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is connected to the frame member and a second end that is connected to the second support element.

[0046] In an embodiment, each of the first and second support elements are maintained in the retracted position when the frame member is in the stored position, and wherein each of the first and second support elements can be driven between the extended position and the retracted position by the first and second actuators when the frame member is in the support position.

[0047] In an embodiment, the support assembly further comprises a support member that connects the first and second support elements, and wherein the support member is structured to provide the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements.

[0048] In an embodiment, each of the first and second support elements comprise a second end opposing the connecting ends of the first and second support elements, and wherein the first and second actuators are attached to the second ends of the first and second support elements, respectively.

[0049] In an embodiment, the primary actuator comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder, wherein the first actuator comprises a first hydraulic cylinder and wherein the second end comprises a second hydraulic cylinder.

[0050] In embodiment, when the frame member is in the support position, each of the first and second support elements can be driven to move independently by each of the first and second actuators from the retracted position towards the extended position, until the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements abuts the underside of the trailer.

[0051] In an embodiment, the retractable trailer stand system further comprising: at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary hydraulic cylinder, the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder for controlling the operation thereof; and at least first and second pressure sensors that are connected to the at least one controller and which are operably connected to the first and second hydraulic cylinders, respectively, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained therewithin.

[0052] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of the contact surface of the first support element abutting the underside of the trailer; receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensor that is indicative of the contact surface of the second support element abutting the underside of the trailer; fixing a position of each of the first and second support elements relative to the frame member by locking the first and second hydraulic cylinders, based on the first signal received from the first pressure sensor and the second signal received from the second pressure sensor.

[0053] In an embodiment, the magnitude of the first signal from the at least one first hydraulic sensor and the magnitude of the second signal from the at least one second pressure sensor are each proportional to a pressure that is being applied to the contact surfaces of the first and second support elements by the trailer.

[0054] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving the first signal and/or the second signal from at least one of the first and second pressure sensors, wherein the first and/or the second signal is indicative of the contact surface abutting the underside of the trailer; controlling each of the primary actuator, first actuator, and second actuator such that a current position of the frame member and each of the first and second support elements is maintained.

[0055] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: detecting a change in at least one of the first signal and the second signal from the first and second pressure sensors, wherein the change in the at least one of the first signal and second signal is indicative of a collapse of a set of landing gear of the trailer; and locking each of the primary actuator, first actuator and second actuator such that the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements is maintained at the second distance above the base unit.

[0056] In an embodiment, the change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined maximum value.

[0057] In an embodiment, the change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a rate of change of a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined acceptable rate of change.

[0058] In an embodiment, the at least one pressure sensor is a hydraulic pressure transducer.

[0059] In an embodiment, the frame member is movable between the stored position, the support position, and an intermediate position defined between the stored position and the support position, wherein the base unit further comprises a counterbalance biasing element mounted therein; and wherein the counterbalance biasing element is positioned within the base unit for biasing the frame member towards the intermediate position such that when the frame member is in the stored position and the primary actuator is driven to lift the frame member, the biasing force of the counterbalance biasing element will drive the frame member from the stored position to the intermediate position. [0060] According to another aspect, there is provided a retractable trailer stand for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand comprising a base unit comprising a face that is mountable to a ground surface and a support frame, a frame member comprising a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit, and a second end that is displaceable relative to the base unit, a primary actuator assembly connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a first position, and a second position where the second end of the support member is disposed above the base unit, a support assembly comprising first and second support elements that are independently, movably attached to the frame member, and a support member that is pivotably connected the first and second support elements for supporting an underside of the trailer, and first and second actuators connected to the first and second support elements, respectively, for driving a motion of the first and second support elements between a first configuration where the first support element is disposed at a first distance from the second end of the frame member and the second support element is disposed at a second distance from the second end of the frame member such that the support member is inclined at a first angle relative to the base unit, and a second configuration where the first support element is disposed at the first distance from the second end of the frame member and the second support element is disposed at a third distance from the second end of the frame member such that the support member is inclined at a second angle relative to the base unit.

[0061] In an embodiment, the second distance is greater than the first distance such that when the first and second support elements are in the first configuration, the first angle of the support member is in a first rotational direction relative to the base unit, and wherein the third distance is less than the first distance such that when the first and second support elements are in the second configuration, the second angle of the support member is in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

[0062] In an embodiment, each of the first and second support elements comprise a first end that is movably connected to the mounting structure, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the support member.

[0063] In an embodiment, the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit such that when the frame member is in the first position, the second end of the frame member is disposed within the support frame of the base unit.

[0064] In an embodiment, the frame member further comprises a mounting structure.

[0065] In an embodiment, the primary actuator comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder, wherein the first actuator comprises a first hydraulic cylinder and wherein the second end comprises a second hydraulic cylinder, and wherein the first hydraulic cylinder and second hydraulic cylinder are provided in selective fluid connection for equalizing an amount of a hydraulic fluid contained therewithin such that as the first and second support elements are driven towards the extended position by the first and second hydraulic cylinders, the support member will abut the underside of the trailer and will pivot in one of the first or second rotational directions such that an angle of the support member corresponds to an angle of tilt of the underside of the trailer relative to the base unit.

[0066] In an embodiment, the retractable trailer stand further comprises: at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary hydraulic cylinder and the first and second hydraulic cylinders for controlling the operation thereof; and at least first and second hydraulic pressure sensors that are connected to the at least one controller and which are mounted within the first and second hydraulic cylinders, respectively, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained therewithin.

[0067] In an embodiment, the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of a portion of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer stand; receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensor that is indicative of the entirety of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer stand; fixing a position of each of the first and second support elements relative to the frame member by locking- off the fluid communication between the first and second hydraulic cylinders.

[0068] The heights of trailers can vary drastically between types and sizes of trailers and between countries. The trailer stand system of the present invention provides an adjustable trailer stand that provides suitable support to support the varying weights of varied sizes of trailers, whether empty, partially loaded or fully loaded, over a prolonged period of time. The trailer stand system of the present invention accommodates for the differing heights of different trailers in order to provide a single solution for providing a safe and secure support for various trailers in various countries. It would be beneficial to [0069] Truck trailers can sometimes be parked on uneven terrain which can result in the deck of the trailer not being level with the ground surface upon which the trailer is parked. The trailer stand system of the present invention is capable of fully supporting the trailer when it is parked on uneven terrain and/or the deck of the trailer is not level with the ground surface. This aspect of the trailer stand system of the present invention can be important for trailers that are carrying heavy loads, as the trailer stand system of the present invention provides a stable and secure support even when the trailer is parked on uneven terrain and/or the deck of the trailer is not level with the ground surface. The trailer stand system provides a support stand that could accommodate for different angles and heights of the trailer in order to ensure that the trailer is supported safely and securely. [0070] The trailer stand system of the present invention provides an easy-to-use, reliable trailer stand support that can prevent a trailer from tipping over or nose-diving without the need for personnel to manually position the stand or remove it from underneath the trailer.

[0071] The novel features of the present invention will become apparent to those of skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description of the invention. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description of the invention and the specific examples presented, while indicating certain aspects of the present invention, are provided for illustration purposes only because various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those of skill in the art from the detailed description of the invention and claims that follow.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0072] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

[0073] Figure 1 A shows an isometric view of the trailer stand system in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, where the frame member is in the support position;

[0074] Figure IB shows a front view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1A with the frame member in the support position and the first and second support elements in the retracted position;

[0075] Figure 1C shows a side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1A with the frame member in the support position;

[0076] Figure 2A shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A, where the frame member is in the stored position;

[0077] Figure 2B shows a side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 2A with the frame member in the stored position;

[0078] Figure 3A shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A, where the frame member is in the support position and the first and second support elements are in the extended position;

[0079] Figure 3B shows a front view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A, where the frame member is in the support position and the first and second support elements are in the extended position; [0080] Figure 3C shows a side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1A, where the frame member is in the support position and the first and second support elements are in the extended position;

[0081] Figure 4A shows a front view of an additional embodiment of the trailer stand system of the present disclosure, where the first and second support elements comprise a support member connected therebetween, and the hollow rectangular members of the frame member are hidden from view;

[0082] Figure 4B shows a close-up view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 4A which comprises the support member;

[0083] Figure 5 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system of Figure 1A, where the frame member is in the stored position and the base unit comprises a conduit;

[0084] Figure 6A shows a right-side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1A, where the frame member is in the stored position and the trailer stand system is mounted on a ground surface with a trailer parked overtop of the trailer stand system;

[0085] Figure 6B shows a right-side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1A, where the trailer stand system is mounted on a ground surface with the trailer parked overtop of the trailer stand system, the frame member is in the support position and the first and second support elements are in the extended position;

[0086] Figure 7 shows a side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system of Figure 1A, where the base unit of the trailer stand system is mounted beneath a ground surface;

[0087] Figure 8A shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A, where the frame member is in an intermediate position;

[0088] Figure 8B shows a side view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A with the frame member in the intermediate position;

[0089] Figure 9A shows a side, cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1A, where the counterbalance biasing element is in a deflected or compressed position;

[0090] Figure 9B shows a side, cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A, where the counterbalance biasing element is in a non-deflected or relaxed position;

[0091] Figure 10A shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 4A, where the frame member is in the support position, and the first and second support elements are in the first configuration with the support member at a first angle; [0092] Figure 10B shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 4A, where the frame member is in the support position, and the first and second support elements are in the second configuration with the support member at a second angle;

[0093] Figure 11 A shows a front view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 4A, where the frame member is in the support position, and the first and second support elements are in the first configuration with the support member at the first angle;

[0094] Figure 1 IB shows a front view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system in Figure 4A, where the frame member is in the support position, and the first and second support elements are in the second configuration with the support member at the second angle;

[0095] Figure 12A shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the trailer stand system of Figure 1 A, there the frame member is in the stored position and one of the rear side walls of the protection plates has been removed;

[0096] Figure 12B shows a close-up view of the base unit and frame member of the trailer stand system in Figure 1 A, where the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit by a pivot assembly [0097] Figure 13 shows an isometric view of the trailer stand system in accordance with a second embodiment of the disclosure, where the frame member is in the support position;

[0098] Figure 14A shows a perspective view of the trailer stand system of Figure 13, where the locking mechanism is mounted on the frame member of the trailer stand system;

[0099] Figure 14B shows a close-up, perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 14A;

[00100] Figure 14C shows a close-up, perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 14A, where the at least one engagement element of the locking mechanism has been removed from the frame member;

[00101] Figure 14D shows a close-up, perspective view of the release actuator of the locking mechanism in Figure 14C;

[00102] Figure 14E shows a schematic diagram of the hydraulic circuit of the trailer support stand in Figure 13;

[00103] Figure 15 A shows a perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 14B, where the at least one engagement element is in an engaged position;

[00104] Figure 15B shows a perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 14B, where the at least one engagement element is in an unengaged position; [00105] Figure 15C shows a perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 14B, where the at least one engagement element is in an engaged position and the hollow frame member is removed from the frame member;

[00106] Figure 15D shows a perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 14B, where the at least one engagement element is in an unengaged position and the hollow frame member is removed from the frame member

[00107] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the trailer stand system of Figure 13, where the pivot assemblies comprise a pair of dynamic pivot assemblies;

[00108] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the trailer stand system in Figure 16, where the hollow frame member of the frame member is hidden from view;

[00109] Figure 18 shows a perspective view of one of the pair of dynamic pivot assemblies of Figure 16;

[00110] Figure 19A shows a perspective, section view of one of the pair of dynamic pivot assemblies of Figure 16, where the pivot member of the dynamic pivot assembly is in a non-pivoted position;

[00111] Figure 19B shows a perspective, section view of one of the pair of dynamic pivot assemblies of Figure 16, where the pivot member of the dynamic pivot assembly is in a pivoted position;

[00112] Figure 19C shows a side, section view of one of the pair of dynamic pivot assemblies of Figure 16, where the pivot member of the dynamic pivot assembly is in a non-pivoted position;

[00113] Figure 19D shows a perspective, section view of one of the pair of dynamic pivot assemblies of Figure 16, where the pivot member of the dynamic pivot assembly is in a pivoted position;

[00114] Figure 20 shows a perspective, section view along a long axis of one of the dynamic pivot assemblies of Figure 16;

[00115] Figure 21 shows a close-up, perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 13, where the release connector includes the pivoting arm assembly and the slider element is in the engaged position;

[00116] Figure 22 shows a close-up, perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 13, where the release connector includes the pivoting arm assembly and the slider element is in the unengaged position;

[00117] Figure 23 shows a close-up, perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 21, where the slider support bracket has been removed from the frame member;

[00118] Figure 24 shows a close-up, perspective view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 22, where the slider support bracket has been removed from the frame member; [00119] Figure 25 shows a front view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 13, where the release connector includes the pivoting arm assembly and the slider element is in the engaged position; and

[00120] Figure 26 shows a front view of the locking mechanism on the trailer stand system in Figure 13, where the release connector includes the pivoting arm assembly and the slider element is in the unengaged position.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[00121] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the Figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiment or embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. It should be understood at the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations and techniques illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[00122] Unless otherwise explained, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice for testing of the present invention, the typical materials and methods are described herein. In describing and claiming the present invention, the following terminology will be used.

[00123] Various terms used throughout the present description may be read and understood as follows, unless the context indicates otherwise: “or” as used throughout is inclusive, as though written “and/or”; singular articles and pronouns as used throughout include their plural forms, and vice versa; similarly, gendered pronouns include their counterpart pronouns so that pronouns should not be understood as limiting anything described herein to use, implementation, performance, etc. by a single gender; “exemplary” should be understood as “illustrative” or “exemplifying” and not necessarily as “preferred” over other embodiments. Further definitions for terms may be set out herein; these may apply to prior and subsequent instances of those terms, as will be understood from a reading of the present description. It will also be noted that the use of the term “a,” “an,” “the”, and “said” will be understood to denote “at least one” in all instances unless explicitly stated otherwise or unless it would be understood to be obvious that it must mean “one”.

[00124] The phrase “at least one of’ is understood to be one or more. The phrase “at least one of. ..and...” is understood to mean at least one of the elements listed or a combination thereof, if not explicitly listed. For example, “at least one of A, B, and C” is understood to mean A alone or B alone or C alone or a combination of A and B or a combination of A and C or a combination of B and C or a combination of A, B, and C. “At least one of at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C” is understood to mean at least one of A alone or at least one of B alone or at least one of C alone or a combination of at least one of A and at least one of B or a combination of at least one of A and at least one of C or a combination of at least one of B and at least one of C or a combination of at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.

[00125] Any range described herein is understood to include any incremental ranges or individual values therebetween.

[00126] In understanding the scope of the present application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not necessarily exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps, whether or not such other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps are described herein. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, "including", "having" and their derivatives. It will be understood that any embodiments described as “comprising” certain components may also “consist of’ or “consist essentially of,” wherein “consisting of’ has a closed-ended or restrictive meaning and “consisting essentially of’ means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effects described herein. For example, a composition defined using the phrase “consisting essentially of’ encompasses any known pharmaceutically acceptable additive, excipient, diluent, carrier, and the like. Typically, a composition consisting essentially of a set of components will comprise less than 5% by weight, typically less than 3% by weight, more typically less than 1% by weight of non-specified components. [00127] It will be understood that any component defined herein as being included may be explicitly excluded from the claimed invention by way of proviso or negative limitation, such as any specific compounds or method steps, whether implicitly or explicitly defined herein.

[00128] In addition, all ranges given herein include the end of the ranges and also any intermediate range points, whether explicitly stated or not.

[00129] Terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree should be construed as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies.

[00130] The abbreviation, “e.g.” is derived from the Latin exempli gratia, and is used herein to indicate a non-limiting example. Thus, the abbreviation “e.g.” is synonymous with the term “for example.” The word “or” is intended to include “and” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[00131] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may comprise more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

[00132] The embodiments of the disclosures described herein are exemplary (e.g., in terms of materials, shapes, dimensions, and constructional details) and do not limit by the claims appended hereto and any amendments made thereto. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that there are yet more alternative implementations and modifications possible, and that the following examples are only illustrations of one or more implementations. The scope of the disclosure, therefore, is only to be limited by the claims appended hereto and any amendments made thereto.

[00133] With reference to Figures 1 A to 3C and Figure 5 to 9B, an embodiment of a retractable, trailer stand system 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. The trailer stand system 100 comprises a base unit 110 that comprises a bottom surface that is mountable to, or partially or completely underneath, a ground surface 106, and a support frame 112, while also comprising a frame member 120 having a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit 110, and a second end 120a. The trailer stand system 100 also comprises a primary actuator 140 connected to the base unit 110 and to the frame member 120 for driving a movement of the frame member 120 between a stored position (such as shown in Figure 2A) and a support position where the second end 120a of the frame member 120 is disposed above the base unit 110 (such as shown in Figure 1A). The trailer stand system 100 also comprises a support assembly 130 comprised of at least one support element, in this embodiment, first and second support elements 132, 134, that are movably connected to the frame member 120. Each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 has a connecting end 132a, 134a with a contact surfaces 132b, 134b that is shaped for supporting a portion of the underside 108 of a trailer 102 when the frame member 120 is in the support position. The trailer stand system 100 also comprises at least one support element actuator that is connected to the at least one support element, for driving motion of the at least one support element relative to the frame member 120, in this embodiment, first and second actuators 142, 144 that are connected to the first and second support elements 132, 134 for driving an independent motion of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 120. The first and second support elements 132, 134 are movable relative to the frame member 120, when the frame member 120 is in the support position, between a retracted position where the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are disposed at a first distance (DI) above the base unit 110 (see Figure IB), and an extended position where the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are disposed at a second distance (D2) above the base unit 110 (see Figure 3B), the second distance (D2) being greater than the first distance (D 1).

[00134] The embodiments of the trailer stand system 100 as provided herein may be configured for supporting a trailer 102, such as shown in Figures 6A and 6B. The trailer 102 may comprise a set of trailer landing gear 104, various forms of which are well established in the art, as well as one or more sets of trailer wheel assemblies which are also known in the art. The trailer stand system 100 may be structured such that it supports the trailer 102 when the base unit 110 is installed atop the ground surface 106, as shown in Figures 1A, IB, 3B, 6A and 6B, or when the base unit 110 is installed at least partially under the ground surface 106, as shown in Figure 7. For example, as shown in Figure 7, trailer stand system 100 may be installed beneath the ground surface 106 such that an upper surface 114 (shown most clearly in Figure 5) of the trailer stand system 100 is substantially flush or level with the ground surface 106.

[00135] In an exemplary embodiment of the trailer stand system 100, the base unit 110 has a substantially rectangular form.

[00136] In an exemplary embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 has a width such that when a trailer is backed-up to a loading dock, it fits completely, or substantially, between the wheels of the reversing trailer or the wheels of the reversing trailer ride over merely the longitudinal outside edges of the base unit 110.

[00137] In an exemplary embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 has a width of about 58 inches to about 62 inches and a length of about 72 inches to about 76 inches.

[00138] In an exemplary embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 has a width of about 60 inches and a length of about 74 inches.

[00139] In an exemplary embodiment, the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 100 is formed such that when the trailer stand system 100 is mounted to a ground surface 106 and the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the height of the base unit above the ground surface 106 is about 4 inches to about 8 inches.

[00140] In an exemplary embodiment, the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 100 is formed such that when the trailer stand system 100 is mounted to a ground surface 106 and the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the height of the base unit above the ground surface 106 is about 6 inches.

[00141] In the embodiments of the trailer stand system 100 where the trailer stand system 100 is at least partially installed beneath the ground surface 106 as an in-ground surface installation, the in-ground surface installation of the trailer stand system 100 may be within a concrete enclosure or onto a concrete pad, so as to provide a stable substrate to which to attach the trailer stand system 100, such as by a bolted connection.

[00142] As provided above, the trailer stand system 100 comprises the frame member 120 that is pivotably attached to the base unit 110, and that is moveable between the storage position (shown in Figures 2A and 2B) and the support position (shown in Figures 1A to 1C and Figures 3 A to 3C). When in the support position, the frame member 120 can support the trailer 102 via contact with an underside 108 of the trailer 102, as shown in Figure 6B.

[00143] In an embodiment, the pivoting attachment of the frame member 120 to the base unit 110 may be formed via various known pivoting connection mechanisms. For example, the frame member 120 may be attached to the support frame 112 of the base unit 110 via a pin connection, where the support frame 112 provides mounting apertures of the connection, and one or more pins are formed on the frame member 120 and are pivotably mounted in each of the mounting apertures of the support frame 112.

[00144] In an embodiment such as shown in Figure 12B, the frame member 120 is pivotably connected at the first end thereof to the base unit 110 via a pivot assembly 118. In an embodiment, the pivot assembly 118 comprises a left pivot bracket 118a and a right pivot bracket 118b, and a pivot shaft 119 for pivotably moving the frame member 120 between the stored position and the support position. As discussed above, the second end 120a of the frame member 120 is a free end which, when the frame member 120 is raised to its support position, is capable of supporting the trailer 102, and if and when the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 is incapable of sufficiently supporting the trailer 102, or the landing gear 104 collapses, the frame member 120 is thus capable of preventing such a trailer 102 from tipping over or nose diving.

[00145] In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 12B, the pivot assembly 118 comprises a pair of horizontally spaced-apart pivot brackets comprising a left pivot bracket 118a and a right pivot bracket 118b. The left pivot bracket 118a and the right pivot bracket 118b are horizontally spaced-apart within the enclosure 116 across the width of the base unit 110, and engage with at least a portion of the first end of the frame member 120, for example, the pivot flanges 120b of the frame member 120. Each of the left pivot bracket 118a and the right pivot bracket 118b are identical, having a front end, a rear end, a left side, and a right side. In an embodiment, the left pivot bracket 118a and the right pivot bracket 118b each comprise a pair of horizontally spaced-apart pivot bracket side plates, a left pivot bracket side plate forming the left side of each pivot bracket 118a, 118b and a right pivot bracket side plate forming the right side of each pivot bracket 118a, 118b. The horizontally spaced-apart pivot bracket side plates define a central gap or channel therebetween. The width of the gap or channel (i.e., the distance between the left and right pivot bracket side plates) equals, or slightly exceeds, the width of the bottom end of pivot flanges 120b of the frame member 120 to thereby permit the bottom end of the pivot flanges 120b to pivot freely within the left pivot bracket 118a and the right pivot bracket 118b.

[00146] In an embodiment, each pivot bracket side plate is identical and has a front end terminating in a front edge, a rear end terminating in a rear edge, a top terminating in a top edge, a bottom terminating in a bottom edge, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The bottom edge of the pivot bracket side plate is in abutting relation with the base unit 110 to affect fixed securement thereto. In an embodiment, the top of the pivot bracket side plate slopes downward from the rear end toward the front end such that the rear end is higher than the front end. The transition from the top edge to the rear edge is substantially rounded and the transition from the top edge to the front edge is substantially square. A pivot shaft bore for receiving the pivot shaft 119 is formed in the pivot bracket side plate proximate the transition from the top edge to the rear edge. In an embodiment, the pivot bracket side plate is a flat plate member. A pivot shaft bore for receiving the pivot shaft 119 is also formed in the pivot flanges 120b of the frame member 120. When the pivot flange 120b is inserted in the width of the gap or channel between the left and right pivot bracket side plates and the pivot shaft bore of the pivot flange 120b is aligned with the pivot shaft bores of the left and right pivot bracket side plates, the pivot shaft 119 can be received within the aligned pivot shaft bores to effect the pivoting attachment of the pivot assembly 118.

[00147] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures IB to 3C, the frame member 120 is structured for movably supporting various aspects of the first and second support elements 132, 134.

[00148] In the same embodiment, the frame member 120 comprises a pair of guide channels 128 that extend at least partially along the length of the frame member 120. The pair of guide channels 128 may be integrally formed with the frame member 120 or may be separate components mounted thereon, or otherwise fixed thereto, such as, for example, by welding, to, the frame member 120. Each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are slidably mounted within one ofthe pair of guide channels 128 for moving between the retracted position and the extended position, relative to the frame member 120. In the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 1A, IB, 3A and 3B, the frame member 120 comprises a pair of hollow rectangular members 126, where the pair of hollow rectangular members 126 are formed along the length of an inner side ofthe frame member 120, on either side of a point of connection between the primary actuator 140 and the frame member 120. Each of the pair of guide channels 128 is defined within one of a pair of hollow rectangular members 126, and each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are formed as first and second rectangular support bodies that are slidably mounted within one of the pair of hollow rectangular members 126.

[00149] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 2A and 2B, the frame member 120 also comprises a rectangular cover plate 122 that is mounted to a rear side of the frame member 120 and covers substantially the entirety of the rear side of the frame member 120. The rectangular cover plate 122 also comprises a cover surface defined along an outer side thereof. In some embodiments, the cover plate 122 is formed as a component that is separate from the frame member 120, where the cover plate 122 is attached to the frame member 120, such as via welding or one or more mechanical fasteners. In an alternate embodiment, the cover plate 122 is an integral cover plate that is formed as part of the structure ofthe frame member 120.

[00150] As provided previously, each connecting end 132a, 134a of each first and second support element 132, 134, comprises the corresponding one of the contact surfaces 132b, 134b for contacting the underside 108 of atrailer 102 when the frame member 120 is in the support position. The contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the connecting ends 132a, 134a of each first and second support elements 132, 134 may comprise any suitable material for supporting the trailer 102 through contact, such as metal. Furthermore, the contact surfaces 132b, 134b may be checkered or otherwise comprise some textured pattern to increase friction between the contact surfaces 132b, 134b and the underside 108 of the trailer 102 supported thereon.

[00151] In an additional embodiment, each of the firstand second support elements 132, 134 comprise a mounting end 132c, 134c opposing the connecting ends 132a, 134a. The mounting ends 132c, 134c of the first and second support elements 132, 134, are each attached to an end of one of the first and second actuators 142, 144, respectively.

[00152] During the operation of the trailer stand system 100, actuation of the primary actuator 140 causes the frame member 120 to pivot about the pivotal connection of the frame member 120 and the base unit 110 such that the second end 120a of the frame member 120 pivots away from the base unit 110 until the frame member 120is in a support position (see Figures 1A to 1C).

[00153] When the frame member 120 is disposed in the stored position, each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are maintained in the retracted position. As shown in Figure 1A to 1C, when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the retracted position, the first and second support elements 132, 134, are retracted within the hollow rectangular members 126 such that the connecting ends 132a, 134a of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are disposed at the same position along the length of the frame member 120. Once the frame member 120 has been moved from the stored position (and specifically when the frame member 120 is in the support position) each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be driven back and forth between the retracted position and the extended position by the first and second actuators 142, 144. Once the frame member 120 is in the support position, each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be driven to move by each of the first and second actuators 142, 144 from the retracted position towards the extended position, until each contactsurface 132b, 134b of the connecting ends 132a, 134a of the first and second support elements 132, 134 abuts the underside 108 ofthe trailer 102 such that the frame member 120 is supporting a portion of the trailer 102 over the ground surface 106.

[00154] It will be readily understood that the support position of the frame member 120 as recited herein may be defined at various positions and orientations of the frame member 120 relative to the base unit 110, provided that the position and orientation of the frame member 120 is not substantially equivalent to the position and orientation ofthe frame member 120 when the frame member 120 is in the stored position.

[00155] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 1A to 3C, the support position of the frame member 120 is defined at a position where the frame member 120, cover plate 122 and first and second support elements 132, 134 are oriented in a substantially vertical, upright position. [00156] It will be readily understood that, depending on the height of the underside 108 of a given trailer 108 and the height at which the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the first and second support elements 132, 134 of the support assembly 130 is disposed above the ground surface 106, each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 of the support assembly 130 may support at least a portion of the weight of the trailer 102 when the frame member 120 is in the support position and when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the retracted position.

[00157] It will be readily understood that each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 of the support assembly 130 may support at least a portion of the weight of the trailer 102 when the frame member 120 is in the support position and when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are raised into an extended position. It will also be readily understood that in some embodiments, the extended position of the first support element 132 is not the same as the extended position of the second support element 134. Said another way, the first and second support elements 132, 134 are separately, independently movable such that the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the connecting ends 132a, 134a of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 ofthe support assembly 130 can support the trailer 102 at various, independent distances relative to the base unit 110.

[00158] In one such embodiment shown in Figure 3A to 3C, when the frame member 120 is in the support position, each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 may be at least partially raised out of the retracted position into an extended position where the connecting ends 132a, 134a of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are disposed at the same position along the length of the frame member 120. The first and second support elements 132, 134 are independently slidable within the guide channels 128 such that the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be driven by the first and second actuators 142, 144 to various distances relative to the base unit 110 or the frame member 120. The first and second support elements 132, 134 can be raised to varying degrees so as to contactingly support the underside 108 of different trailers 102 of various heights over the ground surface 106.

[00159] By supporting the trailer 102 through contact with contact surfaces 132b, 134b ofthe first and second support elements 132, 134, the trailer stand system 100 is expected to provide certain benefits. For example, during a loading or unloading operation of the trailer 102, a forklift entering and exiting a docked trailer, and the loading or unloading of product from the trailer 102, may cause the trailer 102 to roll and/or pitch (i.e., move or angle up, down, forward, backward, or to a side, or any combination of these movements). Such motion may fatigue the frame of the trailer 102 and/or weld and rivet points of the frame, as well as the landing gear 104 (as shown in Figures 6A and 6B) of the trailer 102 and the surface material of the ground surface 106. Such movement of the trailer 102 may also cause damage to dock equipment, such as the dock bumpers, dock seals or shelters, and dock levelers etc. As such, the average useful life of a trailer 102, ground surface and/or dock structures, may be reduced largely due to the forces incurred during loading or unloading operations of the trailer 102. Further, the wear caused to the trailer landing gear 104 by such stresses may cause landing gear 104 to weaken and/or collapse under the loads incurred during a loading/unloading operation, or the surface material of the ground surface 106 to give way, which may result in tipping, nose-diving and collapse of the trailer 102, possibly with driver and forklift inside . A further potential cause of a collapse of the trailer 102 is a heavily loaded trailer nose, which can cause the trailer 102 to tip forward or nosedive. By supporting the trailer 102 through contact by the trailer stand system 100, the trailer stand system 100 may reduce the motion of a trailer 102 during loading/unloading operations and as such, may increase the life of the trailer 102, the landing gear 104, the ground surface 106 and/or all loading dock equipment and components placed under stress during loading/unloading operations.

[00160] As provided above, the trailer stand system 100 also comprises the primary actuator 140 that is connected between the base unit 110 and the frame member 120 for moving the frame member 120 between the storage position and the support position.

[00161] In an embodiment, the primary actuator 140 is formed as a linear actuator that is connected to the base unit 110 and the frame member 120 for driving the motion of the frame member 120 between the stored position and the support position. The linear actuator has a first end that is pivotably connected to the base unit 110, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the frame member 120. With reference to the specific embodiments of Figures 1A to 1C and Figures 3 A to 3C, the primary actuator 140 is attached at one end thereof to the base unit 110 and at another end thereof to a portion of the frame member 120.

[00162] In an additional embodiment, the pivotal connections of the first and/or second ends of the primary actuator 140 may be formed via various known pivoting connection mechanisms, such as the connecting structure 141 (see Figure IB), to which the primary actuator 140 is pivotably attached. In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 1A to 1C and 3A to 3C, wherein the primary actuator 140 is a primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, the connecting structure 141 is a pin connection, where a bracket of the connecting structure 141 is mounted to the cover plate 122, and a pin of the connecting structure 141 is mounted to a translating tube of the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a.

[00163] As provided above, the trailer stand system 100 also comprises the first and second actuators 142, 144 that are connected, respectively, to the first and second support elements 132, 134 for driving the movement thereof between the retracted position and the extended position. [00164] In an embodiment such as shown in Figure 1, the trailer stand system 100 may comprise at least one sensor 158 to detect and/or monitor the position of the frame member 120 relative to the base unit 112 and to identify and/or signal when the frame member 120 is in its support and/or stored positions and/or to limit any further pivoting of the frame member 120 beyond its support and/or stored positions. In this embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 comprises a sensor 158 that detects, monitors, identifies and/or signals the position of the frame member 120 when it reaches its support position. In this embodiment, once the frame member 120 is detected by the sensor 158 to have reached its support position, the sensor 158 may affect the limiting of any further pivoting of the frame member 120 beyond its support position. Alternatively, or additionally, the trailer stand system 100 may comprise a sensor 158 that detects, monitors, identifies and/or signals the position ofthe frame member 120 when it reaches its lowered stored position. In this embodiment, once the frame member 120 is detected by the sensor 158 to have reached its lowered stored position, the sensor 158 may also affect the limiting of any further pivoting ofthe frame member 120 beyond its lowered, stored position. A single sensor 158 may be used to detect both when the frame member 120 reaches its support position and when the frame member 120 reaches its lowered stored position or separate sensors 158 may be used, one sensor 158 to detect when the frame member 120 reaches its support position and a second, separate sensor 158 to detect when the frame member 120 reaches its lowered stored position.

[00165] In some embodiments, the at least one sensor 158 is connected to the primary actuator which controls the motion of the frame member 120 relative to the base unit 112. In this way, based on the at least one sensor 158 indicating that the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the primary actuator 140 can be locked in place such that the frame member 120 remains in the stored position. Likewise, based on the at least one sensor 158 indicating that the frame member 120 is in the support position, the primary actuator 140 can be locked such that the frame member 120 cannot be lowered from the support position to the stored position.

[00166] The sensor 158 can be either a contact sensor that relies on physical touch or contact between the sensor 158 and the frame member 120 or a non-contact sensorthat does not require a physical touch or contact between the sensor 158 and the frame member 120 in order to function. The sensor 158 can be of a mechanical- electrical- or electronic-based sensing means for detecting the position of the frame member 120 relative to the base unit 110. For example, the sensor 158 can be a mechanical sensor, an electrical or electronic sensor, an electro-mechanical sensor, a motion sensor, a position sensor, a proximity sensor, a pressure sensor (including but not limited to a pressure transducer or a pressure transmitter) a force sensor, a photoelectric sensor etc. For example, the sensor 158 can be a limit switch or similar mechanical contact switch, or it can be in the form of a proximity sensor such as an IR proximity sensor.

[00167] In an embodiment, the sensor 158 comprises at least one limit switch, where the limit switch (sensor 158) is mounted within the enclosure 116, for example, to the support frame 112 of the base unit 110 and is engaged, for example, by the first, or lower, end of the frame member 120 when the frame member 120 reaches its support position. In an embodiment, the limit switch detects, monitors, identifies and/or signals when the frame member 120 is in its support position. In an embodiment, the limit switch also functions to limit any further pivoting of the frame member 120 beyond its support position. In an embodiment, the limit switch functions to limit any further pivoting of the frame member 120 beyond its support position by communicating directly or indirectly, electrically, or otherwise, with the primary actuator 140 to stop the primary actuator 140 from further moving the frame member 120 beyond its support position. In an embodiment, the sensor 158, when not engaged by the first, or lower, end of frame member 120, detects, monitors, identifies and/or signals that the frame member 120 is not in its support position.

[00168] In an embodiment, the sensor 158 comprises at least one limit switch, where the limit switch (sensor 158) is mounted within the enclosure 116, for example, to the support frame 112 of the base unit 110 and is engaged, for example, by the second end 120a of the frame member 120 when the frame member 120 reaches its lowered, stored position. In an embodiment, the limit switch detects, monitors, identifies and/or signals when the frame member 120 is in its stored position. In an embodiment, the limit switch also functions to limit any further pivoting of the frame member 120 beyond its storage position. In an embodiment, the limit switch functions to limit any further pivoting of the frame member 120 beyond its stored position by communicating directly or indirectly, electrically, or otherwise, with the primary actuator 140 to stop the primary actuator 140 from further moving the frame member 120 beyond its stored position. In an embodiment, the sensor 158, when not engaged by the second end 120a of the frame member 120, detects, monitors, identifies and/or signals that the frame member 120 is not in its stored position.

[00169] In accordance with some embodiments, the trailer stand system 100 may further comprise an illuminating mechanism on an interior of the base unit 110, for example, in the enclosure 116. The at least front, rear, right, and/or left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, and/or the upper surface 114, may have apertures formed therein such that illumination of the illuminating mechanism is visually perceivable by persons and vehicles exterior to the trailer stand system 100. The illuminating mechanism may comprise a rope or string light, such as an LED light, traversing a general perimeter region of the trailer stand system 100, and may be held within apertures formed in support frame 112 of the base unit 110. The illuminating mechanism may serve to provide light to those around the trailer stand system 100, such as drivers or pedestrians, which may further improve safety by making more clearly visible the placement of the trailer stand system 100, which may also serve to prevent damage to the trailer stand system 100, for example during removal of snow from the surface 114 by snow plows. Further, the illuminating mechanism may serve to provide messaging to persons viewing the trailer stand system 100, such as warning lights indicating that the trailer stand system 100 is in operation. For example, the illuminating mechanism may comprise two adjacent LED strip lights, one white and one red. The red LED strip lights may be activated and may also flash (such as once every approximately one second), for example, whenever the primary actuator 140 is activated.

[00170] In some embodiments, the activation of the primary actuator 140 will also trigger the trailer stand system 100 to generate an audible sound or alarm, such as a beeping sound (such as that used for forklifts while reversing) via a warning buzzer or beeper such that the illumination mechanism and the audible beeping collectively indicate the activation of the primary actuator 140, which may further improve safety by notifying persons in the vicinity of the trailer stand system 100 that the trailer stand system 100 is in operation. The white LED strip light may be turned off while the red LED lights are flashing, and the white LED strip lights may otherwise remain on (i.e., when the trailer stand system 100 is receiving power and the primary actuator 140 is not in operation).

[00171] In the exemplary embodiment provided in Figure 12A, a surface mount alarm 182 is provided within the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 100 to generate the audible sound or alarm in order to indicate the activation of the primary actuator 140. In this embodiment, the surface mount alarm 182 is mounted within a recess formed within the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 100,

[00172] As provided above, the trailer stand system 100 is generally structured so that the first and second support elements 132, 134 are movable relative to the frame member 120 only when the frame member 120 is in the support position. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor 158 is also connected to the first and second actuators 142, 144 which control the motion of the first and second actuators 142, 144. In this way, based on the at least one sensor 158 indicating that the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the first and second actuators 142, 144 can be locked in place such that the first and second support elements 132, 134 remain in the retracted position. Likewise, based on the at least one sensor 158 indicating that the frame member 120 is not in the stored position, and for example, is in the support position, the first and second actuators 142, 144 can be unlocked such that the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be raised from the retracted position to the extended position. [00173] The trailer stand system 100 can be configured in various embodiments for use with varied sizes and types of trailers in various jurisdictions. From trailer-to-trailer and from country-to-country, the length and width of a trailer 102, and the height of the underside 108 of a trailer 102, can vary considerably. For example, depending on the type of trailer 102 and the jurisdiction, the length of trailers 102 can typically vary from about 28 feet to about 53 feet, the width of trailers can typically vary from about 96 inches to about 102 inches, and the height of the underside 108 of trailers 102 can typically vary from about 46 inches to about 52 inches.

For example, the first and second support elements 132, 134 and frame member 120 can be structured in various sizes and configurations so as to support the different heights of the undersides 108 of different trailers 102. In one embodiment, the first and second support elements 132, 134 and frame member 120 are sized such that when the frame member 120 is in the support position and the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the retracted position, the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are positioned at a height of about 34 inches to about 40 inches, in another embodiment, of about 36 to about 38 inches, from the ground surface 106, and when the frame member 120 is in the support position and the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the extended position, the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are positioned at a height of about 50 inches to about 58 inches, in another embodiment, about 52 inches to about 56 inches, from the ground surface 106.

[00174] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, each of the first and second actuators 142, 144 comprise a first end that is connected to the frame member 120, and a second end that is pivotably connected to a mounting end 132c, 134c of one of the first and second support elements 132, 134. As with the pivotal connection of the primary actuator 140, the connections of the first and/or second ends of each of the first and second actuators 142, 144 may be formed as various known pivoting connection mechanisms, such as a connection that is similar or substantially the same as the connecting structure 141 through which the primary actuator 140 is pivotably attached to the frame member 120.

[00175] It will be appreciated that the specific components making up any such pivoting connection as described herein, may comprise any combination of known structures or mechanisms for effecting the described movements and generally, for effecting the ability to raise frame member 120 from the stored position, to the support position, where the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the first and second support elements 132, 132 are spaced from the underside 108 of the trailer 102, after which the first and second support elements 132, 134, can be upwardly extended, or raised, if required, until supportive contact is made with a trailer’s 102 underside 108 by the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of the first and second support elements 132, 134.

[00176] While such action has been described herein by way of the frame member 120 , as well as the first and second support elements 132, 134, it will be appreciated that other mechanisms permitting the movements of the frame member 120 and the first and second support elements 132, 134 may be employed. The primary actuator 140 may be any mechanism known to persons skilled in the art that is capable of moving the frame member 120 between the stored position, any in-between position, including an intermediate position, and the support position, and capable of maintaining the frame member 120 in the support position while supporting a trailer at all times before, during and after loading and unloading, including any suitable hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, mechanical, magnetic, electromechanical, and the like mechanism (or any combination thereof). Likewise, first and second actuators 142, 144 may be any mechanism known to persons skilled in the art that is capable of moving the support elements 132, 134 between the retracted position and the an extended position, and capable of maintaining the support elements 132, 134 in the extended position while supporting a trailer at all times before, during and after loading and unloading, including any suitable hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, mechanical, magnetic, electromechanical, and the like mechanism (or any combination thereof).

[00177] In an embodiment, each of the first and second actuators 142, 144 that drive the motion of the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 120 are configured as the same type of actuator. In one such embodiment shown in Figure 4A and 4B, the first actuator 142 is a linear actuator which has a first end that is connected to the frame member 120, and a second end that is connected to the first support element 132. Similarly, the second actuator 144 is also a linear actuator which has a first end that is connected to the frame member 120, and a second end that is connected to the second support element 134.

[00178] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the primary actuator 140 comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, and the first actuator 142 and second actuator 144 comprise a first hydraulic cylinder 142a and a second hydraulic cylinder 144a, respectively. The measurements of the primary actuator 140, the first actuator 142 and the second actuator 144 will depend on the desired size and configuration of the trailer stand assembly 100. In exemplary embodiments, the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a may have a retracted length of about 22 to about 26 inches, an extended length of about 34 inches to about 42 inches, and a stroke length of about 12 inches to about 16 inches. In exemplary embodiments, the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a, respectively, may have a retracted length of about 24 inches to about 28 inches, an extended length of about 38 inches to about 46 inches, and a stroke length of about 14 inches to about 18 inches.

[00179] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the first hydraulic cylinder 142a may be pivotably attached at an end thereof to frame member 120, and pivotably attached at an end thereof to the mounting end 132c of the first support element 132. Also as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the second hydraulic cylinder 144a may be attached at an end thereof to the frame member 120 and may also be attached at an end thereof to the mounting end 134c of the second support element 134.

[00180] As shown in Figure 12A, the trailer stand assembly 100 may comprise a manifold assembly 188 for regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid into, out of, and between, the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a, respectively. The manifold assembly 188 may comprise at least one manifold block 188a, at least one pressure transducer 188b to measure the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the assembly and to output an electrical signal commensurate with the pressure, and at least one limit switch (not shown), to control the flow of hydraulic fluid into, out of, and between, the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a, respectively.

[00181] In an embodiment, each of the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a comprises a counterbalance valve 440 that is fluidly connected thereto to safely hold suspended loads and/or deal with over-running loads. The counterbalance valves 440 are provided with each of the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a in order to control and regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid into and out of the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a and if needed, enable the opening up, and closing off (or locking), of the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a so as to allow and prevent the circulation of hydraulic fluid in or out of one or more of the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a. Controlling and regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid into and out of the hydraulic cylinders allows control of the operation of the hydraulic cylinders. For example, if the trailer stand system 100 detects that a predetermined amount of the supporting ability of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 to support the trailer 102 has been compromised such as there has been a partial or complete failure of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 and the system 100 is supporting the weight of the trailer 102 over a threshold value, the counterbalance valves 440 can be used to lock the hydraulic cylinders in place by preventing the flow of hydraulic fluid out of the cylinders.

[00182] In an embodiment such as shown in Figure 4A, each of the counterbalance valves 440 comprises a counterbalance valve block 440b. The first and second hydraulic pressure sensors are configured as first and second pressure transducers 440a to measure the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a and to output an electrical signal commensurate with the pressure therein and are fluidly connected to each of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a via the counterbalance valve blocks 440b.

[00183] In an additional embodiment, the frame member 120 may be pivotably attached to base unit 110 such as by a pivot assembly 118. In this way, pivoting of frame member 120 about a pivot assembly 118 causes the attached first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a to similarly pivot to the support position, where the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a are ready to be actuated to raise the respective first and second support elements 132, 134 until contact is made between the contact surfaces 132b, 134b and the underside 108 of the trailer 102.

[00184] In an embodiment, the frame member 120 is pivotably mounted to the base unit 110 such that when the frame member 120 is in the stored position, a second end 120a of the frame member 120 is disposed within the support frame 112 of the base unit 110. As shown in Figures 1A to 1C and 3A to 3C, the support frame 112 comprises a through-slot 112a that is sized to receive the second end 120a of the frame member 120 when it is in the stored position. The frame member 120 is pivotably mounted to the support frame 112 such that when the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the frame member 120 and cover plate 122 are also oriented to be substantially adjacent to the base unit 110, and to extend substantially parallel along a length of the base unit 110.

[00185] In some embodiments, frame member 120 comprises the rectangular cover plate 122 wherein the cover plate 122 is shaped such that when the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the cover plate 122 defines an upper surface 114 of the base unit 110, and the cover plate 122 covers at least a portion of an opening in the top of the enclosure 116. When the frame member 120 is in the stored position, the upper surface 114 of the base unit 110 may also provide a surface over which pedestrians and/or vehicles, including loaded trailers, may traverse.

[00186] In an additional embodiment, the base unit 110 further comprises at least one protection plate 160 covering at least a portion of the support frame 112. In some embodiments, the cover plate 122 and the at least one protection plate 160 collectively shield the base unit 110 and support frame 112.

[00187] In an additional embodiment, the at least one protection plate 160 comprises a plurality of protection plates that comprise at least front, rear, right, and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d. The front, rear, right and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d are removably attached between the base unit 110 and the support frame 112, and each of the front, rear, right and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d have a bottom end and a top end. As shown in Figures 2A, 2B and 5, the front, rear, right and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d are mounted between the base unit 110 and the support frame 112, such that the bottom ends of each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d abuts at least one outer edge of the base unit 110, and such that the top ends of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d collectively define the opening of the enclosure 116.

[00188] Each of the side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d may comprise a single, unitary piece, or multiple pieces. For example, in the example embodiment shown in Figure 2A, the front side wall 160a comprises two outer pieces separated by a conduit 161 and a front access panel 162, as well as an additional, central piece that is formed above the front access panel 162. Each of the remaining side walls 160b, 160c, 160d comprises a bottom piece and an upper piece. Each of the side walls 160a, 160b, 160c and 160d and the front access panel 162 may be removable to allow access to the interior of the trailer stand assembly 100 and the components thereof contained therein, including when the frame member 120 is the stored or intermediate positions. This may allow access to, for example, the primary actuator 140 and associated components, if and when, the frame member 120 becomes stuck in the stored or intermediate positions, such as, for example, if and when there is a failure of the primary actuator 140 and/or associated components. It will be appreciated that other configurations for the side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d is possible.

[00189] In an additional embodiment, the base unit 110 and the support frame 112 define at least part of the enclosure 116 for receiving the frame member 120 when the frame member 120 is in the stored position. The enclosure 116 may protect to some degree, the inner contents of the trailer stand system 100 from external elements, such as water, snow, ice, dirt, debris, rodents, and the like, especially when the trailer stand system 100 is in the stored position, but also to some degree when the trailer stand system 100 is in the support position or some position between the stored and support positions.

[00190] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 2A, 2B and 5, the front, rear, right, and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, and the support frame 112 form the enclosure 116. The enclosure 116 is sized to receive the frame member 120, first and second support elements 132, 134, primary actuator 140 and each of the first and second actuators 142, 144 when the frame member 120 is in the stored position.

[00191] In yet another embodiment of the base unit 110, the base unit 110 and the opening of the enclosure 116 defined within the base unit 110 both have a substantially quadrilateral form and are relatively sized such that the plurality of protection plates 160 form a plurality of ramp structures on the base unit 110. The base unit 110 is formed to have a longer length and a longer width than a length and width of the opening of the enclosure 116 such that, in extending from the outer edge of the base unit 110 up to define the opening of the enclosure 116, each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d forms one of the plurality of ramp structures. Where the trailer stand system 100 is mounted atop the ground surface 106, the plurality of ramp structures are expected to support, and further facilitate, the traversing over the trailer stand system 100 by pedestrians and vehicles, including loaded trailers. The plurality of ramp structures are also expected to improve safety, as they may reduce the possibility of pedestrians tripping and/or falling as they walk over the trailer stand system 100. The plurality of ramp structures may also facilitate traversal of vehicles, including snowplows and other snow removal machinery, over the trailer stand system 100. It will be appreciated that all sides of the trailer stand system 100 need not be sloped so as to form one of the plurality of ramp structures. It may be that only one side wall, or some subset of the total number of side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, or all side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d of the trailer stand system 100 comprise the plurality of ramp structures.

[00192] In an alternate embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 may comprise no ramps, including when it is mounted to, or partially or completely underneath, the ground surface 106. For example, the base unit 110 and the enclosure 116 of the base unit 110 have substantially the same shape, with substantially the same dimensions, so that the at least one protection plate 160 attached to the base unit 110 has a substantially vertical, non-ramped or non-sloped configuration.

[00193] In an embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 further comprises a plurality of support structures (not shown). In embodiments of the trailer stand system 100 comprising the protection plates 160 formed as the least one ramp structure, the support structures may be positioned between the base unit 110, and the at least one protection plate 160, and may be fixedly attached therebetween to provide rigid support to the at least one protection plate 160. The support structures are expected to prevent collapse of the enclosure 116 and the rectangular cover plate 122 when the trailer stand system 100 is in the stored position, during traversal of routine loads over the trailer stand system 100, such as pedestrians and vehicles, including loaded trailers. The support structures may also serve to prevent collapse of the at least one ramp structure and/or a portion of the at least one cover plate 122 when the trailer stand system 100 is in the support position when routine loads are applied thereto. Generally, the support structures are expected to increase the structural stability of the trailer stand system 100 in either the stored or support positions.

[00194] In an exemplary embodiment, the support structures comprise gussets supporting the at least one protection plate 160. [00195] In accordance with some embodiments, the primary actuator 140 and/or the first and second actuators 142, 144 may be powered and controllable by a remote power source and control device (not shown) electrically connected to the trailer stand system 100 by wired connection(s). In other embodiments, some or all control signals may be transmitted wirelessly rather than by wired connection(s), in which case the trailer stand system 100 may be equipped with suitable communications components, such as receivers, transmitters, transceivers, antennae, and the like.

[00196] In an additional embodiment where the primary actuator 140 comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder 140a and first and second actuators 142, 144 comprise first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, the primary hydraulic cylinder 140a, the second hydraulic cylinder 144a and the first hydraulic cylinder 142a may receive hydraulic fluid under pressure from, and return hydraulic fluid to, a remotely located hydraulic assembly (not shown) comprising a hydraulic motor and other suitable components for hydraulic assemblies as would be known in the art. The power source and/or control device, and/or the hydraulic assembly, may not be located remotely from the trailer stand system 100, but rather adjacent or near the trailer stand system 100. Alternatively, some of the power source, the control device, and the hydraulic assembly may be local to the trailer stand system 100 while others of those components may be located remotely from the trailer stand system 100. A wired connection (which may comprise one or multiple wires), and/or hydraulic fluid lines, may be enclosed within a conduit 161 installed atop or at least partially under the surface 106, to connect the trailer stand system 100 to the power source, control device and/or hydraulic assembly located remotely from the trailer stand system.

[00197] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figure 12A, the trailer stand system 100 may further comprise an electrical junction box 186 housing electrical connections between the power source and control device and the electrical components of the trailer stand system 100. The electrical junction box 186 may be mounted within a recess formed within the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 100. The trailer stand system 100 may further comprise a removable rear access panel 163that defines a portion of the upper surface 114 of the base unit and that facilitates the accessing of the recess formed within the base unit 110 for accessing the electrical junction box 186 and the hydraulic manifold assembly 188.

[00198] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 2A, 2B and 5, an upper conduit surface 166 may comprise a smaller width than a lower conduit surface 168 so that conduit side walls 164 form conduit ramps which, as described above with respect to the ramp structures of the trailer stand system 100, may improve safety, as they may reduce the possibility of pedestrians tripping and/or falling as they walk over the conduit 161. Conduit ramps may also facilitate traversal of vehicles over the conduit 161, and conduit 161 may comprise internal conduit support structures to provide rigid support between the upper and lower conduit surfaces 166, 168. It will be appreciated that all sides of the conduit 161 need not be sloped so as to form a ramp. It may be that only one conduit side wall 164 comprises the conduit ramp(s). Further, the upper conduit surface 166 and the lower conduit surface 168 may have substantially the same shape with substantially the same dimensions, so that each conduit side wall 164 attached between the upper conduit surface 166 and the lower conduit surface 168 has a substantially vertical, non-ramped or non-sloped configuration. Each of the conduit side walls 164 and the upper conduit surface 166 may be removal to allow access to the interior of the conduit 161 and the components thereof contained therein. The shape of the upper conduit surface 166 and the lower conduit surface 168 may be any suitable shape. Alternatively, the conduit 161 may comprise a shape that does not have an upper conduit surface and/or a lower conduit surface, such as a triangular prism shape or a cylindrical shape.

[00199] In accordance with some embodiments, at least the base unit 110, the upper surface 114, and the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d of the trailer stand system 100 are comprised of a at least one metal material, such as 1/4 inch aluminum plating, although other types of metal and suitable dimensions thereof are possible. One- quarter inch aluminum may be expected to provide a suitable combination of low weight and structural rigidity while providing a cost-effective material for the trailer stand system 100 (lighter weight cover plates 122 being expected to facilitate a more smooth and less demanding transition of the frame member 120 between the support and stored positions). Other components of the trailer stand system 100 may also comprise 1/4 inch aluminum (or a suitable alternative, as described above).

[00200] It will be readily understood that the frame member 120 of the trailer stand system 100 can be moved over a range of positions between the stored position and the support position via the pivoting connection of the frame member 120 to the base unit 110.

[00201] In some embodiments of the trailer stand system 100 as disclosed herein, a counterbalance element is provided within the trailer stand system 100 to assist the primary actuator 140 in initiating the motion of the frame member 120 when the frame member 120 is driven to move from the stored position, towards the support position. The provision of a counterbalance is particularly beneficial, because when the frame member 120 is in the stored position, most of the driving forces that are exerted by the primary actuator 140 when trying to drive the frame member 120 are oriented horizontally (substantially parallel to the length of the base unit 110), while the primary actuator 140 provides relatively little upwards force for driving the frame member 120 upwards, towards the support position.

[00202] In one such embodiment shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the frame member 120 of the trailer stand system 100 is specifically movable between the stored position, the support position, and an intermediate position that is defined between the stored position and the support position (see for example, Figures 8 A and 8B) . In this same embodiment, the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 100 further comprises a counterbalance biasing element 170 that is mounted on the base unit 110. The counterbalance biasing element 170 is positioned within the base unit 110 for biasing the frame member 120 towards the intermediate position such that when the frame member 120 is in the stored position and the primary actuator 140 is driven to lift the frame member 120 towards the support position, the biasing force of the counterbalance biasing element 170 will assist in drive the frame member 120 from the stored position to the intermediate position. Once the frame member 120 reaches the intermediate position, the driving force of the primary actuator 140 will drive the frame member 120 from the intermediate position to the support position.

[00203] In an embodiment, the counterbalance biasing element 170 is a spring, for example, a compression spring. In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 9A and 9B, the counterbalance biasing element 170 is a hollow, elastic disc that is mounted within the enclosure 116 defined within the support frame 112 of the base unit 110. This elastic disc is affixed to a mounting flange 172 of the base unit 110 via at least one fastener.

[00204] The hollow, elastic disc is mounted such that a central axis of the elastic disc is substantially perpendicular to the length of the frame member 120 when the frame member 120 is in the stored position. The hollow, elastic disc is formed of a substantially elastic material such that the elastic disc can be compressed upon itself, and such that when the elastic disc is compressed, it will apply a biasing force and will be internally driven to return to a non-compressed configuration.

[00205] The functionality of the elastic disc as the counterbalance biasing element 170 will now be described with reference to Figures 9A and 9B. When the frame member 120 is driven to the stored position by the primary actuator 140, the frame member 120 will contact the elastic disc form of the biasing element 170 and compress the elastic disc form into an ovular, “pancake” shape (see Figure 9A). The elasticity of the compressed disc will produce an internal biasing force within the compressed disc. This internal biasing force will be exerted upwards by the compressed elastic disc, against the frame member 120 as the frame member 120 is held in the stored position.

[00206] When the primary actuator 140 is driven to begin lifting the frame member 120 from the stored position towards the support position, the upwards force exerted by the compressed elastic disc on the frame member 120 will assist the primary actuator 140 in driving the frame member 120 to the intermediate position. Once the frame member 120 is in the intermediate position, the driving force provided by the primary actuator 140 drives the frame member 120 from the intermediate position to the support position (without assistance from the counterbalance biasing element 170).

[00207] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 10A, 10B, 11A and 1 IB, the support assembly 130 further comprises a support member 410 that connects the first and second support elements 132, 134. The support member 410 is structured to provide the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134. As shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 10A, 10B, 11 A and 1 IB, each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are connected to the support member 410 such that the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are both defined on the support member 410.

[00208] As discussed above, depending on the type of trailer and the jurisdiction, the width of trailers can typically vary from about 96 inches to about 102 inches. For example, the support member 410 can be structured in various sizes and configurations so as to support the different widths of different trailers. In an embodiment, the support member 410 is sized such that a width of the support member 410 is about 58 inches to about 62 inches, in another embodiment about 60 inches. In this way, the support member 410 can sufficiently support the underside 108 of the trailer 102 across a substantial and significant portion of its width, typically coinciding with the center of gravity of an interior load and/or forklift inside the trailer during loading/unloading operations, and substantially preventing side-to-side rocking of the trailer 102 during loading/unloading operations and/or side-tipping of the trailer 102, when the trailer 102 is supported by the trailer stand system 100.

[00209] As also discussed above, depending on the type of trailer and the jurisdiction, the length of trailers can typically vary from about 28 feet to about 53 feet. For example, the trailer stand system 100 is installed at the loading dock such that when a trailer 102 is docked at the loading dock and the frame member 120 is in the support position, the contact surfaces 132b, 134b, either provided by the first and second support elements 132, 134, or by the support member 410, when engaged with the underside 108 of the trailer 102, engages the underside 108 of the trailer 102 behind, and close to, the kingpin, for example, about 4 inches to about 6 inches behind the kingpin. For example, typically for trailers 48 feet and over, common maximum distances from the kingpin to the rear axle, or to the center of the rear axle group, are about 37 feet to about 43 feet, depending on the trailer and jurisdiction. Depending on the trailer 102, the contact surfaces 132b, 134b, either provided by the first and second support elements 132, 134, or by the support member 410, may engage with the apron, i.e., the steel plate around the king pin, at least one of the cross ribs of the trailer frame that spans the width of the underside 108 of the trailer 102 and/or at least one of the rails of the trailer frame that spans the length of the underside 108 of the trailer 102.

[00210] In the specific embodiment provided in Figure 4A and 4B, the support member 410 extends between the connecting ends 132a, 134a ofthe first and second support elements 132, 134, and comprises an upper flange portion 414 that extends beyond the widths of the first and second support elements 132, 134. The support member 410 comprises a substantially flat, upper contact surface that is defined on the upper flange portion 414, and a vertical flange 412 that is connected to the underside ofthe upper flange portion 414. Each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are connected to the vertical flange 412 of the support member 410, and the contact surfaces 132b of the first support element 132 and contacting surface 134b of the second support element 134 are formed as the same contact surface, defined on the upper contact surface of the support member 410.

[00211] In an embodiment of the retractable trailer stand system 100 as disclosed herein, the trailer stand system 100 is configured such that the support member 410 of the support assembly 130 can pivot relative to the frame member 120 and thus, the base unit 110 based on relative movement of the first and second support elements 132, 134. In this embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 comprises the base unit 110 with the face that is mountable to a ground surface 106 and the support frame 112, the frame member 120 that comprises a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit 110, and a second end 120a that is displaceable relative to the base unit 110, the primary actuator 140 that is connected to the base unit 110 and to the frame member 120 for driving a movement of the frame member 120 between the stored position and the support position. In this embodiment, the support assembly 130 comprises the first and second support elements 132, 134, which are independently, movably attached to the frame member 120, and also comprises the support member 410 that is pivotably connected to the first and second support elements 132, 134 for supporting the underside 108 of the trailer 102. The support member 410 is pivotably connected to each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 via a pivoting connection such that as one of the first and second support elements 132, 134 is moved relative to the other of the first and second support elements 132, 134, the support member 410 will pivot about the pivoting connections so as to move with the one of the first and second support elements 132, 134. To provide for this movement of the support member 410, the first and second actuators 142, 144 are connected to the first and second support elements 132, 134, respectively, for driving a motion of the first and second support elements 132, 134. Each ofthe first and second support elements 132, 134 comprise a first end that is movably connected to the frame member 120, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the support member 410. [00212] In an embodiment, the first and second actuators 142, 144 are connected for driving the first and second support elements 132, 134 between: a first configuration where the first support element 132 is disposed at a first distance from the second end 120a of the frame member 120 and the second support element 134 is disposed at a second distance from the second end 120a of the frame member 120 such that the support member 410 is inclined at a first angle (Al) relative to the base unit 110 (See Figures 10A and 11A), and a second configuration where the first support element 132 is disposed at the first distance from the second end 120a of the frame member 120 and the second support element 134 is disposed at a third distance from the second end 120a of the frame member 120 such that the support member 410 is inclined at a second angle (A2) relative to the base unit 110 (see Figure 10B and 1 IB).

[00213] In an additional embodiment, the first configuration of the first and second support elements 132, 134 is defined where the aforementioned second distance is greater than the aforementioned first distance, such that when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the first configuration, the first angle of the support member 410 is in a first rotational direction relative to the base unit 110. The second configuration of the first and second support elements 132, 134 is defined such that the aforementioned third distance is less than the aforementioned first distance, such that when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the second configuration, the second angle of the support member 410 is in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

[00214] The first and second support elements 132, 134 are independently actuatable by the first and second actuators 142, 144, respectively. By providing this structure, the first and second support elements 132, 134 are able to move relative to the frame member 120, independently of each other. Each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 are driven by the respective first and second actuators 142, 144 to move one end of the support member 410.

[00215] In an additional embodiment, the pivoting connecting of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 to the support member 410 is achieved via a pin connection.

[00216] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 4A and 4B, each pin connection between the first and second support elements 132, 134 and the support member 410 comprises a bracket 420 comprising two horizontally spaced-apart side walls having aligned apertures formed therein and creating a gap or channel therebetween. In the embodiment provided in Figures 4A and 4B, the brackets 420 of each pin connection are formed on the connecting ends 132a, 134a of the first and second support elements 132, 134. The support member 410 comprises a pair of through-apertures that are laterally spaced apart such that each of the through-apertures can be aligned with the aligned apertures of one of the pair of brackets 420 of the support elements 132, 134. A pin 422 can be inserted through the aligned apertures of the brackets 420 and the through-apertures of the support member 410 so as to pivotably connect the first and second support elements 132, 134 to the support member 410. Each pin 422 also comprises an aperture formed therein, where the aperture of each pin 422 is sized to receive a clevis pin 424 therethrough so as to adjustably and pivotably secure the connecting ends 132a, 134a of the first and second support elements 132, 134 to the support member 410.

[00217] In an alternate embodiment of the pin connection between the first and second support elements 132, 134 and the support member 410, a pin of the pin connection is formed on each of the first and second support elements 132, 134, and a pair of apertures are formed on opposing ends of the support member 410, where the pair of apertures are sized to receive the pins of the first and second support elements 132, 134. In yet another, alternate embodiment, the pair of apertures are a pair of slots that allow for a degree of lateral movement of the pins of the first and second support elements 132, 134 therewithin. By providing for this degree of lateral movement of each pin, the support member 410 can move across an angular range of about ±10° relative to a horizontal axis of the base unit 110.

[00218] In an embodiment where the trailer stand system 100 comprises the support member 410 that is pivotably connected to each of the first and second support elements 132, 134, and each of the first and second actuators 142, 144 are formed as the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a are provided in selective fluid connection for equalizing an amount of a hydraulic fluid contained therewithin. By equalizing the hydraulic fluid across both the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, the support member 410 that is pivotably connected between the first and second support elements 132, 134 will be held in place at either the first angle (when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the first configuration) or the second angle (when the first and second support elements 132, 134 are in the second configuration). As the first and second support elements 132, 134 are driven towards the extended position by the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, the support member 410 will abut the underside 108 of the trailer 102 and will pivot in one of the first or second rotational directions such that an angle of the support member 410 corresponds to an angle of tilt of the underside 108 of the trailer 102 relative to the base unit 110.

[00219] In this way, the support member 410 can also be controlled to adopt and hold a horizontal angle of the trailer 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the trailer 102 is disposed at a first angle relative to the ground surface 106. The frame member 120 is actuated to the support position, and the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a are actuated to drive the first and second support elements 132, 134 from the retracted position up towards the underside 108 of the trailer 102 to the extended position. As the support member 410 contacts the underside 108 of the trailer 102, the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a continue to drive the first and second support elements 132, 134 upwards, thereby urging the support member 410 against the underside 108 of the trailer 102. As the support member 410 continues to be driven upwards, the hydraulic fluid will be equalized across the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, causing the support member 410 to self-adjust so that an angle of the support member 410 is substantially equivalent to the angle of the underside 108 of the trailer 102 and so that the support member 410 firmly abuts the underside 108 of the trailer 102 along the length of the contact surface of the support member 410. The abutting of the support member 410 to the underside 108 of the trailer 102 along its length provides for a superior engagement of the support assembly 130 with the trailer 102, ensuring the trailer 102 is equally supported.

[00220] In an additional embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 comprises a first pressure control system that will control the equalization of the hydraulic fluid within the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a. The first pressure control system comprises at least one controller that is operably connected either, directly to the primary actuator 140 and the first and second actuators 142, 144, or indirectly via the manifold assembly 188 if present, for controlling the operation thereof, as well as at least first and second hydraulic pressure sensors (including, but not limited to, pressure transducers and pressure transmitters) that are connected to the at least one controller and which are operably connected to the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, respectively, and/or the hydraulic pressure sensor operably connected to the manifold assembly 188, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained within each of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a and/or the manifold assembly 188.

[00221] In an embodiment, each of the hydraulic pressure sensors are operably connected with at least one of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, and the manifold assembly 188, if present, and comprise a pressure transducer.

[00222] In an additional embodiment of the first pressure control system, the at least one controller of the first pressure control system is programmed with computer-readable instructions for, in a first step, receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of a portion of the support member 410 abutting the underside 108 of the trailer 102, and in a second step, receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensorthat is indicative of the support member 410 fully engaging the underside 108 of the trailer 102. The at least one controller of the first pressure control system is programmed with computer-readable instructions for, in a third step, fixing a position of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 120 by locking-off the fluid communication between the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a. This locking -off of the fluid communication between the first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a can be done via the counterbalance valves 440 associated with the first hydraulic cylinder 142a and second hydraulic cylinder 144a. For example, the at least one controller of the first pressure control system can send a control signal that closes off the counterbalance valves 440 for each of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, so that the level of hydraulic fluid within the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a is substantially fixed.

[00223] In yet another embodiment, the at least one controller of the first pressure control system is programmed with computer-readable instructions for detecting at least one fault condition based on signals received from at least one of the first and second pressure sensors associated with the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a. For example, the fault condition can be a gradual failing of the landing gear 104 and thus a gradual collapse of the trailer 102, where the gradual collapse of the trailer 102 is identified based on a gradual increase of pressure within at least one of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, as detected by the first and second pressure sensors. In an alternate example, the fault condition can be a sudden failing of the landing gear 104 and thus a sudden collapse of the trailer 102, where the sudden collapse of the trailer 102 is identified based on a spiking of the pressure within at least one of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, as detected by the first and second pressure sensors.

[00224] In an embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 also comprises an alternative or a second pressure control system that will aid in the control of the trailer stand system 100 based on a state of the trailer 102 as determined by the second pressure control system. The second pressure control system functions to monitor at least one pressure associated with a load that is applied on the trailer stand system 100 by the trailer 102, as the trailer 102 is supported on the trailer stand system 100.

[00225] In an embodiment of the second pressure control system, the second pressure control system comprises at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary actuator 140, the first actuator 142, and the second actuator 144 for controlling the operation thereof. The second pressure control system also comprises at least one pressure sensor (including, but not limited to, a pressure transducer and a pressure transmitter) that is connected to the at least one controller and is associated with, such as connected to, or mounted on, the contact surfaces 132b, 134b, as provided by each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 or by the support member 140.

[00226] In an additional embodiment, the at least one pressure sensor of the second pressure control system is any one of, for example, a potentiometric pressure sensor, an inductive pressure sensor, a capacitive pressure sensor, a piezoelectric pressure sensor, a strain gauge pressure sensor, or a variable reluctance pressure sensor.

[00227] In some embodiments, the at least one controller of the first pressure control system is the same as the at least one controller of the second pressure control system such that the first and second pressure control systems share the at least one controller. In an alternate embodiment, the at least one controller of the first pressure control system is provided as a distinct controller (or controllers) that are independent from the at least one controller of the second pressure control system.

[00228] The at least one pressure sensor of the second pressure control system is generally configured such that a magnitude of a signal that is generated by the at least one pressure sensor is proportional to an amount of pressure that is being applied to the contact surfaces 132b, 134b by the trailer 102. The second pressure control system may control the function of the primary actuator 140, and the first and second actuators 142, 144, based on the magnitude of the signal (i.e., the amount of pressure applied to the contact surfaces 132b, 134b by the trailer 102).

[00229] In an embodiment, the at least one controller of the second pressure control system is programmed with computer-readable instructions for, in a first step, receiving a signal from the at least one pressure sensorthat is indicative of the contact surfaces 132b, 134b abutting the underside 108 of the trailer 102, and in a second step, controlling each of the primary actuator 140, first actuator 142, and second actuator 144 such that a current position of the frame member 120 and each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 is maintained for supporting the trailer 102 via the trailer stand system 100.

[00230] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the pressure applied by the trailer 102 will change based on how the trailer 102 is supported above the ground surface 106. The second pressure control system is programmed to detect the pressure changes and to lock a position of the frame member 120 and first and second support elements 132, 134 by locking a position of the primary actuator 140, and first and second actuators 142, 144.

[00231] In an additional embodiment, the at least one controller of the second pressure control system is programmed with computer-readable instructions for, in a first step, detecting a change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor that is indicative of either a gradual or instant collapse of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102, and in a second step, locking each of the primary actuator 140, first actuator 142 and second actuator 144 such that the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of each of the first and second support elements 132, 134 is maintained at the second distance above the base unit 110.

[00232] In some embodiments, the detected change in signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined maximum value, where the predetermined maximum value may be a value associated with the weight of the trailer 102 being entirely supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b.

[00233] In other embodiments, the detected change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a rate of change of a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined acceptable rate of change, where the predetermined acceptable rate of change may be a rate of change of the pressure that is associated with the contact surfaces 132b, 134b increasingly supporting more weight of the trailer 102 over a predetermined amount time.

[00234] In an embodiment, each of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a are provided as part of a hydraulic support circuit. The hydraulic support circuit further comprises a pair of relief cylinders, one of which is fluidly connected to at least the first hydraulic cylinder 142a and the other of which is fluidly connected to at least the second hydraulic cylinder 144a. Each of the pair of relief cylinders is configured to receive hydraulic fluid from the corresponding first or second hydraulic cylinder 142a and 144a, via the counterbalance valves 440 connected to teach of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a.

[00235] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 13 to 20, the trailer stand system 100 further comprises at least one load cell unit 510. The at least one load cell unit 510 is connected to the frame member 122 and is structured to detect an amount of loading that is being applied on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b of each ofthe first and second support elements 132, 134 (i.e., due to a trailer being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b). The loading on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b is transferred to the frame member 122 via the first and second support elements 132, 134. The frame member 122 is structured to deflect slightly and contact the at least one load cell unit 510, where the contact between the frame member 122 and the load cell will actuate a portion of the load cell unit 510 based on the load supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b.

[00236] The at least one load cell unit 510 is also operably connected to the at least one controller of the first pressure control system and/or the second pressure control system. In the event that the at least one load cell unit 510 detects a loading on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b that is indicative of a trailer being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b, the at least one load cell unit 510 will send a signal to the at least one controller. Based on the signal received from the at least one load cell unit 510, the at least one controller can shut/lock the counterbalance valve so as to substantially maintain the position of the first and second actuators, and thereby maintain the position of the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 122. [00237] In this way, the at least one load cell unit 510 functions as a fail-safe device that will detect a loading of the trailer stand system 100 and will prevent the at least one controller from controlling the counterbalance valves 400 to lower the first and second support elements 132, 134 while the trailer is still supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b. The at least one load cell unit 510 can be used in tandem with the first and/or second pressure sensor (which detects the hydraulic pressures within the primary hydraulic cylinder and first and second hydraulic cylinders) so as to control the raising and lowering of the first and second support elements 132, 134.

[00238] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figure 20, the at least one load cell unit 510 comprises a load cell housing 512 and a load cell button 514 that extends out from the load cell housing 512. The load cell button 514 is connected to the load cell housing 512 such that the load cell button 514 can be depressed relative to the load cell housing 512, where the load cell button 514 can be depressed due to the contact between the frame member 122 and the at least one load cell unit 510 (this contact being initiated as a result of the frame member 122 being deflected upon loading of the contact surfaces 132b, 134b). The load cell housing 512 contains load sensor circuitry that will detect an extent to which the load cell button 514 is depressed relative to the load cell housing 512. The load sensor circuitry also comprises communications circuity for sending a control signal to the at least one controller of the first and/or second pressure control system, where the control signal sent by the load sensory circuitry will be based on an extent to which the load cell button 514 is depressed relative to the load cell housing 512.

[00239] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 13, and 16 to 20, the pivot assembly 118 is structured as a dynamic pivot assembly 518. The dynamic pivot assembly 518 is structured to depress the load cell button 514 to a certain extent that is proportional to the load on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b on the frame member 122. In this same embodiment, the control signal provided by the load sensor circuitry will vary based on an extent to which the button 514 is depressed due to the loading of the contact surfaces 132b, 134b on the frame member 122. In this way, the control signal provided to the at least one controller will be proportional to load being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b on the frame member 122.

[00240] In another, additional embodiment, the first end of the frame member 122 is pivotably connected to the base unit via the dynamic pivot assembly 518. The dynamic pivot assembly 518 is structured such that the frame member 122 can pivot relative to the base unit, between the stored and support positions, as the frame member 122 is driven by the movement of the primary actuator 140. The dynamic pivot assembly 518 is also structured such that the frame member 122 will move in a substantially vertically direction, relative to the base unit 110, in response to a load being applied on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b (such as by a trailer). The dynamic pivot assembly 518 is structured such that the movement of the frame member 122 in the substantially downward vertical direction relative to the base unit 110 due to the applied load on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b, will drive a portion of the dynamic pivot assembly 518 to contact the at least one load cell unit 510 and to thereby actuate at least a portion of the at least one load cell unit 510 in response to the applied load.

[00241] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 13 and 16 to 20, the load cell button 514 is the portion of the load cell unit 510 that is contacted and actuated by, such as by depression or deformation, the dynamic pivot assembly 518.

[00242] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 18 to 20, the dynamic pivot assembly 518 comprises a pivot member 520 that defines two separate, spaced apart pivot points 520a, 520b. The pivot member 520 is pivotably coupled to the base unit 110 via a first pivot point 520a of the two pivot points. The frame member 122 is pivotably coupled to the pivot member 520 via the second pivot point 520b of the two pivot points. In this way, the frame member 122 is pivotably connected to the base unit 110 for moving between the stowed and support positions, and the frame member 122 can also move in the substantially downward vertical direction relative to the base unit 110 due to the applied load on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b (when the frame member 122 is substantially in the support position).

[00243] With the dynamic pivot assembly 518, the frame member 122 can pivot about the second pivot point 520b for moving between the stowed and support positions, relative to the base unit 110. As shown in Figures 19A to 19D, when the frame member 122 is in the support position, loading of the contact surfaces 132b, 134b will apply a downward force to the first and second support elements 132, 134 which will in turn apply a load on the frame member 122 (because the first and second support elements 132, 134 are movably connected on the frame member 122). The downward force applied on the frame member 122 will cause the pivot member 520 to pivot about the first pivot point 520a, while the rotational position of the frame member 122 about the second pivot point 520b stays relatively constant, such that the frame member 122 moves in the substantially downward vertical direction from an unloaded position DUL (shown in Figures 19A and 19C) to a loaded position DLL (shown in Figures 19B and 19D) . The movement of the frame member 122 from the unloaded position to the loaded position drives a portion of the dynamic pivot assembly 518 to contact the at least one load cell unit 510 and to thereby actuate at least a portion of the at least one load cell unit 510 in response to the applied load.

[00244] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 16 to 20, the at least one load cell unit 510 comprises a pair of load cell units 510, each of which is supported on the base unit 110 within the trailer stand system 100. In this same embodiment, the dynamic pivot assembly 518 comprises a pair of dynamic pivot assemblies 518, and the frame member 122 comprises a pair of the pivot flanges 120b that extend downward from the frame member 122. Each dynamic pivot assembly 518 comprises a pivot support bracket 522. The pivot member 520 of each dynamic pivot assembly 518 is pivotably connected to the pivot support bracket 522 at the first pivot point 520a of the pivot member 520. One of the pair of pivot flanges is pivotably connected to the second pivot point 520b of the pivot member 520 for pivotably connecting the frame member 122 to the dynamic pivot assembly 518.

[00245] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 18 to 20, the pivot member 520 is connected to the pivot support bracket 522 such that the pivoting of the pivot member 520 between the loaded and unloaded positions is less than 10 degrees of movement about the first pivot point. The pivot member 520 is pivotably connected between opposing flanges of the pivot support bracket 522 and comprises a contact surface 524 formed on a bottom portion of the pivot member 520, below the second pivot point 520b. As the frame member 122 is driven from the unloaded to the loaded position and the pivot member 520 pivots about the first pivot point 520a, the contact surface 524 will contact and actuate, such as for example, by depression or deformation of, the load cell button 514 of the at least one load cell unit 510.

[00246] Referring to Figures 13 to 20, there is provided an embodiment of the trailer stand system 100, where the trailer stand system 100 further comprises a locking mechanism 530 that is structured for releasably fixing/maintaining a position of at least one of the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 122. It will be readily understood that the trailer stand system 100 as provided in Figures 13 to 20 can comprise some or all of the features and elements of the embodiment of the trailer stand system provided in Figures 1 to 12B.

[00247] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 13 to 15D, the locking mechanism 530 is specifically structured to provide a redundancy or fail-safe mechanism in case of a partial or complete failure of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 and/or of the hydraulics (such as the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a) that support the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 122. Said another way, the locking mechanism 530 will function to prevent or limit the retraction of the first and second support elements 132, 134 due to partial or complete failures of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 and/or of the first and/or second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a.

[00248] The locking mechanism 530 comprises at least one locking actuator 536 that is operably connected to the corresponding actuator of the one of the first and second support element 134 (i.e., if the locking mechanism 530 is structured for maintaining a position of the first support element 132, the at least one locking actuator 536 is operably connected to the first actuator, and vice versa). In some embodiments, the at least one locking actuator 536 is operably connected to both the first and second actuators.

[00249] The at least one locking actuator 536 is structured to engage the at least one of the first and second support elements 132, 134, when the contact surfaces 132b, 134b are still supporting a load associated with the trailer 102, such that the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 is substantially maintained in position, and/or such that the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 can still support the trailer 102. The at least one locking actuator 536 is also structured to disengage from the at least one of the first and second support elements 132, 134 when the trailer is no longer being supported on the first and/or second support surface of the first and second support elements 132, 134 such that the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be driven to move from the second support distance (D2) to the first support distance (DI)

[00250] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 14A to 15D, the at least one locking actuator 536 comprises at least one engagement element 540, where the at least one engagement element 540 is structured to move between an unengaged position where the at least one engagement element 540 does not engage with the at least one of the first and second support elements 132, 134, and an engaged position where the part of the locking actuator 536 engages the one of the first and second support elements 132, 134 for limiting the movement thereof relative to the frame member 122.

[00251] In the embodiment shown in Figures 14A to 15D, the locking mechanism 530 is structured to releasably engage with the second support element 134 for maintaining the position of the second support element 134 relative to the frame member 122. The second support element 134 comprises a plurality of receiving apertures 550 that are sized to receive the at least one engagement element 540, when the at least one engagement element 540 is in the engaged position, for maintain the position of the second support element 134 relative to the frame member 122.

[00252] In the specific embodiment provided in Figure 14A to 15D, the plurality of receiving apertures 550 of the second support element 134 are formed along a lateral side 126a of the second support element 134 and extend vertically along at least part of the vertical length of the second support element 134. Each of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 has a substantially rectangular shape and is spaced apart relative to the other of the plurality of receiving apertures 550. In this way, the at least one engagement element 540 can engage the second support element 134 at various positions along the vertical length of the second support element 134 (via the plurality of receiving apertures 550) and thereby lock the second support element 134 at various positions relative to the frame member 122. [00253] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 14A to 15D, the at least one engagement element 540 comprises a slider element 542 that is slidable in a substantially horizontal direction between the unengaged and engaged positions (see Figures 15A and 15B, respectively). The slider element 542 is structured such that a portion of the slider element 542 is received in at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 when the slider element 542 is in the engaged position.

[00254] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 15A and 15B, the slider element 542 has a pair of finger elements 544, and the portion of the slider element 542 that is received in the plurality of receiving apertures 550 comprises the pair of finger elements 544. Each of the pair of finger elements 544 is sized to be received in one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 on the second support element 134. Each of the pair of finger elements 544 is connected to the slider element 542. The slider element 542 is slidable relative to the frame member 122 along the substantially horizontal direction between engaged and unengaged positions. Due to the finger elements 544 being connected to the slider element 542, the sliding of the slider element 542 between the first and second positions will move the finger elements 544 into and out of engagement with two of the plurality of receiving apertures 550.

[00255] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 14C and 14D, the hollow rectangular member 126 of the frame member 122 (that at least partially encases the second actuator 144 and the second support element 134) comprises at least one through-aperture 552. The at least one through-aperture 552 is positioned on the hollow rectangular member 126 such that as the at least one engagement element 540 moves between the unengaged and engaged positions, the at least one engagement element 540 will pass at least partially through the through-aperture 552 to be received by the at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550. The at least one through-aperture 552 is at least partially aligned (as viewed into and out of the page) with the plurality of receiving apertures 550 such that the at least one engagement element 540 can reliably pass at least partially through the through-aperture 552 to be received by one or more of the plurality of receiving apertures 550.

[00256] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 14C and 14D, the hollow rectangular member 126 of the frame member 122 comprises a pair of through-apertures 552 that are in a vertically stacked arrangement. The spacing and size of the pair of through-apertures 552 correspond to the spacing and size of any two adjacent receiving apertures 550 of the plurality of receiving apertures 550.

[00257] In an embodiment, the locking actuator 536 comprises at least one biasing element 538 that is connected between the frame member 122 and the at least one engagement element 540 for biasing the at least one engagement element 540 towards the engaged position. [00258] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 14A to 15D, the at least one biasing element 538 is a helical spring 538a. The slider element 542 comprises a mounted rod 542a that is connected to the slider element 542 and is also slidably received through a hole in a bracket of the frame member 122. The helical spring 538a is mounted around the mounted rod 542a and is connected between the slider bracket and the slider element 542 for biasing the slider element 542 towards the engaged position.

[00259] In an embodiment, the at least one engagement element 540 of the locking actuator 536 is structured to engage and thereby lock the second support element 134 relative to the frame member 122 only when the second support element 134 is moving in a vertically downward direction relative to the frame (i.e., when there has been partial or complete failure of the landing gear 104 of the trailer and/or due to a failure of the hydraulics). In one such embodiment, the at least one engagement element 540 comprises at least one ramped surface 540a, where the at least one ramped surface 540a is disposed along the bottom of a portion of the at least one engagement element 540.

[00260] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 15C and 15D, each of the pair of finger elements 544 comprises a ramped surface 540a, where the ramped surface 540a on each finger element 544 is formed along the bottom of a distal end thereof.

[00261] By structuring the at least one engagement element 540 (i.e., the pair of finger elements 544) to include this ramped surface 540a, the ramped surface 540a permits the second support element 134 to be raised upwards towards the underside of the trailer without the locking mechanism 530 locking the second support element 134 in place. Said another way, the at least one engagement element 540 will not be retained within one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 when the second support element 134 is being raised vertically upwards, towards the underside of the trailer 102. As the second support element 134 is driven to rise upwards (by the movement of the second actuator 144), the ramped surface 540a of the engagement element 540 will contact a bottom edge of the first receiving aperture 550 that the engagement element 540 is received in. The engagement element 540 will be driven, by this contact, from the engaged position towards the unengaged position until the engagement element 540 is no longer received in the receiving aperture 550. As the second support element 134 continues to rise upwards due to the movement of the second actuator 144, the at least one engagement element 540 will be driven into an second receiving aperture 550 of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 that is adjacent the first receiving aperture (due to the biasing force of the biasing element 538, the engagement element 540 will be driven towards the engagement position and into the second receiving aperture 550 when the engagement element 540 is suitably aligned with the second receiving aperture 550). The engagement element 540 will then be driven out of this second receiving aperture 550 when the ramped surface 540a of the engagement element 540 contacts the bottom edge of this next receiving aperture. The engagement element 540 will continue to be driven in and out of consecutive receiving apertures 550 of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 as the second support element 134 is raised vertically upwards. In this way, the second support element 134 can be raised vertically upwards relative to the frame member 122 without being restrained by the locking mechanism 530.

[00262] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 530 is structured such that the at least one engagement element 540 does not need to be fully received in one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 when the contact surfaces 132b, 134b contact the underside of the trailer in order to limit the movement of the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134. The locking mechanism 530 will still function to substantially maintain the position of the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134.

[00263] If the at least one engagement element 540 is fully received within at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550, then, in the event of a partial or complete failure of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 or of the hydraulics support circuit, the engagement element 540 received in the receiving aperture of the first support element 132 and/or the second support element 134 will substantially prevent the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 from moving vertically downward.

[00264] If at least one engagement element 540 is not fully received within at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550, then, in the event of a partial or complete failure of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102 or of the hydraulics support circuit, the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 will begin to move slowly downwards (as the hydraulic fluid drains out of the first and/or second hydraulic cylinder 142a, 144a). When the at least one engagement element 540 becomes aligned with at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550, the biasing force of the biasing element 538 will drive the engagement element 540 into the engaged position such that the engagement element 540 is received in the one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550 to thereby substantially prevent the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 from moving further vertically downward.

[00265] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 530 further comprises a release actuator 560 that is structured for driving the at least one engagement element 540 from the engaged position to the unengaged position, when the at least one controller determines that the trailer 102 is no longer being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b. By providing a release actuator 560 that can selectively drive the at least one engagement element 540 to the unengaged position, the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be selectively allowed to move from the second distance (D2) above the base unit 110 towards the first distance (DI) above the base unit 110. [00266] In the embodiments where the first and/or second actuators are the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a, the at least one release actuator 560 comprises a release hydraulic cylinder 560a for selectively driving the at least one engagement element 540 towards the unengaged position, when the at least one engagement element 540 is in the engaged position. A rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a is operably coupled to the at least one engagement element 540 such that the actuation of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a drives the motion of the at least one engagement element 540.

[00267] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 13 to 15D, the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a of the at least one release actuator 560 comprises a substantially vertical hydraulic cylinder 560a that is contained within a cylinder housing. The cylinder housing is mounted to the frame member 122. The rod 560b of the hydraulic cylinder 560a extends upwards from the cylinder housing.

[00268] In an embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 is fluidly connected to hydraulic support circuit such that the movement of the hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic support circuit drives the movement of fluid in and out of the hydraulic cylinder 560a to thereby actuate the hydraulic cylinder 560a. In this way, the locking mechanism 530 can provide a second means of preventing failure and collapse of the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134. As discussed in previous embodiments, the second pressure control system can comprise at least one of first and second pressure sensors associated with the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a.

[00269] In an embodiment, the at least one load cell unit 510 and the at least one of the first and second pressure sensors are used collectively so as to provide a double confirmation as to whether the trailer 102 is being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b.

[00270] In an exemplary embodiment, when the first and second pressure sensors detects a pressure increase within the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, and the at least one load cell unit 510 registers a load of greater than, for example 5001bs, the at least one controller will receive signals from both the first and second pressure sensors and the at least one load cell unit 510 and will thereby detect that the frame member 122 is in the support position with the trailer 102 being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b. In some embodiments, the at least one controller will detect that the trailer 102 is being supported on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b only if the detection of a pressure increase within the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, and the registering of, for example a 5001b or greater load by the at least one load cell unit 510, occurs within five second of each other.

[00271] As described above, in the event of a partial or complete failure of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102, or a partial or complete failure of the hydraulics of the hydraulic support circuit (such as a failure of the counterbalance valve 440 of either the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a), the at least one engagement element 540 of the locking mechanism 530 will be retained in at least one of the plurality of the retaining apertures 550 of the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 for substantially maintaining the position of the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 relative to the frame member 122. With the at least one engagement element 540 retained in at least one of the plurality of receiving apertures 550, the trailer stand system 100 will be prevented from disengaging from the underside the trailer 102, even in the event of a partial or complete failure of the hydraulics support circuit or landing gear 104 of the trailer 102.

[00272] In an embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 is configured such that, when the at least one controller determines that the load being supported by the trailer stand system 100 is not above a predetermined value, the release actuator 560 is engaged to release the locking mechanism 530 and drive the at least one engagement element 540 towards the unengaged position so that the first and second support elements 132, 134 can be lowered relative to the frame member 122 and the contact surfaces 132b, 134b are retracted vertically downwards away from the underside of the trailer and the trailer stand system 100 is no longer engaged with the underside of the trailer 102.

[00273] In the embodiments where the release actuator 560 comprises the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a, the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 is fluidly connected to at least one of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a as part of the hydraulic support circuit. In this embodiment, the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 is fluidly connected to the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a in parallel with the pair of relief cylinders.

[00274] In order for the first and second support elements 132, 134 to be lowered relative to the frame member 122, the at least one controller must first identify that the signals from the at least one load cell unit 510 and the first and second pressure sensors are indicative of no loading of the trailer 102 over a predetermined value (“the no loading condition”) on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b. Once the at least one controller determines the no loading condition, the flow of hydraulic fluid is controlled such that pressure builds up in each of the relief cylinders. The hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 is plumbed in parallel with the pair of relief cylinders. As the hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 is filled with the hydraulic fluid, the rod 560b of the hydraulic cylinder 560a is driven upwards and will, via a release connector 570, drive the at least one engagement element 540 from the engaged position, towards the unengaged position such that the at least one engagement element 540 is not limiting the movement of the first and second support elements 132, 134 relative to the frame member 122. [00275] In some embodiments of the trailer stand system 100 , the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 is structured such that the release actuator 560 will drive the at least one engagement element 540 towards the disengaged positions before the first and second support elements 132, 134 are lowered relative to the frame member 122.

[00276] The hydraulic fluid is controlled such that the pressure in the pilot line of the counterbalance valve 440 gradually ramps up . When the pressure in the pilot line of the counterbalance valve 440 reaches some predetermined release pressure, the counterbalance valve 440 for each of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a is released. During the ramp up of pressure in the hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a, the hydraulic cylinder 560a for the release actuator 560 is free to move in order to drive the movement of the at least one engagement element 540 towards the unengaged position. Once the counterbalance valves 440 are opened due to the ramping up of the pressure, the hydraulic fluid is then driven out of each of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a such that the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a start to lower and the first and second support elements 132, 134 are lowered relative to the frame member 122.

[00277] In some embodiments, a pressure required to fully actuate the hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator is less than the predetermined release pressure. By sizing the hydraulic cylinder 560a in this way, the hydraulic cylinder 560a of the release actuator 560 will be fully plumbed prior to the opening of the counterbalance valves 440, and as a result the at least one engagement element 540 will be fully moved to the unengaged position prior to any lowering of the first and second support elements 132, 134. [00278] In an additional embodiment, each of the at least one load cell unit 510 and the first and second pressure sensor are controlled for monitoring the loading on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b while the first and second support elements 132, 134 are lowered relative to the frame member 122. In this embodiment, if either of the at least one load cell unit 510 and the first and second pressure sensors provide a signal to the at least one controller that is indicative of a loading on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b in excess of a predetermined value (i.e., due to a partial or complete collapse of the landing gear 104 of the trailer 102), the at least one controller will close off the counterbalances valve 440 of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a to reengage the first and second hydraulic cylinders 142a and 144a and prevent any further lowering of the contact surfaces 132b, 134b.

[00279] In another embodiment, the at least one load cell unit 510 can be configured to provide a backup means for detecting a load of the trailer on the contact surfaces 132b, 134b. The at least one load cell unit 510 can provide this backup means for dealing with failures of the trailer stand system 100, including, for example, failure of the first and/or second pressure sensors. During normal operation of the hydraulic support circuit, when the first or second pressure sensor detects an elevated pressure in the first or second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a, the first and second pressure sensors send control signals to the at least one controller, and the at least one controller keeps the counterbalance valve 440 in a closed position (where the hydraulic fluid stays within the first and/or second hydraulic cylinders 142a, 144a). In an instance where some aspect of the hydraulic support circuit is not functioning properly, the aforementioned at least one load cell unit 510 will still detect when the contact surfaces 132b, 134b are loaded by a trailer and will send a control signal to the at least one controller for keeping the counterbalance valve 440 closed.

[00280] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 530 of the trailer stand system 100 comprises the release connector 570 that is structured for operably coupling the at least one engagement element 540 to the rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a.

[00281] Referring to Figures 13 to 20, the locking mechanism 530 includes a first embodiment of the release connector 570, where the release connector 570 comprises a cam mechanism that is structured to translate the vertical movement of the rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a into a movement of the at least one engagement element 540 between the engaged position (i.e., received in the at least one receiving aperture) and the unengaged position (i.e., not received in the at least one receiving aperture).

[00282] In the specific embodiment provided in Figure 14A to 15D, the release connector 570 comprises a first connector rod 571 (formed as a clevis rod 572) that is mounted on the rod 560b of the at least one release hydraulic cylinder 560a. The free end 571a of the first connector rod 571 is pivotably connected to a first end 573a of a second connector rod 573 via a pin connection. The second connector rod 573 functions as a ratchet link and can pivot relative to the free end 571a of the first connector rod. A second end ofthe second connector rod 573 comprises a roller element 574 that is pivotably connected thereto. The roller element 574 (connected to the second end of the second connector rod 573) and an angled lower surface 542c of the slider element 542 collectively form the cam mechanism of the release connector 570. As shown in Figures 14A to 15D, when the rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a is in an unactuated position, the slider element 542 is in the first position and the fingers elements 544 are engaged with some of the plurality of receiving apertures 550. When the rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a is driven between varying vertical positions, the roller element 574 applies an upwards force the an angled surface of the slider element 542. Due to the angle of the angled lower surface 542c, the roller element 574 travels along the angled surface and the slider element 542 is driven away from the hollow frame member 122, from the engaged position towards the unengaged position. As the roller element 574 travels along the angled surfaces, the second connector rod 573 pivots relative to the first connector rod 571. The force applied by the roller element 574 drives the slider element 542 to the unengaged positions such that the finger elements 544 are not receiving in the plurality of release apertures 550, and the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 are then free to move vertically downwards relative to the frame member 122.

[00283] In an embodiment such as provided in Figures 14A to 15D, the locking mechanism 530 comprises a plurality of support brackets 580 that are mounted to the frame member 122, and which support at least the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a, the release connector 570 and the at least one engagement element 540 of the locking mechanism 530 on the frame member 122.

[00284] In the specific embodiment provided in Figure 14A to 15D, the plurality of support brackets 580 are mounted to the hollow rectangular member 126 and comprise a pair of slider support brackets 580a. The slider support brackets 580a have a pair of rod-shaped bushings 582 that are mounted therebetween. The slider element 542 has a pair of horizontal slots 542b that extend through the width of the slider element 542. The slider element 542 is mounted on the pair of rod-shaped bushings 582 via the pair of horizontal slots 542b, and the pair of horizontal slots 542b are sized such that the pair of rodshaped bushings 582 can slide along the length of the pair of horizontal slots 542b as the slider element 542 moves between the engaged and unengaged positions.

[00285] The plurality of support brackets 580 also include a guide bracket 580b for guiding the movement of the second connector rod 573 of the release connector 570. The guide bracket 580b is a U- shaped bracket that is mounted to the hollow frame member 122. The guide bracket 580b comprises a pair of guide bushings 583 that are mounted between the flanges of the guide bracket 580b, and which are sufficiently spaced apart so as to permit the second connector rod 573 to pass therebetween. As the rod 560b ofthe at least one release hydraulic cylinder 560a is actuated, the second connector rod 573 will move vertically relative to the guide bracket 580b, and the guide bushings 583 will contact the sides of the second connector rod 573 for guiding the movement of the second connector rod 573. In this way, the extent to which the free second end of the second connector rod 573 (with the roller element 574) can pivot relative to the free end 57 la of the first connector rod 571 will be restrained. When the rod 560b of the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a is at or near the unactuated position, the pivoting of the second connector rod 573 will be substantially limited. When the rod 560b of the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a is at or near the actuated position, the second connector rod 573 will be able to pivot relative to the free end 571a of the first connector rod 571 such that the roller element 574 can maintain contact with the angled lower surface 542c of the slider element 542 as the slider element 542 is driven towards the unengaged position.

[00286] In an embodiment such as provided in Figures 21 to 26, the locking mechanism 530 includes a second embodiment of the release connector 570, where the second embodiment of the release connector 570 comprises a pivoting arm assembly that is structured to translate the vertical movement of the rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a into a movement of the at least one engagement element 540 between the engaged position (i.e., received in the at least one receiving aperture) and the unengaged position (i.e., not received in the at least one receiving aperture).

[00287] In the specific embodiment provided in Figures 21 to 26, the release connector 570 comprises a pivoting arm 590. The pivoting arm 590 includes a pair of arm flanges 592, and first, second, third, and fourth pivot points 590a, 590b, 590c, 590d defined on the pivoting arm 590, extending between the pair of arm flanges 592. The release connector 570 also includes the first connector rod 571 (formed as the clevis rod 572) that is mounted on the rod 560b of the at least one release hydraulic cylinder 560a. The free end 571a ofthe first connector rod 571 includes a shaft 571b mounted through a slot 591 that defines the first pivot point 590a. The shaft 571b can slide in the slot 591 as the pivoting arm 590 pivots. The second embodiment ofthe release connector 570 also comprises a connection body 594. The connection body 594 includes two pivot connections which about which the connection body 594 is pivotably connected to the second and third pivot points 590b, 590c of the pivoting arm 590. The third pivot point 590c of the pivoting arm 590 defines a fixed pivot point about which the pivoting arm 590 will pivot due to the actuation of the hydraulic cylinder 560a. The slider element 542 is pivotably connected to the fourth pivot point 590d of the pivoting arm 590, where the fourth pivot point 590d is defined towards an end of the pivoting arm 590 that is opposite an end of the pivoting arm 590 that has the first pivot point 590a.

[00288] As shown in Figures 21 to 26, when the rod 560b ofthe release hydraulic cylinder 560a is in an unactuated position, the slider element 542 is in the first position and the fingers elements 544 are engaged with at least some of the plurality of receiving apertures 550. When the rod 560b of the release hydraulic cylinder 560a is driven between varying vertical positions, the upwards movement of the rod 560b will drive the first pivot point 590a of the pivoting arm 590 upwards and cause the pivoting arm 590 to rotate about the second pivot point 590b. This rotation of the pivoting arm 590 will in turn drive the slider element 542 away from the hollow frame member 122, from the engaged position to the unengaged positions such that the finger elements 544 are not receiving in the plurality of release apertures 550. Once the at least one engagement element 540 is in the unengaged position, the first support element 132 and/or second support element 134 are then free to move vertically downwards relative to the frame member 122.

[00289] In an additional embodiment such as shown in Figures 21 to 26, the release connector 570 comprises at least one biasing element 597 that is connected between the frame member 122 and the connection body 594 for biasing the connection body 594 towards an unactuated position, where the at least one engagement element 540 is in the engaged position when the connection body 594 is in the unactuated position. By biasing the connection body 594 towards the unactuated position, the at least one biasing element 597 effectively biases the at least one engagement element 540 towards the unengaged position.

[00290] In an embodiment such as provided in Figures 21 to 26, the locking mechanism 530 comprises the plurality of support brackets 580 that are mounted to the frame member 122, and which support at least the at least one hydraulic cylinder 560a, the release connector 570 and the at least one engagement element 540 of the locking mechanism 530 on the frame member 122.

[00291] In the specific embodiment provided in Figure 21 to 26, the plurality of support brackets 580 are mounted to the hollow rectangular member 126 and comprise a pair of slider support brackets 580a. The slider support brackets 580a have a single one of the rod-shaped bushings 582 mounted therebetween. The slider element 542 has one horizontal slot 542b that extends through the width of the slider element 542. The slider element 542 is mounted on the rod-shaped bushing 582 via the horizontal slot 542b, and the horizontal slot 542b is sized such that the rod-shaped bushings 582 can slide along the length of the horizontal slots 542b as the slider element 542 moves between the engaged and unengaged positions.

[00292] While the above examples are specific to locking mechanism 530 engaging with second support element 134, it will be readily understood that the same locking mechanism 530 could be alternatively applied to first support element 132, or to both the first and second support elements 132, 134.

[00293] In an embodiment such as shown in Figures 1A and 3D, the trailer stand system 100 further comprises a heating mechanism 150 for heating the interior of the enclosure 116 formed in the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system 110. The heating mechanism 150 can be provided within the trailer stand system 100 for various reasons, such as for melting snow and/or ice to prevent a build up of snow and/or ice from interfering with the proper functioning of the trailer stand system 100.

[00294] In the specific embodiment shown in Figures 1A and 3A, the heating mechanism 150 is in the form of at least one heating pad that is attached to an upper surface of the base unit 110. In this specific embodiment, the at least one heating pads is a pair of heating pads that are attached to the upper surface of the base unit 110 on either side of primary actuator 140. However, the trailer stand system 100 may comprise fewer or greater number of heading pads, as would be understood by persons skilled in this art. In an embodiment, the heating mechanism 150 is located proximate the pivot brackets between the frame member 120 and the base unit 110, and functions to heat the trailer stand system 100 in and around the pivot brackets to melt snow and/or ice in this area to prevent a build up of snow and/or ice from interfering with the pivotal movement of the frame member 120 relative to the base unit 110. However, the heating mechanism 150 may be located anywhere within the trailer stand system 100 as long as it functions to prevent snow and/or ice from interfering with the proper functioning of the trailer stand system 100. The heating mechanism 150 may be attached to the trailer stand system 100 by any means known to persons skilled in this art. For example, when the heating mechanism 150 is in the form of one or more heating pads, the heating pads may be fixed to the upper surface of the base unit 110 by an adhesive, such as an adhesive backing that is part of the heating pad itself or an adhesive that is applied separately from the heating pad.

[00295] In an additional embodiment, the trailer stand system 100 may further comprise at least one temperature sensor 152 which senses the temperature of the interior of the enclosure 116 of the base unit 110 of the trailer stand system. In an embodiment, the at least one temperature sensor 152 communicates with the heating mechanism 150. In an embodiment, when the at least one temperature sensor 152 detects that the interior of enclosure 116 has reached a certain set threshold temperature, such as, for example, but not limited to, a temperature of about or below 0 degrees Celsius, the at least one temperature sensor 152 communicates with the heating mechanism 150 which, in turn, is activated to produce heat, which in turn, heats up the interior of the trailer stand system 100 for preventing ice and/or snow from building up in the trailer stand system lOOand/or melting ice and/or snow that has begun to accumulate within the interior of the trailer stand system 100. In an embodiment, when the at least one temperature sensor 152 64 detects that the interior of the trailer stand system 100 has reached a certain set threshold temperature, such as, for example, but not limited to, a temperature above 0 degrees Celsius, the at least one temperature sensor 152 communicates with the heating mechanism 150 which, in turn, is de-activated and stops producing heat.

[00296] The above-described embodiments are intended to be examples of the present disclosure and alterations and modifications may be affected thereto, by those of skill in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure that is defined solely by the claims appended hereto. Reference Numerals

100 trailer stand system

102 trailer

104 landing gear of the trailer

106 ground surface

108 underside of the trailer

110 base unit

112 support frame

112a through-slot in support frame

114 upper surface of base unit

116 enclosure

118 pivot assembly

118a left pivot bracket

118b right pivot bracket

119 pivot shaft

120 frame member

120a second end of frame member

120b pivot flanges

122 rectangular cover plate of frame member

126 hollow rectangular members of frame member

126 lateral side of the hollow rectangular member

128 guide channels of frame member

130 support assembly

132 first support element

132a connecting end of first support element

132b contact surface of first support element

132c mounting end of first support element

134 second support element

134a connecting end of second support element

134b contact surface of second support element

134c mounting end of second support element primary actuator connecting structure a primary hydraulic cylinder first actuator a first hydraulic cylinder second actuator a second hydraulic cylinder heating mechanism sensor protection plate a front side wall b rear side wall c right side wall d left side wall conduit front access panel rear access panel conduit sidewall upper conduit surface lower conduit surface counterbalance biasing element mounting flange surface mount alarm electrical junction box manifold assembly a manifold block b pressure transducer support member vertical flange upper flange portion bracket pin clevis pin counterbalance valve a pressure transducer b counterbalance valve block load cell unit load cell housing load cell button dynamic pivot assembly pivot member a first pivot point of pivot memberb second pivot point of pivot member pivot support bracket contact surface locking mechanism locking actuator biasing element a helical spring engagement element a ramped surface slider element a mounted rod b horizontal slots c angled surface finger elements receiving apertures through-aperture release actuator a release hydraulic cylinder b rod release connector first connector rod a free end clevis rod second connector roda first end roller element support bracketsa slider support bracketsb guide bracket rod-shaped bushings guide bushings pivoting arm a first pivot point b second pivot pointc third pivot pointd fourth pivot point slot arm flanges connection body biasing element

Claims

What is claimed is

1. A retractable trailer stand system for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand system comprising: a base unit comprising a bottom surface that is mountable to, or within, a ground surface, and a support frame; a frame member having a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit and a second end; a primary actuator connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a stored position and a support position where the second end of the frame member is disposed above the base unit; a support assembly comprising at least one support element that is movably connected to the frame member, the at least one support element having a connecting end with a contact surface that is shaped for supporting a portion of an underside of the trailer when the frame member is in the support position; and at least one actuator connected to the at least one support element for driving a motion of the at least one support element relative to the frame member when the frame member is in the support position, the at least one support element being movable between a retracted position where the contact surface of the at least one support element is disposed at a first distance above the base unit, and an extended position where the contact surface of the at least one support element is disposed at a second distance above the base unit, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

2. A retractable trailer stand system for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand system comprising: a base unit comprising a bottom surface that is mountable to, or within, a ground surface, and a support frame; a frame member having a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit and a second end; a primary actuator connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a stored position and a support position where the second end of the frame member is disposed above the base unit; a support assembly comprising first and second support elements that are movably connected to the frame member, each of the first and second support elements having a connecting end with a contact surface that is shaped for supporting a portion of an underside of the trailer when the frame member is in the support position; and first and second actuators connected to the first and second support elements for driving an independent motion of each of the first and second support elements relative to the frame member when the frame member is in the support position, the first and second support elements being movable between a retracted position where the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements is disposed at a first distance above the base unit, and an extended position where the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements is disposed at a second distance above the base unit, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

3. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit such that when the frame member is in the stored position, the second end of the frame member is disposed within the support frame of the base unit.

4. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein the base unit and the support frame define at least part of an enclosure for receiving the frame member and the primary actuator when the frame member is in the stored position.

5. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 4, wherein the frame member comprises a pair of guide channels that are disposed along a length of the frame member, and wherein each of the first and second support elements are slidably mounted within one of the pair of guide channels for moving between the retracted position and the extended position.

6. The retractable trailer stand of claim 5, wherein the frame member comprises a cover plate mounted to an outer surface thereof, and where the cover plate is shaped such that when the frame member is in the stored position, the cover plate defines an upper, covering surface of the base unit that covers at least a portion of an opening of the enclosure.

7. The retractable trailer stand of claim 6, wherein the base unit further comprises at least one cover plate covering at least a portion of the support frame.

8. The retractable trailer stand of claim 7, wherein the at least one cover plate comprises at least front, rear, right, and left side walls that are removably attached between the base unit and the support frame, wherein a bottom end of each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls abuts at least one outer edge of the base unit, and wherein a top end of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls defines the opening of the enclosure.

9. The retractable trailer stand of claim 8, wherein each of the base unit and opening of the enclosure of the base unit have a substantially quadrilateral form, and wherein the base unit has a longer length and a longer width than a length and width of the opening of the enclosure such that each of the at least front, rear, right, and left side walls forms a ramp structure.

10. The retractable trailer stand system of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the primary actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is pivotably connected to the base unit, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the frame member.

11. The retractable trailer stand system of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the first actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is connected to the frame member and a second end that is connected to the first support element; and wherein the second actuator is a linear actuator having a first end that is connected to the frame member and a second end that is connected to the second support element.

12. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein each of the first and second support elements are maintained in the retracted position when the frame member is in the stored position, and wherein each of the first and second support elements can be driven between the extended position and the retracted position by the first and second actuators when the frame member is in the support position.

13. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein the support assembly further comprises a support member that connects the first and second support elements, and wherein the support member is structured to provide the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements.

14. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein each of the first and second support elements comprise a second end opposing the connecting ends of the first and second support elements, and wherein the first and second actuators are attached to the second ends of the first and second support elements, respectively.

15. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein the primary actuator comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder, wherein the first actuator comprises a first hydraulic cylinder and wherein the second end comprises a second hydraulic cylinder.

16. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein when the frame member is in the support position, each of the first and second support elements can be driven to move independently by each of the first and second actuators from the retracted position towards the extended position, until the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements abuts the underside of the trailer.

17. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 15, further comprising: at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary hydraulic cylinder, the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder for controlling the operation thereof; and at least first and second pressure sensors that are connected to the at least one controller and which are operably connected to the first and second hydraulic cylinders, respectively, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained therewithin.

18. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 17, wherein the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of the contact surface of the first support element abutting the underside of the trailer; receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensor that is indicative of the contact surface of the second support element abutting the underside of the trailer; fixing a position of each of the first and second support elements relative to the frame member by locking the first and second hydraulic cylinders, based on the first signal received from the first pressure sensor and the second signal received from the second pressure sensor.

19. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 18, wherein the magnitude of the first signal from the at least one first hydraulic sensor and the magnitude of the second signal from the at least one second pressure sensor are each proportional to a pressure that is being applied to the contact surfaces of the first and second support elements by the trailer.

20. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 19, wherein the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving the first signal and/or the second signal from at least one of the first and second pressure sensors, wherein the first and/or the second signal is indicative of the contact surface abutting the underside of the trailer; controlling each of the primary actuator, first actuator, and second actuator such that a current position of the frame member and each of the first and second support elements is maintained.

21. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 20, wherein the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: detecting a change in at least one of the first signal and the second signal from the first and second pressure sensors, wherein the change in the at least one of the first signal and second signal is indicative of a collapse of a set of landing gear of the trailer; and locking each of the primary actuator, first actuator and second actuator such that the contact surface of each of the first and second support elements is maintained at the second distance above the base unit.

22. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 21, wherein the change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined maximum value.

23. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 21, wherein the change in the signal from the at least one pressure sensor is an increase in a rate of change of a magnitude of the signal to above a predetermined acceptable rate of change.

24. The retractable trailer stand system of any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the at least one pressure sensor is a hydraulic pressure transducer.

25. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 2, wherein the frame member is movable between the stored position, the support position, and an intermediate position defined between the stored position and the support position, wherein the base unit further comprises a counterbalance biasing element mounted therein; and wherein the counterbalance biasing element is positioned within the base unit for biasing the frame member towards the intermediate position such that when the frame member is in the stored position and the primary actuator is driven to lift the frame member, the biasing force of the counterbalance biasing element will drive the frame member from the stored position to the intermediate position.

26. A retractable trailer stand for supporting a trailer, the trailer stand comprising: a base unit comprising a face that is mountable to, or within, a ground surface, and a support frame; a frame member comprising a first end that is pivotably mounted to the base unit, and a second end that is displaceable relative to the base unit; a primary actuator assembly connected to the base unit and to the frame member for driving a movement of the frame member between a first position, and a second position where the second end of the frame member is disposed above the base unit; a support assembly comprising first and second support elements that are independently, movably attached to the frame member, and a support member that is pivotably connected to the first and second support elements for supporting an underside of the trailer; and first and second actuators connected to the first and second support elements, respectively, for driving a motion of the first and second support elements between a first configuration where the first support element is disposed at a first distance from the second end of the frame member and the second support element is disposed at a second distance from the second end of the frame member such that the support member is inclined at a first angle relative to the base unit, and a second configuration where the first support element is disposed at the first distance from the second end of the frame member and the second support element is disposed at a third distance from the second end of the frame member such that the support member is inclined at a second angle relative to the base unit.

27. The retractable trailer stand of claim 26, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance such that when the first and second support elements are in the first configuration, the first angle of the support member is in a first rotational direction relative to the base unit, and wherein the third distance is less than the first distance such that when the first and second support elements are in the second configuration, the second angle of the support member is in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

28. The retractable trailer stand of claim 26, wherein each of the first and second support elements comprise a first end that is movably connected to the mounting structure, and a second end that is pivotably connected to the support member.

29. The retractable trailer stand of claim 26, wherein the frame member is pivotably mounted to the base unit such that when the frame member is in the first position, the second end of the frame member is disposed within the support frame of the base unit.

30. The retractable trailer stand of claim 26, wherein the frame member further comprises a mounting structure.

31. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 26, wherein the primary actuator comprises a primary hydraulic cylinder, wherein the first actuator comprises a first hydraulic cylinder and wherein the second end comprises a second hydraulic cylinder, and wherein the first hydraulic cylinder and second hydraulic cylinder are provided in selective fluid connection for equalizing an amount of a hydraulic fluid contained therewithin such that as the first and second support elements are driven towards the extended position by the first and second hydraulic cylinders, the support member will abut the underside of the trailer and will pivot in one of the first or second rotational directions such that an angle of the support member corresponds to an angle of tilt of the underside of the trailer relative to the base unit.

32. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 29, wherein the retractable trailer stand further comprises: at least one controller that is operably connected to the primary hydraulic cylinder and the first and second hydraulic cylinders for controlling the operation thereof; and at least first and second hydraulic pressure sensors that are connected to the at least one controller and which are mounted within the first and second hydraulic cylinders, respectively, for measuring a pressure of the hydraulic fluid contained therewithin.

33. The retractable trailer stand system of claim 30, wherein the at least one controller is programmed with computer-readable instructions for: receiving a first signal from the first pressure sensor that is indicative of a portion of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer stand; receiving a second signal from the second pressure sensor that is indicative of the entirety of the support member abutting the underside of the trailer stand; fixing a position of each of the first and second support elements relative to the frame member by locking-off the fluid communication between the first and second hydraulic cylinders.