US20120292884A1 - Low rider saddle mount - Google Patents
Low rider saddle mount Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120292884A1 US20120292884A1 US13/561,125 US201213561125A US2012292884A1 US 20120292884 A1 US20120292884 A1 US 20120292884A1 US 201213561125 A US201213561125 A US 201213561125A US 2012292884 A1 US2012292884 A1 US 2012292884A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- vehicle
- saddle mount
- horizontal member
- rider saddle
- low rider
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D53/00—Tractor-trailer combinations; Road trains
- B62D53/04—Tractor-trailer combinations; Road trains comprising a vehicle carrying an essential part of the other vehicle's load by having supporting means for the front or rear part of the other vehicle
- B62D53/06—Semi-trailers
- B62D53/061—Semi-trailers of flat bed or low loader type or fitted with swan necks
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P3/00—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
- B60P3/12—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for salvaging damaged vehicles
- B60P3/125—Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for salvaging damaged vehicles by supporting only part of the vehicle, e.g. front- or rear-axle
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D53/00—Tractor-trailer combinations; Road trains
- B62D53/005—Combinations with at least three axles and comprising two or more articulated parts
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
- B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to a method and apparatus for transporting and delivering multiple trucks, and in particular, to a low rider saddle mount for loading, transporting and delivering trucks in compliance with the Department of Transportation Regulations.
- Semi tractor trucks also known as “semi trailer trucks” are typically delivered in groups of two or more.
- a truck that is being towed is mounted by a saddle mount on top of the frame or on the fifth wheel of another truck.
- the exhaust stacks and air fairings of the trucks conventionally delivered by decking occasionally have to be removed to keep the trucks under the legal height, and to allow the trucks to pass under bridges and through tunnels.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a known method of towing semi tractor trucks 10 .
- This current method of towing provides delivery of two semi tractor trucks at a time.
- a towing semi tractor truck 12 typically faces forward and tows a boom trailer 14 .
- a towed semi tractor truck 16 is connected to the boom trailer 14 at a fifth wheel connection 26 .
- a support chain 18 is further used to hold the angle of the towed semi tractor truck 16 .
- the boom trailer 14 is also connected to a fifth wheel connection 26 of the towing semi tractor truck 12 .
- the towed semi tractor truck 16 is towed facing backwards with only steering tires 20 on the ground 22 .
- the steering tires 20 are generally held in a straight position on the towed semi tractor truck 16 by securing the steering wheel with the driver's seat belt.
- the driver's personal pickup truck 24 is transported on top of the boom trailer 14 between the towing and towed semi tractor trucks 12 , 16 (the loading ramps are not shown).
- the majority of the weight of the pick up truck 24 is behind a fifth wheel 26 of the towing semi tractor truck 12 .
- the majority of the weight of the boom trailer 14 is also behind the fifth wheel 26 . Therefore, the majority of the weight of the driver's personal pickup truck 24 and the boom trailer 14 is supported by the steering tires 20 .
- the steering tires 20 also support the entire towed semi tractor truck 16 while being towed backwards.
- the towed semi tractor truck 16 also has wind deflection panels 28 that may undesirably act like a parachute, creating drag and may even be torn off by the wind if not removed or secured before towing begins.
- a system for towing multiple vehicles includes a low rider saddle mount disposed between at least one of a towing vehicle and a second vehicle, and the second vehicle and a third vehicle.
- the low rider saddle mount has a first horizontal member selectively coupled to one of the towing vehicle and the second vehicle and a second horizontal member selectively coupled to one of the second vehicle and the third vehicle.
- the second horizontal member is vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member.
- the vehicles are each towed in a forward direction.
- the system may further include a universal folding boom trailer having a rotatable boom for supporting an optional first vehicle and the second vehicle upon the boom trailer.
- the universal folding boom trailer further includes a first means for securing the universal folding boom trailer to the towing vehicle.
- a method for towing multiple vehicles includes the steps of: providing a low rider saddle mount having a first horizontal member and a second horizontal member, the second horizontal member vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member; securing the first horizontal member to one of a towing vehicle and a second vehicle; loading one of a second vehicle and a third vehicle atop the second horizontal member of the low rider saddle mount in a forward facing position; and securing the second horizontal member of the low rider saddle mount to one of the second vehicle and the third vehicle.
- the low rider saddle mount of the present disclosure may be used exclusively with the universal folding boom trailer or alone, for towing multiple trucks without exceeding known legal height requirements.
- FIG. 1 illustrates the typical towing method of the prior art
- FIG. 2 illustrates a universal folding boom trailer according to the present disclosure
- FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the universal folding boom trailer depicted in
- FIG. 2 further shown in a folded position
- FIG. 4 is a top view of the universal folding boom trailer as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 ;
- FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the universal folding boom trailer shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 , with the universal folding boom trailer in a vertical position;
- FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the universal folding boom trailer with the boom in an extended position
- FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the universal folding boom trailer as shown in FIG. 6 ;
- FIGS. 8 a - d illustrate a bell crank of the universal folding boom trailer according to the present disclosure
- FIG. 9 illustrates a second embodiment of the universal folding boom trailer performing a hoisting operation
- FIGS. 10 a - b illustrate a rigid low rider saddle mount for use with the universal folding boom trailer shown in FIGS. 2 to 8 , the rigid low rider saddle mount pivoting from a fifth wheel of a truck;
- FIGS. 11 a - b illustrate an adjustable height low rider saddle mount for use with the universal folding boom trailer shown in FIGS. 2 to 8 the adjustable height low rider saddle mount pivoting from an axle anchor of a truck;
- FIG. 12 illustrates low rider saddle mounts for use with a towing truck and towed trucks without using the universal folding boom trailer
- FIGS. 13 a - b illustrate a low rider saddle mount according to another embodiment of the disclosure, the low rider saddle mount attached to the rear of the truck frame and having a separate attachment bar for ease in assembly.
- a universal folding boom trailer 130 for use with the system and method of the present disclosure is shown.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is further described in International Application No. PCT/US2007/070406 to Watkins, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 includes a rotatable boom 138 for supporting multiple vehicles 134 , 136 upon the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is configured for transport of the multiple vehicles 134 , 136 by a towing vehicle 132 , such as a semi tractor truck.
- the multiple vehicles 134 , 136 may include a first vehicle 134 such as a driver's personal vehicle and a second vehicle 136 such as a semi tractor truck, for example.
- the driver's personal vehicle may be optionally towed or not towed, as desired.
- the second vehicle 136 may be any type of desired vehicle, including a box truck, a flatbed, and a straight truck, for example.
- the multiple vehicles 134 , 136 are towed in a forward direction.
- the boom 138 is rotatable from a folded position 100 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 for trailering to an unfolded position 200 as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is configured for transportation of the multiple vehicles 134 , 136 .
- the boom 138 includes a winch 144 , for example, as shown in FIG. 7 , for rotating the boom 138 between the folded position 100 and the unfolded position 200 .
- the boom 138 in the unfolded position 200 further includes a position lock 182 for securing the boom 138 in the unfolded position 200 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 forms a solitary trailer that may back up like a conventional trailer when attached to the first vehicle 132 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 also includes a first means for securing 160 the universal folding boom trailer 130 to the first vehicle 134 , for example, for towing the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the first means for securing 160 may include a multi-position king pin for towing by the first vehicle 134 .
- a second means for securing 158 the universal folding boom trailer 130 to another vehicle, such as by coupling the universal folding boom trailer 130 with the fifth wheel 126 of the towing vehicle 132 may also be provided.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be used as a crane.
- the boom 138 is rotatable to a crane position 300 and is used in conjunction with the winch 144 for moving the first and second vehicles 134 , 136 , for example, by lowering the first and second vehicles 134 , 136 from their respective forward towing positions.
- the crane position 300 provides a means for connecting at least an additional third vehicle 137 to the second vehicle 136 (shown in FIGS. 10 b and 11 b ) for towing in a forward facing position.
- the present disclosure also includes a method for towing multiple vehicles, wherein each of the first, second, and third vehicles 134 , 136 , 137 is towed while facing forward.
- the method includes the steps of: providing the universal folding boom trailer 130 having the rotatable boom 138 ; rotating the boom 138 to the unfolded position 200 ; locking the boom 138 in the unfolded position; securing the boom 138 to the towing vehicle 132 ; loading the first personal vehicle 134 for towing atop the universal folding boom trailer 130 in the forward facing position 200 ; and loading the second vehicle 136 for towing atop the boom 138 in a forward facing position.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may also form the solitary trailer as described hereinabove.
- the formation of the solitary trailer for ease in transporting the universal folding boom trailer 130 includes the steps of rotating the boom 138 to a desired position by a winch 144 , and backing up the universal folding boom trailer 130 to the first vehicle 134 , such as the driver's personal vehicle, like a conventional trailer.
- the method of the present disclosure may further include the step of loading one or more additional third vehicles 137 onto the second vehicle 136 in a forward towing position until the maximum legal towing length is reached.
- the step of loading the third vehicle 137 may be performed before or after loading the first and second 134 , 136 vehicles for towing.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be employed to connect the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 prior to loading the first vehicle 134 onto the universal folding boom trailer 130 and securing the universal folding boom trailer 130 to the second vehicle 136 .
- the method may include the steps of: driving the towed second vehicle 136 and the towed third vehicle 137 away from the universal folding boom trailer 130 ; unloading the towing vehicle 132 from the universal folding boom trailer 130 ; rotating the boom 138 of the universal folding boom trailer 130 into the crane position 300 ; and disconnecting the vehicles 136 , 137 by hoisting the vehicles 136 about the boom 138 via the winch 144 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be trailered from either end and in any position, as desired. In a specific embodiment, the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be trailered when the boom 138 is in the folded position 100 or in the unfolded position 200 . The universal folding boom trailer 130 may also be trailered when the towed vehicles 134 , 136 are loaded or unloaded, as desired.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be towed by the personal first vehicle 134 in the folded position 100 to a desired destination.
- the boom 138 is unfolded by operating a winch 144 ( FIG. 7 ).
- the winch 144 pulls the transport tires 146 towards the front 148 of the universal folding boom trailer 130 until the boom 138 is positioned straight up ( FIG. 5 ).
- the wire cable 150 may be attached ( FIG. 3 ) at an attachment point 151 along the boom 138 , for example.
- the winch 144 is reversed and the boom 138 continues to rotate in the same direction while being prevented from falling by wire cable 154 ( FIG. 5 ) until the boom 138 lays flat on the ground 122 (see side and top views FIGS. 6 and 7 , respectively).
- the wire cable 154 may be located at an attachment point 155 on the boom 134 , for example.
- the boom trailer hitch 156 is then disconnected from the fifth wheel 158 ( FIG. 6 ).
- the winch 144 is reversed again, lifting the boom trailer hitch 156 up and away from the second means for securing 158 on the back of the first vehicle 134 as a result of the boom 138 being heavier than the front 148 .
- the first vehicle 134 can then be driven forward and out from underneath the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the towing vehicle 132 is then backed underneath the front of the universal folding boom trailer 130 and the first means for securing 160 , such as the multi-position kingpin 160 , is locked into the fifth wheel 126 of the towing vehicle 132 ( FIGS. 2 and 6 ).
- the multi-position kingpin 160 is provided with multiple coupling positions to accommodate the various hauling conditions.
- the first vehicle 134 is loaded onto the universal folding boom trailer 130 by loading ramps 162 that easily slide out from the universal folding boom trailer 130 when needed, as is well known in the art.
- the loading ramps 162 are extended from underneath the pickup truck support rails 164 ( FIGS. 2 and 7 ).
- the ramps 162 are made of 3 inch channel overlaid with expanded metal or subway grating.
- the first vehicle 134 is secured by chains and binders (not shown), as is well known in the art.
- the loading ramps 162 are then slid back into their original position underneath the support rails 164 .
- the second vehicle 136 such as the semi tractor truck, is then driven over and straddles the boom 138 that is lying on the ground 122 ( FIGS. 2 , 6 and 7 ).
- the second vehicle 136 is driven forward to a front axle connector 166 .
- the second vehicle axle 168 is secured to the boom 138 by the front axle connector 166 .
- a frame connector 170 is connected to the frame of the second vehicle 136 at an attachment point 172 and secured by chains 174 .
- the attachment point 172 is adjustable and slides forward and aft for hauling various lengths of trucks.
- the winch 144 becomes functional after the second vehicle 136 is secured by removing a locking pin 176 from its attachment point 178 along the boom 138 to a lifting arm 145 of the winch 144 assembly.
- the removal of the locking pin 176 allows the winch 144 to rotate when the cable 150 is retracted.
- the rotation applies a ground roller 180 , such as heavy duty dolly wheels, to the ground surface 122 .
- the rotation raises the front end of the second vehicle 136 and the back of the first vehicle 134 simultaneously by lifting the middle section of the universal folding boom trailer 130 upward.
- the first vehicle 134 becomes level and the steering tires 120 of the second vehicle 136 raise off the ground 122 .
- the steering tires 120 may be lifted approximately 9 inches off of the ground 122 and are, therefore, no longer in use.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is made from aluminum, steel, fiberglass or any combination of materials capable of performing the described method of operation.
- the main frame of the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be constructed of 2 ⁇ 8 ⁇ 3/16 rectangular steel tubing, and the folding portion of the boom 138 may be made with 8 inch “I” beams, for example.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is of all welded construction. While the winch 144 has been described using mechanical means with an electric winch, other means such as hydraulics or pneumatics may be used.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is shown in the crane position 300 by fixedly attaching to the towing vehicle 132 , for example, at the fifth wheel connection 126 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is equipped with additional cables 187 , 192 for use in conjunction with a snatch block 194 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be laid on the ground 122 in the unfolded position 200 ( FIG. 2 ).
- Boom support cables 188 , 190 , 192 are extended from a first end 186 of the universal folding boom trailer 130 to the forward end 196 of the boom 138 .
- the boom 138 is retracted toward the folded position 100 via the winch 144 .
- the boom 138 is stopped at a point where the cable 187 is detachable from the winch 144 and may be strung over a transfer pulley 197 for connection with the cable 192 .
- the cable 192 wraps around the snatch block 194 for attachment to the boom 138 , for example, at an attachment point 198 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is thereby able to perform any desired hoisting operation.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 of the present disclosure legally and safely tows the second vehicle 136 while also transporting the first vehicle 134 , such as the driver's personal pickup truck.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is not limited to the towing of only semi tractor trucks 136 because a fifth wheel connection 126 is not necessary on the towed second vehicle 136 . Since the towed second vehicle 136 is towed facing forward, the universal folding boom trailer 130 can also tow either a box truck, a flatbed truck, or a straight or semi tractor truck (as shown).
- the majority of the weight of a boom 138 and the first vehicle 134 is supported by dual wheeled axles 140 of the second vehicle 136 being towed forward.
- a further advantage of supporting the weight on the rear axles is that the dual wheeled axles 140 are non-steering and have a much higher weight bearing capacity in comparison to the steering tires 120 .
- a still further advantage of the universal folding boom trailer 130 is that the steering tires 120 of the towed truck 136 are elevated above the road and free of any weight bearing loads. The elevated location militates against a need to immobilize the steering wheel with the driver seat belt. Since the second vehicle 136 is being towed forward with the weight on the rear tires, there are also more tires on the ground 122 for increased braking effect.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may also be converted to the crane position 300 , using a winch 144 for loading and unloading towing vehicles in a piggy back configuration.
- the air deflection panels 28 ( FIG. 1 ) on the towed truck 16 act like a parachute under conventional towing methods.
- the air deflection panels 28 create drag and may even be torn off by the wind if not secured before towing begins with the conventional methods.
- the truck 136 is towed forward and the air travels around the wind deflection panels 184 in the intended direction, eliminating any need to secure the panels 184 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 thereby decreases drag and increases fuel efficiency during transport of the first and second vehicles 134 , 136 .
- a still further advantage of the universal folding boom trailer 130 over the known trailer systems is elimination of the need for a light bar to be added to the front of the truck 16 being towed backwards in FIG. 1 .
- the light bar must be added to provide operating brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights and marker lights. Since the second vehicle 136 in FIG. 2 is towed facing forward when using the universal folding boom trailer 130 of the present disclosure, the existing lights on the back of the towed second vehicle 136 are used, thereby militating against the need for a light bar. It should be appreciated that the light bar may also be rendered unnecessary by the towing of the one or more additional third vehicles 137 facing forward.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 further provides a forward center of gravity of the forward facing towed second vehicle 136 .
- the forward center of gravity creates a more stable towing environment by limiting the chance of jack knifing during hard braking or other emergency situations.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be used as a crane to hoist vehicles, such as transport trucks, primarily for decking or cab and chassis transport.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be used as a crane to hoist vehicles, such as transport trucks, for deck removal from a vehicle 136 after unhitching the towed second vehicle 136 from the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the crane may also be used for any other hoisting needs, as desired.
- the boom trailer position lock 182 may be inserted on both sides of the boom trailer 138 to make the entire structure rigid, as if a one piece unit.
- the winch 144 may then be rotated back to the original position, raising the ground rollers 180 off of the ground 122 .
- the first and second vehicles 134 , 136 are now ready for transport by the towing vehicle 132 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 is capable of backing up like a conventional trailer.
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 when bringing the second vehicle 136 down so that the steering tires 120 are approximately 9 inches from the ground, instead of the 3 or 4 feet off the ground as in the known methods, allows the second vehicle 136 to be delivered in the forward facing position and lower to the ground 122 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 facilitates the passing of the second vehicle 136 under bridges and through tunnels without having to remove stacks or air fairings.
- the present disclosure includes a low rider saddle mount 302 .
- the low rider saddle mount 302 may be used with the universal folding boom trailer 130 as described hereinabove and in International Application No. PCT/US20071070406 to Watkins.
- the low rider saddle mount 302 may be rigid as shown in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b , adjustable in height as shown in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b , or separable as shown in FIGS. 12 a and 12 b . It should be understood that other configurations, and combinations of the described configurations, are within the scope of the present disclosure.
- the low rider saddle mount 302 includes a first horizontal member 304 spaced vertically apart from a second horizontal member 306 .
- the first and second horizontal members 304 , 306 may be rigidly connected as shown in FIG. 10 a such that the spacing therebetween is not adjustable.
- the first horizontal member 304 may be selectively coupled to one of the towing vehicle 132 and the towed second vehicle 136 , as desired.
- the first horizontal member 304 may have a first securing means 308 such as a fifth wheel kingpin for attachment to the fifth wheel 126 of one of the towing vehicle 132 and the second vehicle 136 .
- the fifth wheel kingpin may be adjustable forward and aft, for example.
- the second horizontal member 306 of the low rider saddle mount 302 may be selectively coupled to one of the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 such as a second semi tractor truck.
- the second horizontal member 306 may include a second securing means 310 such as a saddle mount axle connector for attachment to the front axle of one of the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 .
- the second securing means 310 may include a pivoting axle mount such as shown in FIG. 11 a , for example.
- a third securing means 312 may also be provided on the second horizontal member 306 for removably coupling one of the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 to the rigid low rider saddle mount 302 .
- the third securing means 312 may include a chain and frame connector, as is known in the art.
- the chain and frame connector may be disposed at an end of the second horizontal member 306 .
- multiple rigid low rider saddle mounts 302 may be employed to facilitate the connecting of multiple additional third vehicles 137 for towing, as desired.
- the low rider saddle mount 302 is shown in operation.
- the towing vehicle 132 may optionally be coupled to the universal folding boom trailer 130 in the unfolded position 200 .
- the low rider saddle mount 302 is coupled to the towing vehicle 132 .
- the first vehicle 134 is disposed atop the unfolded universal folding boom trailer 130 and the first second vehicle 136 is coupled with the boom 138 of the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 are each disposed facing forward for towing behind the towing vehicle 132 .
- the rigid low rider saddle mount 302 is disposed between the first second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 .
- the first securing means 308 of the rigid low rider saddle mount 302 may be coupled with the fifth wheel 126 of the second vehicle 136
- the second securing means 310 may be coupled with the front axle of the third vehicle 137
- the third securing means 312 may be coupled with the frame of the third vehicle 137 .
- the forward-facing transportation of the second and third vehicles 136 , 37 may thusly be performed.
- the low rider saddle mount 302 may be adjustable in height. As shown in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b , for example, the first and second horizontal members 304 , 306 of the low rider saddle mount 302 may be adjustably spaced vertically apart from one another. The first and second horizontal members 304 , 306 may be adjustably connected with a connecting member 314 . The second horizontal member 306 may be vertically and slidably connected with the connecting member 314 . The second horizontal member 306 may also be lockable to select positions on the connecting member 314 , as desired.
- the connecting member 314 may have a plurality of holes 316 formed therein, and the second horizontal member 306 may have a locking pin 318 configured to be received by each of the holes 316 for locking the second horizontal member 306 in a select position, as desired.
- the adjustable height low rider saddle mount 302 may facilitate the employment of the towing system of the present disclosure with a wide range of vehicles including, for example, box trucks, flatbeds, straight trucks, etc.
- the placement of the second horizontal member 306 relative the first horizontal member 304 in the adjustable height low rider saddle mount 302 may be facilitated by a winch 320 as shown in FIG. 11 a .
- the winch 320 may be disposed on the first horizontal member 304 and coupled to the second horizontal member 306 via a winch cable 322 .
- the winch cable 322 may be disposed about a pulley 324 at an end of the first horizontal member 304 and connected to the second horizontal member 306 adjacent the connecting member 314 .
- the pulling in of the cable 322 by the winch 320 thereby may cause a raising of the second horizontal member 306 relative the first horizontal member 304 .
- a letting out of the winch cable 322 by the winch 320 may cause a lowering of the second horizontal member 306 relative the first horizontal member 304 .
- the low rider saddle mount 302 may be directly coupled to the towing vehicle 132 , for example, at the fifth wheel 126 of the towing vehicle.
- the low rider saddle mounts 302 may be used without the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the low rider saddle mount 302 may be directly coupled to the frame of the towing vehicle 132 , and likewise directly coupled to the frames of connected towed second and third vehicles 136 , 137 .
- a plurality of the low rider saddle mount 302 may thereby be employed to tow multiple second and third vehicles 136 , 137 .
- multiple low rider saddle mounts 302 may facilitate the towing of the multiple second and third vehicles 136 , 137 under bridges and through tunnels without having to remove stacks or wind fairings 184 .
- the low rider saddle mount 302 may be disconnected into separate pieces to make the low rider saddle mount 302 lighter for an operator to transport and assemble, and to place the pivoting point lower than with a unitary low rider saddle mount 302 .
- the low rider saddle mount may be disconnected at a king pin 326 .
- the king pin 326 is a removable king pin 326 .
- the separate pieces of the low rider saddle mount 302 may include a fifth wheel attachment bar 328 and a boom 330 .
- the boom 330 may have the securing means 310 such as the saddle mount axle connector for attachment to the front axle of one of the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 , as desired.
- the boom 330 may further include a telescoping chain and frame connector 332 , for example, for connecting to the frame of one of the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 , as desired.
- the boom 330 has a hydraulic jack 334 .
- the hydraulic jack may be disposed between the king pine 326 and the securing means 310 , for example.
- the telescoping chain and frame connector 332 and the hydraulic jack 334 may also be employed with the low rider saddle mount 302 in the rigid and adjustable configurations.
- the fifth wheel attachment bar 328 is configured for attachment to the fifth wheel 126 of at least one of the towing vehicle 132 , the second vehicle 136 , and the third vehicle 137 .
- the fifth wheel attachment bar 328 may include a king pin receiver 336 configured to receive the king pin 326 of the boom 330 .
- the king pin receiver 336 may be rigid or adjustable in height as shown in FIG. 13 a . Where the king pin receiver 336 is adjustable in height, the king pin receiver 336 may include the vertical member 314 slidably received by the first horizontal member 304 .
- the first horizontal member 304 and the vertical member 314 may include holes 316 configured to receipt the locking pin 318 for securing holding the vertical member 314 at a desired position.
- a cross member support bar 338 may also be disposed between the fifth wheel attachment bar 328 and the frame of one of the towing vehicle 132 , the second vehicle 136 and the third vehicle 137 .
- the cross member support bar 338 may support and facilitate a connecting of the low rider saddle mount 302 directly to the frame.
- the present disclosure further includes a method for transporting at least one of the first, second, and third vehicles 134 , 136 , 137 with the low rider saddle mount 302 , and optionally the universal folding boom trailer 130 .
- the method includes coupling the towing vehicle 132 with the second vehicle 136 via one of the universal folding boom trailer 130 and the low rider saddle mount 302 as described hereinabove.
- the method further includes the step of attaching the low rider saddle mount 302 to the second vehicle 136 .
- the third vehicle 137 may then be pulled up and over the second horizontal member 306 of the low rider saddle mount 302 .
- the third vehicle 137 may then be attached to the low rider saddle mount 302 as described herein.
- the method may include the step of adjusting the height of the low rider saddle mount 302 , for example, depending on the type of the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 to be towed.
- the method may also include repeating the abovementioned steps for towing of more than the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 , for example, up to a legally allowed length or amount of vehicles to be towed.
- the method of the present disclosure may further include the step of loading the first vehicle 134 , such as the driver's personal vehicle, atop the universal folding boom trailer 130 in the forward facing position.
- the step of loading the first vehicle 134 may be performed prior to the step of loading the second vehicle 136 atop the universal folding boom trailer 130 in the forward facing position.
- the present method may include the steps of: securing the universal folding boom trailer 130 to the towing vehicle 132 prior to the step of rotating the boom 138 to the unfolded position 200 .
- the boom 138 may then be rotated to the crane position 300 , locked in place, and the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 towed in the forward facing positions with the boom 138 in the crane position 300 .
- the second vehicle 136 is thereby prepared for loading atop the universal folding boom trailer 130 when the boom 138 is rotated to the unfolded position 200 .
- the method of the present disclosure may include sequentially loading additional vehicles (not shown) in forward towing positions onto the third vehicle 137 until the maximum legal towing length is reached.
- the towing vehicle 132 and the second vehicle 136 may be disconnected from at least one of the universal folding boom trailer 130 and the low rider saddle mount 302 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be employed to disconnect the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 .
- the boom 138 may be rotated into the crane position 300 , and the second and third vehicle 136 , 137 disconnected by hoisting the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 about the boom 138 .
- the universal folding boom trailer 130 may be trailered to the first vehicle 134 for transport by rotating the boom 138 back to the folded position 200 , whereby the universal folding boom trailer 130 is turned into the solitary trailer.
- the method using the universal low rider saddle mount 302 lowers the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 so that the front tires are approximately 9 inches from the ground instead of the 3 or 4 feet off the ground in the methods known in the art.
- This allows the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 to be delivered in the forward facing position and lower to the ground.
- the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 according to the present disclosure can advantageously pass under bridges and through tunnels without having to remove stacks or air fairings.
- the second and third vehicles 136 , 137 are also legal to tow and deliver throughout the United States and many other countries. Being forward towed, the system and method of the present invention further allows for a more fuel-efficient towing of at least one of the first, second and third vehicles 134 , 136 , 137 than is known in the art.
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- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
A system including a low rider saddle mount for safe and legal transportation of multiple vehicles is provided. The system includes a low rider saddle mount having a first horizontal member selectively coupled to one of a towing vehicle and a second vehicle, and a second horizontal member selectively coupled to one of the second vehicle and a third vehicle. The second horizontal member is vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member. The multiple vehicles are towed in a forward direction. The system may further include a universal folding boom trailer. A method for towing multiple vehicles is also provided.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/865,012 filed on Jul. 28, 2010, which in turn is a National Stage of International Application No. PCT/US09/32188 filed on Jan. 28, 2009, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/024,078 filed on Jan. 28, 2008, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- The present disclosure relates generally to a method and apparatus for transporting and delivering multiple trucks, and in particular, to a low rider saddle mount for loading, transporting and delivering trucks in compliance with the Department of Transportation Regulations.
- Semi tractor trucks, also known as “semi trailer trucks”, are typically delivered in groups of two or more. Generally, a truck that is being towed is mounted by a saddle mount on top of the frame or on the fifth wheel of another truck. Undesirably, the exhaust stacks and air fairings of the trucks conventionally delivered by decking occasionally have to be removed to keep the trucks under the legal height, and to allow the trucks to pass under bridges and through tunnels.
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FIG. 1 illustrates a known method of towingsemi tractor trucks 10. This current method of towing provides delivery of two semi tractor trucks at a time. A towingsemi tractor truck 12 typically faces forward and tows aboom trailer 14. A towedsemi tractor truck 16 is connected to theboom trailer 14 at afifth wheel connection 26. Asupport chain 18 is further used to hold the angle of the towedsemi tractor truck 16. Theboom trailer 14 is also connected to afifth wheel connection 26 of the towingsemi tractor truck 12. The towedsemi tractor truck 16 is towed facing backwards with onlysteering tires 20 on theground 22. Thesteering tires 20 are generally held in a straight position on the towedsemi tractor truck 16 by securing the steering wheel with the driver's seat belt. The driver'spersonal pickup truck 24 is transported on top of theboom trailer 14 between the towing and towedsemi tractor trucks 12, 16 (the loading ramps are not shown). - In the abovementioned arrangement, the majority of the weight of the pick up
truck 24 is behind afifth wheel 26 of the towingsemi tractor truck 12. The majority of the weight of theboom trailer 14 is also behind thefifth wheel 26. Therefore, the majority of the weight of the driver'spersonal pickup truck 24 and theboom trailer 14 is supported by thesteering tires 20. Thesteering tires 20 also support the entire towedsemi tractor truck 16 while being towed backwards. However, the use ofsteering tires 20 alone to support the towedsemi tractor truck 16, for example, without employment of the tag axle tires, is dangerous and illegal. The towedsemi tractor truck 16 also haswind deflection panels 28 that may undesirably act like a parachute, creating drag and may even be torn off by the wind if not removed or secured before towing begins. - There is a continuing need for a system and method for allowing trucks to pass under bridges and through tunnels without having to remove stacks or wind fairings. Desirably, trucks having the system will be legal to tow and deliver throughout the United States and other countries.
- In concordance with the instant disclosure, a system and method allowing trucks to pass under bridges and through tunnels without having to remove stacks or air fairings, and allowing the trucks having the system to be legal to tow and deliver throughout the United States and other countries, is surprisingly discovered.
- In a first embodiment, a system for towing multiple vehicles includes a low rider saddle mount disposed between at least one of a towing vehicle and a second vehicle, and the second vehicle and a third vehicle. The low rider saddle mount has a first horizontal member selectively coupled to one of the towing vehicle and the second vehicle and a second horizontal member selectively coupled to one of the second vehicle and the third vehicle. The second horizontal member is vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member. The vehicles are each towed in a forward direction. The system may further include a universal folding boom trailer having a rotatable boom for supporting an optional first vehicle and the second vehicle upon the boom trailer. The universal folding boom trailer further includes a first means for securing the universal folding boom trailer to the towing vehicle.
- In another embodiment, a method for towing multiple vehicles includes the steps of: providing a low rider saddle mount having a first horizontal member and a second horizontal member, the second horizontal member vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member; securing the first horizontal member to one of a towing vehicle and a second vehicle; loading one of a second vehicle and a third vehicle atop the second horizontal member of the low rider saddle mount in a forward facing position; and securing the second horizontal member of the low rider saddle mount to one of the second vehicle and the third vehicle.
- The low rider saddle mount of the present disclosure may be used exclusively with the universal folding boom trailer or alone, for towing multiple trucks without exceeding known legal height requirements.
- The above, as well as other advantages of the present disclosure, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, particularly when considered in the light of the drawings described herein.
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FIG. 1 illustrates the typical towing method of the prior art; -
FIG. 2 illustrates a universal folding boom trailer according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the universal folding boom trailer depicted in -
FIG. 2 , further shown in a folded position; -
FIG. 4 is a top view of the universal folding boom trailer as shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 ; -
FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the universal folding boom trailer shown inFIGS. 2 to 4 , with the universal folding boom trailer in a vertical position; -
FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the universal folding boom trailer with the boom in an extended position; -
FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the universal folding boom trailer as shown inFIG. 6 ; -
FIGS. 8 a-d illustrate a bell crank of the universal folding boom trailer according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 9 illustrates a second embodiment of the universal folding boom trailer performing a hoisting operation; -
FIGS. 10 a-b illustrate a rigid low rider saddle mount for use with the universal folding boom trailer shown inFIGS. 2 to 8 , the rigid low rider saddle mount pivoting from a fifth wheel of a truck; -
FIGS. 11 a-b illustrate an adjustable height low rider saddle mount for use with the universal folding boom trailer shown inFIGS. 2 to 8 the adjustable height low rider saddle mount pivoting from an axle anchor of a truck; -
FIG. 12 illustrates low rider saddle mounts for use with a towing truck and towed trucks without using the universal folding boom trailer; and -
FIGS. 13 a-b illustrate a low rider saddle mount according to another embodiment of the disclosure, the low rider saddle mount attached to the rear of the truck frame and having a separate attachment bar for ease in assembly. - The following detailed description and appended drawings describe and illustrate various embodiments of the invention. The description and drawings serve to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. In respect of the methods disclosed, the steps presented are exemplary in nature, and thus, are not necessary or critical.
- With reference to
FIGS. 2 to 8 , a universalfolding boom trailer 130 for use with the system and method of the present disclosure is shown. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 is further described in International Application No. PCT/US2007/070406 to Watkins, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , the universalfolding boom trailer 130 includes arotatable boom 138 for supportingmultiple vehicles folding boom trailer 130. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 is configured for transport of themultiple vehicles towing vehicle 132, such as a semi tractor truck. Themultiple vehicles first vehicle 134 such as a driver's personal vehicle and asecond vehicle 136 such as a semi tractor truck, for example. The driver's personal vehicle may be optionally towed or not towed, as desired. Alternatively, thesecond vehicle 136 may be any type of desired vehicle, including a box truck, a flatbed, and a straight truck, for example. Themultiple vehicles - The
boom 138 is rotatable from a foldedposition 100 as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 for trailering to an unfoldedposition 200 as shown inFIG. 2 . In the unfoldedposition 200, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is configured for transportation of themultiple vehicles boom 138 includes awinch 144, for example, as shown inFIG. 7 , for rotating theboom 138 between the foldedposition 100 and the unfoldedposition 200. Theboom 138 in the unfoldedposition 200 further includes aposition lock 182 for securing theboom 138 in the unfoldedposition 200. When in the unfoldedposition 200, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 forms a solitary trailer that may back up like a conventional trailer when attached to thefirst vehicle 132. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , the universalfolding boom trailer 130 also includes a first means for securing 160 the universalfolding boom trailer 130 to thefirst vehicle 134, for example, for towing the universalfolding boom trailer 130. As a nonlimiting example, the first means for securing 160 may include a multi-position king pin for towing by thefirst vehicle 134. A second means for securing 158 the universalfolding boom trailer 130 to another vehicle, such as by coupling the universalfolding boom trailer 130 with thefifth wheel 126 of the towingvehicle 132, may also be provided. - Additionally, the universal
folding boom trailer 130 may be used as a crane. As illustrated inFIG. 9 , theboom 138 is rotatable to acrane position 300 and is used in conjunction with thewinch 144 for moving the first andsecond vehicles second vehicles crane position 300 provides a means for connecting at least an additionalthird vehicle 137 to the second vehicle 136 (shown inFIGS. 10 b and 11 b) for towing in a forward facing position. - The present disclosure also includes a method for towing multiple vehicles, wherein each of the first, second, and
third vehicles folding boom trailer 130 having therotatable boom 138; rotating theboom 138 to the unfoldedposition 200; locking theboom 138 in the unfolded position; securing theboom 138 to the towingvehicle 132; loading the firstpersonal vehicle 134 for towing atop the universalfolding boom trailer 130 in theforward facing position 200; and loading thesecond vehicle 136 for towing atop theboom 138 in a forward facing position. - The universal
folding boom trailer 130 may also form the solitary trailer as described hereinabove. The formation of the solitary trailer for ease in transporting the universalfolding boom trailer 130 includes the steps of rotating theboom 138 to a desired position by awinch 144, and backing up the universalfolding boom trailer 130 to thefirst vehicle 134, such as the driver's personal vehicle, like a conventional trailer. - The method of the present disclosure may further include the step of loading one or more additional
third vehicles 137 onto thesecond vehicle 136 in a forward towing position until the maximum legal towing length is reached. The step of loading thethird vehicle 137 may be performed before or after loading the first and second 134, 136 vehicles for towing. In a particular embodiment, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be employed to connect the second andthird vehicles first vehicle 134 onto the universalfolding boom trailer 130 and securing the universalfolding boom trailer 130 to thesecond vehicle 136. - To unload the towed
vehicles second vehicle 136 and the towedthird vehicle 137 away from the universalfolding boom trailer 130; unloading the towingvehicle 132 from the universalfolding boom trailer 130; rotating theboom 138 of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 into thecrane position 300; and disconnecting thevehicles vehicles 136 about theboom 138 via thewinch 144. - The universal
folding boom trailer 130 may be trailered from either end and in any position, as desired. In a specific embodiment, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be trailered when theboom 138 is in the foldedposition 100 or in the unfoldedposition 200. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 may also be trailered when the towedvehicles - As illustratively shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 , the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be towed by the personalfirst vehicle 134 in the foldedposition 100 to a desired destination. Theboom 138 is unfolded by operating a winch 144 (FIG. 7 ). Thewinch 144 pulls thetransport tires 146 towards thefront 148 of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 until theboom 138 is positioned straight up (FIG. 5 ). Thewire cable 150 may be attached (FIG. 3 ) at anattachment point 151 along theboom 138, for example. At this point, thewinch 144 is reversed and theboom 138 continues to rotate in the same direction while being prevented from falling by wire cable 154 (FIG. 5 ) until theboom 138 lays flat on the ground 122 (see side and top viewsFIGS. 6 and 7 , respectively). Thewire cable 154 may be located at anattachment point 155 on theboom 134, for example. - Following the placement of the universal
folding boom trailer 130 in the unfoldedposition 200, theboom trailer hitch 156 is then disconnected from the fifth wheel 158 (FIG. 6 ). Thewinch 144 is reversed again, lifting theboom trailer hitch 156 up and away from the second means for securing 158 on the back of thefirst vehicle 134 as a result of theboom 138 being heavier than the front 148. Thefirst vehicle 134 can then be driven forward and out from underneath the universalfolding boom trailer 130. The towingvehicle 132 is then backed underneath the front of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 and the first means for securing 160, such as themulti-position kingpin 160, is locked into thefifth wheel 126 of the towing vehicle 132 (FIGS. 2 and 6 ). Themulti-position kingpin 160 is provided with multiple coupling positions to accommodate the various hauling conditions. - The
first vehicle 134 is loaded onto the universalfolding boom trailer 130 by loadingramps 162 that easily slide out from the universalfolding boom trailer 130 when needed, as is well known in the art. The loading ramps 162 are extended from underneath the pickup truck support rails 164 (FIGS. 2 and 7 ). In a particular embodiment, theramps 162 are made of 3 inch channel overlaid with expanded metal or subway grating. Thefirst vehicle 134 is secured by chains and binders (not shown), as is well known in the art. The loading ramps 162 are then slid back into their original position underneath the support rails 164. - The
second vehicle 136, such as the semi tractor truck, is then driven over and straddles theboom 138 that is lying on the ground 122 (FIGS. 2 , 6 and 7). Thesecond vehicle 136 is driven forward to afront axle connector 166. Thesecond vehicle axle 168 is secured to theboom 138 by thefront axle connector 166. Aframe connector 170 is connected to the frame of thesecond vehicle 136 at anattachment point 172 and secured by chains 174. Theattachment point 172 is adjustable and slides forward and aft for hauling various lengths of trucks. - With reference to
FIGS. 8 a to 8 d, thewinch 144 becomes functional after thesecond vehicle 136 is secured by removing alocking pin 176 from itsattachment point 178 along theboom 138 to alifting arm 145 of thewinch 144 assembly. The removal of thelocking pin 176 allows thewinch 144 to rotate when thecable 150 is retracted. The rotation applies aground roller 180, such as heavy duty dolly wheels, to theground surface 122. The rotation raises the front end of thesecond vehicle 136 and the back of thefirst vehicle 134 simultaneously by lifting the middle section of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 upward. When theboom 138 becomes level, thefirst vehicle 134 becomes level and thesteering tires 120 of thesecond vehicle 136 raise off theground 122. As a nonlimiting example, the steeringtires 120 may be lifted approximately 9 inches off of theground 122 and are, therefore, no longer in use. - In certain embodiments, the universal
folding boom trailer 130 is made from aluminum, steel, fiberglass or any combination of materials capable of performing the described method of operation. When using steel, the main frame of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be constructed of 2×8× 3/16 rectangular steel tubing, and the folding portion of theboom 138 may be made with 8 inch “I” beams, for example. When using steel or other weldable materials, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is of all welded construction. While thewinch 144 has been described using mechanical means with an electric winch, other means such as hydraulics or pneumatics may be used. - With reference to
FIG. 9 , the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is shown in thecrane position 300 by fixedly attaching to the towingvehicle 132, for example, at thefifth wheel connection 126. To form thecrane position 300, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is equipped withadditional cables snatch block 194. Initially, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be laid on theground 122 in the unfolded position 200 (FIG. 2 ).Boom support cables first end 186 of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 to theforward end 196 of theboom 138. Theboom 138 is retracted toward the foldedposition 100 via thewinch 144. During retraction, theboom 138 is stopped at a point where thecable 187 is detachable from thewinch 144 and may be strung over atransfer pulley 197 for connection with thecable 192. Thecable 192 wraps around thesnatch block 194 for attachment to theboom 138, for example, at anattachment point 198. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 is thereby able to perform any desired hoisting operation. - It should be understood that the universal
folding boom trailer 130 of the present disclosure legally and safely tows thesecond vehicle 136 while also transporting thefirst vehicle 134, such as the driver's personal pickup truck. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 is not limited to the towing of onlysemi tractor trucks 136 because afifth wheel connection 126 is not necessary on the towedsecond vehicle 136. Since the towedsecond vehicle 136 is towed facing forward, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 can also tow either a box truck, a flatbed truck, or a straight or semi tractor truck (as shown). - With the system and method of the present disclosure, the majority of the weight of a
boom 138 and thefirst vehicle 134 is supported by dualwheeled axles 140 of thesecond vehicle 136 being towed forward. A further advantage of supporting the weight on the rear axles is that the dualwheeled axles 140 are non-steering and have a much higher weight bearing capacity in comparison to thesteering tires 120. A still further advantage of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is that the steeringtires 120 of the towedtruck 136 are elevated above the road and free of any weight bearing loads. The elevated location militates against a need to immobilize the steering wheel with the driver seat belt. Since thesecond vehicle 136 is being towed forward with the weight on the rear tires, there are also more tires on theground 122 for increased braking effect. Consequently, the towedtruck 136 is less apt to have a blowout, minimizing the opportunity for changing lanes and colliding with a passing vehicle. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 may also be converted to thecrane position 300, using awinch 144 for loading and unloading towing vehicles in a piggy back configuration. - The safety issues of the prior art method illustrated in
FIG. 1 are also corrected by the use of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 shown inFIGS. 2 to 8 . The universalfolding boom trailer 130 is approximately 150% lighter than known trailers, making the universalfolding boom trailer 130 easier to tow and stop. The lower weight contributes to greater fuel savings and less wear and tear on thefirst vehicle 134. Since there is no hydraulics involved in the operation of the universalfolding boom trailer 130, the opportunity for hydraulic fluid leaks is eliminated. - Further, the air deflection panels 28 (
FIG. 1 ) on the towedtruck 16 act like a parachute under conventional towing methods. Theair deflection panels 28 create drag and may even be torn off by the wind if not secured before towing begins with the conventional methods. With the universalfolding boom trailer 130 and method of the present disclosure, thetruck 136 is towed forward and the air travels around thewind deflection panels 184 in the intended direction, eliminating any need to secure thepanels 184. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 thereby decreases drag and increases fuel efficiency during transport of the first andsecond vehicles - A still further advantage of the universal
folding boom trailer 130 over the known trailer systems is elimination of the need for a light bar to be added to the front of thetruck 16 being towed backwards inFIG. 1 . Under conventional towing methods, the light bar must be added to provide operating brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights and marker lights. Since thesecond vehicle 136 inFIG. 2 is towed facing forward when using the universalfolding boom trailer 130 of the present disclosure, the existing lights on the back of the towedsecond vehicle 136 are used, thereby militating against the need for a light bar. It should be appreciated that the light bar may also be rendered unnecessary by the towing of the one or more additionalthird vehicles 137 facing forward. - The universal
folding boom trailer 130 further provides a forward center of gravity of the forward facing towedsecond vehicle 136. The forward center of gravity creates a more stable towing environment by limiting the chance of jack knifing during hard braking or other emergency situations. One of ordinary skill in the art should also appreciate that the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be used as a crane to hoist vehicles, such as transport trucks, primarily for decking or cab and chassis transport. Alternatively, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be used as a crane to hoist vehicles, such as transport trucks, for deck removal from avehicle 136 after unhitching the towedsecond vehicle 136 from the universalfolding boom trailer 130. The crane may also be used for any other hoisting needs, as desired. - In a particular embodiment, the boom
trailer position lock 182 may be inserted on both sides of theboom trailer 138 to make the entire structure rigid, as if a one piece unit. Thewinch 144 may then be rotated back to the original position, raising theground rollers 180 off of theground 122. The first andsecond vehicles vehicle 132. With this rigid configuration, it should be appreciated that the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is capable of backing up like a conventional trailer. - It is surprisingly found that the universal
folding boom trailer 130, when bringing thesecond vehicle 136 down so that the steeringtires 120 are approximately 9 inches from the ground, instead of the 3 or 4 feet off the ground as in the known methods, allows thesecond vehicle 136 to be delivered in the forward facing position and lower to theground 122. Advantageously, the universalfolding boom trailer 130 facilitates the passing of thesecond vehicle 136 under bridges and through tunnels without having to remove stacks or air fairings. - The present disclosure includes a low
rider saddle mount 302. The lowrider saddle mount 302 may be used with the universalfolding boom trailer 130 as described hereinabove and in International Application No. PCT/US20071070406 to Watkins. The lowrider saddle mount 302 may be rigid as shown inFIGS. 10 a and 10 b, adjustable in height as shown inFIGS. 11 a and 11 b, or separable as shown inFIGS. 12 a and 12 b. It should be understood that other configurations, and combinations of the described configurations, are within the scope of the present disclosure. - Referring to
FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, the lowrider saddle mount 302 includes a firsthorizontal member 304 spaced vertically apart from a secondhorizontal member 306. The first and secondhorizontal members FIG. 10 a such that the spacing therebetween is not adjustable. The firsthorizontal member 304 may be selectively coupled to one of the towingvehicle 132 and the towedsecond vehicle 136, as desired. For example, the firsthorizontal member 304 may have a first securing means 308 such as a fifth wheel kingpin for attachment to thefifth wheel 126 of one of the towingvehicle 132 and thesecond vehicle 136. The fifth wheel kingpin may be adjustable forward and aft, for example. - The second
horizontal member 306 of the lowrider saddle mount 302 may be selectively coupled to one of thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137 such as a second semi tractor truck. As a nonlimiting example, the secondhorizontal member 306 may include a second securing means 310 such as a saddle mount axle connector for attachment to the front axle of one of thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137. Alternatively, the second securing means 310 may include a pivoting axle mount such as shown inFIG. 11 a, for example. - A third securing means 312 may also be provided on the second
horizontal member 306 for removably coupling one of thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137 to the rigid lowrider saddle mount 302. As a nonlimiting example, the third securing means 312 may include a chain and frame connector, as is known in the art. The chain and frame connector may be disposed at an end of the secondhorizontal member 306. It should be appreciated that multiple rigid low rider saddle mounts 302 may be employed to facilitate the connecting of multiple additionalthird vehicles 137 for towing, as desired. - With reference to
FIG. 10 b, the lowrider saddle mount 302 is shown in operation. The towingvehicle 132 may optionally be coupled to the universalfolding boom trailer 130 in the unfoldedposition 200. In other embodiments, the lowrider saddle mount 302 is coupled to the towingvehicle 132. As shown inFIG. 10 b, thefirst vehicle 134 is disposed atop the unfolded universalfolding boom trailer 130 and the firstsecond vehicle 136 is coupled with theboom 138 of the universalfolding boom trailer 130. Thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137 are each disposed facing forward for towing behind the towingvehicle 132. The rigid lowrider saddle mount 302 is disposed between the firstsecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137. - Illustratively, the first securing means 308 of the rigid low
rider saddle mount 302 may be coupled with thefifth wheel 126 of thesecond vehicle 136, the second securing means 310 may be coupled with the front axle of thethird vehicle 137, and the third securing means 312 may be coupled with the frame of thethird vehicle 137. The forward-facing transportation of the second andthird vehicles 136, 37 may thusly be performed. - In a further embodiment, the low
rider saddle mount 302 may be adjustable in height. As shown inFIGS. 11 a and 11 b, for example, the first and secondhorizontal members rider saddle mount 302 may be adjustably spaced vertically apart from one another. The first and secondhorizontal members member 314. The secondhorizontal member 306 may be vertically and slidably connected with the connectingmember 314. The secondhorizontal member 306 may also be lockable to select positions on the connectingmember 314, as desired. For example, the connectingmember 314 may have a plurality ofholes 316 formed therein, and the secondhorizontal member 306 may have alocking pin 318 configured to be received by each of theholes 316 for locking the secondhorizontal member 306 in a select position, as desired. It should be understood that the adjustable height lowrider saddle mount 302 may facilitate the employment of the towing system of the present disclosure with a wide range of vehicles including, for example, box trucks, flatbeds, straight trucks, etc. - The placement of the second
horizontal member 306 relative the firsthorizontal member 304 in the adjustable height lowrider saddle mount 302 may be facilitated by awinch 320 as shown inFIG. 11 a. Thewinch 320 may be disposed on the firsthorizontal member 304 and coupled to the secondhorizontal member 306 via awinch cable 322. Thewinch cable 322 may be disposed about a pulley 324 at an end of the firsthorizontal member 304 and connected to the secondhorizontal member 306 adjacent the connectingmember 314. The pulling in of thecable 322 by thewinch 320 thereby may cause a raising of the secondhorizontal member 306 relative the firsthorizontal member 304. Likewise, a letting out of thewinch cable 322 by thewinch 320 may cause a lowering of the secondhorizontal member 306 relative the firsthorizontal member 304. - As shown in
FIG. 12 , the lowrider saddle mount 302 may be directly coupled to the towingvehicle 132, for example, at thefifth wheel 126 of the towing vehicle. The low rider saddle mounts 302 may be used without the universalfolding boom trailer 130. In certain embodiments, the lowrider saddle mount 302 may be directly coupled to the frame of the towingvehicle 132, and likewise directly coupled to the frames of connected towed second andthird vehicles rider saddle mount 302 may thereby be employed to tow multiple second andthird vehicles third vehicles wind fairings 184. - Referring now to
FIGS. 13 a to 13 b, the lowrider saddle mount 302 may be disconnected into separate pieces to make the lowrider saddle mount 302 lighter for an operator to transport and assemble, and to place the pivoting point lower than with a unitary lowrider saddle mount 302. For example, the low rider saddle mount may be disconnected at aking pin 326. In certain embodiments, theking pin 326 is aremovable king pin 326. The separate pieces of the lowrider saddle mount 302 may include a fifthwheel attachment bar 328 and aboom 330. - The
boom 330 may have the securing means 310 such as the saddle mount axle connector for attachment to the front axle of one of thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137, as desired. Theboom 330 may further include a telescoping chain andframe connector 332, for example, for connecting to the frame of one of thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137, as desired. In a further example, theboom 330 has ahydraulic jack 334. The hydraulic jack may be disposed between theking pine 326 and the securing means 310, for example. The telescoping chain andframe connector 332 and thehydraulic jack 334 may also be employed with the lowrider saddle mount 302 in the rigid and adjustable configurations. - The fifth
wheel attachment bar 328 is configured for attachment to thefifth wheel 126 of at least one of the towingvehicle 132, thesecond vehicle 136, and thethird vehicle 137. The fifthwheel attachment bar 328 may include aking pin receiver 336 configured to receive theking pin 326 of theboom 330. Theking pin receiver 336 may be rigid or adjustable in height as shown inFIG. 13 a. Where theking pin receiver 336 is adjustable in height, theking pin receiver 336 may include thevertical member 314 slidably received by the firsthorizontal member 304. The firsthorizontal member 304 and thevertical member 314 may includeholes 316 configured to receipt thelocking pin 318 for securing holding thevertical member 314 at a desired position. A crossmember support bar 338 may also be disposed between the fifthwheel attachment bar 328 and the frame of one of the towingvehicle 132, thesecond vehicle 136 and thethird vehicle 137. In certain embodiments, the crossmember support bar 338 may support and facilitate a connecting of the lowrider saddle mount 302 directly to the frame. - The present disclosure further includes a method for transporting at least one of the first, second, and
third vehicles rider saddle mount 302, and optionally the universalfolding boom trailer 130. The method includes coupling the towingvehicle 132 with thesecond vehicle 136 via one of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 and the lowrider saddle mount 302 as described hereinabove. The method further includes the step of attaching the lowrider saddle mount 302 to thesecond vehicle 136. Thethird vehicle 137 may then be pulled up and over the secondhorizontal member 306 of the lowrider saddle mount 302. Thethird vehicle 137 may then be attached to the lowrider saddle mount 302 as described herein. In particular embodiments, the method may include the step of adjusting the height of the lowrider saddle mount 302, for example, depending on the type of the second andthird vehicles third vehicles - The method of the present disclosure may further include the step of loading the
first vehicle 134, such as the driver's personal vehicle, atop the universalfolding boom trailer 130 in the forward facing position. The step of loading thefirst vehicle 134 may be performed prior to the step of loading thesecond vehicle 136 atop the universalfolding boom trailer 130 in the forward facing position. - In a particular embodiment, the present method may include the steps of: securing the universal
folding boom trailer 130 to the towingvehicle 132 prior to the step of rotating theboom 138 to the unfoldedposition 200. Theboom 138 may then be rotated to thecrane position 300, locked in place, and the second andthird vehicles boom 138 in thecrane position 300. Thesecond vehicle 136 is thereby prepared for loading atop the universalfolding boom trailer 130 when theboom 138 is rotated to the unfoldedposition 200. - It should be understood that the method of the present disclosure may include sequentially loading additional vehicles (not shown) in forward towing positions onto the
third vehicle 137 until the maximum legal towing length is reached. - Following the transportation of the optional
first vehicle 134,second vehicle 136, andthird vehicle 137 to a desired location, the towingvehicle 132 and thesecond vehicle 136 may be disconnected from at least one of the universalfolding boom trailer 130 and the lowrider saddle mount 302. The universalfolding boom trailer 130 may be employed to disconnect the second andthird vehicles boom 138 may be rotated into thecrane position 300, and the second andthird vehicle third vehicles boom 138. Following the disconnecting of the second andthird vehicles folding boom trailer 130 may be trailered to thefirst vehicle 134 for transport by rotating theboom 138 back to the foldedposition 200, whereby the universalfolding boom trailer 130 is turned into the solitary trailer. - It should be appreciated that the method using the universal low
rider saddle mount 302 according to the present disclosure lowers the second andthird vehicles third vehicles third vehicles third vehicles third vehicles - While certain representative embodiments and details have been shown for purposes of illustrating the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure, which is further described in the following appended claims.
Claims (13)
1. A low rider saddle mount for towing multiple vehicles in a forward-facing direction, comprising:
a first horizontal member selectively coupled to one of a towing vehicle and a first towed vehicle, the first horizontal member including a first securing means configured for attachment to one of a saddle mount and a fifth wheel of the one of the towing vehicle and the first towed vehicle, the first horizontal member including a pair of first members spaced apart a first distance between the first members;
a second horizontal member selectively coupled to one of the first towed vehicle and a second towed vehicle and vertically spaced apart from the first horizontal member, the second horizontal member including a second securing means configured for attachment to a front axle of the one of the first towed vehicle and the second towed vehicle, and a third securing means configured for attachment to a frame of the one of the first towed vehicle and the second towed vehicle, the second horizontal member including a pair of second members spaced apart a second distance between the second members, wherein the second distance is different from the first distance; and
a middle member connecting the first horizontal member and the second horizontal member.
2. The low rider saddle mount of claim 1 , wherein the first securing means is a fifth wheel kingpin that is adjustable forward and aft relative the first horizontal member.
3. The low rider saddle mount of claim 1 , wherein the second securing means is a saddle mount axle connector.
4. The low rider saddle mount of claim 3 , wherein the saddle mount axle connector is configured to pivot.
5. The low rider saddle mount of claim 1 , wherein the third securing means is a chain and frame connector disposed at an end of the second horizontal member.
6. The low rider saddle mount of claim 1 , wherein the low rider saddle can be disconnected into separate pieces to make the low rider saddle mount lighter for an operator to transport and assemble.
7. The low rider saddle mount of claim 6 , wherein the low rider saddle mount can be disconnected into a first piece and a second piece adjacent a king pin on the second piece.
8. The low rider saddle mount of claim 7 , wherein the king pin is a removable king pin.
9. The low rider saddle mount of claim 7 , wherein the first piece of the lower rider saddle mount is a fifth wheel attachment bar and the second piece of the lower rider saddle mount is a boom.
10. The low rider saddle mount of claim 9 , wherein the boom is adjustable and slides forward and aft for hauling various lengths of the one of the first towed vehicle and the second towed vehicle.
11. The low rider saddle mount of claim 10 , wherein the fifth wheel attachment bar includes a king pin receiver configured to receive the king pin of the boom.
12. The low rider saddle mount of claim 11 , wherein a cross member support bar is disposed between the fifth wheel attachment bar and a frame of one of the towing vehicle, the first towed vehicle, and the second towed vehicle.
13. The low rider saddle mount of claim 12 , wherein the cross member support bar supports and facilitates a connecting of the low rider saddle mount directly to the frame.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/561,125 US20120292884A1 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2012-07-30 | Low rider saddle mount |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US2407808P | 2008-01-28 | 2008-01-28 | |
PCT/US2009/032188 WO2009097307A1 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2009-01-28 | Low rider saddle mount |
US86501210A | 2010-07-28 | 2010-07-28 | |
US13/561,125 US20120292884A1 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2012-07-30 | Low rider saddle mount |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2009/032188 Continuation WO2009097307A1 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2009-01-28 | Low rider saddle mount |
US86501210A Continuation | 2008-01-28 | 2010-07-28 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120292884A1 true US20120292884A1 (en) | 2012-11-22 |
Family
ID=40913197
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/865,012 Active 2029-02-05 US8251394B2 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2009-01-28 | Low rider saddle mount |
US13/561,125 Abandoned US20120292884A1 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2012-07-30 | Low rider saddle mount |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/865,012 Active 2029-02-05 US8251394B2 (en) | 2008-01-28 | 2009-01-28 | Low rider saddle mount |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US8251394B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009097307A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
MX2008015538A (en) * | 2006-06-06 | 2009-05-28 | Wastow Entpr Llc | Universal folding boom trailer. |
US8622413B2 (en) | 2006-08-09 | 2014-01-07 | Atc Transportation Llc | Front tow extended saddle |
US8371599B2 (en) | 2010-12-14 | 2013-02-12 | L. Thomas Duvall | Truck towing system and assembly |
Family Cites Families (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4119328A (en) * | 1976-11-19 | 1978-10-10 | Charles Don Rhodes | Gooseneck trailer with adjustable bogie |
US4949985A (en) * | 1989-06-22 | 1990-08-21 | Jupiter Transportation Company | Low ride saddle mount |
US5722677A (en) * | 1993-01-19 | 1998-03-03 | Atc Leasong Company | Apparatus for the transportation of trucks |
US5391044A (en) * | 1993-04-22 | 1995-02-21 | Young; Robert N. | Lifting and towing apparatus |
US5566964A (en) * | 1995-03-02 | 1996-10-22 | Leonard; Rodney L. | Convertible towing device |
US5873593A (en) * | 1996-11-12 | 1999-02-23 | Gesuale; Thomas | Piggyback truck transport system |
US7422225B2 (en) * | 1998-07-09 | 2008-09-09 | Atc Leasing Company Llc | Trailer apparatus and assembly for transportation of wheeled vehicles |
CA2317269C (en) * | 2000-07-24 | 2007-03-06 | William Pawluk | Convertible vehicle transporting trailer |
US7017934B2 (en) * | 2004-01-22 | 2006-03-28 | Harris Dennis E | Tractor dolly |
MX2008015538A (en) * | 2006-06-06 | 2009-05-28 | Wastow Entpr Llc | Universal folding boom trailer. |
US7980582B2 (en) * | 2006-08-09 | 2011-07-19 | Atc Leasing Company Llc | Front tow extended saddle |
US7789411B2 (en) * | 2006-12-27 | 2010-09-07 | Atc Leasing Company, Llc | Extended forward tow saddlemount—single rail |
-
2009
- 2009-01-28 US US12/865,012 patent/US8251394B2/en active Active
- 2009-01-28 WO PCT/US2009/032188 patent/WO2009097307A1/en active Application Filing
-
2012
- 2012-07-30 US US13/561,125 patent/US20120292884A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US8251394B2 (en) | 2012-08-28 |
US20100320726A1 (en) | 2010-12-23 |
WO2009097307A1 (en) | 2009-08-06 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |