WO2004096621A1

WO2004096621A1 - A load carrier

Info

Publication number: WO2004096621A1
Application number: PCT/IE2004/000060
Authority: WO
Inventors: Henry Benjamin Sisk; Owen Henry Sisk; David Aidan Diamond
Original assignee: Henry Benjamin Sisk; Owen Henry Sisk; David Aidan Diamond
Priority date: 2003-04-29
Filing date: 2004-04-28
Publication date: 2004-11-11

Abstract

A load carrier (1) for securing to the waist of an individual for supporting a load and trailing behind the individual comprises first and second side members (3, 4) which extend rearwardly from a mounting bracket (17) to a transversely extending axle (6) for supporting a load. Ground engaging wheels (9) are releasably secured to the axle (6). A telescoping connecting member (5) extends forwardly from the mounting bracket (17) and is coupled by a swivel coupling (10) to a load distribution pad (18), which in turn is secured to the individual by a waist belt (12). End support brackets (38) retain the load on the side members (3, 4). The connecting member (5) is slideable in the mounting bracket (17) to lie within and between the side members (3, 4) and the side member (3) is pivotally connected to the axle (6), while the side member (4) is releasably secured to the axle (6) for permitting pivoting of the axle (6) and the guide members (3, 4) to lie parallel to the connecting member (10) with the load carrier (1) in a folded state.

Description

"A load carrier"

The present invention relates to a load carrier, and in particular, though not limited to a load carrier for carrying loads such as, for example, a backpack of a hiker or walker, a golf club bag or the like.

Such load carriers are known, for example, when used for carrying a golf club bag, typically are referred to as a golf caddy car. Load carriers for carrying, for example, shopping from a supermarket are also known. Typically,- such load carriers comprise a framework supported on two rotatably mounted ground engaging wheels. A handle typically extends from the framework for gripping and wheeling the load carrier. The framework for supporting the load, typically has a lower bag support portion on which the load is placed, and an upwardly extending portion which when being wheeled is inclined upwardly relative to the vertical against which the load is rested. The handle, typically an elongated handle extends from the framework, and is so arranged that when the load carrier is either being pushed or pulled, the handle, typically, is horizontal, while the lower bag support portion is generally horizontal or slightly inclined relative to the horizontal. Such load carriers are either adapted for pushing or pulling, but typically, are adapted to be pulled behind the individual. In general, the individual grips the handle with either the right or left hand with the load carrier extending rearwardly from either the left or right hand side of the individual, depending on the hand in which the handle is gripped. As the individual moves forward, the load carrier is pulled forwardly. However, a serious disadvantage of such load carriers is that although the load carrier is located generally to the rear of the individual, nonetheless, it is located offset to one side of the line of travel of the individual. This, thus, induces a torsional force in the torso of the individual, which is undesirable, and can lead to injury to the back and other parts of the individual. Another disadvantage of such load carriers known heretofore is that since they require to be pulled by hand, an individual using such a load carrier has only one free hand, since the other hand is continuously occupied gripping the load carrier. A further disadvantage of such known load carriers is that, in general, no provision is made for adjustment of the load carrier to adapt the load carrier to accommodate individuals of different heights, nor do such load carriers include adjustment for accommodating loads of different proportions. Additionally, such known load carriers fail to provide for the infinite different styles of walking and running.

There is therefore a need for a load carrier which addresses at least some of the disadvantages and problems of known load carriers.

The present invention is directed towards providing such a load carrier.

According to the invention there is provided a load carrier comprising a load support means for supporting a load, a pair of spaced apart ground engaging wheels rotatably carried on the load support means, wherein an elongated connecting means extends forwardly from the load support means for hitching the load carrier to an individual, and a securing means is located on the forward end of the connecting means for securing the connecting means to the trunk of an individual for facilitating trailing of the load carrier behind the individual.

In one embodiment of the invention the length of the connecting means extending from the load support means is adjustable for altering the distance between the securing means and the ground engaging wheels, for in turn altering the distance between the ground engaging wheels and the individual.

Preferably, the connecting means inclines upwardly from the load support means when secured to the individual, so that adjustment of the length of the connecting means adjusts the height of the securing means above the ground for in turn accommodating individuals of different heights.

In one embodiment of the invention the connecting means comprises an elongated member, and preferably, the connecting means comprises two elongated members, one elongated member being adapted for telescoping into the other elongated member for facilitating adjustment of the length of the connecting means. In one embodiment of the invention a first coupling means is provided for coupling the connecting means to the securing means. Preferably, the first coupling means permits relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means, and advantageously, the first coupling means accommodates the discontinuous elements of a stride or pace of an individual to whom the load carrier is attached.

In another embodiment of the invention the first coupling means comprises a spigot extending from the securing means and a deformable coupling tube extending between the spigot and the connecting means for permitting relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

Preferably, the coupling tube extends around and from the spigot to the connecting means, with the connecting means spaced apart from the spigot. Advantageously, the coupling tube extends over the connecting means.

In one embodiment of the invention the coupling tube couples the connecting means to the securing means with the spigot substantially aligned with the connecting means when the coupling tube is in tension, and the coupling tube takes up a substantially S-shaped formation when the coupling tube is not in tension with the connecting means being located at a level lower than the spigot. Preferably, the spigot extends from the securing means inclined downwardly from the horizontal.

In one embodiment of the invention a restraining means is provided for limiting deformation of the coupling tube, for in turn limiting the relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means. Preferably, the restraining means comprises a tubular restraining member extending from one of the connecting means and the securing means over the coupling tube and terminating in a flared mouth for accommodating the coupling tube from the other of the connecting means and the securing means into the restraining member and for limiting the deformation of the coupling tube for in turn limiting the relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means. Advantageously, the tubular restraining member is axially adjustable along the coupling tube for varying the amount by which the coupling tube is deformable.

In one embodiment of the invention the coupling tube is of a resilient material.

In another embodiment of the invention the coupling tube is of a flexible material.

In another embodiment of the invention the first coupling means is a swivelable coupling for permitting 360° of relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

In a further embodiment of the invention a shock absorber is located between the connecting means and the securing means for absorbing shocks from the connecting means. Preferably, the shock absorber comprises an outer tubular member and an inner tubular member telescopingly coupled to the outer tubular member by a compression spring for absorbing shocks on relative movement between the inner and outer tubular members. Advantageously, a limit means is provided for limiting relative movement between the inner and outer telescoping members of the shock absorber.

In one embodiment of the invention the connecting means is adjustably connected to the load support means by a second coupling means and is moveable relative to the load support means from an operative position with the connecting means extending from the load support means to an inoperative position with the connecting means located substantially within the support means.

Preferably, the second coupling means slideably couples the connecting means to the load support means for facilitating sliding of the connecting means between the operative and the inoperative positions.

Advantageously, a first retaining means is provided for selectively retaining the connecting means relative to the load support means in the respective operative and inoperative positions.

In one embodiment of the invention a transversely extending axle is carried on the load support means for rotatably carrying the ground engaging wheels. Preferably, the length of the axle is adjustable for facilitating adjustment of the spacing between the ground engaging wheels.

Advantageously, the axle comprises at least two telescoping members, one of the telescoping members being slideable within the other telescoping member for facilitating adjustment of the length of the axle.

In one embodiment of the invention the ground engaging wheels are rotatably carried on the axle. Preferably, the ground engaging wheels are releasably engageable with the axle.

In one embodiment of the invention the axle is moveable relative to the connecting means between an operative and an inoperative position.

In one embodiment of the invention the load support means comprises a pair of side members connected to the connecting means, the side members diverging outwardly rearwardly from the connecting means for forming a support for the load.

In another embodiment of the invention the side members are pivotally connected to the connecting means and are pivotal from an operative position with the side members diverging outwardly rearwardly from the connecting means to an inoperative position with the side members extending substantially parallel to the connecting means. Preferably, the side members extend rearwardly to the axle and are connected thereto.

In one embodiment of the invention at least one of the side members is pivotally coupled to the axle for facilitating pivotal movement of the axle relative to the side member between an operative position with the axle extending substantially transversely of the side members, and an inoperative position with the axle extending substantially parallel to the side members.

In another embodiment of the invention one of the side members is releasably secured to the axle for facilitating relative movement of the axle and the side members between the operative and inoperative positions.

In a further embodiment of the invention a second retaining means is provided for retaining the one of the side members which is releasably securable to the axle secured to the axle.

In a further embodiment of the invention both side members are pivotally coupled to the axle for facilitating pivotal movement of the axle relative to the side members between the operative and inoperative positions.

In one embodiment of the invention the connecting means is connected to the axle intermediate its ends. Preferably, the axle comprises a pair of axle members, each axle member being pivotally connected to the connecting means and being pivotal relative to the connecting means between the operative position with the axle members aligned with each other, and the inoperative position with the axle members lying parallel to each other. Advantageously, each axle member is pivotally connected to a corresponding one of the side members, and the axle members are pivotal relative to the side members between the operative position with the axle members aligned with each other and extending substantially transversely of the side members, and the inoperative position with each axle member and its corresponding side member substantially aligned with each other.

In one embodiment of the invention an end stop is provided for retaining a load on the support means. Preferably, the end stop comprises at least one end stop bracket extending upwardly from the load support means. Advantageously, the end stop extends upwardly from the connecting means. In one embodiment of the invention a pair of transversely spaced apart end stops are provided, the respective end stops extending upwardly from the load support means.

In another embodiment of the invention an expandable member is provided extending between the end stops. Preferably, the expandable member comprises a flexible belt.

In one embodiment of the invention each end stop is pivotal between an operative position extending upwardly of the load support means and an inoperative position extending substantially parallel to the connecting means.

In one embodiment of the invention the securing means for securing the load carrier to an individual is adapted for embracing the waist of the individual.

In another embodiment of the invention the securing means comprises a waist belt for extending around the waist of the individual, and preferably, the waist belt is secured to the individual by a buckle, and advantageously, the buckle is a quick release buckle.

In a still further embodiment of the invention the securing means comprises a load distribution pad for distributing a force acting through the connecting means over an area of the trunk of the individual.

Advantageously, the load distribution pad is adapted for engaging an individual adjacent the sacrum of the individual.

In one embodiment of the invention the load carrier is adapted for carrying a backpack or other bulky or heavy load.

The advantages of the invention are many. By virtue of the fact that the load carrier is adapted for securing to the trunk of an individual, there is no danger of torsional forces being induced in the torso of the individual, since any load or forces being exerted by the load carrier are applied directly centrally to the torso. Thus, an individual can carry relatively heavy loads on the load carrier without any danger of back, hip or other areas of the torso being subjected to torsional stresses and strain.

By providing the connecting means to be of adjustable length, the load carrier can be adjusted to suit individuals of different heights, and also providing adjustability in the length of the connecting means facilitates altering the distance between the ground engaging wheels and the individual, which is desirable, since different types of terrain preferably require different spacing between the ground engaging wheels and the individual. When traversing certain terrains, for example, uneven tracks or pathways where one wheel may be raised higher than the other by stones, tree roots or roadside kerbs, it is desirable to have a relatively large spacing between the ground engaging wheels and the individuals, so that the pulling force acting between the individual and the load carrier acts closer to the horizontal. On the other hand, when traversing smoother terrains of the type which require relatively frequent manoeuvring around tall obstacles, such as trees, lampposts, corners of buildings and the like, it is desirable to have the ground engaging wheels located closer to the individual, so that the wheels will not snag on such obstacles when tracking in a small radius around the obstacles. Additionally, by providing adjustment of the spacing between the ground engaging wheels and the individual, different spacings can be selected to suit different walking styles, different stride lengths and different speeds of travel, for example, walking, running, fast or slow walking, and fast or slow running.

By providing the axle of adjustable length, provision is made for accommodating loads of different widths. A particularly important advantage is achieved when the load carrier is operable between an operative and an inoperative position, since in the inoperative position the load carrier can be stowed away with minimum space requirement when not in use, or when being transported as part of the luggage of an individual. The invention will be more cleariy understood from the following description of some preferred embodiments thereof, which are given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a load carrier according to the invention,

Fig. 2 is a top plan view of the load carrier of Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 3 is another top plan view of the load carrier of Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the load carrier of Fig. 1 in a folded state,

Fig. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a detail of the load carrier of Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of another detail of the load carrier of

Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a further detail of the load carrier of Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the detail of Fig. 7 of the load carrier of Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of another detail of the load carrier of Fig. 1 ,

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the load carrier of Fig. 1 in use,

Fig. 11 is a side elevational view of the load carrier of Fig. 1 in use,

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a load carrier according to another embodiment of the invention, Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the load carrier of Fig. 12 in a folded state,

Fig. 14 is a top plan view of the load carrier of Fig. 12,

Fig. 15 is a top plan view of the load carrier of Fig. 12 being urged into the folded state,

Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a detail of the load carrier of Fig. 12,

Fig. 17 is a perspective end view of the load carrier of Fig. 12,

Fig. 18 is an underneath plan view of a detail of the load carrier of Fig. 12,

Fig. 19 is an underneath plan view of another detail of the load carrier of Fig. 12,

Fig. 20 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the load carrier of Fig. 12 in use,

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a portion of a load carrier according to another embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 22 is a transverse cross-sectional side elevational view of the portion of the load carrier of Fig. 21 ,

Fig. 23 is a transverse cross-sectional side elevational view of the portion of the load carrier of Fig. 21 illustrated in a different position,

Fig. 24 is a transverse cross-sectional side elevational view of a portion of another load carrier according to the invention, and

Fig. 25 is a transverse cross-sectional side elevational view of the portion of the load carrier of Fig. 24.

Referring to the drawings and initially to Figs. 1 to 11 , there is illustrated a load carrier according to the invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 1. The load carrier 1 is particularly suitable for securing to the waist of an individual, as illustrated in Figs. 10 and 11 and as will be described below, for trailing behind the individual, for carrying a load, for example, a backpack, a bottle of liquid gas or the like. The load carrier 1 comprises a load support means provided by a pair of side members, namely, a first side member 3 and a second side member 4 for supporting the load. The first and second side members 3 and 4 are connected to a connecting means provided by an elongated connecting member 5, and diverge outwardly rearwardly therefrom, and carry a transversely extending axle 6 at their rearward ends 8. A pair of ground engaging wheels 9 are rotatably carried on the axle 6. In this embodiment of the invention the ground engaging wheels 9 are releasably securable to the axle 6 for facilitating collapsing and folding of the load carrier 1 when not in use as will be described below. The connecting member 5 extends forwardly from the side members 3 and 4, and is coupled by a first coupling means, namely, a swivelable coupling 10 to a securing means, namely, a waist belt 12 for securing the load carrier 1 to the waist of the individual. A quick release buckle 13 secures the waist belt 12 around the individual.

The connecting member 5 comprises a pair of tubular members, namely, an outer tubular member 14 and an inner tubular member 15 which is slideable within the outer tubular member 14 for facilitating adjustment of the length of the connecting member 5. By adjusting the length of the connecting member 5 the distance between the waist belt 12 and the ground engaging wheels 9 can be varied for in turn varying the distance between the individual to which the load carrier 1 is hitched and the ground engaging wheels 9. Additionally, as can be seen from Figs. 10 and 11 , the side members 3 and 4 and the connecting member 5 incline upwardly from the ground engaging wheels 9, in use, and thus, by adjusting the length of the connecting member 5 the height of the waist belt 12 above the ground can be altered for accommodating individuals of different heights. In this embodiment of the invention the tubular members 14 and 15 can be locked in any desired position relative to each other by an expandable washer and nut (not shown) arrangement located on the end of the inner tubular member 15 located within the outer tubular member 14. By rotating the inner tubular member 15 within the outer tubular member 14 the nut tightens and expands the expandable washer radially outwardly, thus gripping the outer tubular member 14 to secure the tubular members 14 and 15 in a desired relative position.

The forward end of the connecting member 5 terminates in the swivelable coupling 10, which is in turn connected to a load distribution pad 18. The swivelable coupling 10 is a ball and socket coupling for providing approximately 360° of relative movement between the connecting member 10 and the load distribution pad 18. The inner tubular member 15 of the connecting member 5 terminates in a ball (not shown) of the swivelable coupling 10 which is swivelable within a socket (not shown) located in the load distribution pad 18.

The load distribution pad 18 is secured to the waist belt 12. The waist belt 12 is shaped to extend around the waist of the individual but to dip downwardly at the back of the individual, so that the load distribution pad 18 engages the back of the individual adjacent the sacrum. The load distribution pad 18 is of sufficient area to distribute any forces being transmitted through the connecting member 5 over a reasonable area of the sacrum of the individual. Such forces would be transmitted to the load distribution pad 18 in the event of an individual travelling downhill where gravity would tend to urge the load carrier 1 towards the individual, and thus any load from the load carrier 1 in the connecting member 5 would be distributed by the load distribution pad 18 over the area of the sacrum of the individual. Additionally, in order to minimise discomfort to an individual, the load distribution pad 18 is padded by suitable padding (not shown) on the inner side, which in use abuts the individual adjacent the sacrum.

A second coupling means provided by a mounting bracket 17 slideably couples the connecting member 5 to the side members 3 and 4. The mounting bracket 17 comprises a sleeve 19 through which the outer tubular member 14 of the connecting member 5 is slideable. A pair of transversely extending members 20, between which the sleeve 19 is sandwiched pivotally couple the first and second side members 3 and 4 to the mounting bracket 17. The connecting member 5 is slideable in the sleeve 19 between an operative position illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3 with the connecting member 5 extending forwardly of the mounting bracket 17 and corresponding to an operable state of the load carrier 1 , and an inoperative position illustrated in Fig. 4 with the connecting member 5 located substantially within the side members 3 and 4 for facilitating collapsing and folding of the load carrier 1 when not in use. The inoperative position of the connecting member 5 corresponds to a folded state of the load carrier 1.

A first retaining means comprising a first toggle clamp 21 is located on the sleeve 19 of the mounting bracket 17 for tightening and clamping the sleeve 19 onto the outer tubular member 14 of the connecting member 5 for clamping the connecting member 5 in the operative and inoperative positions, respectively, relative to the first and second side members 3 and 4. A slot (not shown) extends longitudinally along a portion of the sleeve 19 adjacent the first toggle clamp 21 for facilitating clamping of the sleeve 19 onto the connecting member 5. The first toggle clamp 21 comprises a clamping bracket 22 which extends around the sleeve 19. A pin 23 extends through the clamping bracket 22 from a handle 24 of the first toggle clamp 21 and terminates in a head 25. The head 25 co-operates with the handle for clamping the bracket 22 onto the sleeve 19 when the handle 20 is operated into a clamping position.

The axle 6 comprises a pair of tubular members, namely, an outer tubular member 28 and an inner tubular member 29 which is telescopingly slideable into the outer tubular member 28 for facilitating adjustment of the length of the axle 6 for accommodating different widths of load. The load carrier 1 is illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3 with the axle 6 adjusted to two different lengths for accommodating different load widths. The inner and outer tubular members 28 and 29 are similar to the tubular members 14 and 15 of the connecting member 5, and are securable in any desired relative position as already described with reference to the tubular members 14 and 15. Additionally, the axle 6 is pivotally connected to the first side member 3 by a pivot connection 30, and is releasably securable to the second side member 4 by a releasable second retaining means, namely, a second toggle clamp 32. By releasing the axle 6 from the second side member 4, the axle 6 is pivotal from an operative position illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3 with the axle 6 extending substantially transversely of the first and second side members 3 and 4 for load carrying, and an inoperative position illustrated in Fig. 4 with the axle 6 lying substantially parallel to the first side member 3 for facilitating collapsing and folding the load carrier 1 when not in use. The operative position of the axle 6 corresponds with the operable state of the load carrier 1 , and the inoperative position of the axle 6 corresponds with the folded state of the load carrier 1. The second toggle clamp 32 comprises a pin 33 extending from a handle 36 through the axle 6 for engaging a receiver bracket 34 secured to the second side member 4. The receiver bracket 34 is clamped between the axle 6 and a head 35 of the pin 33 when the handle 36 of the second toggle clamp 32 is operated into the clamped position illustrated in Fig. 7.

By virtue of the fact that the first and second side members 3 and 4 are pivotally connected to the mounting bracket 17, the first and second side members 3 and 4 are pivotal between an operative position illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3 diverging outwardly and rearwardly from the connecting member 5, and an inoperative position illustrated in Fig. 4 extending parallel to each other and parallel to the connecting member 5. The operative position of the side members 3 and 4 corresponds to the operable state of the load carrier 1 , and the inoperative position of the side members 3 and 4 corresponds to the folded state of the load carrier 1.

An end stop comprising a pair of end stop brackets 38 are pivotally connected to the first and second side members 3 and 4 at the rear ends 8 thereof, and carry an expandable belt 39 which extends between the end stop brackets 38 for abutting and retaining a load on the load carrier 1. The end stop brackets 38 are pivotal relative to the first and second side members 3 and 4 between an operative position, corresponding to the operable state of the load carrier 1 , extending upwardly from the first and second side members 3 and 4 as illustrated in Fig. 1, and an inoperative position, corresponding to the folded state of the load carrier 1 , illustrated in Fig. 4 with the end stop brackets 38 extending substantially parallel to the first and second side members 3 and 4.

A ground engaging U-shaped bracket 40 extends downwardly from the mounting bracket 17 for engaging the ground and supporting the load carrier 1 with the first and second side members 3 and 4 and the connecting member 5 extending substantially horizontally when the load carrier 1 is not hitched to an individual by the waist belt 12. Respective side legs 41 of the U-shaped bracket 40 are secured to the transversely extending members 20 of the mounting bracket 17 for pivotally connecting the first and second members 3 and 4 to the mounting bracket 5.

In use, with the connecting member 5 extending forwardly from the mounting bracket 17 and clamped thereto by the first toggle clamp 21 , and adjusted to the desired length, and with the axle 6 adjusted to the desired length and secured in the operative position to the second side member 4 by the second toggle clamp 32, and the end stop brackets 38 pivoted upwardly, the load carrier 1 is in the operable state and is ready for use. The load is placed on the load carrier 1 resting on the first and second side members 3 and 4 and abutting the end stop brackets 38 and the belt 39. The load carrier 1 is then secured to the individual by the waist band 12 which is tightened to the desired tightness so that the load distribution pad 18 is located adjacent the sacrum of the individual. The individual then walks forward, thereby trailing the load carrier 1 behind.

When it is desired to fold the load carrier into the folded state, the wheels 9 are disengaged from the axle 6, the inner telescoping member 15 is telescoped into the outer telescoping member 14 of the connecting member 5, and the first toggle clamp 21 is released. The connecting member 5 is slid through the sleeve 19 of the mounting bracket 17 to lie between the first and second side members 3 and 4. The second toggle clamp 32 is then released, thereby releasing the axle 6 from the second side member 4. The inner tubular member 29 of the axle 6 is telescoped into the outer tubular member 28 of the axle 6 and the axle 6 is pivoted on the pivot connection 30 to lie parallel to the first side member 3. The first and second side members 3 and 4 are then pivoted on the mounting bracket 17 to lie parallel to each other and to the connecting member 5. The end stop brackets 38 are pivoted to lie parallel to the first and second side members 3 and 4. The ground engaging wheels 9 are stowed with the load carrier in the folded state.

Referring now to Figs. 12 to 20, there is illustrated a load carrier according to another embodiment of the invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 50. The load carrier 50 is substantially similar to the load carrier 1 and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals. The main difference between the load carrier 50 and the load carrier 1 is that the connecting member 5 extends rearwardly to the axle 6, and the axle 6 in this embodiment of the invention is provided by a pair of axle members 52, which are pivotally coupled to the connecting member 5 by a pivot coupling bracket 53. The pivot coupling bracket 53 comprises a sleeve 54 for engaging the outer tubular member 14 of the connecting member 10, and a pair of transverse members 55 between which the sleeve 54 is sandwiched. A screw 56 through the transverse members 55, the sleeve 54 and the outer tubular member 14 of the connecting member 5 secures the outer tubular member 14 in the sleeve 54 and the transverse members 55 to the sleeve 54. Pivot pins 57 extending between and through the transverse members 55 pivotally carry the axle members 52.

Each axle member 52 comprises an outer tubular member 58 which is pivotally coupled by the corresponding pivot pin 57 to the transverse members 55, and an inner telescoping member 59 which is slideable within the outer member 58 for varying the length of the respective axle members 52, for in turn varying the length of the axle 6. A spring loaded lock pin 60 is provided in each inner member 59 for engaging corresponding openings 61 in the outer member 58 for positively securing the inner members 59 in the outer member 58 in respective desired positions. In this embodiment of the invention three openings 61 are provided in the outer member 58 for engaging the lock pin 60 with the inner member 59 of each axle member 52 in either of three desired positions. Needless to say, any number of openings 61 may be provided in each outer member 58. The ground engaging wheels 9 are releasably secured to the inner members 59 of the respective axle members 52.

The first and second side members 3 and 4 are each pivotally connected to the corresponding axle member 52 by pivot pins 63. The first and second side members

3 and 4 are pivotally connected together at their forward end by a pivot pin 64 which is carried on a slideable mounting bracket 65. The mounting bracket 65 is slideable on the outer tubular member 14 of the connecting member 5 for facilitating folding the load carrier 50 between the operable state and the folded state. A slot 68 extends longitudinally through the mounting bracket 65, see Fig. 18, and the mounting bracket 65 is secured to the outer tubular member 14 by a first toggle clamp 69, which is substantially similar to the first toggle clamp 21 of the mounting bracket 17 of the load carrier 1. The mounting bracket 65 is slideable along the outer tubular member 14 of the connecting member 5 for pivotally moving the first and second side members 3 and 4 and the axle members 52 between an operative position illustrated in Fig. 14 with the first and second side members 3 and 4 diverging outwardly rearwardly from the connecting member 5, and the axle members 52 aligned for forming the axle 6 and extending substantially transversely of the first and second side members 3 and 4, and an inoperative position with the axle members 52 substantially aligned with the first and second side members 3 and

4 and the axle members 52 and the side members 3 and 4 extending parallel to the connecting member 5. The load carrier 50 is illustrated in Fig. 15 with the side members 3 and 4 and the axle members 52 being urged into the inoperative position but not quite in the inoperative position.

In this embodiment of the invention a third toggle clamp 70, which is similar to the first toggle clamp 69 is located on the outer telescoping member 14 for securing the inner and outer telescoping members 14 and 15 of the connecting member 5 in a desired relative position with the connecting member 5 of the desired length. An axially extending slot 71 in the outer telescoping member 14 facilitates clamping of the outer telescoping member 14 onto the inner telescoping member 15. The third toggle clamp 70 releasably secures the outer telescoping member 14 to the inner telescoping member 15 adjacent the axial slot 71.

A single end stop bracket 72, which is similar to the end stop brackets 38 of the load carrier 1 in this embodiment of the invention is pivotally connected to the pivot coupling bracket 53 and is pivotal from an operative position extending upwardly from the pivot coupling bracket 53 to an inoperative position extending substantially parallel to the connecting member 5.

Additionally, a sheet 73 is located on the load carrier 50 and is coupled thereto by a ring 74 which engages the connecting member 5, and a pair of rings 75 which engage the respective axle members 52. A pocket 76 in the sheet 73 engages the end stop 72. The sheet 73 when the load carrier 50 is in the operable state embraces the load, see Fig. 12, and a strap 77 secured to the connecting member 5 extends around the sheet 73 for securing the load within the sheet 73 to the load carrier 50. In the operable state of the load carrier 50, the sheet 73 is used to wrap the load carrier 50 as illustrated in Fig. 13.

In this embodiment of the invention the load distribution pad 18 is shaped to extend downwardly from the sacrum to the coccyx, and is also shaped at a lower end to engage between the buttocks of the individual.

Otherwise, the load carrier 50 is similar to the load carrier 1 and its use is likewise similar.

Referring now to Figs. 21 to 23, there is illustrated a portion 80 of a load carrier according to another embodiment of the invention. Parts of the portion 80 are similar to corresponding parts of the load carriers 1 and 50, and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals. In this embodiment of the invention the portion 80 comprises the first coupling means is provided by a flexible type coupling 82 for coupling the connecting member 5 to the load distribution pad 18 of the securing means. A spigot 83 extends rigidly from the load distribution pad 18, and is inclined slightly downwardly of the horizontal. A flexible but somewhat resilient deformable coupling tube 84 extends around and from the spigot 83 for engaging the inner tubular member 15 of the connecting member 5. The coupling tube 84 also extends around the inner tube 15. The spigot 83 and inner tubular member 15 are spaced apart within the coupling tube 84 for facilitating relative movement between the connecting member 5 and the load distribution pad 18.

A restraining means comprising a tubular restraining tube 86 extends from the inner tubular member 15 of the connecting member 5 over the coupling tube 84 for constraining deformation of the coupling tube 84, for in turn limiting the degree of relative movement between the connecting member 5 and the load distribution pad 18. The restraining tube 86 terminates in an outwardly radiused flared end 87 for accommodating deformation of the coupling tube 84 into an S-bend, see Fig. 23. The restraining tube 86 is slideable along the coupling tube 84 for adjusting the degree of deformation of the coupling tube 84 which is permitted, and thereby limiting the relative movement of the connecting member 5 relative to the spigot 83. Referring in particular to Figs. 22 and 23, the closer the flared end 87 of the restraining tube 86 is urged towards the load distribution pad 18, thereby reducing the distance D between the flared end 87 and the free end of the spigot 83, the lesser the degree of deformation of the coupling tube 84 which will be allowed, and thus the degree of relative movement between the connecting member 5 and the load distribution pad 18 will be reduced.

In this embodiment of the invention the coupling tube 84 is of a plastics material and is reasonably flexible with some degree of resilience.

In use, when a load carrier is provided with the flexible coupling 82, the restraining tube 86 is adjusted axially along the coupling tube 84 to provide the desired degree of relative movement between the connecting member 5 and the load distribution pad 18. When tension is provided in the coupling tube 84 between the load distribution pad 18 and the connecting member 5, in other words, when the load carrier 1 is being trailed up a hill or on level ground, the coupling tube 84 extends between the spigot 83 and the connecting member 5 with the spigot 83 and the connecting member 5 substantially aligned. However, when there is no tension in the coupling tube 84 between the load distribution pad 18 and the connecting member 5, in other words, when the load carrier is being trailed down a hill, or when one is on level ground and slowing down, the coupling tube 84 tends to deform into an S-shape bend as illustrated in Fig. 23 with the connecting member 5 out of alignment with the spigot 83 and at a level lower than the spigot 83. The relative movement between the connecting member 5 and the load distribution pad 18 accommodates those elements of each stride or pace, which are discontinuous, and, in general, would result in jerky relative movements between the load distribution pad 18 and the connecting member 5. During each stride of an individual, the load distribution pad 18 typically would jerk forwardly, rearwardly, upwardly and downwardly, as well as from side to side relative to the connecting member 5. The flexible coupling 82 absorbs those jerky relative movements between the load distribution pad 18 and the connecting member 5, thereby preventing the jerky movement of the load distribution pad 18 being transmitted into the connecting member 5, and thus facilitating smooth movement of the load carrier. Relative movement between the connecting member 5 and the load distribution pad 18 resulting from uneven terrain is also absorbed by the flexible coupling 82, thereby preventing any shocks resulting from uneven terrain being transmitted to the load distribution pad 18, thus leaving the individual unaffected by such shocks.

Referring now to Figs. 24 and 25, there is illustrated a portion 90 of a load carrier according to another embodiment of the invention. The Load carrier according to this embodiment of the invention is substantially similar to the load carriers 1 and 50, and the parts of the portion 90 are also substantially similar to corresponding parts of the load carriers 1 and 50, and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals. In this embodiment of the invention the connecting member 5 is coupled to the load distribution pad through a shock absorber 91. The shock absorber 91 comprises an outer tubular member 92 within which the inner tubular member 15 of the connecting member 5 is telescopingly slideable. A compression spring 93 acting between an end cap 94 of the outer member 92 and a transverse member 95 in the inner tubular member 15 absorbs shocks from the connecting member 5 and prevents the shocks being transmitted to the load distribution pad 18. The compression spring 93 is secured to the end cap 94 and to the transverse member 95 for preventing disengagement of the inner tubular member 15 of the connecting member 5 from the outer tubular member 92 of the shock absorber 91.

The shock absorber 91 may be located between the swivel connector 10 of the load carriers 1 and 50 and the connecting member 5 as illustrated in Figs. 24 and 25. In general, it is envisaged that the shock absorber 91 would not be used in conjunction with the flexible coupling 82, since the flexible coupling 82 would have some limited inherent shock absorbing ability.

While the connecting member of the load carrier 1 has been described as comprising a pair of tubular members 14 and 15 which are adjustable relative to each other and can be secured relative to each other by an expandable washer and nut arrangement located at the end of the inner tubular member located within the outer tubular member, any other suitable means for facilitating adjustment and locking of the tubular members 14 and 15 relative to each other may be provided. For example, it is envisaged in certain cases that a spring loaded locking pin may be provided on the inner tubular member which would engage any one of a plurality of spaced apart holes in the outer tubular member. Such a spring loaded locking pin arrangement would be similar to that provided for adjusting the inner and outer tubular members of the axle members of the load carrier 50. Needless to say, any other suitable locking or clamping means may be provided for securing any of the adjustable telescoping members in a desired position, where the telescoping members form the connecting member, the axle or the axle member, as the case may be. Needless to say, the toggle clamps could be provided by any other clamping means or securing means, for example, spring loaded lock pins.

Claims

1. A load carrier comprising a load support means for supporting a load, a pair of spaced apart ground engaging wheels rotatably carried on the load support means, characterised in that an elongated connecting means extends forwardly from the load support means for hitching the load carrier to an individual, and a securing means is located on the forward end of the connecting means for securing the connecting means to the trunk of an individual for facilitating trailing of the load carrier behind the individual.

2. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 1 characterised in that the length of the connecting means extending from the load support means is adjustable for altering the distance between the securing means and the ground engaging wheels, for in turn altering the distance between the ground engaging wheels and the individual.

3. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 2 characterised in that the connecting means inclines upwardly from the load support means when secured to the individual, so that adjustment of the length of the connecting means adjusts the height of the securing means above the ground for in turn accommodating individuals of different heights, and adjusts the spacing between the individual and the ground engaging wheels for accommodating different strides and different terrain.

4. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 2 or 3 characterised in that the connecting means comprises an elongated member.

5. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 2 to 4 characterised in that the connecting means comprises two elongated members, one elongated member being adapted for telescoping into the other elongated member for facilitating adjustment of the length of the connecting means.

6. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that a first coupling means is provided for coupling the connecting means to the securing means.

7. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 6 characterised in that the first coupling means permits relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

8. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 7 characterised in that the first coupling means comprises a spigot extending from the securing means and a deformable coupling tube extending between the spigot and the connecting means for permitting relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

9. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 8 characterised in that the coupling tube extends around and from the spigot to the connecting means, with the connecting means spaced apart from the spigot.

10. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 8 or 9 characterised in that the coupling tube extends over the connecting means.

11. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 8 to 10 characterised in that the coupling tube couples the connecting means to the securing means with the spigot substantially aligned with the connecting means when the coupling tube is in tension, and the coupling tube takes up a substantially S-shaped formation when the coupling tube is not in tension with the connecting means being located at a level lower than the spigot.

12. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 8 to 11 characterised in that the spigot extends from the securing means inclined downwardly from the horizontal.

13. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 8 to 12 characterised in that a restraining means is provided for limiting deformation of the coupling tube, for in turn limiting the relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

14. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 13 characterised in that the restraining means comprises a tubular restraining member extending from one of the connecting means and the securing means over the coupling tube and terminating in a flared mouth for accommodating the coupling tube from the other of the connecting means and the securing means into the restraining member and for limiting the deformation of the coupling tube for in turn limiting the relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

15. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 14 characterised in that the tubular restraining member is axially adjustable along the coupling tube for varying the amount by which the coupling tube is deformable.

16. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 8 to 15 characterised in that the coupling tube is of a resilient material.

17. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 8 to 16 characterised in that the coupling tube is of a flexible material.

18. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 6 to 17 characterised in that the first coupling means is a swivelable coupling for permitting 360° of relative movement between the connecting means and the securing means.

19. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that a shock absorber is located between the connecting means and the securing means for absorbing shocks from the connecting means.

20. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 19 characterised in that the shock absorber comprises an outer tubular member and an inner tubular member telescopingly coupled to the outer tubular member by a compression spring for absorbing shocks on relative movement between the inner and outer tubular members.

21. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 20 characterised in that a limit means is provided for limiting relative movement between the inner and outer telescoping members of the shock absorber.

22. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that the connecting means is adjustably connected to the load support means by a second coupling means and is moveable relative to the load support means from an operative position with the connecting means extending from the load support means to an inoperative position with the connecting means located substantially within the support means.

23. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 22 characterised in that the second coupling means slideably couples the connecting means to the load support means for facilitating sliding of the connecting means between the operative and the inoperative positions.

24. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 22 or 23 characterised in that a first retaining means is provided for selectively retaining the connecting means relative to the load support means in the respective operative and inoperative positions.

25. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that a transversely extending axle is carried on the load support means for rotatably carrying the ground engaging wheels.

26. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 25 characterised in that the length of the axle is adjustable for facilitating adjustment of the spacing between the ground engaging wheels.

27. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 25 or 26 characterised in that the axle comprises at least two telescoping members, one of the telescoping members being slideable within the other telescoping member for facilitating adjustment of the length of the axle.

28. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 27 characterised in that the ground engaging wheels are rotatably carried on the axle.

29. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 28 characterised in that the ground engaging wheels are releasably engageable with the axle.

30. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 29 characterised in that the axle is moveable relative to the connecting means between an operative and an inoperative position.

31. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 30 characterised in that the load support means comprises a pair of side members connected to the connecting means, the side members diverging outwardly rearwardly from the connecting means for forming a support for the load.

32. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 31 characterised in that the side members are pivotally connected to the connecting means and are pivotal from an operative position with the side members diverging outwardly rearwardly from the connecting means to an inoperative position with the side members extending substantially parallel to the connecting means.

33. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 31 or 32 characterised in that the side members extend rearwardly to the axle and are connected thereto.

34. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 33 characterised in that at least one of the side members is pivotally coupled to the axle for facilitating pivotal movement of the axle relative to the side member between an operative position with the axle extending substantially transversely of the side members, and an inoperative position with the axle extending substantially parallel to the side members.

35. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 34 characterised in that one of the side members is releasably secured to the axle for facilitating relative movement of the axle and the side members between the operative and inoperative positions.

36. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 35 characterised in that a second retaining means is provided for retaining the one of the side members which is releasably securable to the axle secured to the axle.

37. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 33 or 34 characterised in that both side members are pivotally coupled to the axle for facilitating pivotal movement of the axle relative to the side members between the operative and inoperative positions.

38. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 37 characterised in that the connecting means is connected to the axle intermediate its ends.

39. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 38 characterised in that the axle comprises a pair of axle members, each axle member being pivotally connected to the connecting means and being pivotal relative to the connecting means between the operative position with the axle members aligned with each other, and the inoperative position with the axle members lying parallel to each other.

40. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 39 characterised in that each axle member is pivotally connected to a corresponding one of the side members, and the axle members are pivotal relative to the side members between the operative position with the axle members aligned with each other and extending substantially transversely of the side members, and the inoperative position with each axle member and its corresponding side member substantially aligned with each other.

41. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that an end stop is provided for retaining a load on the support means.

42. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 41 characterised in that the end stop comprises at least one end stop bracket extending upwardly from the load support means.

43. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 41 or 42 characterised in that the end stop extends upwardly from the connecting means.

44. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 41 to 44 characterised in that a pair of transversely spaced apart end stops are provided, the respective end stops extending upwardly from the load support means.

45. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 44 characterised in that an expandable member is provided extending between the end stops.

46. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 45 characterised in that the expandable member comprises a flexible belt.

47. A load carrier as claimed in any of Claims 41 to 46 characterised in that each end stop is pivotal between an operative position extending upwardly of the load support means and an inoperative position extending substantially parallel to the connecting means.

48. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that the securing means for securing the load carrier to an individual is adapted for embracing the waist of the individual.

49. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 48 characterised in that the securing means comprises a waist belt for extending around the waist of the individual.

50. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 49 characterised in that the waist belt is secured by a buckle.

51. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 50 characterised in that the buckle is a quick release buckle.

52. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that the securing means comprises a load distribution pad for distributing a force acting through the connecting means over an area of the trunk of the individual.

53. A load carrier as claimed in Claim 52 characterised in that the load distribution pad is adapted for engaging an individual adjacent the sacrum of the individual.

54. A load carrier as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that the load carrier is adapted for carrying a backpack or other bulky or heavy load.