Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION

[See section 10 and rule 13]

TITLE:
“A TRAILER VEHICLE WITH A LIFT MECHANISM FOR ROAD TRANSPORTATION OF LIVESTOCK AND MATERIALS”

APPLICANT:
M. P. INFRASTRUCTURES
a company incorporated under the Indian Companies Act, 2013
having registered address at
Abdullapura, Sehore road, Block – Pachama. SEHORE – 466001,
Madhya Pradesh, India

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to trailer vehicles and trolleys, and more particularly to a trailer vehicle with a lift mechanism for road transportation of livestock and materials.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The usage of trailer vehicles and trolleys are one of the most used solutions in road transportation. Whenever, there is a need to transport any kind of supplies, raw materials, products, goods, livestock, food etc. over a distance, road transport is preferred. Generally, for such purpose, road trailers or trolleys coupled with prime movers are preferred. For example, in the industries, raw materials are required to be transferred from one location to another; or in the agriculture sector, materials such as grains etc. require transfer from one site to another, using a tractor coupled with a trailer vehicle etc. Then, even for transportation of livestock, the road transportation is again a preferred solution.
However, problems in such vehicles would be apparent to a skilled addressee. All the known trailer vehicles that are used to carry material or livestock for transportation, have a fixed height or clearance above the ground. Generally, there is an inclined ramp provided at the end of the trailer, where human labourers or machines have to be employed to transfer the material to and from the trailer. Similarly, the livestock are made to walk down the inclined ramp to move inside the trailer vehicle or come out of it. This is neither safe for humans to carry the load of material on an inclined ramp nor for the livestock to walk on an inclined plane. Further, it is understandably more time consuming as humans and livestock both slow down to try to ensure their safety. In some cases, multiple humans are employed to transfer material so that pace can be maintained, but then it increases the labour cost.
Hence, there exists a need for a trailer vehicle with a lift mechanism for road transportation of livestock and materials that ensures safety of both livestock and materials while loading, unloading and transportation.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
The object of the present invention is to provide a trailer vehicle with a lift mechanism for road transportation of livestock and materials.
Another object of the invention is to provide a trailer vehicle that allows its carrier compartment to be lowered to the ground for easy loading, unloading and transporting of livestock and material.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide the lift mechanism to ensure that a carrier compartment of the trailer vehicle remains parallel to the ground at all times while moving upwards and downwards.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide lift mechanism on either side of the trailer vehicle or at a centre, under the trailer vehicle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a trailer vehicle with a lift mechanism for road transportation of livestock and materials. The trailer vehicle comprises a carrier compartment connectable with a prime mover, the carrier compartment having a base frame, a carrier mounted on the base frame, and two or more wheels connected with the base frame; a coupling mechanism to connect the base frame of the carrier compartment with the prime mover, the coupling mechanism having a hitch coupled with a draw bar, wherein the draw bar is configured to swivel about the hitch and about the base frame in a vertical axis; and a lift mechanism connected with the two or more wheels to enables an upward and downward movement of the carrier compartment, while keeping the carrier compartment parallel to a ground, during the movement. Further, the lift mechanism includes an assembly of one or more of a swivel arm, a right angle level, a long arm, one or more hydraulic cylinders, one or more steel ropes and one or more hydraulic pipelines connected with a hydraulic system of the prime mover and the one or more hydraulic cylinders.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the lift mechanism is provided on both sides of the trailer vehicle and connected with an axle of the trailer vehicle joining two or more the wheels on both sides.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the assembly of lift mechanism includes one end of the swivel arm movably connected with the base frame via a shaft and another end of the swivel arm pivotably connected with the long arm, thereby allowing the swivel to rotate about the shaft; the long arm hinged with the swivel arm at one end and joined with right angle lever on another end; the right angle lever rotatably hinged to the axle of the trailer vehicle connecting the two or more wheels at one end, and connected with the long arm as well as the one or more hydraulic cylinders at another end; and the one or more hydraulic cylinders connected with the base frame of the trailer vehicle & the one or more hydraulic pipelines as well as with the long arm & right angel lever on another other end.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, upon actuation of the hydraulic system from the prime mover, the one or more hydraulic pipelines are adapted to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders. Then, the one or more hydraulic cylinders are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby rotating the right angle lever about the base frame and allowing the axle and the two or more wheel to push towards the ground and lifting the carrier compartment above the ground. Simultaneously, the long arm is adapted to move forward or backward as the right angle lever rotates and cause the swivel arm to swivel about the base frame, thereby ensuring that the carrier compartment remains horizontal to the ground at all times during upward and downward motion.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the lift mechanism is provided under the trailer vehicle and connected with an axle joining two or more the wheels on both sides.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the assembly of lift mechanism includes the swivel arm rotatably connected with each of the two or more wheels and the axle of the trailer vehicle; one or more hydraulic cylinders connected with the axle at one end and with the base frame at the another end along with one or more hydraulic pipelines; and the one or more steel ropes having one end clamped on the base frame & another end clamped on the axle.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, upon actuation of the hydraulic system from the prime mover, the one or more hydraulic pipelines is adapted to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders. Then, the one or more hydraulic cylinders are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby pushing the axle to rotate. After that the axle in combination with the swivel arm is combined to rotate and push the two or more wheels to towards the ground, thereby lifting the carrier compartment above the ground. Simultaneously, the one or more steel ropes are configured to allow tension from axle to the draw bar, when the axle moves up and down, thereby ensuring that the carrier compartment remains horizontal to the ground at all times during upward and downward motion.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the lift mechanism is provided on both sides, inside the carrier. Herein, each of the assemblies of lift mechanism includes the right angle lever pivotably hinged with the carrier, one end of the right angle lever connected with a movable bucket and another end of the right angle lever connected with the one or more hydraulic cylinders, thereby allowing the right angle lever to pivot and lift the movable bucket in and out of the carrier; and the one or more hydraulic cylinders connected with a floor of the carrier of the trailer vehicle & the one or more hydraulic pipelines.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, upon actuation of the hydraulic system from the prime mover, the one or more hydraulic pipelines are adapted to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders. Further, the one or more hydraulic cylinders are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby pivoting the right angle lever forward about the hinge and causing the movable bucket to swivel, lift as well as move out of the carrier to land on the ground, while staying horizontal at all times. Also, the one or more hydraulic cylinders are configured to retract upon de-actuation, thereby causing the right angle lever to move backward and causing the movable bucket to swivel, lift as well as move inside the carrier to land on the floor of the carrier, while staying horizontal at all times.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the two or more wheels are provided outside the base frame or inside a boundary of the base frame movable within a wheel cover, of the carrier compartment.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the trailer vehicle further comprises one or more movable vertical stands to provide additional support for the trailer vehicle in the upward position.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the carrier includes one or more of a roof frame or an open-top compartment, a meshed side walls, solid side walls, side boards, a floor, a ramp, one or more doors and windows.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the trailer vehicle includes a portable animal chute for holding and transporting livestock, to and from the carrier.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the example embodiments will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates a trailer vehicle coupled with a prime mover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2A-2B illustrates front and back perspective views of the trailer vehicle in a lowered position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2C illustrates the trailer vehicle of figure 2B in a lifted position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 illustrates a trailer vehicle coupled with the prime mover, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4A-4B illustrates top and bottom perspective views of the trailer vehicle of Fig. 3 in a lowered position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4C-4D illustrates the trailer vehicle of figures 4A-4B in a lifted position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 5A-5B illustrates a perspective view and a top view of the trailer vehicle in a lowered position, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. It should be understood that the description herein is not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modification/s, equivalent/s and alternative/s falling within the scope of the present invention. The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claim. As used throughout this description, the word "may" be used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" means "at least one” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including", "comprising", "having", "containing", or "involving" and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the likes are included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
In this disclosure, whenever an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising”, it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting of”, “consisting”, “selected from the group of consisting of”, “including”, or “is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa.
This invention described herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, a number of materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a trailer vehicle with a lift mechanism for road transportation of livestock and materials. The trailer is adapted to be coupled with a prime mover. The prime mover may be referred as a robust engine that has excellent motive power to haul bulky towed or trailered loads. Prime Movers are also commonly known as “puller vehicles”, capable of carrying a heavy cargo load and delivering them to different locations. The livestock and material that can be transported using the trailer vehicle may be selected from, but not limited to, livestock, raw materials, finished goods, scrap material, vehicles, multi-loaded container, over-height invisible loads. The selection of prime movers for the coupling with the trailer vehicle of the present invention, depending upon size, power and configuration requirements. Accordingly, the prime mover may be selected from, but not limited to, a tractor, standard trucks, tow trucks, tipper trucks etc. having a hydraulic system capable of connecting with trailer vehicle of the present invention. The same will be understood more clearly with the reference to exemplary drawings.
Figure 1 illustrates a trailer vehicle (110) coupled with a prime mover (102), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen from figure 1, the prime mover (102) herein is assumed to be a tractor. The tractor is envisaged to have for example, at least, 28HP and can be increased to any extent depending on the power requirements, size of the trailer vehicle (110) and load to be transported, without departing from the scope of the present invention. The prime mover (102) is coupled with the trailer vehicle (110) of the present invention.
Figures 2A-2C separately illustrate a first embodiment of the trailer vehicle (110) of the present invention. As can be seen from the figures 2A-2C, the trailer vehicle (110) primarily comprises, but not limited to, a carrier compartment (1102), a coupling mechanism (104) and a lift mechanism (120). Herein, the carrier compartment (1102) further includes a base frame (1104), a carrier (1112) mounted on the base frame (1104), and two or more wheels (1106) connected with the base frame (1104). The base frame (1104) may be understood as a chassis of a trailer vehicle (110). For example, the base frame (1104) may be made of, but not limited to, 100 x 50 ISMC in rectangular shape, dually welded, over which a floor of the carrier (1112) is mounted. In some embodiments, the carrier (1112) may be an open top-top compartment having solid side walls or partially/fully meshed side walls.
In another embodiment, there may be, but not limited to, a solid or meshed roof frame over the side walls having, a flat, round, or any shape depending upon the application for which trailer vehicle (110) is required. For example: If the trailer is being made for transportation of livestock, then 2 mm. diameter wire weldmesh having 25 mm. spacing are welded between the sheet for sufficient ventilation throughout the carrier (1112). Furthermore, there may be a floor, a ramp (1108), side boards, one or more doors (1110) and windows provided in the carrier (1112) for easy loading, unloading and transfer of materials. In the example shown in figure 2A-2C, an entry door (1110) for the livestock is made of 35 x 35 x 5 ISA frame with 1.2 mm. sheet welded on top & bottom side followed by 2 mm. diameter wire weldmesh having 25 mm spacing, are welded between the sheet for sufficient ventilation with proper locking arrangement.
Also, as can be seen from the exemplary embodiment of the drawings, the roof frame may be made of I.S.A. 35 x 35 x 5 in a curved shape followed by tarps or weld mesh as required. In case, the present invention is used for capturing stray animals, then one or more windows may be provided as well. Small stray animal like dogs & pigs may be trapped through these or more window. The one or more windows may be spring loaded to close automatically with spring force. Besides, the ramp (1108) may be provided to facilitate easy transfer and obstruction less way for material and livestock to and from the carrier compartment (1102). It may be made of checkered M.S. sheet.
In addition, carrier compartment (1102) includes the two or more wheels (1106). In the figures shown, it can be see that the carrier compartment (1102) has two wheels (1106), one on either side connected by an axle (not shown in figures 1-2C). It is to be noted here that the number of wheels (1106) on either side may increase, depending upon the loading capacity and a length of the trailer vehicle (110) desired by the manufacturer. The term “wheel” herein may be understood as a wheel assembly that includes rim, tyres, tubes (if not tubeless), tyre flaps, bearings etc. It has simply been referred as “wheel(s)” to keep the explanation and its references simple. Again, some exemplary parameters of the wheels (1106) are provided, and they variable depending upon the type of application. For example: the tyre may be 900 x 16, 16 ply, with tube is 900 x 16, and the tyre flap may be 900 x 16. Additionally, the rim may be double plated having 5 mm thickness with 8 hole, steel hub having 8 hole and having 20 mm thickness, followed by bearings on each side.
Further, the trailer vehicle (110) includes the coupling mechanism (104) may essentially comprise a hitch (1042) coupled with a draw bar (1044) along with some other connection means such as, but not limited to, connecting shafts etc. It will be appreciated by a skilled addressee that the size and dimensions of these components strictly depend on the application and size trailer vehicle (110) and cannot be generalized or taken in a strict sense. However, for the sake of explanation some exemplary values have been given. It may be assumed that the hitch (1042) made of 25 mm steel plate and is adapted to move in a vertical axis. Additionally, the draw bar (1044) may be made of, but not limited to, 100 x 50 ISMC, minimum 1.2 meter long and is adapted to swivel in the vertical axis. In that sense, the draw bar (1044) is configured to swivel about the hitch (1042) and about a base frame (1104) of the trailer vehicle (110) where it is connected, in a vertical axis, when the trailer vehicle (110) is moves up and down.
Furthermore, the trailer vehicle (110) includes a lift mechanism (120) connected with the two or more wheels (1106). This is the unique feature of the present invention that enables the carrier compartment (1102) to upward and downward movement of the carrier compartment (1102), while keeping the carrier compartment (1102) parallel to a ground during the movement. This is extremely useful in transfer of livestock and material to and from the carrier (1112), as the carrier (1112) can be lowered down flat on the ground to provide an obstruction way without any slant. This makes the movement easier and simpler for both livestock and labourer or equipment transferring the material.
The lift mechanism (120) comprises, but not limited to, an assembly of one or more of a swivel arm (1202), a right angle level, a long arm (1204), one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208), one or more steel ropes (1214) and one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) connected with a hydraulic system of the prime mover (102) and the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208). The different combinations of the above mentioned components lead to different embodiments as well as different possible arrangements of the lift mechanism (120) on the trailer vehicle (110).
Figure 1 and figures 2A-2C show the trailer vehicle (110) that include a first embodiment of the lift mechanism (120). This embodiment of the lift mechanism (120) includes linkage of the swivel arm (1202), the long arm (1204), the right angle lever (1206) and the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208). As shown in figures 1 and 2A-2C, the lift mechanism (120) is provided on both sides of the trailer vehicle (110) and is connected with the axle of the trailer vehicle (110) joining two or more the wheels (1106) on both sides. To keep the explanation simple, the lift mechanism (120) is explained referring to one side (the one visible in figures) and other side can be assumed to function in the same manner.
This assembly of lift mechanism (120) shown in figures 2A-2C includes one end of the swivel arm (1202) movably connected with the base frame (1104) via a shaft and another end of the swivel arm (1202) pivotably connected with the long arm (1204), thereby allowing the swivel to rotate about the shaft. The swivel arm (1202) is small and may be made of 5 mm plate. Then, the long arm (1204) hinged with the swivel arm (1202) at one end and joined with right angle lever (1206) on another end. This arm is made of rectangle pipe. Further, the right angle lever (1206) rotatably hinged to the axle of the trailer vehicle (110) connecting the two or more wheels (1106) at one end and connected with the long arm (1204) as well as the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) at another end. The right angle lever (1206) may be made of 5 mm plate allow to rotate its fulcrum. Additionally, the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) connected with the base frame (1104) of the trailer vehicle (110) & the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) as well as with the long arm (1204) & right angel lever on another other end. As shown in figures, one hydraulic cylinder is provided alongside each wheel.
In general, a hydraulic cylinder may be understood as a linear actuator used for creating a mechanical force in a straight line either through pushing or pulling. A tube, a piston and ram, two end caps, and suitable oil seals are the basic components required for hydraulic cylinder construction (therefore haven’t been talked in detail in the description). The tube will be having finished interior and hard chrome-plated piston rods are commonly used for avoiding pitting and scoring. Seals and wipers are attached on the end caps for eliminating contaminants and preventing leakages.
The present invention can employ any kind of presently known hydraulic cylinders (1208), without any specific preferences. The one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) may be selected from, but not limited to, Single acting cylinders, double acting cylinders, tie-rod, welded rod, and telescopic cylinder types. The selection depends upon the application, loading capacity etc. Another important parameter is the hydraulic fluids that can be used in the present invention. The hydraulic fluid is supplied to the hydraulic cylinders (1208) via the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210). The one or more hydraulic pipeline is made of C grade G.I. pipe dually welded to make pressure in the hydraulic cylinder. Further, since the present invention involves high-pressure and heavy load conditions, a hydraulic fluid with a higher viscosity grade and anti-wear additives would be preferable. In case, the present invention is to be operated in extremely cold temperatures, antifreeze additives are also considered. So, for the present invention the hydraulic fluids can be any of the petroleum-based, water-based and synthetics fluids available, depending upon the application and loading requirements.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the trailer vehicle (110) further comprises one or more movable vertical stands (1116) to provide additional support for the trailer vehicle (110) in the upward position. For example, as shown in figures 2A-2C, the one movable vertical stand has been provided alongside coupling mechanism (104), and another at an end of the trailer vehicle (110). These provide additional support when the trailer vehicle (110) is in the lifted position as well as when detached from the prime mover (102). The one or more movable vertical stands (1116) may be made of, but not limited to, ISMC 75 x 40 mm welded together to form box and allow to move vertically for allowing the trailing vehicle to stand in a horizontal position with respect to ground.
Again, it is reiterated that the above mentioned materials, type of components, dimensions etc. are only exemplary and should not be considered in a strict sense.
To understand the working of the first embodiment of the present invention, we now particularly refer to the figures 2B and 2C. Figure 2B shows the trailer vehicle (110) in a lowered position, while figure 2C shows the trailer vehicle (110) in a lifted position. So, for starting the operation from lowered position in figure 2B, the lift mechanism (120) is required to be actuated from the prime mover (102) itself. As already mentioned, the hydraulic system of the prime mover (102) actuates the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) of the lift mechanism (120) by supplying the hydraulic fluid via one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210). Now, referring to figure 2C, the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby rotating the right angle lever (1206) about the base frame (1104) and allowing the axle along with the two or more wheel to push towards the ground. This leads to lifting of the carrier compartment (1102) above the ground.
Simultaneously, the long arm (1204) is adapted to move forward or backward as the right angle lever (1206) rotates (forward or backward) and cause the swivel arm (1202) to swivel about the base frame (1104). This ensures that the carrier compartment (1102) remains horizontal to the ground at all times during upward and downward motion. This is extremely important as tilting of the carrier (1112) during upward or downward movement, can cause material or livestock therein to move around and cause misbalancing. This step and the role of long arm (1204) along with swivel arm (1202) is most important part of the lift mechanism (120). For easy reference and clarity, the movement of components have been shown with the help of dark arrows in figure 2C.
Apart from this, a second embodiment of the present invention is provided in Figures 3 and 4A-4D. The second embodiment may be understood as a slight variation, keeping the concept of the lift mechanism (120) same. In this embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4A-4D, it can be seen that, arrangement of components has been slightly modified. The two or more wheels (1106) have been shifted slightly inwards with the boundary of the base frame (1104) of the carrier compartment (1102). Also, a wheel cover (1114) has been provided on either side of the carrier compartment (1102), unlike the first embodiment where the wheels (1106) were outside the base frame (1104) and uncovered. The wheel cover (1114) may be made from, but not limited to, of 1.2 mm. sheet and may have arrangement to open & close when required. The wheels (1106) can be received inside the wheel cover (1114) when the trailer vehicle (110) is in a lowered position.
Additionally, referring to figure 4A, it can be observed that in this second embodiment, the lift mechanism (120) is provided under the carrier (1112) and is almost in the center of the carrier (1112), instead of both sides as was the case in first embodiment.
Herein, the swivel arm (1202) rotatably connected with each of the two or more wheels (1106) and the axle (1212) of the trailer vehicle (110). The axle (1212) along with the swivel arm (1202) is seen to connect the wheels (1106) on both sides of the trailer vehicle (110). The axle (1212) is generally round and may have a diameter of, for example, 100 mm. Further, the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are connected with the axle (1212) at one end, and with the base frame (1104) at the another end along with one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210). Furthermore, instead of the long arm (1204), the second embodiment utilises the one or more steel ropes (1214) having one end clamped on the base frame (1104) & another end clamped on the axle (1212). In the exemplary embodiment shown in figures, there are two steel ropes (1214), each having, say, 12 mm diameter is clamped with base frame (1104) via one or more shafts on which the steel ropes (1214) are wound or tied. The other ends of the two steel ropes (1214) are wound on the round axle (1212) to allow tension when carrier (1112) moves up & down.
Working of this embodiment is also similar to the first embodiment, with the difference that one or more steel ropes (1214) are configured to keep the carrier compartment (1102) horizontal at all times, instead of the long arm (1204).
Referring to figures 4A that illustrates a top perspective view of the trailer vehicle (110) in a lowered position, while figure 4B provides a bottom perspective view of the same to clearly illustrate the lift mechanism (120). As can be seen form figure 4B, the carrier compartment (1102) is lowered to ground and the wheels (1106) have been secured inside the wheel cover (1114). The one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) can be seen to be in normal (un-extended) state and the axle (1212) substantially closer to the carrier (1112). The one or more steel ropes (1214) appear parallel/horizontal to the carrier compartment (1102) and the ground.
Then, to start lifting the carrier compartment (1102), the lift mechanism (120) is required to be actuated from the prime mover (102) itself. As already mentioned, the hydraulic system of the prime mover (102) actuates the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) of the lift mechanism (120) by supplying the hydraulic fluid via one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210). Now, referring to figure 4C and 4D, which show the carrier compartment (1102) in a lifted position. As can be seen from the drawings, the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby pushing the axle (1212) to rotate i.e., move away/down from the carrier compartment (1102). Then, the axle (1212) in combination with the swivel arm (1202) is combined to rotate and push the two or more wheels (1106) to towards the ground, thereby lifting the carrier compartment (1102) above the ground. However, this would only lift the back side of the carrier compartment (1102) and cause the carrier compartment (1102) to be inclined. So, herein, when the axle (1212) moves down, the one or more steel ropes (1214) are configured to allow/transfer tension from the axle (1212) at the back to the draw bar (1044)/base frame (1104) at the front of the carrier compartment (1102) where the steel ropes (1214) are clamped. This lifts the front side of carrier compartment (1102) and prevents any inclination of the carrier compartment (1102). The arrangement of one or more steel ropes (1214) is done in a manner to ensure that the carrier compartment (1102) remains horizontal to the ground at all times during upward and downward motion, so that any material or livestock in the carrier compartment (1102) remains unmoved and unaffected during upward and downward motion.
It will be understood by a skilled addressee that lowering of the carrier compartment (1102) in both the embodiments, would simply follow a reverse method. The one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) below the carrier compartment (1102) would be made to come back to normal (un-extended) position, thereby bringing the axle (1212) closer to the carrier (1112) or base frame (1104), and accordingly the trailer vehicle (110) would be lowered. In the lower position, the draw bar (1044) of the coupling mechanism (104) is in an inclined position and in the lifted position, the draw bar (1044) is configured to swivel about the base frame (1104) and remain substantially horizontal to the ground. The same has been illustrated in the drawings.
Apart from the above mentioned designs, multiple embodiments of the trailer vehicle and lifting mechanisms are possible using the same components. Figures 5A-5B illustrates a perspective view and a top view of the trailer vehicle in a lowered position, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen from the figures, it can be seen that there may be slight modification in the previously mentioned components, such as carrier (1112) is relatively smaller as compared to previous embodiments and has an open top. Then, it can be observed that the lift mechanism (120) is provided inside the carrier (1112) and not outside or below the carrier (1112). Additionally, the lift mechanism (120) has also been modified with a new component and elimination of some of the previously mentioned components.
The lift mechanism herein comprises the right angle lever (1206) pivotably hinged with the carrier (1112). As can be seen in the figures, the middle point (joint) of the right angle lever (1206) is hinged at the side walls of the carrier (1112). Also, one end of the right angle lever (1206) is connected with a movable bucket (130) and another end of the right angle lever (1206) connected with the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208). The movable bucket may be understood as a platform that can board livestock or any other movable platforms holding the livestock, for lifting inside the carrier (1112). The right angle lever (1206) may be pivoted forward and backward, to lift as well as move the movable bucket (130) out of, or inside the carrier (1112). Additionally, the lifting mechanism (120) of this embodiment includes the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) that are connected with a floor of the carrier (1112) of the trailer vehicle (110) & the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210). As already explained in the previous embodiments, the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) are envisaged to be connected with the hydraulic system of the prime mover (102).
Working of this embodiment shown in figures 5A-5B, is principally similar to the previous embodiments, with minor differences in movable components and their movements. So, just like the previous embodiments, the lifting mechanism is actuated by the hydraulic system from the prime mover (102), and that causes the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) are to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208). Upon actuation, the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to expand. The expansion of the hydraulic cylinders (1208) causes the right angle lever (1206) to pivot forward about the hinge. This causes the movable bucket (130) that is originally inside the carrier (1112) (inside view not shown in figures) to swivel, lift as well as move out of the carrier (1112) to land on the ground, while staying horizontal at all times. This can be seen in the figure 5A.
It will be understood by a skilled addressee that lifting of the movable bucket (130) in the above embodiment, would simply follow a reverse method. For that, the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to retract upon de-actuation from the hydraulic system. This causes the right angle lever (1206) to move backward and causing the movable bucket (130) to swivel, lift as well as move inside the carrier (1112) to land on the floor of the carrier (1112). During all this lifting and forward/backward movement, the movable bucket (130) is kept horizontal at all times using one or more attachments such as connecting rods etc.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention (refer figure 5A), there may be provided an animal chute (140). The animal chute (140) may be understood as a portable platform or structure comprising one or more straps (1402) etc. to carefully hold and/or lift the animals (say, up to 500kg). For example: The animal chute can be made of 50 x 50 mm. square pipe frame. The platform is provided with the wheels (say, rubber wheels etc.) to allow transportation of the animal held by animal chute (140). The animal chute (140) may be directly moved inside the carrier (1112) in first two embodiments or may be boarded on the movable bucket (130) in the third embodiment. The movable bucket (130) then lifts the animal chute (140) inside the carrier (1112). This is advantageous in case of injured or sick animals that are not able to move on their own. In such a scenario, the present invention can be operated as an ambulance for such stray animals, and/or livestock.
Various modifications to these embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and the accompanying drawings. The principles associated with the various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown along with the accompanying drawings but is to be providing the broadest scope, consistent with the principles and the novel and inventive features disclosed or suggested herein. Accordingly, the invention is anticipated to hold on to all other such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the present invention and the appended claims.
, C , C , C , Claims:We Claim:
1. A trailer vehicle (110) with a lift mechanism (120) for road transportation of livestock and materials, the trailer vehicle (110) comprising:
a carrier compartment (1102) connectable with a prime mover (102), the carrier compartment (1102) having a base frame (1104), a carrier (1112) mounted on the base frame (1104), and two or more wheels (1106) connected with the base frame (1104);
a coupling mechanism (104) to connect the base frame (1104) of the carrier compartment (1102) with the prime mover (102), the coupling mechanism (104) having a hitch (1042) coupled with a draw bar (1044), wherein the draw bar (1044) is configured to swivel about the hitch (1042) and about the base frame (1104) in a vertical axis; and
a lift mechanism (120) connected with the two or more wheels (1106) to enables an upward and downward movement of the carrier compartment (1102), while keeping the carrier compartment (1102) parallel to a ground, during the movement;
wherein the lift mechanism (120) includes an assembly of one or more of a swivel arm (1202), a right angle level (1206), a long arm (1204), one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208), one or more steel ropes (1214) and one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) connected with a hydraulic system of the prime mover (102) and the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208).
2. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism (120) is provided on both sides of the trailer vehicle (110) and connected with an axle (1212) of the trailer vehicle (110) joining two or more the wheels (1106) on both sides.
3. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the assembly of lift mechanism (120) includes:
one end of the swivel arm (1202) movably connected with the base frame (1104) via a shaft and another end of the swivel arm (1202) pivotably connected with the long arm (1204), thereby allowing the swivel to rotate about the shaft;
the long arm (1204) hinged with the swivel arm (1202) at one end and joined with right angle lever (1206) on another end;
the right angle lever (1206) rotatably hinged to the axle (1212) of the trailer vehicle (110) connecting the two or more wheels (1106) at one end, and connected with the long arm (1204) as well as the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) at another end; and
the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) connected with the base frame (1104) of the trailer vehicle (110) & the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) as well as with the long arm (1204) & right angel lever on another other end.
4. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 3, wherein upon actuation of the hydraulic system from the prime mover (102), the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) are adapted to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208);
wherein the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) is configured to expand upon actuation, thereby rotating the right angle lever (1206) about the base frame (1104) and allowing the axle (1212) and the two or more wheel to push towards the ground and lifting the carrier compartment (1102) above the ground;
wherein the long arm (1204) is adapted to move forward or backward as the right angle lever (1206) rotates and cause the swivel arm (1202) to swivel about the base frame (1104), thereby ensuring that the carrier compartment (1102) remains horizontal to the ground at all times during upward and downward motion.
5. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism (120) is provided under the trailer vehicle (110) and connected with an axle (1212) joining two or more the wheels (1106) on both sides.
6. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the assembly of lift mechanism (120) includes:
the swivel arm (1202) rotatably connected with each of the two or more wheels (1106) and the axle (1212) of the trailer vehicle (110);
one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) connected with the axle (1212) at one end and with the base frame (1104) at the another end along with one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210);
the one or more steel ropes (1214) having one end clamped on the base frame (1104) & another end clamped on the axle (1212).
7. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 6, wherein upon actuation of the hydraulic system from the prime mover (102), the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) is adapted to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208);
wherein the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby pushing the axle (1212) to rotate;
wherein the axle (1212) in combination with the swivel arm (1202) is combined to rotate and push the two or more wheels (1106) to towards the ground, thereby lifting the carrier compartment (1102) above the ground;
wherein the one or more steel ropes (1214) are configured to allow tension from axle (1212) to the draw bar (1044), when the axle (1212) moves up and down, thereby ensuring that the carrier compartment (1102) remains horizontal to the ground at all times during upward and downward motion.
8. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism (120) is provided on both sides, inside the carrier (1112);
wherein each of the assemblies of lift mechanism (120) includes:
the right angle lever (1206) pivotably hinged with the carrier (1112), one end of the right angle lever connected with a movable bucket (130) and another end of the right angle lever connected with the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208), thereby allowing the right angle lever (1206) to pivot and lift the movable bucket (130) in and out of the carrier (1112); and
the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) connected with a floor of the carrier (1112) of the trailer vehicle (110) & the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210).
9. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 8, wherein upon actuation of the hydraulic system from the prime mover (102), the one or more hydraulic pipelines (1210) are adapted to actuate the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208);
wherein the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to expand upon actuation, thereby pivoting the right angle lever (1206) forward about the hinge and causing the movable bucket (130) to swivel, lift as well as move out of the carrier (1112) to land on the ground, while staying horizontal at all times;
wherein the one or more hydraulic cylinders (1208) are configured to retract upon de-actuation, thereby causing the right angle lever (1206) to move backward and causing the movable bucket (130) to swivel, lift as well as move inside the carrier (1112) to land on the floor of the carrier (1112), while staying horizontal at all times.
10. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the two or more wheels (1106) are provided outside the base frame (1104) or inside a boundary of the base frame (1104) movable within a wheel cover (1114), of the carrier compartment (1102).
11. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, comprises one or more movable vertical stands (1116) to provide additional support for the trailer vehicle (110) in the upward position.
12. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the carrier (1112) includes one or more of a roof frame or an open-top compartment, a meshed side walls, solid side walls, side boards, a floor, a ramp (1108), one or more doors (1110) and windows.
13. The trailer vehicle (110) as claimed in claim 1, includes a portable animal chute (140) for holding and transporting livestock, to and from the carrier (1112).