Collapsible cargo trailer and method of distribution

Abstract

A cargo trailer having a frame assembly with pivotally mounted wall structures or frames. The frame assembly can be collapsed into a compact shipping configuration wherein the wall structures are positioned substantially parallel with the floor structure of the trailer. Various parts of the cargo trailer can also be stowed in the collapsed frame assembly for shipment of the frame assembly and stored parts. After shipment of the cargo trailer, the wall structures are pivoted into their upright positions and the final assembly of the cargo trailer is completed. Exterior panels may be shipped together in a compact stack with the frame to the final assembly location where the panels are attached to the cargo trailer.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 990,931, filed Nov. 17, 2004, which claims priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 544,631, filed Feb. 13, 2004, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to cargo trailers and, more particularly, to a cargo trailer having a structure which is adapted for efficient shipping of the trailer. [0004] 2. Description of the Related Art [0005] A variety of cargo trailers are known in the art. Commercially available cargo trailers include cargo trailers having one or two axles which support a generally rectilinear enclosure with a tongue extending from one end. A hitch is located on the end of the tongue and is engageable with a ball located on a tow vehicle such as a pick-up truck or automobile. The cargo trailer also typically includes at least...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] An advantage of the present invention is that it provides a cargo trailer that can be collapsed into a stackable and space-saving configuration for shipment from a manufacturing location to an assembly location positioned near the ultimate distribution point of the trailer. This reduces the space required for each trailer and allows the trailers to be stacked and shipped together and, thus, can provide a significant reduction in shipping costs. Once at the second location, e.g., a cargo trailer dealership, the final assembly of the cargo trailer can be easily accomplished.

is that it provides a cargo trailer that can be collapsed into a stackable and space-saving configuration for shipment from a manufacturing location to an assembly location positioned near the ultimate distribution point of the trailer. This reduces the space required for each trailer and allows the trailers to be stacked and shipped together and, thus, can provide a significant reduction in shipping costs. Once at the second location, e.g., a cargo trailer dealership, the final assembly of the cargo trailer can be easily accomplished.

Problems solved by technology

Although known cargo trailers are effective for their intended purposes, the process used to manufacture and distribute such trailers is not without inefficiencies.

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